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Given the interaction history of a user with products as follows:
Title: Fila Men's SA58 Slide Casual Sandals; Brand: ; Review: Good slide and looks nice.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Cammie Men's Textured Slip On Sport Sandals; Brand: Cammie; Review: Great sandal and a great price. I use these primarily for inside slippers but they are very comfortable.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: NIKE Men's Solarsoft Sandal Sandal; Brand: ; Review: Did not keep as they were too large and didn't care for the soft sole.; Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: Saucony Men's Cohesion 9 Running Shoe; Brand: Saucony; Review: The shoes received were too small. I returned and ordered a half size larger. Will give further review when I receive and wear the shoes.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Crocs Women's Sanrah Beveled Circle Sandal; Brand: ; Review: I bought these for my daughter in-law. She loves them and has made them her number one shoe for just about every event. Of course Floridians are a little casual in their dress.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Dockers Men's Classic Fit Perfect Short D3; Brand: ; Review: Very nice shorts. Very comfortable and well made. I especially like the small phone pocket. My iphone 7 fits in it perfectly.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Spenco Mens Kholo Breeze; Brand: Spenco; Review: Normally I wear a size 9 in most shoes or slides. This slide was a little snug and because of the elastic fabric they tended to squeeze my foot out of the shoe. Also these slides are a little feminine looking and for that reason I returned them. I should add the slides are well made and of what appears to be quality materials. They were also very comfortable.; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: DAWGS Men's Slide MSL; Brand: DAWGS; Review: These slides are comfortable, but the heel is so soft it gives the feel of non support. I wouldn't want to wear them for an extended period.; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: LETHMIK Fishing Sun Boonie Hat Waterproof Summer UV Protection Safari Cap Outdoor Hunting Hat; Brand: LETHMIK; Review: Very poor quality. I gave it to Goodwill; Rating: 2.0/5.0
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amazon_Clothing_Shoes_and_Jewelry
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Given the interaction history of a user with businesses as follows:
Title: Lock Stock & Barrel; City: Boise, ID; Review: Three words.... Old Cold Bland Showing every bit of its 40 years of age (and not in a good way) salad bar looks like its a relic from the 70's, tired concept, it makes Outback Steakhouse look exciting!; Rating: 1.0/5.0
Title: US Post Office; City: Meridian, ID; Review: Been there three times in the past week with an average wait of at least 30 minutes.... they are so ill equipped to handle any kind of steady business. Typical usps ... never kept up with their changing demographic... FedEx here I come.; Rating: 1.0/5.0
Title: Smoky Mountain Pizzeria Grill; City: Meridian, ID; Review: I really, really want to like coming here... I really do... my kid loves coming here every week and we do every week... attached is a photo of a dirty rag sitting on my table, an empty pint glass.. never asked if I wanted a refill ...and my check, which arrived while I was eating my entree.. (every week I get my check while I'm eating my entree), every week we order a 'Pie in the sky 'dessert..they see us every week ...but make the same bad service mistakes every friggin time... Don't you want to sell me another beer... or dessert ? Bump the check average? Bigger tip .. I always leave 20% as a former Restaurant owner.. But every Wednesday or Thursday you have the same servers running around looking stressed with a half full restaurant, peeved that you added a dessert to your order.. I really want to enjoy spending here...; Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: Fork; City: Boise, ID; Review: 2nd time here, 2nd time underwhelmed .....made a reservation and arrived promptly for our Sunday Lunch time slot, was greeted my the manager (middle aged) sour individual, smile at your customers sir, they are the ones spending money. Server was a nice young guy, leaning on the too casual side of service.. we were handed three menus and i ordered off the menu presented, only to be told that that section i ordered from did not apply to lunch service, just dinner service...I friggin hate when restaurants do that, you honestly can't produce a menu for lunch and a separate one for dinner? ( sour manager who seated us neglected to point out the 'No No's' you can't have untill 4pm on the menu) when we were seated. Bloody Mary's were fine, but each one looked different... some had four pickles and a cocktail onion on a skewer, the next one didn't... food was fine, but took forever... thats the 2nd and last time i wait forever for my food in this restaurant. You do this every Sunday, you should have the systems down. On a funny note our server had only one pen for his entire section... so he was constantly running to finished tables to grab his pen for the next table sat to take the order. Place needs good management, someone with a passion and a pulse for the industry, that was lacking on our visit, it showed in their greeting, the filth under our table when we were sat, the overflowing paper and unflushed toilets in the restroom during a fairly busy lunch/brunch and the uber casual savoir-faire service.; Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: China Palace; City: Eagle, ID; Review: I absolutely love this place,it's no-frills, super friendly staff , good reliable 'all American' Chinese food... in other words all your favorites. Great value for money large portions, the wonton soup is particularly large ...pretty much comes in a fishbowl! If your looking for a quintessential Chinese restaurant, with all the usual suspects on the menu, prepared and served hot, fresh and tasty, this restaurant will deliver on all fronts.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
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yelp
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Given the interaction history of a user with hotels as follows:
Title: Sandpearl Resort; City: Clearwater Florida; Review: Stayed in this hotel for just 2 nights , with wife and our 2 teenage children. Hotel had a fantastic position on the beach, wonderful service and good amenities. Really enjoyed our brief stay and would definitely stay again; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Atlantica Porto Bello Royal; City: Kardamena Kos Dodecanese South Aegean; Review: Stayed for one week, wouldn't stay longer unless I had a young family, as there isn't that much to do nearby. Accommodation was very clean and service and food good. Alcoholic drinks - from what I remember were excellent!we had an apartment that overlooked the sea , which we paid a little extra for but we enjoyed it as it was a little quieter. Each apartment block has its own pool but you can swim anywhere on the complex. If I was being picky I'd say they could provide some additional sunbeds. Overall, thought it was good value, probably one of the better hotels on Kos, but 4 star rather than 5. Don't be put off by the comments on planes, I found them to be quite relaxing watching them fly overhead, and you get used to any noise, we really didn't have an issue with it - and my wife is fussy!; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Park Plaza Cardiff; City: Cardiff South Wales Wales; Review: Second stay at this hotel, this time we overlooked the park, so it was quieter. really nice hotel, easy for all the city attractions, hotel bar good, breakfasts really good. Only drawback is the expense of car park opposite hotel - but it is very convenient. just be prepared to add a few quid to the cost of your stay; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Hotel Barcelona Catedral; City: Barcelona Catalonia; Review: Tucked away near the gothic quarter , very handy location, nice roof top pool, boutique type hotel. Rooms fairly basic but lean and have free wifi. Location is brilliant for strolling around the city centre, taxi drivers sometimes struggle to find it so make sure you hAve the address handy . Stayed 2 nights but didn't try the food, thought it was cheaper to eat breakfast in the bars that litter the area; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: ABode Glasgow; City: Glasgow Scotland; Review: One night only, mid week business trip. Pretty quiet, soul less bar. Hotel room small ( 216, Double) wardrobe space poor, 3 hangars only and little drawer space. Only good for a single occupancy , Scrunched up wet bath towel found on bedroom floor - nice Nice old building but lift didn't work for most people. Breakfast i'm afraid was also poor. Ordered full Scottish cooked breakfast., 1 piece of bacon very dry, 1 small sausage , a beefburger ( i think!) dry slice of haggis , black pudding and beans, mushroom and half a tomato, and greasy potato cake. Not good. Only good thing was the cut price rate for the car park 5 mins away £2.50 for an overnight stay. Hotel ideally placed for centre of Glasgow but i've stayed in better; Rating: 3.0/5.0
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hotelrec
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Given the interaction history of a user with products as follows:
Title: Medieval Functional Helmet of the Spaniard Maximus Roman Gladiator Armor; Brand: Armory Replicas; Review: Super bad ass looking and comfortable enough - I probably wouldn't actually wear it in a battle though.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Battle Ready Chain Mail Coif Armor; Brand: Armory Replicas; Review: I bought this because I was in a dorky mood - I probably will never wear it.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Wedge Guys Professional Golf Grip Tape by 2" x; Brand: Wedge Guys; Review: I'm a really extensive shopper, meaning I'll go through each product and read all the reviews before making my decision. I like looking at the percentages of reviews as well to help with the indication. I strongly feel like the 5 star reviews are more accurate than the 1 stars - here's why: The product is nice and sticky and stuck well to my clubs. On the clubs where I needed a little more 'stick', I would simply cut a strip down to the size I needed which seemed to work very well. I feel like following the instructions really helped as well. I ended up also purchasing their grip kit which included the vise, solvent and strips. The solvent made sliding my new grip on a breeze, and I've only regripped golf clubs a handful of times in the past. I like the fact that these grip strips are made in the USA, and how well these worked. I'll definitely be purchasing these again in the future when my new grips wear out. **EDIT** I added a quick product review video - I filmed it with my phone so sorry if you get sea sick! :); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: nU Groove Sharpener - Golf Club Groove Sharpener, Re-Grooving Tool and Cleaner for Wedges & Irons; Brand: Wedge Guys; Review: I've had my golf clubs for years and didn't understand the importance until a friend of mine told me about these. I also didn't realize how much quality counts until I went through some of the 'cheaper' golf club sharpeners which would break or wear out way fast. The nu groove sharpener really made a difference in my game, so I was pleasantly surprised. This product also has some nice weight to it and is easy to hold while sharpening my golf clubs. The tip is super strong on this and didn't show any wear or break after sharpening my wedges and irons. Usually these days companies will make products that wear out fast so that you have to keep on purchasing new ones which is really annoying. After using this I can confidently say that it is a quality product and have already recommended it to my other golfing buddies. **EDIT** I added a quick product review video - I filmed it with my phone so sorry if you get sea sick! :); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Wedge Guys Complete Golf Grip Kit for Regripping Golf Clubs - Professional Quality - OPTIONS Include Hook Blade,; Brand: Wedge Guys; Review: Really happy with this purchase. The grip strips are nice and sticky, evenly cut, and peel off easy. The vise seems really sturdy and I've been able to use it with all my clubs - it seems like you can put as much or as little of pressure on the vise and it still protects the golf clubs, however you only need a little pressure since it is so grippy (if that's a word). The solvent drys really fast, so just be sure to be ready to slide that grip on soon after you spray. I really like the fact that it is non toxic - with any solvents you don't want to be breathing in that toxic stuff, especially if you have any lung issues (I have asthma). This includes everything you need, however I also purchased additional grip strips from them so that I can cut to size if I needed an extra inch or two on my clubs. You can't beat the price, and having little experience regripping clubs I found that this was the easiest and most cost effective option. I also feel a bit of accomplishment and show off my clubs to my friends saying "I regripped this...boom." EDIT** I added a video to this review that I received by email - makes installing even easier after watching it and thought everyone could benefit.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Splatterburst Targets - 12 x18 inch - Silhouette Reactive Shooting Target - Shots Burst Bright Fluorescent Yellow Upon Impact; Brand: Splatterburst Targets; Review: Worked really well, however they were much smaller than expected. I would go with a much larger target next time.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Osprey Packs Farpoint 70 Travel Backpack; Brand: Osprey; Review: All I have to say is wow - what a great product. Everything is well thought out and it seems to be really well made. I took this backpack on a 2 week trip and it held more than enough clothes and souvenirs. I love how it can be a backpack or duffel bags. Definitely recommend ordering one if you are planning a trip!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
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amazon_Sports_and_Outdoors
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Given the interaction history of a user with books as follows:
Title: Force: Dynamic Life Drawing for Animators, Second Edition (Force Drawing Series); Author: Mike Mattesi; Review: My copy of the original edition of Force has seen plenty of wear and tear since I try to always keep it handy when I'm drawing. But that one's going into retirement for this new expanded version. Rather than the complex anatomies of some books and the stick figure and cylinder creations of others, Mattesi follows the animator's axiom of drawing verbs rather than nouns. Capturing the dynamic motion of a pose that is the prime factor in an appealing drawing. This isn't an animation book per se, but no one interested in animation or any other form of figure drawing should pass up the lessons Mattesi teaches. The benefits of conveying movement and sheer LIFE in a still drawing can't be ignored. Also with this version coming from a bigger publisher in Focal Press, the overall image quality is far higher than the somewhat pixel-y look of the pictures in the original. Plus an extra 50 or so pages of instruction isn't too shabby.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Digital Manga Workshop: An Artist's Guide to Creating Manga Illustrations on Your Computer; Author: Visit Amazon's Jared Hodges Page; Review: As many have already stated, this book has little to specifically to do with manga. I personally think the title and drawing style were probably chosen to be more catchy and specific than just "digital coloring." There's no shortage of digital artwork out there that has nothing to do with manga or anime style, and this book is relevant to anyone wanting to learn to color their artwork digitally, regardless of how it's drawn. Whereas many web coloring tutorials are either very locked in about techinque or horrendously general, Digital Manga Workshop covers several specific options. It shows not just how to color in the typical cel style of a lot of digital artwork, but also airbrush, painting and watercolor styles as well. The book gives instruction in both Photoshop and Painter depending on which is best suited for the style being covered and even offer some low-to-no cost alternatives to those programs. The book also covers the important step before and after the coloring process, such as scanning and digitally inking drawings so you have god base to start with, and export so all your hard work doesn't end up as a blotchy web graphic. Digital Manga Workshop definitely isn't the be all/end all book of digital coloring, but considering the wealth of information covered for such a low price, it's surely a worthwhile book to have around; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Hollywood 2D Digital Animation: The New Flash Production Revolution; Author: Visit Amazon's Sandro Corsaro Page; Review: Let me just say right off the bat that this book is not for beginners. Apart from one chapter on effects animation, (a topic that could almost be a book in and of itself) there's just not much coverage of the actual ins and outs of animating in Flash. Unfortunately, Sandro Corsaro's other book, "The Flash Animator," which focused on Flash animation techniques, in now out of print. For those who have a solid working knowledge of Flash, this is an invaluable resource for using Flash for any level of 2D animation production. For people accustomed to traditional animation, you'll learn how Flash can work as a efficient alternative to the usual production pipeline. Much of this book may seem a little out of scope for those not in the big time of the animation industry, but even if you're a studio of one, there's plenty of tips to help cut down the amount of time you spend cursing Flash. Through proper pre-planning and design one can make the best use of Flash's time saving re-usability of elements. The ability to draw storyboards directly into Flash in another way to streamline the animation process. The interviews peppered throughout the book give some great insight on how Flash can best be used in the production process. Although you'll have get over the irony that most of the interviews came from people working on the now infamous Flash feature Lil' Pimp. Again, if you're new to Flash, you might want to hold off on this one for a bit, but if you have some experience and you're ready to make the most of animating in flash Hollywood 2D Digital Animation is a must-have.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Flash 3D: Animation, Interactivity, and Games; Author: Jim Ver Hague; Review: Flash was never really intended as a 3D application. That hasn't stopped people from trying to use it as one. Flash 3D covers numerous ways to add depth to this otherwise 2D program. Although this book's subtitle says it covers Animation, Interactivity and Games, the animation section is easily the shortest. Other than some good coverage of using shading to make things look less flat and simulating depth with parallax scrolling, everything else is pretty much programming based. Although a resourceful Flash filmmaker could still make good use of the other tutorials. The majority of the instruction involves creating mathematical 3D space we can use to move our 2D objects around in. Each example builds on the ones before to eventually create a scene with a movable camera and objects that maintain a believable 3D space. Flash 3D also covers how to mimic OuicktimeVR files, creating interactive object rotations and panoramas in Flash, as well as building a very rudimentary 3D engine that can draw and manipulate 3D solids. The final section shows you examples of how to take everything you've learned and put it together into complete projects. The comprehensive coverage in this book makes it a great asset for anyone looking to add more depth to their Flash projects.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Picture This: How Pictures Work (Turtleback School & Library Binding Edition); Author: Visit Amazon's Molly Bang Page; Review: I can't say I'm overly well versed in composition, namely because most books on the subject are so dense. But in Picture This, the author has found easily understandable way to show the basic fundamentals of art. Rather than teach composition with diagrams drawn over old master paintings like some books, Molly Bang uses simple bits of paper to demonstrate how shape, color and placement can affect the mood of a picture. And once you understand these principles, it's easy to see how they can be applied to more complex artwork. Bang's pace is very deliberate. Every change to her construction paper compositions is well documented and explained. It's that simplicity and directness that allow her to communicate such a large amount of knowledge in only 96 pages. And don't let the short page count and the fact that this book is recommended for grade schoolers fool you. This is a book every artist should have her shelf.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: If It's Purple, Someone's Gonna Die: The Power of Color in Visual Storytelling; Author: Visit Amazon's Patti Bellantoni Page; Review: This book is definitely on the beginners side of the spectrum. (no pun intended) You're not going to learn to be a production designer just from reading it, but it's a great start to becoming more aware of the use of color in film (or comics, video games or any other visual media) to influence underlying mood of the story. And once you're aware of color's presence, you can start making educated choices on how to use color in your own work. Although a few more pictures would've been nice, the author does a good job of taking each of the six primary & secondary colors and defining its role in general and then giving numerous specific examples of the different visual and emotional tones each color can take. If nothing else, this book added about 8 movies to my Netflix queue.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Living Life inside the Lines: Tales from the Golden Age of Animation; Author: Visit Amazon's Martha Sigall Page; Review: If you've read any other animation history books, you've gotten a basic idea of how things were during "Golden Age" of the 30's and 40's. But not only is Living Life Inside The Lines one of the few books written someone who actually worked in animation during that period, it's the only book I've seen written by an ink & paint artist, which gives it a point of view of the animation world that other books never mention. Sigall also tells stories of people like Irv Spence and Phil Monroe who were a big part of animation history, but have never gotten much mention in books. And having worked at numerous studios and ink & paint houses, she has very broad perspective on how the animation industry has changed from the 30's thorough to the 80's. Plus her pleasant demeanor makes for a nice, easy-going read. If you're interested in animation, this book is a perfect supplement to your library.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Manga Matrix: Create Unique Characters Using the Japanese Matrix System; Author: Hiroyoshi Tsukamoto; Review: Trying to create a character from scratch can be a daunting task. Manga Matrix uses a series of grids to map some starting attributes, giving you a leg to stand on as you start out on the design process. The matrix system is best suited to "blue sky designing" where anything goes and no idea is off limit no matter how odd. You'll have to supply your own taste & common sense to refine those designs into something usable. Although there's a massive amount of examples of characters made with the matrix system, there's not many pages spent covering the different matrices themselves. Especially the personality matrix, which is useful for any design that's going to be more just a simple drawing. And it's the most important matrix if you want to design a basic human or animal character that doesn't need any mix `n match body parts. This book also give a lot of background info on character groups like angel, devils, monsters, etc... that could prove very useful when going through the matrix process. Obviously the best way to figure out this method of design is plenty of practice, but Manga Matrix gives you a good tool to work with when creating characters.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Prepare to Board! Creating Story and Characters for Animated Features and Shorts; Author: Visit Amazon's Nancy Beiman Page; Review: "Prepare to Board" covers most pre-production aspects of an animation project, but focuses mostly on storyboarding and character design. This book does a better job on both these subjects than most other books can manage on just one. A lot of storyboarding books out there focus on the live action or advertising methods where boards are used to illustrate an existing script a sell a rough concept to non-creative executives. The methods Nancy Beiman shows are far better suited to animation's use of storyboards to create the story itself. Along with guidelines on how to increase the cinematic storytelling power of your boards, there are also plenty of tips on how to get that power across when presenting boards to others. When it comes to character design, "Prepare to Board" is up there with Tom Bancroft's "Creating Characters with Personality: For Film, TV, Animation, Video Games, and Graphic Novels" as one of the few indispensable resources on the subject. All of her advice is aimed at making your character designs more functional for animation & storytelling (the most important asset of any character) as well as being unique individuals rather than stock characters. The lessons Beiman shares in this book are exactly what you need to build a strong foundation for any animated project.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Digital Texturing and Painting; Author: Visit Amazon's Owen Demers Page; Review: As a well-versed member of the "Google Images & Clone Stamp" school of texturing, I know full well that knowing all the technical ins and outs of a program doesn't guarantee good results. A strong grounding in fundamental art principles is needed to make proper use of all the technical bells & whistles. It can be said that Digital Texturing & Painting is too art-heavy, but it's such a critical aspect of good CG that's either glossed over or omitted in other books. Being able to break down & understand all the many elements of a texture so it can be recreated and controlled is of the utmost importance. And learning how to go beyond photos and start working with the infinitely unique number of real world textures you can find or create adds new levels to your texturing work. The art-based sections as well as the more technical preparation section are geared toward making you think about every aspect of the work and how best to execute it, rather than creating bland textures that have been done a thousand time before. Although the specific texturing examples are rather short, the author covers the basics of several texturing methods. NURBS, polygons, using projections, using 3D paint software, tiling textures, using Illustrator, using Photoshop, making & scanning in real world objects or just making things from scratch. And the included CD has the PSD files for you to poke around in a figure out how the maps are put together. Digital Painting & Texturing has the breadth & depth to be a helpful book for texture artists of all levels.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Theory of Fun for Game Design; Author: Visit Amazon's Raph Koster Page; Review: I should start out by mentioning that I'm reviewing this book from more of a general knowledge standpoint than a purely video game related one. A lot of other reviews have mentioned that there aren't many practical tips in this book, which is true, but that's why it's a theory of fun and not a handbook of rules. Theories pull basic meanings & principles out of a vast, murky subject that can later evolve into practical uses, in this case for video games or any other artistic medium. The author breaks down our sense of enjoyment into more manageable & understandable categories, like social and aesthetic satisfactions. But the bulk of the book covers the enjoyment that comes from learning patterns and overcoming challenges, which he defines as "fun." Although fun as Koster defines it is most evident in video games, the enjoyment that comes from learning and figuring things out could just as easily apply to a mystery novel as a puzzle game. Having a firm understanding of "fun" as well as the other types of enjoyment could benefit any artistic pursuit. Another fascinating concept in "Theory of Fun" is the idea that all artforms become more and more complex until only a dedicated few can master it, at which point the artform either dies off or is reinvented to better suit the masses. This concept could explain the recent rise of the Wii, with its simple, accessible approach to games over more complex systems. All in all, "A Theory of Fun for Game Design" isn't just ideas on how to build a better video game mousetrap, but a basic intro on enjoyment so we can hopefully learn to create work that's enjoyable for others.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: How To Draw Manga: Sketching Manga-Style Volume 1: Sketching As Composition Planning; Author: Visit Amazon's Hikaru Hayashi Page; Review: Over the years I've slowly put together a sizable library of these How to Draw Manga books without even realizing it. That being said, I'll be the first to admit that the usefulness of some of these books is kind of hit or miss. But the Manga Sketching books are fantastic drawing resources regardless of whether you want to draw in a Manga style or not. This book is really more grounded in basic figure drawing techniques than other How to Draw Manga books that are largely caged in by the conventions of Japanese comic art. It's also a heftier book at being almost 60 pages longer than some of the other books in the series. A major section of the book is dedicated to a broad survey of human anatomy, and I would say it does a better job on the subject than many books that focus strictly on anatomy for artists. There's 9 pages dedicated to the head & neck alone. And all of the examples feature the body in motion, which is far more helpful in seeing how the body fits together than a bunch of stiff poses. Much of the rest of the text is about design tips to solidify the body type you're shooting for or "enhancing a sense of presence" as the manga books often put it, which boils down to creating more interesting, dynamic poses. Good figure drawing has many basic principles, no matter what style is laid on top of it. "Sketching Manga Style" is a fantastic resource to have around.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Force: Character Design from Life Drawing (Force Drawing Series); Author: Visit Amazon's Mike Mattesi Page; Review: There's only a couple character design books out there. Most notably Creating Characters with Personality: For Film, TV, Animation, Video Games, and Graphic Novels. This new volume of Force takes on design from a more exploratory standpoint. One that can also lead to a foundation of more informed choices when working with Bancroft's methods later on. The text starts off with a review of the drawing techniques Mattesi laid out in the original Force. Not only the concepts of drawing with forceful lines and shapes, but also ensuring every aspect of your drawing make a statement about the subject. It's that thought process that leads to interesting designs. This book has no shortage of examples of experimental designs based off of posed models. Not only from the author, but also from several noted artists including Stephen Silver, Dean Yeagle & Ragnar. Each example includes explainations for the artistic choices made. Flipping through the pages of this book you, you won't find many of the tight, nailed down drawings you might expect from a character design book, but the principles Mattesi teaches build a strong foundation to create better, more interesting designs.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Anatomy for Artists: A New Approach to Discovering, Learning and Remembering the Body; Author: Visit Amazon's Anthony Apesos Page; Review: They are plenty of different approaches to understanding human anatomy for artistic purposes. That instruction usually falls in the "proportion and landmark" type notable in books by the likes of Byrne Hogarth and Robert Beverly Hale. Their books are far more useful for artists than the usual scads of medical-grade anatomy plates. "Anatomy for Artists" on the other had, takes that more medical approaches and makes it work. Author Anthony Apesos focuses less on names and more on function to help you understand all the body's many parts. The very first lesson involves dissecting a lamb shank. (and later cooking it for dinner) As unconventional as it seems, this little biology lesson makes you aware of how muscles, tendons, ligaments & bones work in general in order to prepare you for learning about specific parts later on. The remainder of the book cover all the various functions of how the body moves. You're encouraged to find each mentioned muscle on your body to learn how it ties to your bones and moves them around. The landmarks of the body make more sense when you realize they're usually there to give a tendon a place to insert into. Anatomy is one of the hardest aspects of art, and the best way understand it is to approach it from as many different angles as possible. "Anatomy for Artists" is a great way to get a better grip on anatomy and supplement the fine books already out there.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Spirit of the Pose: Sketchbook 1; Author: Visit Amazon's Karl Gnass Page; Review: It took me two years to get around to buying this book because I was hoping to get a deal on a used copy. But I've come to see that there aren't any used copies, probably because no one wants to part with theirs. And now that I've broke down and bought a copy I can see why. The beauty of the drawings should go without saying. Glen Keene's forward properly praises Gnass as an inspiring guide for the rest of us who are likely to get spun around and lost in drawing the human figure. Text in this book is short and sparse, but offers an insightful angle to pursuing art. The one saying that stands out in my mind is that there's no one out there keeping the secrets of drawing from you. I'm not sure why I find that comforting. I'm definitely not a big advocate of spending 45 bucks on a book. But if you spend it on Spirit of the Pose, I doubt you'll regret it.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: How to Make Webcomics; Author: Scott Kurtz; Review: There are a handful of making your own comics and scads of books on drawing them, but there's not much on making a living off them, particularly with webcomics. "How to Make Webcomics" spends very little time on the stuff that's been covered elsewhere and does a great job filling the niche that other books have missed. Again this book focuses not on "10% inspiration" fine art aspect of comics that there are already have shelves worth of books about, but the "90% perspiration" topics that are the difference between a talented artist and a successful talented one. Topics like maintaining a good update schedule, proper site design, self promotion, merchandising, dealing with supporters, working comic conventions, and other aspects of building a fan base that leads to a lucrative webcomics career. This is also one of the best examples of a multi-author book I've ever seen. Most books written by more than one person have no difference in who's "speaking" or have clunky transitions between authors. In this book, you always know who's talking and each author is established as a unique, experienced voice on the matter and will actually butt it on another person's chapter to offer a different opinion on a subject. The lessons passed on in "How to Make Webcomics" apply beyond online funny pages and are required reading for any artist looking do more for themselves on the internet. And if nothing else there's plenty of funny comic strips throughout to keep you entertained.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Character Animation Crash Course!( DVD not included); Author: Eric Goldberg; Review: Animation is an insanely broad topic. Far too huge to ever cover in one book. Listening to master animators on "The Animation Podcast" and else reveals that everyone's approach to this artform is different. And yet most animation books cover the same content. For many years, Richard Williams' The Animator's Survival Kit has been the gold standard of animation books, and rightfully so. Lucky for us, fellow animation guru Eric Goldberg's "Character Animation Crash Course" isn't just overlap from Williams' work and teaches us different aspects of animation that other books haven't covered. Goldberg covers aspects of animation far less academically than Williams and rather focuses on things from a character standpoint, how you could apply a technique to a specific character. He also list several classic cartoons (most if not all of which are on DVD) for examples of each particular technique. He also covers how control the overall shape volume of what's moving, even for flat, graphic characters, and goes in depth on animation "gimmicks" like smear drawings, zip lines, staggers etc... that are often mentioned, but never properly explained. Probably the most informative part of the book for me was the section on character construction, covering many of the ins and outs of designing an animatable character that I haven't seen in other books. "Character Animation Crash Course" also has the one big thing "Animator's Survival Kit" doesn't: A CD-ROM of the animations shown that you can watch and frame through to better understand the lessons in the book. Hopefully someday other master animators will do what Eric Goldberg's done with "Character Animation Crash Course." Write an animation book that has unique outlook on the artform and that imparts some new pearls of knowledge on the subject. Until then, you have to at least add this book to your shelf. Right next to The Animator's Survival Kit of course.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Compositing Visual Effects: Essentials for the Aspiring Artist; Author: Visit Amazon's Steve Wright Page; Review: I've gotten a lot of mileage out of the first edition of "Compositing Visual Effects". It helped fill in the blank spots in my otherwise self-taught education in visual effects. This second edition keeps all that information while adding and expanding to cover new developments in visual imaging. The first edition of the book was a solid introduction to the basic principles of how film and video work and the processes of manipulating them. Things like frame rates, aspect ratios, bit depths, film formats and elementary compositing techniques. Topics you may have a working knowledge of, but don't know the finer points of it all. Wright explains everything at the most basic level, giving us a more solid foundation to build upon. I can personally say now that knowing the actual math that goes into a certain blending mode is much more helpful than just trying them all out and guessing at which one I should use. The big additions to this version are sections on planar image tracking and how HDR imaging works (Some of this can also be found in the author's more advanced book Digital Compositing for Film and Video, but it's nice to have an intro here), and whole chapters on stereoscopic 3D compositing, and the workflow needed to take a shot from camera to composite. "Compositing Visual Effects" is a thorough beginners book. Even if you know the basics of visual effects and image processing, this book will help you know them better.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: How to Draw Stupid and Other Essentials of Cartooning; Author: Visit Amazon's Kyle Baker Page; Review: The majority of books with "How to draw..." in the title are so predictably similar they could be (and have been) drawn by almost anyone. With "How to Draw Stupid" on the other hand Kyle Baker succeeds in making a book that's uniquely his. Baker's lighthearted look at cartooning really doesn't have any concrete drawing lessons, but instead looks at the basics of communicating and being entertaining. It focuses more on how to draw feelings than figures. Most of what Baker teaches in this short but sweet book are things that should be second nature to cartoonists except for the fact that no other books ever seem to talk about them. Such as making iconic characters by designing them so simply even a 4-year old can draw them. Or drawing the pictures first and figuring out the words later. Even the seemingly redundant "To be a cartoonist you need to actually make cartoons" is a pretty profound statement when you think how many people aspire for something but never act on it. And best yet, the book actually does cover how to draw stupid. I was legitimately surprised by that. By being short on anatomy and long on character "How to Draw Stupid" easily stands out from the drawing book crowd by giving us lessons you won't find anywhere else.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Elemental Magic, Volume I: The Art of Special Effects Animation; Author: Visit Amazon's Joseph Gilland Page; Review: I've been hoping for years that someone would write a comprehensive book on 2D effects animation. Something more than the little "how to draw and flapping flag" or "how to make a fire cycle" bits that get tacked on in other animation books. Disney veteran Joseph Gilland has finally given us that first book dedicated to 2D effects animation. He's broken down effects into four broad categories (water/liquids, fire/smoke, props/solid objects and magical effects) and laid out the principles needed to bring them to life on paper. Since every real-world splash and flame is unique, Elemental Magic isn't so much of a "how to draw" type book as it is a "how to approach" book. Gilland breaks down the basic behaviors of different types of matter and the working methods needed for an animator to capture the dynamic essence of an effect without being tied to a hyper-real style or getting bogged down in an unmanageable level of detail. And this book doesn't solely apply to hand-drawn effects. Each section on a type of matter includes several pages on how to apply these classical animation principles to digital effects work. How to get the most out the computer's ability to do the heavy lifting on effects. Hopefully this isn't the last book ever published on 2D effects animation. Gilland himself mentions that he's only scratching the surface with this book and that water, smoke or any other element could warrant a full volume treatment. I hope someone takes him up on that offer, and with Elemental Magic we now have a solid foundation to build on.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Abstraction in Art and Nature (Dover Art Instruction); Author: Visit Amazon's Nathan Cabot Hale Page; Review: The natural world can be maddeningly complex to draw. Abstraction in Art & Nature seeks to bring that complexity down to a understandable level. Hale relates the similarities of just a few basic forms, forces and patterns that can be found throughout nature. Not just plants or fish, but clouds, water splashes on up to humans. Seeing these basic forms and how they relate to each other gives you a foundation to work with so you can capture natural forms without drawing every twig on a tree. Even though there's some invaluable information in this book, it isn't presented very well. Hale's style of writing is rather halting. It can be hard sometimes to squeeze the relevant information out of his words. And even though I see plenty of merit in his "project" suggestions line observing how glass breaks, or sprouting an avocado seed, I would've personally liked more specific instruction on how to tie this info to artmaking. The later chapters are far less informative than the earlier ones. Subjects like perspective and tone are handled far better in other books. And the last chapter on color is kind of worthless, since it's a black & white book and there really aren't any pictures. Altogether this isn't a bad book to have. Just being made aware of these natural forms is a great asset. However I wouldn't recommend paying full price for it.; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: How To Draw Manga 4: Sketching Manga-Style : All About Perspective (v. 4); Author: Graphic-Sha; Review: I always thought the perspective book in the original How to Draw Manga series was one of the better of the group. This edition of the much higher quality Sketching Style series expands on that book, presenting a practical guide to some specific perspective problems you might have to tackle while drawing. Many perspective books focus mainly on abstract boxes and circles for much of the teaching. In this one all the lessons center around applying perspective to comics compositions, such as placing characters in depth and evenly spacing out windows down a hallway. Most of the examples are specific perspective challenges you might face when drawing a comics scene, like depicting a curved/sloping street or a staircase. It also show the perspective of smaller parts of scene you might not think about that still need good perspective,like desks and doors. Admittedly some of the architecture examples are rather Japan-centric and might not be instantly useful unless you're drawing in a true manga style. But even if you aren't, the principles being showcased can be adapted to any style of drawing. This probably shouldn't be your first book on perspective. If you're new to all this start out with a book like Perspective! For Comic Book Artists: How to Achieve a Professional Look in Your Artwork and grab this book when you're ready for some great practical help in drawing your backgrounds.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Drawing Lessons from the Great Masters; Author: Visit Amazon's Robert Beverly Hale Page; Review: Robert Beverly Hale's drawing books are some of the first one I go to on my shelf when looking for drawing advice. Drawing Lessons from the Great Masters is terrific book to get a handle on the mental aspects of drawing. This book is a little more generic than his others, focusing more on a general approach to drawing and a very basic overview of anatomy. The primary truth Hale mentions that many students fail to realize and some other drawing books skip over is that drawings aren't supposed to be a copy of real life. They're just symbolic depictions of life. If a limb needs to be moved to make a better drawing, or if the entire lighting plan needs to be redone in your head, do it. The model is just the initial suggestion on which to base a drawing. Where Hale's books shine is that he uses old master drawings for his examples. Basic art concepts such as conceiving body forms as basic geometric shapes to help control and simplify details are much easier to understand when you can see it in a Rubens or DaVinci drawing. I will admit that some of his advice (like buying bones to study anatomy) may sound a tad odd. But you should remember that this book is 20 years old and draws on teaching experience for 30+ years before that. However, other than that the lessons in this book are just as important and relevant now and when they were first written. I have a ton of drawing books, (almost literally) but this and Robert Beverly Hale's other books are some of my favorites.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Either You're in or You're in the Way: Two Brothers, Twelve; Author: Visit Amazon's Logan Miller Page; Review: Plenty of people dream of making their own movie. The Miller brothers actually did it. "Either You're In or You're In the Way" details their unlikely story of creating a film to honor their late father. I was hooked on this story by the third paragraph. The Millers have a very humorous and engaging style of writing. They do a good job making the dozens of people we encounter over the course of the story feel like distinct personalities. By the time in the story that Ed Harris shows up to start portraying their father, you really feel like you know the man he's bringing to the screen. The only problem (at least at the time I'm writing this) is that the movie isn't available on DVD, so I can't speak for the end product of their labor. It's also hard not knowing more than the broad strokes of the film's story, since the main weapon the brothers had in getting them through their quest was the strength of their script. I also would've liked to have seen a few pictures of the production as well. It would have helped make a story about movies more... well, visual. All things considered, "Either You're In or You're In the Way" is fast, fun and inspiration read. It's a good buy for any movie junkie.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Sound Design: The Expressive Power of Music, Voice and Sound Effects in Cinema; Author: Visit Amazon's David Sonnenschein Page; Review: Taking sound design beyond basically filling in appropriate sound effects takes a lot of thought and labor. David Sonnenschien's simply named "Sound Design" is a treasure trove of ideas for crafting better sound for cinematic storytelling. This is definitely more of a theoretical book rather than a practical one. You won't learn much about how to record sounds or specifically craft a soundtrack. Instead you'll get scores of information on how our brains interpret voice, music and other types of sound and how to use that to create better sound design. The book is filled with "try this" sidebars made up of little experiments that are designed to open your mind and give you ideas on how to approach sound in film. I can't say I've really tried them, but they've given me a lot to think about. There are also plenty of accounts from legendary sound designers such as Ben Burtt & Gary Rydstrom on how they used concepts like the ones in this book in countless Hollywood blockbusters. Towards the end the book gets a little more practical, with ideas on how to augment sound effects to create more emotional impact. This is a great book to keep handy whenever you're stuck for ideas. Just give it flip through when you're in need of a little sonic inspiration.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Directing the Story: Professional Storytelling and Storyboarding Techniques for Live Action and Animation; Author: Visit Amazon's Francis Glebas Page; Review: Disney story artist Francis Glebas has put together a great book on the process of cinematic storytelling. Directing the Story touches on composition, pacing and many dramatic techniques designed to creating more emotional connections in stories. This book goes well with Nancy Bieman's Prepare to Board! Creating Story and Characters for Animated Features and Shorts for quality story instruction, but whereas her book also focuses on character design and other aspects of animation, Directing the Story looks solely at storytelling, and not necessarily for animation. What really sets Glebas' book apart is that it includes a fully boarded out story (an adaptation of 1001 Arabian Nights) that incorporates the methods he's teaching. There are a couple sticking points with me. One is the writing style. There are plenty of spots throughout the book where I found myself glossing over text because it was so dense. Also even though this book seems to focus on cinematic storytelling in general, animation is where this type of storytelling is most common and people interested in this book are most likely interested in animation. It would have been nice to see a bit more focus on animation and traditional storyboarding to really top things off. But all things told, Directing the Story has a great look on storytelling. One that other books don't have.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Digital Compositing for Film and Video, Second Edition (Focal Press Visual Effects and Animation); Author: Visit Amazon's Steve Wright Page; Review: This book is really an expansion on the author's other work: Compositing Visual Effects: Essentials for the Aspiring Artist. But whereas that book is geared for people totally new to compositing and visual effects, this one is far more technical and in depth for those ready to take the training wheels off. The most covered topic in this book is pulling mattes. I like how Wright covers every aspect of how these operation work. It's mostly so you know how to cobble together a matte even if your software doesn't have the option, but just knowing how everything works makes for more intelligent compositing work, no matter what tools you have. The other major, in-depth section is on light. How it works, how eyes, film, and video see it. And how to manipulate it for color correction. Again, the more you know the better you can handle whatever a client throws at you. Wright has an entertaining writing style that makes extra dry topics like gamma correction and log images a lot more accessible. This book doesn't teach any of the fancy or pretty visual wizardry, but when you need to know the nuts & bolts of the foundation elements required to pull that other stuff off, this is a great one to have around.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Cutting Rhythms: Shaping the Film Edit; Author: Visit Amazon's Karen Pearlman Page; Review: Editing is a rather abstract discipline as it's not creating as much arranging elements. Such concepts are not the easiest things to teach. Cutting Rhythms gives a good theoretical guide on how to create a cinematic whole that is more than the sum of the parts. This book focuses on the big aspects of editing. The major types of rhythm that can be shaped to create continuity out of an array of shots. This includes by physical and emotional rhythms as well as an interesting concept called trajectory phrasing that looks at the energy that's passed from shot to shot. Since the author based this book on her doctoral thesis, it's quite theoretical and densely-worded. She also draws many of her concepts from a variety of sources like acting, dance and maybe even an animation principle or two. It creates a well-rounded collection of knowledge, although one that's a bit hard to parse through. Luckily there are plenty of examples from films to explain each of these concepts. Some of the later chapters are more practical, looking at common editing techniques like parallel action, slo-mo & chase sequences and how work in the context of shaping cinematic rhythm. The only big complaint is that for a cinema book there aren't that many pictures. Just a few black & white stills here and there. Altogether, this is a good theory book to have around. It helps put you in the right mental state to edit.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Fix It In Post: Solutions for Postproduction Problems; Author: Visit Amazon's Jack James Page; Review: A lot of postproduction involves correcting a small number of common problems, like deinterlacing, noise reduction, fixing camera shake, etc... "Fix it in Post" compiles solutions for dozens of these issues into an easy reference. This is a great novice/intermediate level user book. The solutions are geared for almost any type of platform, are all fairly simple (including the easiest bleach bypass technique I've ever seen) and are well laid out with flow charts to explain the workflow. The book also includes a few (very) basic audio fixes like retiming and making stereo channels out of mono sound. The appendix contains a very handy guide to the basic parameters of virtually every media format you could encounter, such as aspect ratios, resolutions, frame rates, etc... The problems addressed in "Fix it in Post" are they kinds you're bound to run into a lot when working in video production. This a great little book to keep within arms reach when those problems crop up.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Game Feel: A Game Designer's Guide to Virtual Sensation (Morgan Kaufmann Game Design Books); Author: Visit Amazon's Steve Swink Page; Review: When playing a video game, it's common to talk about how it feels. Stiff, floaty, slippery, etc... The feel of a game has got to be the most crucial, yet hard to define aspect of a game. Game Feel explores this elusive yet essential quality. The book looks at the feel of a game both in abstract and mathematically definable ways. It surveys areas like controller input, rules, game world context and experience enhancing polish effects (sound design, particles, etc...) Later chapters focus on examples of popular games that exhibit good game feel (Asteroids, Super Mario Bros., Bionic Commando & Mario 64) and break down the components that make these games feel so good to play. This book is kind of a dense read, which is pretty much unavoidable given the topic, but the author does a pretty good job keeping things entertaining with a rather humorous writing style. The topics are also well divided, laying out each concept separately. The book also has a companion website that contains playable examples of the concepts being covered. Unfortunately at the time of this review, only a few of the examples are actually there. Plus they have to be downloaded onto your computer rather than simply loading directly in the browser. It would also be nice if the site linked to all the articles the author mentions in the foot notes so I could avoid typing in a bunch of 40 character URLs. This book is an enlightening read even if you only desire to play video games rather than design them. I personally liked the parts on virtual perception and how some of these principles of appealing game feel are similar to principles of appeal animation. (Overlap, Squash & Stretch, etc...) It's also nice that the author wraps up with a look at some of the possible future developments of game sensation. All in all, Game Feel is an eye-opening look at the most important part of video games; the part going on in our heads.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Moral Premise: Harnessing Virtue & Vice for Box Office Success; Author: Stanley D Williams; Review: Story structure isn't everything in screenwriting. However, it can't hurt to know as much as you can about it. The Moral Premise is definitely a niche book, but a good one to look over. Williams' interpretation of theme, premise and the like is much more sturdy and fleshed out than most other books. He expands the basic premise concept to include both the positive & negative aspects of a moral, which helps you focus on all sides of your theme. Even more important than the actual moral premise in my opinion is the concept of the "Moment of Grace" where the main character is given the chance to accept or reject the change he needs to make in order to succeed. This moment tends to come in the middle of Act 2, the squishy part where there's no structure to build around. Anything that helps firm up the most vacant part of traditional story structure is fine by me. On the downside, The Moral Premise is one of those books that feels padded. The main purpose of the first half of the book is to talk up the second half. This isn't surprising since it only covers one small aspect of screenwriting. I'm also not swayed by the book's claims to help vanquish writer's block or ensure a script's box office success. All in all The Moral Premise presents a concept worth learning. Just don't be surprised that a large chunk of the text is completely skip-able.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Manga Cross-Stitch: Make Your Own Graphic Art Needlework; Author: Visit Amazon's Helen McCarthy Page; Review: Like a lot of books, the "manga" angle seems rather half-hearted; more about having a catchy adjective than adhering to a style of art. And like many not-quite manga books, the actual art is rather lacking. In fact some of the examples in this book look like bad MS Paint creations. Plenty of knock-off Pokmon and ugly, big-eyed things with only a few really appealing pieces. Personally I really don't see a lot of people out there using this book to make Hirigana cross-stitch samplers. Manga or not, this book does look to push a rather old-fashioned craft in a whole new direction. To me Manga Cross-Stitch hits on the idea that cross-stitching and pixel art really go well together. Making a picture out of little, tiny squares works just as well in thread as it does in light. With that thought in mind, every sprite ever made is a potential pattern. And if replicating pixel art in fabric form is your goal, I'd recommend checking out the useful, but poorly named Character Design for Mobile Devices as well. The included disc comes with patterns for every design in the book, but with this art I don't see anyone using them except for practice. All things considered, even though the examples are a bit cheap-looking Manga Cross-Stitch does what any craft book should do: give you ideas for your own work.; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Imaginative Realism: How to Paint What Doesn't Exist (James Gurney Art); Author: Visit Amazon's James Gurney Page; Review: Heftier in both pages and content than most "How to Draw" type books, Imaginative Realism delivers on some great art instruction. I'd be hard pressed to think of this as the type of "How to" book it first appears to be, since there isn't any step-by-step instruction. It does however cover many basic aspects of art that standard books often miss. The two largest areas this book covers are reference(such as using models or maquettes as guides) and composition which showed some very interesting tips I'd never seen before; like "Windmilling" which helps unify light and dark in a composition. Both are essential to the book's goal of making believable art of invented subjects. This book also doubles as a retrospective of James Gurney's artwork with many sections centering on paintings he's done. Seeing practical examples of what he's teaching helps drive the concept home. And of course since the author also created the Dinotopia series, a sizable portion of the book is dedicated to dinosaurs. Something also missing in a lot of other drawing books, Gurney lays out several uses and careers for the skills he's teaching. All in all, Imaginative Realism is a solid art book with great pictures and useful tips on artmaking, whether your subject exists in real life or not.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Draw Furries: How to Create Anthropomorphic and Fantasy Animals; Author: Lindsay Cibos-Hodges; Review: "Anthropomorphic" or humanized animal characters have been around since the dawn of storytelling. In recent years, "furry" characters, a usually cartoon-influenced type of anthro characters, have risen in popularity online. "Draw Furries" is one of the first books to bring this popular art style to the "how to draw" book market. The book covers a decent selection of species for a 128 page book. There are sections on felines, canines, equines, rodents and birds. However it stays fairly generic within the sections, just covering the basics and leaving the further research and details up to you. The only other book I know that covers anthro characters in depth is Freaks!: How to Draw Fantastic Fantasy Creatures (Fantastic Fantasy Comics), which a decent book and covers a greater variety of species, but I think this one better represents the standard visual style of "furry" characters, both in design and rendering. "Draw Furries" does try to include a decent variety of styles, both more realistic and semi-cartoony, including examples of anime "catgirl" types, which are basically people with animal ears, and full-out animal characters with no human qualities at all. Some of the best tips come after the main instruction. Details like adding extra fur and how to clothe non-human characters are things I wished got even more attention in this book. This book has a few features toward the end that you don't see in most how to draw books; a few pages on coloring, which is nice since it's coming from the authors of the rather good Digital Manga Workshop: An Artist's Guide to Creating Manga Illustrations on Your Computer, and a couple examples of taking a drawing from concept to final color, which are good since these type of books tend to only focus on characters and ignore setting and background. All in all, this book could be better. But where there are hundreds of books on drawing manga or superheroes, this is only the second book on anthro characters. There's still plenty of room to improve. Hopefully "Draw Furries" will inspire more and better anthro artwork and lead to more and better books.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: One Hundred Years of Menswear; Author: Visit Amazon's Cally Blackman Page; Review: It's easy to see that men's fashion gets far less coverage than women's. One Hundred Years of Menswear aims to even things up with a survey of 20th century men's fashion. However the book leave a lot to be desired. Although the book is full of quality pictures, there not enough content to make it a quality book. It's both lacking in words to be a good history book and lacking in pictures to be a coffee table book. The book isn't organized well from a history standpoint. It divides the 20th century into pre and post 1940 and then subdivided into fashion groups like "sportsman," "rebel" or just "designer." Since each group jump around through various decades, this makes it harder to get a good feel for fashion as a whole at any particular time. And as the book goes on, the clothes being shown are less what of men of the period at-large were wearing and more of what niche groups and designers had taken to. That makes it a far less valuable resource. As a whole, One Hundred Years of Menswear is an interesting collection of pictures on one of the lesser documented areas of fashion, but I don't think it's one you'll consult all that often.; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Digital Painting Techniques: Practical Techniques of Digital Art Masters (Digital Art Masters Series); Author: 3dtotal.Com; Review: Digital Painting Techniques is a great resource from 3D Total in the same vein as their online magazine 2D Artist. It features some supremely talented digital artists explaining how they wield their pixel paintbrushes. It's definitely not a book for beginners, but the tutorials are laid out in a way that it'll make more sense as you become better acquainted with digital painting. This book is crammed full of instruction, with 42 tutorials covering a myriad of topics including custom brushes & speed painting (two essential skills for being a successful digital painter), matte painting, creatures, humans and environments and well as some complete projects from concept to completion. One of my few complaints about the book is that the layout is somewhat choppy. The photos aren't placed logically to accompany the text they're referring to. After I read a paragraph I have to scan the page (or flip to the next page) to find the picture it's talking about. This isn't a huge problem, but it does get tiresome after 280-some pages. There's no disc with this book, but there is a companion website where you can download all the brushes and base images from the tutorials. It would've been nice if it also had the PSD files so you could look through all the steps better and clarify vague parts of the text. The site does have few short video tutorials demonstrating techniques and hopefully they'll add more since painting is a subject that doesn't always make sense in text. All things told, Digital Painting Techniques is full of great tutorials from amazing artists, well above the skill level you tend to find in most books.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: How to Make Animated Films: Tony White's Complete Masterclass on the Traditional Principals of Animation; Author: Visit Amazon's Tony White Page; Review: Learning animation takes a lot of study and practice, and if you're just starting that learning process and don't know much about animation yet, a book like The Animator's Survival Kit--Revised Edition: A Manual of Methods, Principles and Formulas for Classical, Computer, Games, Stop Motion and Internet Animators might confuse you since it's more theoretical than practical. How to Make Animated Films doesn't go into nearly the depth Richard Williams does, but it's a lot more practical and hands-on. For someone just starting out this is probably a good book to cut your teeth on before moving on to more advanced books like Williams'. This book covers the entirety of the animated filmmaking process. The first half teaches basic animation techniques- inbetweens, bouncing balls, walks, lip sync, etc...- while the second half of the book focuses on animated filmmaking, some of which is similar to live action filmmaking as well as animation-specific concepts like layouts, color scripts, cleanup, and the like. Even though this book is presented as a "one stop shop" for making animated films, getting the most out this book hinges on reading Tony White's previous two books- The Animator's Workbook: Step-By-Step Techniques of Drawn Animation and Animation from Pencils to Pixels: Classical Techniques for the Digital Animator. Both are needed to make up the depth that's lost in order to cover all of animated filmmaking in 470-some pages. I personally think there's a lot more White could've taught about animation before moving on to making a film with it. Things like drag, follow through, overlap, etc... aren't mentioned much. The included DVD is a decent supplement to the instruction in the book. They help explain in video what White is teaching in text, although it could've gone further. The bouncing ball and flour sack exercises aren't even covered on the disc. And it would've been nice if it included the two films that're often cited in the book rather than two student pieces. If you've studied animation for a while, even if just in reading some books, feel free to skip this one. But if you're completely new to animation, How to Make Animated Films is a good starting point and you can graduate on to other books later.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: This Book Is Overdue!: How Librarians and Cybrarians Can Save Us All; Author: Visit Amazon's Marilyn Johnson Page; Review: Librarians are a largely transparent part of most people's daily lives. And even though they are an easy, free and reliable source of information, most people are more likely to turn to a search engine for info than a librarian. Much of This Book is Overdue looks into one basic question: Are libraries and librarians still relevant in the age of Google? One major theme of this book is that librarians are at the front of new technology rather than being dragged kicking and screaming into the 21st Century. Not being personally familiar with Second Life, I never would have guessed it was such a haven for virtual librarians. This author also makes a good case for the benefits of librarians versus the vast, untamed wilds of the internet. Although in many general cases the results are probably fairly similar. This book might also have added interest if you're from New York, since a large portion of her examples are from the Westchester libraries and she has an entire chapter on the renowned New York Public Library. Obviously the part in the title about "Saving us All" is a bit overstated. While the book does give examples of ways that librarians are necessary in modern life, such as archiving important works and enabling writers and researchers, the book's main purpose is diffusing librarians' stereotypical reputation as prudish, low-tech shushers. I will say that the sections on librarians helping to enable online learning and protecting users from government snooping are more in line theme, but they seemed a little more like history pieces than a call for activism. As a general interest diversion, This Book is Overdue is a fast and rather interesting read about an often overlooked fixture of modern life. But unless you're currently on the fence about becoming a librarian, don't expect this book to rock your world.; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: How To Draw Caricatures; Author: Visit Amazon's Lenn Redman Page; Review: "Caricature" tends to conjure drawings of people with big, grinning heads and tiny, superfluous bodies you might buy from an artist at a fair or theme park. In all the many books I've read on caricature, I've never felt that any of them really did justice to such a vital aspect of art. Caricature is about bringing out the essential aspects of any subject, not just comically large noses. Lenn Redman's book How to Draw Caricatures does a better job treating caricature as an artistic principle that most every other book out there. Redman lays out a basic workflow; a set of guidelines that help you determine what parts of a subject you should exaggerate (or minimize) and how in a manner that can be applied to more than just ears and noses. Even though he never talks about caricaturing trees or buildings, you certainly could with Redman's method. The book contains a vast number of examples and doesn't stick to one set "style" of how to caricature someone. In some cases he even revisits a particular subject to show a different approach to drawing them. Redman also covers caricaturing bodies, something a lot of books skip completely. One negative mark on Redman's work is that his caricatures of children are rather lacking. Although that's a problem I've seen far worse in some other books, it does show that children is a subject that needs more in depth study in caricature books. Also, owing to the relative age of this book and the author, the book includes a wide variety of caricatures from the 1930's-50's that show the artistic range caricature can take but isn't often explored today. All in all, How to Draw Caricatures isn't the perfect book on caricature, but it's the best I've seen so far.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Technique of Film Editing; Author: Visit Amazon's Karel Reisz Page; Review: I'm currently in the middle of editing on an hour-long documentary, so I was excited to get the chance to review a book on editing. Unfortunately I didn't come out of it with the knowledge I was hoping for. The Technique of Film Editing is somewhat outdated and inaccessible for modern uses. The major problem is that a temporal art form like film (especially the editing of it) is very difficult to capture in text form. I find it nearly impossible to judge shot selection and flow from simple text descriptions, even with footage lengths and stills. (which are given only occasionally) It's hard to really tell what's going on without actually watching the films. And with such an out of date selection that's often easier said than done. I checked every film that the book mentioned in-depth to see how easy they were to track down. And while the majority of them are easy to come by, I found about 20 that weren't available on Netflix and of those only 4 were readily available on Amazon. The forward to the added second section pretty much says it all. It states that not only is the first part outdated (even for 1968) the second part will likely age even faster; and it's right. So much of the later part of the book is about the current film trends of the time like cinemascope and the French New Wave and only some of it has much to do with the actual editing. I learned far more about editing by spending an hour and watching The Cutting Edge - The Magic of Movie Editing, which hits the highlights of pretty much everything mentioned in this book, plus some bits of knowledge from editor Walter Murch that are far more readily useful than much of what's written in this book. If you have some experience editing you may be able to glean a few interesting tidbits from this book, but in this day and age The Technique of Film Editing seems more important for its contribution to the craft than continuing to teach it.; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: The After Effects Illusionist: All the Effects in One Complete Guide; Author: Visit Amazon's Chad Perkins Page; Review: Often when I use After Effects I end up only using a small handful of the effects available. Something I assume a lot of people do as well. There are plenty of effects that most people try once, don't see any difference and never try again. The After Effects Illusionist is essentially a guided tour down the effects menu to show what they all do and how to best use them in your After Effects work. Chad Perkins lets you know which effects are essential (including some alternative uses for them) and which ones are basically useless. And thankfully there's a CD with the project files, since most of these effects are hard to demonstrate in still pictures alone. It is disappointing that the standard 3rd party effects like Keylight or the Cycore effects aren't covered since they're so powerful. There is one small blurb saying they are covered on the book's website, but that doesn't seem to be true. Considering the included CD contains a few final chapters, one more on those effects wouldn't be that hard to add. The After Effects Illusionist is a book it wouldn't hurt to keep by your desk. It's bound to expand your After Effects vocabulary.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Animation Unleashed: 100 Principles Every Animator, Comic Book Writer, Filmmaker, Video Artist, and Game Developer Should Know; Author: Visit Amazon's Ellen Besen Page; Review: There are plenty of animation books that cover the technical process of animation: keys, inbetweens, etc... but I don't know of one that focuses strictly on the purpose of animation and how best to use it. That's where Animation Unleashed comes i . This book seems geared less toward actually teaching you to animate and more toward simply showing you what animation is best at so that you can make the most of the medium. This book doesn't seem to be aimed at accomplished animators, but more for people in other related disciplines like comics or video games that could really benefit from knowing some of the underlying principles of animation. The book makes reference to a fairly diverse range of films to make its points. Several of the films mentioned are less well-known shorts largely from the National Film Board of Canada. Almost all of them can be easily found on Youtube. Ironically, one of the few I couldn't find was by the author herself. All in all, Animation Unleashed isn't a typical animation book, but if you're looking for a book that lays out the strengths of animation as a medium, this is a good one to have around.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Producing Games: From Business and Budgets to Creativity and Design; Author: Visit Amazon's D S. Cohen Page; Review: In video games, just as in other media, the producer is the one who oversees everything and keeps the production running no matter what roadblocks get in the way. Producing Games is a handy guide for aspiring game producers, but only if you have some previous experience. If you don't know much about how games are made and are just trying to get an introduction to the industry, this is a book you'll want to wait on. It's very jargon-heavy and seems to be geared toward people who already have experience in other areas of games and have jumped (or were thrown) headfirst into producing a game. It does seem to cover all the bases of a producer's job, which can be sort of ill-defined. I liked the sections to how to run meetings and brainstorming sessions. This isn't the kind of book you can read a couple pages here and there because it takes a minute to get into, but after that it reads pretty fast since the average chapter is about 6 pages long. Having two authors with extensive game experience, it would've been nice to see more real-world examples of producing games. It would've made a little more than just a checklist of duties the producer has to handle. All in all, Producing Games looks like it could be a big help for someone with some previous games experience and want to break in to the producing role. For a complete beginner just looking to for some basic info, it's not a priority.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Hippo in a Tutu: Dancing in Disney Animation; Author: Visit Amazon's Mindy Aloff Page; Review: Disney and dancing go hand in hand. The animation empire was quite literally founded on characters like Mickey Mouse bouncing along to catchy rhythms. It's only natural someone write a book about such an essential part of Disney history. However, Hippo in a Tutu isn't from the point of view for a Disney fan to learn more about dancing as you might expect, but rather for those well versed in dance to learn more about Disney. This book is written by a dance critic, and while she's very knowledgeable, a layperson might have trouble picking out detailed dancing terms and descriptions in just text. Apart from some storyboards the pictures don't add as much to feel of dancing as you'd hope, which is admittedly hard since you're trying to depict a dynamic art in a static medium. The films looked at in the book are almost exclusively from Disney's early shorts and features. A huge amount of the book focuses on Fantasia, which is understandable, but there's little mention of any films after the mid 40's; just brief bits on both Sleeping Beauty and The Hunchback of Notre Dame. Toward the end, the book looks mostly at the people who performed in the live-action reference footage for dances in Snow White, Dumbo and the like, as well as the climate of racial discrimination/insensitivity of the period in Hollywood. Not quite what you might've expected from this book. If you're a dance aficionado you may want to give this a try. If you're more interested in Disney and the actual films and animation, this might not be as enjoyable as you'd think.; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Flash Cinematic Techniques: Enhancing Animated Shorts and Interactive Storytelling; Author: Visit Amazon's Chris Jackson Page; Review: Flash has become a major animation tool over the years; much more so that it was originally intended. Flash Cinematic Techniques attempts to bring traditional filmmaking ideas into Flash, but is too heavy on film lecture and fairly light on actual Flash training. So much of this book focuses on things you could find in any number of basic filmmaking books. Some parts, such as composition, are very well done and suited for Flash animation, while others, like story structure and the like could've been abbreviated and left to one of the many other Focal Press books while freeing up pages for more Flash-specific stuff. Not enough of the book talks about how to pull those techniques off in Flash. And much of what it shows (such as dissolves and wipes) should be fairly evident to someone who has any previous Flash experience. It could've spent fewer pages on how light physically works and more on how to depict it in Flash. For a book on how to get the most out of Flash, it doesn't really ever go into animation, which I notice is similar to the author's other Flash books. It talks about designing for limited animation, but seems to take from more of a hand-drawn approach rather than making the most of Flash's reusable symbols. The closest it gets to actually animating something is giving you a video of a walk cycle to copy over. Some of the most useful stuff in the book is on creating warp pans and parallax backgrounds; things that are animation-specific problems. That's what more of the book should've focused on. The last section covers some ActionScript. It's definitely not for beginners, so you'll either have to know quite a bit about ActionScript coming in or blindly copy what's written without knowing how it works. Either way, it seems out of sorts with the scope of the 200-some pages before it. All in all, Flash Cinematic Techniques treats you both like a beginner and a novice at the same time, so one way or another you're not going to get the most out of this book. Even though its intentions are great it doesn't quite deliver the way it should.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Single-Camera Video Production; Author: Robert B. Musburger Phd; Review: The great thing about digital video is that it's democratized video production, expanding access to the tools of production to virtually anyone. The downside of this is that most people are ill-trained in how to use these tools properly. They need to learn some of the basics of visual communication. "Single-Camera Video Production" aims to convey these basic techniques, but largely misses the mark. This 5th edition is this book's first update since 1993, and it shows. A fair amount of the info seems outdated and it's obvious the author is unfamiliar with newer digital technology. From constantly calling a computer a CPU, to not knowing what AVI stands for, to actually stating that an editing application will "respond to the instruction you give the CPU through the menus and keyboard," Robert B. Musburger doesn't seem to be the most up-to-speed teacher of digital video technology. A major gripe with this book is the editing. A big portion of this slim 250-page book is unused blank space. It's common to see a two page spread with 3/4 of it blank. Given all that emptiness they could have easily fit in more pictures to illustrate some of the book's more visual points, such as the concept of look space. Otherwise the publishers could've saved a lot of paper. An even bigger problem is the sheer amount of typos that litter this book, especially in technical data. There's one table of video format info that has 5 typos in it. It gets to the point where I can't trust the numbers the author is using because they often seem slightly off from the common formats I've seen in my years of working with video. The writing is often needlessly technical without being informative. The author says there are such things as 4:1:1 and 4:2:2 color spaces, but fails to mention what that actually means. Other times what he says is simply unnecessary. It's well explained in the book that video cameras used to use tubes to convert picture to video, but now use CCD chips. I have no idea how knowing the basic specs of a 30 year-old camera I'll never use helps my production skills. The photos in this book are sparse and largely generic not actually serving a specific purpose. The section that actually deals with how to set up cameras and lights on a set is depicted completely in diagrams with no photos to how things will actually look. Plus for all its talk of white balance and color temperature there's no photos explaining it, though they would've been in black & white anyways. For a book on a visual medium, it's not very visual. If you have some previous knowledge on video production, be it classes or self-taught, this might be a useful book to flip through as a refresher, but if you're new video production, this book probably won't help you learn essential video skills.; Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: Layout and Composition for Animation; Author: Visit Amazon's Ed Ghertner Page; Review: Layout is one of the first stages of the traditional animation process. It takes the unbridled creative ideas of the storyboards and turns them into properly composed scenes. Layout is also likely the most under-represented aspect of the 2D animation process when it comes to books. Unfortunately "Layout and Composition for Animation" by long time Disney veteran Ed Ghertner is a brief and somewhat muddled take on the subject. This book is a lightning fast read; one that can be easily finished in a couple hours. This is due partly to the expectedly large number of picture, but also just being very short, at just over 200 pages. It wouldn't be out of line to expect a book twice as long as this. It also wouldn't have hurt for this book to be a bit larger in the other dimensions. There are countless drawings where it's hard to read what's going on because they cross the gutter between the pages. This book reads more like a manual for Disney trainees than something released for the general public. Little, if any, of the jargon is explained, there's essentially a different topic every page or two that are all loosely grouped into chapters and as a whole it's largely inaccessible to most readers. You really need to have a decent amount of pre-existing knowledge on the subject to get the most out of this book. In fact the entire concept of layout in this book is poorly defined. Much of the early pages read more like they're about storyboarding than layout. This really could've used an introductory chapter, or at least a forward from one of Ghertner's Disney colleagues, to explain exactly what layout is and what the goals and responsibilities of a layout artist are. There is content of that sort in the very last chapter, but it covers the entire animation workflow and doesn't explain the process very well. There's also a companion website for this book that's only mentioned on the back cover, but all it seems to have is a few more pictures with no text to accompany them. The easiest way to handle this subject would be taking a short scene from storyboards to final layout, showing all the steps and considerations taken along the way. Sadly this book never does that. Hans Bacher's book Dream Worlds: Production Design for Animation wasn't really about layout, but the snippets in it that deal with composition are far more accessible and informative than this. If you're truly interested in learning more about layout, you're probably best served tracking down Brian Lemay's book on the subject. It's not perfect and a bit outdated, but far more useful and indicative of the layout process.; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Mastering MultiCamera Techniques: From Preproduction to Editing and Deliverables; Author: Visit Amazon's Mitch Jacobson Page; Review: The bulk of editing books deal in the standard one camera approach of normal filmmaking, however using more than one camera at a time has been around almost as long and there are virtually no books that cater to the added challenges of shooting, organizing and editing more than one stream of footage. Luckily Mastering MultiCamera Techniques is the perfect book to address those challenges. This book lives up to what it sets out to be, which is to provide multicam training for video professionals, primarily in the realms of concerts and sitcoms, and doesn't shy away from being thorough with technical terms. But it's hard to blast a book for being thick and jargon-heavy when that was its stated point. If you're a beginner, there's very little in here for you other than learning all the benefits of using multi-camera production and getting a feel for general workflow with the final chapters that detail major concert shoots with both Paul McCartney and The Rolling Stones. The editing side is equally well-geared for both Final Cut Pro and Avid, but it also touches on the benefits of cutting multicam with Premiere, Vegas and EIDUS. The included DVD is very generous with bonus chapters, expanded versions of the case studies in the book, a 21 minute tutorial on multicam editing in Final Cut Pro, and clips from Paul McCartney and Elton John concerts to practice with. All in all, if you are, or will soon be, involved in multicamera video production this is a book you'll want to have handy.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Make the Cut: A Guide to Becoming a Successful Assistant Editor in Film and TV; Author: Lori Coleman; Review: Plenty on people come out of film school dreaming of editing on hit movies or TV shows. However, people don't dream of being an assistant doing all the technical grunt work to make things easier on the person in charge to doing all the creative work. But since it's nearly impossible to become the former without several years working as the latter it's a great help to have a book like Making the Cut to guide through the world of assistant editing. This book is nothing if not thorough. The authors (versed in both feature and TV editing) cover all areas of an assistant's duties and do a fair job covering both AVID and Final Cut workflows. If you're not familiar with a lot of the deeply technical aspects of edit platforms (such as file formats and storage servers) you may want to brush up on them because this book will assume you have that figured out already. At times, especially at the beginning, you might feel like you're being talked down to a bit, such as being told how to dress for an interview to curry favor by bringing doughnuts, but I chalk that up more to being comprehensive than condescending. On top of technical duties the book also covers the social and political dilemmas of post production, which also may or may not come off as well intentioned. It may rub you the wrong way to be specifically told how to give a generic opinion, but it is a good thing to keep in mind if you find yourself in a thorny situation. This book is also very practical-minded when talking about making a career as an editor, including how to get and keep working, join the Editors Guild and how to budget in a way that'll keep you financially secure between projects. I personally would like to land an assistant editing position, so despite it's arguable moments, Making the Cut was an eye-opening look at steps needed to make that happen.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Stand-Out Shorts: Shooting and Sharing Your Films Online; Author: Visit Amazon's Russell Evans Page; Review: Short films have far more room to unique and experimental than features. Ideas that can amaze and captivate viewers for 1-2 minutes may bore or repulse them if stretched out for 30-60. Stand-Out Shorts aims to teach short filmmaking, but falls short by basically ignoring the niche this book is supposed to fill. Nowhere in this book does the author talk about the differences between shorts and feature length film, or even define what he means by "short," which by definition could is anything under 45 minutes, even though I think he means 5 minutes and under for this book. It's really written more as an all-inclusive pocket filmmaking guide than actually focusing on anything. This book's approach to filmmaking tends to be a sort of "chuck the rules and make something unique" mindset, which if you're making 1-2 minutes films is a fine way to learn, experiment and grow as a filmmaker. But even with that approach you should still know what you can and cannot pull off in a shortened timeframe. The chapters are all short, usually 6 pages or less, and being so short limits the amount of useful information they can contain. The chapter on writing is confusing and rather pointless. The chapter on copyright and other legal issues is playing fast & loose with the rules to put it mildly, all the way down to advocating the old "mail it to yourself" trick for establishing copyright. You probably will be okay if you follow his instructions, but don't be surprised if this stuff doesn't hold up in court. The other sections on shooting, editing and online distributing are similar. There's not much you can say about standard narrative film editing in only 5 pages. The book is also very non-visual, with most of the few pictures shown being either stock photos or generic screencaps of websites. The final section is the most interesting, although not much more useful. It covers a plethora of film genres and gives each a handy guide on what you need to make them. However there's not much different between many of the genres (such as being told 5 different times to write a good script or to upload your final piece to Vimeo) and some, like documentary and journalism, are far different types than the more narrative-based instruction the book teaches. This book has a companion website, and once you scour the book to hunt down the password to access it (it's on the copyright page) you'll be treated to a few bonus chapters and interviews. It's better than some Focal book companion sites, but most of it could have easily been added to the actual book and not added many pages. The site would be better served to give what the book can't, like color photos and example video clips. In the end the only saving grace for Stand-Out Shorts is its rather low price. It's a rather vague and generic book that tries to cover everything and in turn covers nothing very well.; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Killer Camera Rigs That You Can Build: How to Build Your Own Camera Cranes, Car Mounts, Stabilizers, Dollies, and; Author: Visit Amazon's Dan Selakovich Page; Review: It should go without saying that camera gear is prohibitively expensive. Even most alternatives can be quite costly. I was looking at a build-your-own dolly kit before I saw that even that ran $400. Luckily, "Killer Camera Rigs That You Can Build" is here to save the day with plans for all sorts of ingenious rigs (from dollies and stabilizers to full out jibs and cranes) that are both affordable and rather simple to build. Every project in this book is about making professional performing (though maybe not professional looking) rigs at the lowest cost possible, including even showing you how to modify a surveyor's tripod to save money. The materials are all available at any large hardware store (some of the thicker aluminum being a possible exception) and the tools are all pretty basic. The instructions do well in catering to less experienced builders, including often telling you how to work around a bad hole or cut. It also does its best to be flexible in case you can't find the exact same materials. Metal is the only potential sticking point with most of these projects, being more expensive and harder to work with. Some of the metal work (namely cutting holes with a hole saw) may be rather difficult without more advanced tool like a drill press, but the author has done his best to explain these tasks in-depth in a "Working with Metal" appendix that frankly should've been at the front of the book rather than the back. The author has also done his best to make the projects more accessible to those outside the US by posting metric conversions of measurements and pointing out parts that might be hard to find in other countries. The companion website is nothing of major interest, except for maybe a FAQ. The rest is just sample pages and pictures, which is too bad. A few quick videos could've really made it worthwhile. Even if it only covered dollies, "Killer Camera Rigs That You Can Build" would be worth buying. Given that it covers so much more this is a book every indie filmmaker should have handy.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Flash Advertising: Flash Platform Development of Microsites, Advergames and Branded Applications; Author: Visit Amazon's Jason Fincanon Page; Review: Even though new technologies are rising to overtake it, Flash is still the juggernaut of web interactivity. Found on almost every computer as well as almost every website, particularly in online advertising. Flash Advertising looks at professional approaches to making dynamic web ads. This book is definitely not for beginners. The author assumes not only that you're well versed in Flash and Flash Builder in general, but Flash in an advertising setting. It approaches everything from the perspective of a professional developer building for an ad agency. Most of the book focuses on theory and workflow, dealing with the basic concepts and pitfalls of building banner ads, microsites and advergames. It also recommends 3rd-party software to help extend your projects' capabilities. The exception is the last few chapters that deal in-depth with the benefits of using classes, the complete code for some useful classes to use for advertising (such as a basic menu or drawing a banner-sized button) and also a handy list of all the variables used in said classes. The companion website is very simple, but seemingly complete (maybe the first time I've ever seen that in book companion site). It has zip files of all the classes covered in the book as well as the code for a couple simple apps/games and also a forum to discuss the book's content. All in all, if you're a professional/experienced Flash developer "Flash Advertising" is a solid book to have around, although considering it's more guidelines than actual teaching, you may want to just buy it used.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Writing for Visual Media, Third Edition; Author: Anthony Friedmann; Review: Virtually all forms of entertainment and communication start with the writer, and certain skills are needed to successfully create for the growing demand for written content. Writing for Visual Media aims to teach these skills, but largely falls into being vague and ill-focused. This book strikes me as like sitting in a lower division lecture class taught by an incredibly long-winded professor. I'm sure he's making good points, but since I'm asleep I couldn't say for certain. The first couple chapters are by far the most useful; discussing a 7 step workflow for effective communication. This is a great this to see since writing is often treated as such a nebulous artistic concept it's nice to see a workaday process to write even if you're not feeling "inspired" or working on a mundane project. Sadly, the rest of the book doesn't keep up on this concept. This book's breadth is its downfall. It's essentially dealing with every written medium that isn't print-based, so much of the book is a primer in each and every one of those media and never spends much time going through applying the steps laid out in the beginning. This book would be better off if it stuck to ads, PSAs and other "corporate" types of media and left screenplays and the like the thousand other books out there. The companion website is a bit clunky and difficult to navigate. It also has unfinished placeholder content and broken links to outside sites. Plus the book only refers you to the website with the occasional icon in the margin, so you're often unsure what you're going there to see. All in all, Writing for Visual Media does have plenty of useful information, however it's spread out over such a wide area you'll have to go elsewhere to get some truly worthwhile instruction.; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Photoshop Studio with Bert Monroy: Digital Painting; Author: Visit Amazon's Bert Monroy Page; Review: Photoshop is an application of such vast and varied potential it would be impossible to encapsulate it in one book. With this book, author Bert Monroy focuses on the specific area of digital painting and lays down a narrow, yet high useful set of Photoshop techniques. "Digital Painting" in this case means hyper-realistic buildings and streets and such. With the exception of the occasional tree or puddle, organic-type subjects are pretty much untouched in this book. The book as a whole is mainly the author walking you through many of the techniques the author used to create several of his actual pieces. His extended use of layer styles and Adobe Illustrator are the two main takeaways from all this, but those are two very powerful yet often overlooked aspects of artmaking in Photoshop. The final chapter deviates into actual step-by-step tutorials of a few basic, yet useful concepts, like text treatments, cast shadows, etc... Plus with a simple registration you can download several excised chapters that cover basic Photoshop concepts such as brushes, channels and layers in depth. All in all, unless depicting hyper-real buildings is your passion you may not want to pay full price for this book. But if you do end up with a copy on your shelf, you'll have a solid set of techniques to refer to.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Design Essentials for the Motion Media Artist: A Practical Guide to Principles & Techniques; Author: Angie Taylor; Review: While new digital tools have made media production available to almost anyone, many aspiring digital artists may lack the basic artistic tools to make the most of their software. Design Essentials for the Motion Media Artist aims to pass on some of the artistic knowledge missing from the software manuals. The book takes a stab at almost every aspect of visual design; from typography and color direction to animation and video editing. The coverage of topics varies depending on the author's level of expertise. Some chapters, such as the ones on text and color, are very thorough. Many of the rest are a little under-explained and vastly under-illustrated. Many of the points she makes have no pictures to accompany them, which may leave little impression on the reader. The final couple chapters stray from the concept of design principles and focus on a host of topics like pitching, portfolios and numerous technical details such as interlacing and data rates. This technical stuff seems to be the opposite of what this book is supposed to be about, and while it'll be useful to some the pages could've been better utilized by showing more traditional design work. The companion website is somewhat typical of most books, in that it doesn't actually exist (at least as of when I'm writing this, 5 months after the release date). You're simply redirected to the author's personal site which, while it does have some useful tutorials and the like, is lacking the content promised in the book. For anyone looking to move beyond this book, I agree with the author's suggestion of picking up The Visual Story, Second Edition: Creating the Visual Structure of Film, TV and Digital Media, but if you're a complete newcomer to digital media this book is a decent start.; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: The Healthy Edit: Creative Editing Techniques for Perfecting Your Movie; Author: Visit Amazon's John Rosenberg Page; Review: Editing may be one of the least understood of the film disciplines. Organizing and arranging footage to create the best possible narrative isn't an easy thing to teach, especially in book form. Written by a veteran film editor, The Healthy Edit has plenty of instruction, but may be a bit difficult to pick out all the useful parts. The author takes the metaphor of editor as doctor throughout the entire book, going as far as to give the chapters titles like cardiac, genetics and alternative medicine. More often than not this approach has the problem of making what he's saying harder to understand rather than easier. The book makes specific mentions of procedures for both Avid and Final Cut Pro, but as whole is rather agnostic when it comes to software and focuses on basic principles. The author also mixes in a lot of history, namely of pre-digital film editing. Some of it is useful, some of it isn't and some of it is downright random, such as explaining the paint job on James Bond's car in Quantum of Solace. The actual instruction can be a bit hard to suss out compared to a book like Make the Cut: A Guide to Becoming a Successful Assistant Editor in Film and TV, where everything's laid out in bullet points. The most interesting concept in the book, relating shot choice, length and juxtaposition with one another, is only mentioned a handful of times throughout the book. The chapters have a short recap at the end, but they don't always do the best job of summarizing. It may be handy to take notes while reading to help the useful parts worth remembering. All in all, while The Healthy Edit could've been organized a bit better, but it's a fairly fast read and has plenty of worthwhile information and advice when it comes to film editing. You just might have to keep a notebook handy while you read it.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Hybrid Animation: Integrating 2D and 3D Assets; Author: Visit Amazon's Tina O'Hailey Page; Review: When I was studying digital animation the thing I was most interested in using CG to enhance traditional animation. And as CG has become a bigger and bigger part of all types of animation I've been waiting for a book to better lay out how to combine 2D and 3D disciplines to expand the possibilities of the medium. "Hybrid Animation" is that book. The first two chapters cover the art direction/production design process that leads to mixing assets. The remaining chapters each focus on a specific approach to combing 2D & 3D; 2D and 3D characters in a scene, 2D characters with 3D parts, 3D characters with 2D parts, effects animation and camera work. While the CG side of things is all in Maya, the author shows a variety of ways to handle both the 2D animation (paper, Photoshop, Flash, Toon Boom, and even Corel Painter) as well compositing the levels together. (After Effects, Shake and Toon Boom Pro) The writing is very straight-forward and practical with examples from major animated features and specific step-by-step instructions for what's being taught. It does occasionally feel a bit sketchy, like some sentences are missing. Given this was likely culled from class lectures it's a bit understandable. It would've been nice to see more about developing the look to make the two elements blend together, but that's a topic for its own book. The companion site is rather flush with bonus material, the files needed to complete the examples and links to books suggested in the readings. However the forum mentioned heavily throughout the book doesn't exist. Now that anyone can afford to use both 2D and 3D animation "Hybrid Animation" is an essential book to learn the principles needed to extend your visual options to whatever you can imagine.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Compression for Great Video and Audio, Second Edition: Master Tips and Common Sense (DV Expert); Author: Visit Amazon's Ben Waggoner Page; Review: The number of venues and devices that use video keeps increasing, as does the size and quality. Delivering all that data to various platforms with reasonable file sizes takes knowledge of compression. Luckily, there's Compression for Great Video and Audio. This book is incredibly thorough, breaking down every aspect of how each codec processes data. It's incredibly technical and if you're more into content creation than computer science like I am, a lot of this might go over your head. Even if you're not into tons of technical specs and just want to know how best to use a given codec, each chapter ends with a well-laid out tutorial of a typical real-world use of that codec. If you read the first few chapters and the tutorials, you can likely skim much of the rest of this hefty book. One problem with the book is the pictures. It's hard to see differences in compression with small black & white printed images instead of full-sized screencaps; and sometimes the full-color plates in the back of the book don't do much better. Sadly there doesn't seem to be a companion site to rectify this. Compression for Great Video and Audio probably isn't something you'll ever read casually when you're bored. However if you come across the need for a specific form of compression, you'll be glad to have this book around.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Drawing Words and Writing Pictures: Making Comics: Manga, Graphic Novels, and Beyond; Author: Visit Amazon's Jessica Abel Page; Review: Drawing comics may seem like a daunting task, and it is. However, all the skills needed to make a comic book can be readily learned and put together and that's where Drawing Words and writing Pictures comes in. The book is set up as a self-contained course in Comics Making 101 with chapters broken up into weekly studies with homework and criteria critique as well as tips for following the instruction both in groups of by yourself. Each chapter tackles a different aspect of making a comics; from writing and layout, to drawing and lettering, to inking with both pen and brush all the way to corrections and reproduction. The assignments also build upon each other in scope and complexity; ranging from single panel cartoons to newspaper-style strips up to full multi-page comics. The book focuses almost entirely on doing everything by hand rather than computer with a little bit on scanning thrown in toward the end. This may rub some the wrong way in today's digital age, however since this book is about building the basic skills of makings comics it's well worth learning all the ink and paper techniques first before tackling their digital equivalents. The companion website is quite the treasure trove, with teaching guides to use the book in different classroom settings and a well-maintained blog full of links and interviews with comic creators. If you're the type who has stacks of comics and shelves of books on making them, Drawing Words and Writing Pictures is an essential addendum. I'll definitely be looking forward to the promised second volume.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Project Arcade: Build Your Own Arcade Machine.; Author: Visit Amazon's John St. Clair Page; Review: There's a definite difference between playing arcade games standing at a machine with real controls rather than sitting at a keyboard. With some games, like fighters, it's almost impossible to play properly. As someone who plays Q*Bert more than a sane man ought, there's a huge appeal to the idea of building your own personal arcade cabinet, despite the intimidating workload. Luckily, Project Arcade compiles the needed info into one handy reference. Thoroughness is the name of the game with this book. Every aspect, from planning and budgeting to applying the stickers, is well explained in this 500+ page book. The book is laid out so you can likely build along as you read if you like. The author tries to accommodate for the full spectrum of commitment; from simply buying a pre-built cabinet or unassembled kit all the way to linking to resources on building your own steering wheels and flight yokes from scratch. He also tries to be as accessible as possible to the first-time builder, but if you know absolutely nothing about woodworking or soldering, you may feel a tad overwhelmed. A large chunk of the book is simply a breakdown of your many options for the numerous pieces and parts you need to buy; buttons, joysticks, trackballs, keyboard controllers, monitors, etc... It tries to cover as many bases as possible to fit your needs and budget, including hacking keyboards and other easy to find hardware. The CD contains a variety of information; from full-color versions of the photos from the book and relevant sections of the previous edition to full cabinet plans and control panel templates to copies of several useful utility programs and most importantly, clickable version of the massive amount of links found throughout the book. There's even some free games included! If you've got the drive to pursue a real arcade experience, even if it's not a full tricked-out cabinet, you'll want to read Project Arcade.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Force: Animal Drawing: Animal locomotion and design concepts for animators (Force Drawing Series); Author: Visit Amazon's Mike Mattesi Page; Review: The original Force and its sequel on character design stand out on my shelf as a pale blue stripe of fantastic drawing instruction. I was excited to see that stripe would be getting a bit wider as Mike Mattesi uses his dynamic approach to drawing to tackle the broad and difficult subject of drawing animals. The author's approach is to translate his method for drawing humans into drawing animals rather than starting fresh. Mattesi's basic principles of hierarchy and forceful drawing are outlined in the opening pages, but I'd recommend you read the original Force before taking on this one. The variety of animals depicted is quite good, especially for a book focusing more on basic forms rather than specific details. The book is divided into the three major structural groups; starting with plantigrade animals, which are built most like humans, following to digitigrades and ungulates. The book is very mammal-centric, however there is a fair sized section on birds and a sole drawing of a lizard gets thrown in for good measure. The drawings range from realistic to exaggerated in design, while all in the dynamic style of the series. The book ends with a gallery of the author's more artistic examples and even has color plate versions in the back. Mattesi's books are a must-have for anyone who wields a pencil. I'd love to have a shelf full of these blue books handling the various aspects of forceful figure drawing. This third book in the series is a big step in that direction.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Interactive Storytelling for Video Games: A Player-Centered Approach to Creating Memorable Characters and Stories; Author: Visit Amazon's Josiah Lebowitz Page; Review: I've long been interested in the concept of how video games are written. How do you "write" something when the player can often affect the story as much as you can? Luckily, Interactive Storytelling for Video Games lays out out the basics. The book takes a fairly "intro to video game storytelling" approach, focusing more on how video games differ from other forms of storytelling and your basic options rather than getting into a lot of specifics or straying too much into gameplay design. The authors categorize stories based on how much effect the player can actually have on the outcome and the plot; ranging to extremes on either end that technically can't be called games. They list the strengths and weaknesses of each type and warn of the extra practical strains of creating more variable story lines. The final few chapters are essentially an extended debate over which side of the spectrum makes for better games Every step of the way there are numerous case studies of games with notably good stories. If nothing else, you'll come out of this book with recommendations for a few games you might not have played before. The companion site is pretty basic. Just some links to additional information and Powerpoints for each chapter if you're planning to use this book as a classroom tool. If you're the least bit curious about crafting stories for the video games medium, I'd suggest picking up a copy of Interactive Storytelling for Video Games to get a good introduction in the functional requirements of game stories.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Creative Motion Graphic Titling for Film, Video, and the Web: Dynamic Motion Graphic Title Design; Author: Visit Amazon's Yael Braha Page; Review: The titles are often the visual calling card of a film, setting and enhancing the mood of a piece while getting through the "paperwork" of displaying credits. "Creative Motion Graphic Titling" takes a rather broad approach to teaching the basics of titling, but don't end up saying enough to warrant buying the book. Starting off, the book seems rather ambitious talking about bidding out and prep work before getting into more introductory fare like the history of film titles. It also expands the notion of "titles" to include the whole picture, not just the text. The book mentions a wide variety of title sequences which sadly (yet understandably) aren't included on the disc; and only a a few get much of a picture treatment in the book, so you're on your own to track those down. The actual instruction is a bit disappointing. Very basic explanations of things like typography, color, lighting, camera framing, sound,etc... along with pointing out the relevant buttons in After Effects & Apple Motion. Useful stuff, but nothing you can't find in lots of other books. There are tutorials on specific title treatments, (including the ever-present Star Wars crawl & Matrix type) but they look downright amateurish compared to the tutorials you can get for free on sites like Video Copilot or AETuts. The most useful bit of advice I saw in the book was an expression to keep crawls moving in single-frame increments to make them more legible. The included disc is rather sparse. The raw elements for all the tutorials as well as finished examples of each and also a few sample chapters from other Focal Press books, mostly dealing with type. There is useful instruction in this book, but given how basic much of it is and the ease as which it can be found elsewhere, "Creative Motion Graphic Titling" doesn't have enough to justify the price tag.; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Shoot on Location: The Logistics of Filming on Location, Whatever Your Budget or Experience; Author: Visit Amazon's Kathy M. McCurdy Page; Review: If you're a student, aspiring or up-and-coming filmmaker the time will come when you can't keep shooting everything in your own back yard and have to at least use someone else's. With sound stages and sets out of reach for most filmmakers shooting on location is the only answer to getting your movies made. Shoot on Location is an essential book to have to learn the ins and outs of taking your shoots out into the real world. There's a reason the word "logistics" is highlighted in red on the cover. This book focuses strictly on finding, securing and managing your location. there's plenty of tips on scouting, breaking down scripts to determine production needs, dealing with the public and keeping everything nice and legal. Since this book is designed to be small enough to carry around on shoots, it's rather densely packed with few pictures. You'll probably want to be armed with page flags and highlighters when reading it. It also would've been nice to have a companion website with links and downloadable versions of the paperwork samples in the book. Though the book takes a very professional approach and denounces the loose with the rules style of "guerrilla filmmaking" it does a good job gearing information to both the fairly established independent filmmaker and the student/"don't really have any money" type beginner. The final chapter specifically caters to students. If you have any intention of ever attempting a proper location shoot, you'll want to keep a copy of Shoot on Location handy.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Art and Technique of Matchmoving: Solutions for the VFX Artist; Author: Visit Amazon's Erica Hornung Page; Review: Be it movies, TV shows or commercials, using CG to augment and enhance the look of modern media much more the rule than the exception. And whenever the live action & CG assets need to interact with each other, it's up to matchmoving to line them up. The Art and Technique of Matchmoving is a great book for learning the principles of matchmoving and not just which buttons to push. The back of the book describes it as being for "intermediate to advanced". This fits well with the instruction which aims less toward someone just learning how to use their program and more for someone just starting out in the workplace. There's plenty of coverage on dealing with studio hierarchy The author stays as vague as possible in regards to program-specific details and instead focuses strictly on the basic concepts and more importantly looks at the workflow and general thought processes needed to be an effective matchmover. The chapters are broken down into three basic sections: survey work for setting up shots, (including what to do if you don't have any data to work with) looking at the matchmoving process for the various types of camera moves, and dealing with rigs and rotomation. (matchmoving characters rather than cameras) The companion disc is basically what you'd expect, with the source files to follow along with the chapters. The final chapter on rotomation also has several videos of the author walking you through the process. The only downside is that the source plates appear to be in a Mac-only codec, so PC users might be out of luck. If you're looking to transition into matchmoving on a professional level, you should get this book. It'll help get you a leg up on the process.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Computer Animation Complete: All-in-One: Learn Motion Capture, Characteristic, Point-Based, and Maya Winning Techniques; Author: Rick Parent; Review: Most CG books are about learning to operate the program in question or principles in general. Computer Animation Complete, while rather introductory in tone, will be far over the head of the average beginner. This book is a bona fide word brick. Every chapter reads like a SIGGRAPH paper (even the less technical "history of CG" type entries) with few pictures to illustrate things. The animation covered is mostly procedural and even what isn't is handled with scripts. While the last section deals with how things work in Maya, most of the book is generic scripts and algorithms. I can't see the target audience for this book being very broad. The ideal reader seems to be someone new to animation, but incredibly well versed in the advanced math and computer science concepts needed to understand what's being said. Unless you're the proverbial math/computer science whiz looking to take your first step into computer graphics, you'll probably want to steer clear of Computer Animation Complete. And if you are just that sort of person, there look to be some people out there who would sell you their copy for cheap.; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Flip Flop Fly Ball: An Infographic Baseball Adventure; Author: Visit Amazon's Craig Robinson Page; Review: With its leisurely pace and summertime schedule, baseball is well suited to inane statistics, wild speculation and other flights of fancy. Flip Flop Fly Ball delves deep into baseball's trivia fringe with sharp infographics and a special point of view. Robinson's experience is quite an interesting one. Not just being a baseball fan from England, but also as someone who didn't come to baseball until well into adulthood. That gives his impressions of the game a unique flavor. While partaking in the multi-ballpark roadtrip has almost become a cliche, it takes on a different tone from Robinson's perspective. His talk of meeting weird people at the bus station and finding a place to smoke plays a fun contrast to the usual Americana and father/son warm fuzzies. While the writings takes up a fair chunk of the book the majority of pages are dedicated to Robinson's paintings and most importantly his infographics, illustrating anything and everything having to do with baseball; from which numbers have been retired the most to which teams give out the most bobbleheads. Rather than waxing philosophical like many baseball books, Robinson waxes almost nonsensical from graphics on stadiums with the most aesthetically pleasing parking lots to an "interview" with that dove Randy Johnson obliterated with a fastball in 2001. Just to better point out the book irreverent nature, the final graphic is the box score of a fantasy game between the E Street Band and the Wu-Tang Clan. (I won't spoil who won) Flip Flop Fly Ball is well worth the purchase; both as a unique and humorous look at the American pastime, and as a fine coffee table diversion for long, plodding, walk-filled August gamedays.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Level Up!: The Guide to Great Video Game Design; Author: Visit Amazon's Scott Rogers Page; Review: How a video game is "written" is a largely misunderstood concept to many people. The mechanics and level design tend to outstrip what's written in the dialogue for making a great game. Level Up explores the basics of game design and does so in an entertaining and highly accessible fashion. The most notable aspect of this book, even from the briefest flip through the pages, are the cartoons the author uses to assist his points. Not only do they add to the humorous tone of the book, they do a better job of illustrating the book's concept than any number of screen caps could. A certain amount of the info in the book looks to extend beyond the realm of video games. More than a few of the examples in the book come from movies and some of the points made, such as how to design levels to set certain moods, could apply to any form of visual storytelling. If video games and their creation is of any interest to you, grab a copy or Level Up. It's informative, entertaining and covers a broad swath of subject matter in good detail.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Creative Character Design; Author: Visit Amazon's Bryan Tillman Page; Review: Character design books are a step above the basic "How to Draw" books. There's important things to learn, but a lot of it is repeated from one book to the next, just with different pictures. Creative Character Design has things to learn and it surely has interesting pictures, but it reads more like a rambling artist panel at a convention than proper instruction. Ironically, for a design book, the book itself isn't designed all that well. Rather than the text and images feeling like a cohesive whole, the book feels more like a giant block of text occasionally broken up by a picture or two. There aren't any headings to break the chapters down into smaller topics, so at a glance all the instruction blends together into a sea of words. Even the ever-present "homework assignments" were buried in an extended paragraph rather than set apart with a subheading. I found myself unintentionally skimming over sections because the whole thing felt like a written down class lecture than a proper book. Only some of what's actually being said has to actually do with character design, and that's mostly stuff you can find elsewhere like the symbolism of different shapes and colors. Much of the rest is either other common drawing book items (filling out a backstory template) or unique thoughts that don't quite warrant the purchase price (make your character as awesome of possible). All in all, Creative Character Design isn't a bad book, but you can find the same info done better elsewhere; and likely for cheaper. You're probably far better off picking up a copy of Creating Characters with Personality and maybe throw in Molly Bang's Picture This: How Pictures Work for good measure.; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Mangaman; Author: Visit Amazon's Barry Lyga Page; Review: Take Cool World and go all manga with it. That's a (not entirely fair) description of Mangaman, a tale of a 2D Japanese manga hero stuck in the "real" world. A lot of the book is making light of the conventions of manga and comics, (like speed lines and other effects) which can get a bit confusing when told in a comic itself. It's hard to point out conventions are odd when done in the medium where those conventions are accepted without much thought. The same concept worked a lot better in prose form in Who Censored Roger Rabbit? The story does take some interesting turns on at very least a meta level. It gives the creators a chance to take some of the concepts Scott McCloud talks about (like how time is perceived in a still medium) and make a plot out of it. If you're really into Manga, specifically the flowery Shoujo variety, give Mangaman a shot. If nothing else snag a used copy when they become available. It's worth reading at least once.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: The Elements of Dynamic Symmetry (Dover Art Instruction); Author: Jay Hambidge; Review: The concept of Phi (The Golden Ratio) is the foundation of classical art and design. They're somewhat simple principles that can yield a complex array of artistic applications. Elements of Dynamic Symmetry is full of useful knowledge on this subject, but is definitely not for beginners. If you're unfamiliar with Phi and the Golden Ratio by no means should you start with this book. The writing is very dense and confusing, with little more than dry diagrams to illustrate points. And it doesn't help that the author constantly refers to the Golden Rectangle by the more arcane term "Rectangle of the Whirling Squares." It does go into more detail than other books I've read on the subject. Even if a fair bit of it was flying over my head I did learn some geometric relationships and ways to construct forms that I hadn't seen before. The actual artistic (or even scientific) application of all this is effectively nonexistent in this book. In the end you'll know many ways to construct and arrange these elements, but have no idea what to do with them. I'd personally recommend Geometry of Design, Revised and Updated (Design Briefs) as a good starter book on learning this stuff and using this book to extend your knowledge later on.; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: The Toaster Project: Or a Heroic Attempt to Build a Simple Electric Appliance from Scratch; Author: Visit Amazon's Thomas Thwaites Page; Review: What does it take to make the products we take for granted? The Toaster Project takes one of the simplest of electrical appliances and examines the complexities of mass manufacturing by attempting to make one from scratch. If you've ever read or seen short film version of The Story of Stuff this book is a great compliment. The additional hidden costs that make our consumer culture possible are well explored. Simply seeing how much time, effort, and money the author went through to create such a basic modern convenience makes much of the case by itself. As a diary of the author's efforts to gather, refine and assemble the needed raw materials, it falls off as it goes on. Whereas his exploits in obtaining iron and plastic are very well documented, the later section on extracting copper from acidic mine runoff is rather glossed over. The section on constructing the toaster actually has nothing to do that, but is rather an extended version of the author's thesis on balancing consumer convenience with ecological harm; which is needed, but shouldn't supplant the more fun aspects of the book. Overall, even though it could be a bit more fleshed out, The Toaster Project is a fast and interesting read. It'll make you look at all your appliances differently.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Screenwriting Tips, You Hack: 150 Practical Pointers for Becoming a Better Screenwriter; Author: Visit Amazon's Xander Bennett Page; Review: If you're looking to get into screenwriting, be prepared to buy a lot of books. Books on structure, books on dialog, books on a million other aspects. If you're bookshelf is a bit anemic, "Screenwriting Tips, You Hack" is a good introduction to all thing screenwriting. For an introductory guide to screenwriting it's a loose, fun read. The book covers the whole of the screenwriting process, from concept all the way down to pitches and writing queries. That said, it's natural nothing gets covered in any depth; each "tip" only gets about a page or two. Given the author is a longtime script reader, many of the tips should be useful even for more well read screenwriters to find out more on what readers love and hate to see in scripts. One of the big highlights is the appendix, which breaks down the process of writing script coverage. It's the first book I've read that did that. If you're new to screenwriting "Screenwriting Tips, You Hack" is a good book to start with, but expect to be buying a bunch more books down the road.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Secrets of Zbrush Experts: Tips, Techniques, and Insights for Users of All Abilities; Author: Visit Amazon's Daryl Wise Page; Review: Z-Brush is a boon to CG artists; allowing far more flexibility and detail than the strict limitations of basic polygon modelling. Secrets of the ZBrush Experts is informative, but less than what you'd expect from an actual book. For starters, this book is for intermediate users on up. If you're new to the software, wait a while on this one. The book's format is quite simple. Highlight a successful Z-Brush artist, get a short walk-through on technique or two he uses, a few standard questions on tools, inspiration and the like (It's really no different than the fluff questions people ask traditional artists, except you're asking what plug-ins they use rather than what pencils) and cap it off with a short gallery of his work. Multiply that by 13 artists, and there's your book. There's not much else to say. This could just as easily be a monthly feature in a magazine as a $25-50 book. All in all, there is useful information in this book and the pictures are nice to look at, but that probably won't justify paying full price.; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Shooting Movies Without Shooting Yourself in the Foot: Becoming a Cinematographer; Author: Visit Amazon's Jack Anderson Page; Review: I gotta admit, when I saw this book on cinematography had almost no pictures in it, I was skeptical. However, content won out and revealed a great text. "Shooting Movies Without Shooting Yourself in the Foot" is a book that focuses less on the art of cinematography, and more on the labor needed to make it possible. Much of the book deals with the day-to-day hassles of being on a working set as a cinematographer and all the camera positions below Scouting, changing film, selecting lenses, etc... It also mentions many of the political hoops you'll likely have to jump through on your way up the ladder. This book is a bona fide word-brick and spares none of the technical details. You might want to have a hi-lighter handy. I usually write off the exercises in books like this as completely skippable. However, the exercises in this book are very useful and specific, and have an added feature of explaining what you're supposed to learn from them. That goes a long way in making them actually worthwhile. The companion site isn't much to crow about. Larger versions of a few diagrams, printable version of checklists from the appendixes, and clickable links for mentioned books and websites. All told, this is a very useful and informative book that gives a stripped down look at the realities of an easily romanticized job. If you have any interest in shooting at anything even approaching a professional level, you'll want to give this book a read.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Animated Realism: A Behind The Scenes Look at the Animated Documentary Genre; Author: Visit Amazon's Judith Kriger Page; Review: The notion of an animated documentary may seem like a bit of a contradiction; since documentaries are supposed to be taken straight from real life and animation is anything but. And while calling some of the films mentioned in this book documentaries (A Scanner Darkly, for example) may be a bit of a stretch, they're definitely of a more unpolished cinema vrit vein than most animated fare. Animated Realism is a rather generic introduction to this new type of filmmaking. The whole book boils down to just a series of interviews with several creators, which is easily one of my least favorite book formats. Any background on actual technique is very rudimentary; basic descriptions of how things like rotoscoping or CG animation work. The questions do get into a few specifics and delve deeper than the standard "where do you get your inspiration" dreck, so you're bound to learn a few things here and there if you're willing to suss them out. For example, I now know that John Canemaker once worked as a singing waiter, so it can't be a total loss. The companion site is incredibly sparse. Bios of the author and interviewees (which is a huge part of the book) and various video clips linked right off Youtube; (including part of an illegal upload of Waking Life, so don't be surprised if some get pulled down in the future) many of which are side If you're already somewhat well versed in either animation or documentary filmmaking and are interested in incorporating the other, Animated Realism should be of great interest. For anyone else, you might not get much out of it, besides a few film recommendations.; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: 3D Motion Graphics for 2D Artists: Conquering the Third Dimension; Author: Visit Amazon's Bill Byrne Page; Review: Sooner or later anymore involved in motion graphics is going to need move beyond simple 2D assets and learn to add 3D elements. 3D motion Graphics for 2D Artists is a very basic intro to expanding your repertoire into the third dimension. The experience level for the book is quite low. If you have an intermediate level of After Effects knowledge you're covered, even if you have absolutely no experience with any 3D program. The book starts with getting as much 3D as you can in just the Adobe suite before branching out into third-party stuff; although if you're pre-CS5, much of it will be lost on you. The tutorials are primarily on Cinema 4D, but 3DS Max, Zaxwerks and even ZBrush get some attention. It properly puts half it's attention on text work, which is the biggest thing you'll need in motion graphics. The problem is many of the examples (especially the early ones) are quite crude in look and movement, which doesn't instill a lot of confidence it what you're learning. The included disc is standard stuff; source elements and finished renders of all the projects. There are also a couple video walkthroughs on the more complex ones. If you're an absolute beginner this book will guide you through some of the utter basics of adding 3D elements to your After Effects work. However it won't be long before you'll be searching for more advanced tutorials.; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Elemental Magic, Volume II: The Technique of Special Effects Animation (Animation Masters Title); Author: Visit Amazon's Joseph Gilland Page; Review: The first Elemental Magic book was boon to animation student as the first book dedicated solely to effects animation. In this second volume Joseph Gilland goes more in depth on a few specific areas of effects. Since every effect is unique, the book isn't a step-by-step guide, but rather an explanation of the physical principles driving things like flames and splashes and how they all relate to one another. The principles Gilland espouses really do support his claims that effects animation can still often be done better and cheaper by hand, and that CG effects can be enhanced by knowing how the real-world work instead of just relying on an algorithm. Once you're able to see the similarities between a flag flapping and flames moving it makes the process much easier to comprehend and you're able to get a convincing effect with far less wasted effort. The only real problem with the book is the common issue where the more a book brags up having a companion website the less likely it is to actually exist. The book's only been out a short while so far, but to promise gems like videos of the author actually animating and have absolutely nothing posted when the book releases is hard to forgive. Until then I guess there are a few clips of Joseph Gilland on Youtube to tide you over. Hopefully, this trend continues into further Elemental Magic books. There's a lot of effect animation that's gone undiscussed and Gilland is the ideal person to bring them to light.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Art and Feel of Making it Real: Gesture Drawing for the Animation and Entertainment Industry; Author: Visit Amazon's Mark McDonnell Page; Review: Drawing is first and foremost about visual communication. It doesn't matter what artistic point you're trying to make if the person you're showing it to can't figure out what they're looking at. Therein lay the tragedy of The Art and Feel of Making it Real. Despite the important drawing principles it aims to teach, the communication of those principles is so poor as to make the book almost unreadable. At just over 200 pages, and with a font size that can read from across the room, this book is a surprisingly quick read. It also adds to the dismay that the main thing justifying this book's $45 price tag is the fancy hardcover binding and not the content within. The actual instruction (not so much what he's teaching, but rather how he's teaching it) is quite poor. You're often stuck with a 2-3 page spread of pure text (never a good sign in a drawing book) followed by pages of sketchbook drawings making the lesson he's trying to teach that much harder to absorb. The text is also quite rambling, meaning the book could be improved by being even shorter. Throw in an unforgivable number of typos and it's obvious this book wasn't edited or laid out by a professional. I'm sure Mark McDonnell knows what he's talking about when it comes to figure drawing. He just doesn't know how to properly communicate them in book form. I am so glad I bought this book used for less than 15 bucks, rather than 45. Otherwise I'd likely be knocking on the author's door asking for it back. If you haven't already, just pick up some of the Force books and bypass this fancy looking vanity press piece.; Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: 3D Game Textures: Create Professional Game Art Using Photoshop; Author: Visit Amazon's Luke Ahearn Page; Review: Texturing for video game has many added challenges compared to other types of CG work; particularly size limitations and format constraints. While weak in a few areas 3D Game Textures is a solid beginners text on painting textures for games. The early parts of the book deal with the underlying artistic principles and aforementioned technical details of game textures before getting into the actual painting. These technical concepts are often sadly laid out in spreads of pure text causing you to flip around to find the few pictures to help illustrate them. It can be a bit of a slog. The author does suggest Digital Texturing and Painting, which is a great supplement for making sense of the artistic underpinnings of texture work. Once the theory and fundamental stuff is done, most of the remainder of the book is Photoshop recipes to guide you through making many of the standard types of texture sets needed in the most common game settings (sci-fi, urban, fantasy and outdoor) as well as coverage on creating maps for effects and things like normal and specularity maps. The very end is a basic walkthrough of how to use Photoshop, which seems like it should be at the front, but works well for the few absolute beginners who might be reading it. The big failing is that the book mentions a disc, but that's an artifact from an earlier edition. The stuff from the disc is supposed to be on the companion site, which is basically empty, with none of the tools and materials promised in the book. Unless it gets fixed in the future, you're getting screwed on that front. Despite the clunky layout and missing content. 3D Game Textures is a solid introduction to both the theory and practice of texturing for video games.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Audio Engineering 101: A Beginner's Guide to Music Production; Author: Visit Amazon's Tim Dittmar Page; Review: Trying to do even the most basic of audio work can be quite daunting if you don't know what you're doing. There's an endless array of settings and options that are pretty baffling if all you've got to on is trial and error. Not to mention figuring out how to make things sound good. Audio Engineering 101 aims to remedy that with a diverse introductory guide to the world of audio. The author tries to cover all the bases from the basics of sound on up through recording and mixing. It's obviously aimed at beginners, but he does seem to take for granted that you'll have at least some sound/recording experience. If you're an absolute beginner, there are a few things that might go over your head. Plenty of the book is dedicated to practical skills that go along with the technical ones, such as session etiquette and tips for landing jobs. It makes for a well rounded guide for someone just starting their sound career. The companion site is essential to the book, as the text directly refers to audio and video clips on the site for its instruction, which thankfully exist on the site, (sadly not a given) although it might've helped if the audio clips were also in video form so you could clearly tell precisely what changes they're doing and when. It would also be nice if they had clickable versions of the many links mentioned in the book, but maybe that'll get added in the future. All in all, even though it's rough in a few places, Audio Engineering 101 is a very well put together book. And if you're new to the world of audio engineering it's a good place to start.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Forged: Why Fakes are the Great Art of Our Age; Author: Visit Amazon's Jonathon Keats Page; Review: When a piece of art is forged, what is truly lost? Or gained? Especially for an artist that died hundreds of years ago? That's some of what Forged leaves you to ponder. This is definitely an academic work, more surveying than making statements. I greatly appreciate that the author chose to present the bulk of his work in story form; chronicling 6 forgers and how their work challenges certain precepts of the art world. The argument I took from the book is that there's nothing truly concrete in art. If something's worth only comes from its age or it signature or the word of some authority figure, how much does it matter when someone fakes it? In the same vein, I can't say there's anything concrete in this book. What the end message of the book is is largely up to you. Don't expect gain great from this book, but you have something to think about.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Alive Character Design: For Games, Animation and Film; Author: Visit Amazon's Haitao Su Page; Review: Reviews on character design books basically amount to a review on the designer and his ability to explain his methods. And in that vein, this book is... fine. This book is far too verbose, and the fact that English isn't the author's first language doesn't make it better. Throw in a really tiny font, and it's pretty easy to just tune out and look at the pictures. the authors work is very appealing and he has a descent variety of style, though not of approach. The section on females is all half-naked pin-ups, and the males are all brick-chinned hero-types. Physically, it's a very nice book with strong art, and having profiles on some other designers is a great addition. If you're looking for a book on character design, get Creating Characters With Personality, but if you can happen to find used copy of this really cheap, go ahead and get it for the pictures.; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Cinematography: Theory and Practice: Image Making for Cinematographers, Directors, and Videographers; Author: Visit Amazon's Blain Brown Page; Review: There's a lot more to shooting than pointing the camera and pushing record. Cinematography is not a book for beginners, or even some novices, but if you're a professional (or want to be) this is a must-have. The first third of the book covers the art of cinematography, framing and composition. It's well laid out with tons of good-sized color stills; many from actual movies you've seen, which is always a good touch. The rest of the book is the craft of shooting, with all the technical details that comes with. All the details on core principles like lighting and focus to tips on more specialized situation like shooting on a green screen or underwater. The slew of tables and conversion charts might not be of much use to even the novice, but pros will want to have them flagged for easy reference. The disc is a new one on me. It's an actual DVD you can play in a DVD player instead of just a collection of files, containing short tutorials on the basics of camera and grip work. If you're less experienced with cameras, you'll love this disc. Concepts like ISO and depth of field are much easier to absorb in a short video than any span of text. There's even a half-hour video behind the scenes of a basic film shoot, which can lend some great insight into what goes into a professional production. If you're an aspiring professional this is a book to get, even if a fair bit might fly over your head. If you're on the fence about this book, the DVD alone is worth it.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Plug-in to After Effects: Third Party Plug-in Mastery; Author: Visit Amazon's Michele Yamazaki Page; Review: After Effects is a powerful program, but it can only do so much on its own. Luckily there's a slew of third-party extensions to boost its potential. Plug-in to After Effects makes for a catalog and buyers guide to popular AE plug-ins. If you have a copy of The After Effects Illusionist, this is a good supplement. It gives a fair survey of effects available in numerous categories and shows some useful applications of them. Most of the examples shown look fairly out-of-the-box, though, so some finessing beyond the book's instructions will definitely be in order. This concept seems like one better suited for a website than 500+ page book, but it does has enough breadth and depth to justify the format. And the included source files help qualify spending money on something like this. Obviously this book isn't going age well. Luckily the listed companion site actually exists (not a given) and is being regularly updated to make this book significantly more useful. If you're looking to purchase plug-ins for After Effects or simply can't get AE to do what you want it to, this might serve as a handy shopping guide.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Blender Foundations: The Essential Guide to Learning Blender 2.6; Author: Roland Hess; Review: Its no surprise that when the average CG package runs thousands of dollars, one thats completely free will be pretty popular. Following along to video tutorials is the best way to pick up a complex program like Blender, but a book that you can easily refer back to is a good thing to go with. And thats where Blender Foundations comes in. Virtually every aspect of Blenders many, many features are explored and build into a finished project. (Not the prettiest piece in the world, but gives a fair look at all the aspects or CG animation production. And gives some helpful tips along the way) The biggest thing missing are newer features like rigid bodies and Blenders new Cycles renderer. The companion website is pretty essential. On top of the sources files and a few supplemental video tutorials it also has the corrections to settings and hotkeys that have either changed or were wrong to start with. All told, video instruction is the way to go to learn a program like this, but a book reference like Blender Foundations is a good supplement to have around.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
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Given the interaction history of a user with hotels as follows:
Title: Branson KOA; City: Branson Missouri; Review: We have stayed at the Branson KOA & convention Center twice now and it is getting better all the time. Our son had given us tickets to the Sight & Sound theater for last Christmas, however, we could not use the tickets on the July date due to my foot surgery. It was wonderful to not have to fight the traffic and hunt a place for breakfast. A really good breakfast is served right on the grounds and since I wasn't up to walking too well, I was given a ride to the Convention Center where breakfast was being served. Valet parking with a smile. Free pancakes or other breakfast items for a low cost. It would be a wonderful place for a friends or family reunion. All areas are well maintained and very clean. We have camped for many years and can say this is one of the best!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Hampton Inn Clinton; City: Clinton Missouri; Review: The staff is wonderful. We wanted to go to church on Sunday and then come back to the hotel and change for our long drive home. The staff allowed us to check out late in order for us to do this. this was our second stay at this location and the last time we had to check out early as my husband became ill. We were not charged for the second night. We will certainly stay at this Hampton again as they are very considerate of their customers and their needs. Bending the rules a little in order to be considerate of circumstances is a "breath of fresh air" for the traveler.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Branson KOA; City: Branson Missouri; Review: Branson KOA is great. We have stayed there twice and the last time, I had had foot surgery so wasn't walking very well. I was even given a cart ride to the dinning room for breakfast. They have a wonderful breakfast for those of us who don't want to have to cook. It would be a great place to have a family reunion. We will certainly stay there again when in the Branson area.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Hampton Inn Clinton; City: Clinton Missouri; Review: This was our third stay at this particular Hampton Inn. We have had very good service and have always found it to be friendly and very clean. We will be staying there again when in town. We had to leave early the first time and they did not charge us for the second night. The last time, we asked to check out late so we could attend church and change before driving home. They said, "no problem". Nice to be treated special and not just another customer. Refreshing!!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Hampton Inn Branson Branson Hills; City: Branson Missouri; Review: This was the second time we have stayed at this Hampton Inn. The front desk greeted us with smiles and made us feel right at home immediately. They were thoughtful and we knew they were there to make our stay a wonderful experience. The lady in the breakfast area is a treasure. She joked and visited with everyone, but still did her job and kept everything clean and all serving trays full. The staff certainly goes beyond it "just being a job". We will stay at this Hampton Inn again when we go to Branson. It is not so much the hotel, but it is the outstanding staff that will take us back there.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Hampton Inn Springfield Southeast; City: Springfield Missouri; Review: I have stayed in Hampton inns for many years, but this was absolutely one of the best. The room was immaculate. This hotel is 2 years old, but I really thought it was new. Even the breakfast seemed better than most! If you are visiting Springfield, MO., I suggest you stay at the Hampton Inn, Southeast. It is absolutely the best!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Drury Inn Suites Memphis Southaven; City: Horn Lake Mississippi; Review: I have been staying at Drury Inns for several years and they never disappoint me. Drury gives a discount to Missouri Retired Teachers, so myself and two other retired teachers stayed at the Drury Inn in horn Lake, MS., for Elvis Week. The hotel was full, but no services suffered as a result. Drury came through with clean rooms, great service, excellent food and service with a smile. We will probably be staying at Drury Inn & Suites again next year for Elvis Week, if not before. Thank you Drury Inn. Missouri Retired Teachers; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Comfort Inn Suites St Louis Chesterfield; City: Chesterfield Missouri; Review: I needed a hotel room due to my husband being in the hospital. Unfortunately all the hotels close to the hospital were booked solid due to several sports things going on. I finally found this Comfort Inn 14 miles from the hospital. I had never stayed in a Comfort Inn, but thought I could stand it for a couple of days. I was pleasantly surprised. My room had obviously been recently renovated, really nice and very clean. The breakfast area was clean and very nice. I would certainly recommend this Comfort Inn. I will also add that the commute was very easy due to the hotel's location and the price was about half of the hotels closer in to the city. Thank you Comfort Inn.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
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Given the interaction history of a user with books as follows:
Title: The Shack; Author: Wm. Paul Young; Review: I have really enjoyed this book and passed it on to a friend, he passed it to another friend. I just ordered another.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Cross Roads: What if you could go back and put things right?; Author: William Paul Young; Review: Read his other book "The Shack" and just received this new one. I received this item on time and at a great price.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Rush Revere and the American Revolution: Time-Travel Adventures With Exceptional Americans; Author: Visit Amazon's Rush Limbaugh Page; Review: Gave two for Christmas presents to my two youngest grandsons, both love to read and love History.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Returning King: A Guide to the Book of Revelation; Author: Vern Sheridan Poythress; Review: Listen to him on the Internet all the time and knew I would love his book and I do. Puts the book of Revelations in a locical and understandable format.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Essentials of Fire Fighting and Fire Department Operations (6th Edition); Author: IFSTA; Review: Essentially it was exquisite...big words for a Firefighter.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Rush Revere and the Brave Pilgrims: Time-Travel Adventures with Exceptional Americans; Author: Visit Amazon's Rush Limbaugh Page; Review: Bought all five books for my grandson BoBo, he loves reading and soaks it up like a sponge.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Rush Revere and the Star-Spangled Banner; Author: Visit Amazon's Rush Limbaugh Page; Review: Bought all five books for my grandson BoBo, he loves reading and soaks it up like a sponge.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Rush Revere and the First Patriots: Time-Travel Adventures With Exceptional Americans (Audio CD); Author: Visit Amazon's Rush Limbaugh Page; Review: Bought all five books for my grandson BoBo, he loves reading and soaks it up like a sponge.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Rush Revere and the Presidency; Author: Visit Amazon's Rush Limbaugh Page; Review: Bought all five books for my grandson BoBo, he loves reading and soaks it up like a sponge.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
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Given the interaction history of a user with products as follows:
Title: MoKo Nokia Lumia 2520 Case; Brand: MoKo; Review: Love this case. It works great.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Joy Factory Pinpoint Precision Active Stylus with Ultra-Slim Tip (BCU201) for iPad, iPad Air, Mini, Samsung Galaxy Tab,; Brand: The Joy Factory; Review: Thin tip, as described. A little larger tip than a ball point pen. But not very sensitive. Have trouble getting it to work with the devices. (tablet, phone, etc); Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: i-UniK CASE for RCA 10 Viking Pro 10.1 & Compatible RCA 10 Viking II Tablet PC [Bonus Stylus] -; Brand: i-unik; Review: good case, but makes it difficult to remove keyboard from tablet easily; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Sprint Slate 8" Tablet Case,Mama Mouth PU Leather Folio 2-Folding Stand Cover for 8" Sprint Slate 8 (AQT80); Brand: MAMA MOUTH; Review: great case; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Ausdom Bluetooth4.0 Headphone, Black/Red (M04s); Brand: AUSDOM; Review: great deal; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Supershieldz for Samsung Galaxy Tab E 8.0 inch Tempered Glass Screen Protector, Anti-Scratch, Anti-Fingerprint, Bubble Free, Lifetime Replacement Warranty; Brand: Supershieldz; Review: Very pleased with this.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Fintie Folio Case for Samsung Galaxy Tab E 8.0; Brand: Fintie; Review: I am happy with this case; Rating: 5.0/5.0
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amazon_Electronics
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Given the interaction history of a user with hotels as follows:
Title: Hotel Metropolis; City: Kaunas Kaunas County; Review: We spent one night at Hotel Metropolis. Location is very convenient. The hotel lobby and common areas are old fashioned, which can be entertaining or unpleasant depending on your taste. We had a confortable and clean room, which had probably been renovated recently (from TripAdvisor's comments I understand all rooms haven't been renovated). A correct breakfast is included. Overall, we found this hotel was very cheap for the accommodation and services they offer.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Terviseks; City: Tartu Tartu County; Review: We only spent one night at Terviseks, but as far as I can say, everything about this hostel was ok. You can't imagine better location in Tartu - right on the old town's main square. Owner is very friendly. Room (we had a private double room), bathroom and kitchen are clean, roomy and functional. And this was our first Estonian hostel (out of 3) that *really* provided breakfast !; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Euphoria Hostel; City: Tallinn Harju County; Review: We had a private double room at Euphoria for three nights. Location of this hostel is good, and rooms, bathrooms and kitchen are clean. But there were a few downsides. Firstly, we could hardly sleep because of noise: not that people at the hostel (including people playing musical instruments) are very noisy (they all stopped before midnight), but floor cracks and there was a large gap under the door of our room. Secondly, included breakfast consisted of cereals, tea and coffee, but there was no milk or dairy provided with cereals.; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Info Hotel; City: Palanga Klaipeda County; Review: We spent one night at this hotel during holidays. It is kind of a motel, a bit off the town centre and in a quite unpleasant neighborhood along the main road entering Palanga, though in walking distance from the center. Very convenient location if you are traveling by bus, as the bus station is just a hundred meters from it. Rooms are modern, clean and comfortable, and breakfast buffet is OK.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Karluti Hostel; City: Kuressaare Saaremaa Saare County; Review: We went to Karluti Hostel for two nights and were really happy about this tiny (3 bedrooms) and well-located place. You feel at home in this old Kuressaare house. Although her English is not perfectly fluent, the friendly owner will be able to tell you a lot about Estonia and her family's history. We rented two good bicycles there. Only downside: the breakfast (no milk provided with cereals, little tea and no tea filter to infuse it).; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Naughty Squirrel Backpackers; City: Riga Riga Region; Review: This huge hostel (I don't know how many beds they have, but plenty) is really a good place to stay: clean and confortable dorms, all the facilities you may need (including a bar) and several activities organised (such as pub crawl). Although the place is full of party-minded travelers, it was surprisingly very silent at night. Just one thing about the bathrooms: showers are really low, so you won't be confortable in them unless you're under 1m50... Unfortunately, they made a mistake about us (we had reserved a private double room and ended up in a 4 bed dorm, the hostel being full), but they offered us a discount as a compensation. Very good place overall.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Hostalet Cadaques; City: Cadaques Costa Brava Province of Girona Catalonia; Review: I was there for two nights in December. The reception of this small hotel closes at 8 pm but they can manage to welcome you later if necessary. My room was clean and modern, although a bit small (hopefully I was travelling alone). Very close to the sea and to touristic highlights. The price was ok for Cadaques at Christmas.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
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hotelrec
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Given the interaction history of a user with movies/shows as follows:
Title: Rambo: First Blood Part II (1985); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Reservoir Dogs (1992); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Dogma (1999); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Wild Things (1998); Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: Chasing Amy (1997); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Party Monster (2003); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Hostage (2005); Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: Kill Bill: Vol. 2 (2004); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Frida (2002); Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: American Beauty (1999); Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: Major League (1989); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: The Perfect Storm (2000); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: I Can Do Bad All By Myself (2002); Rating: 1.0/5.0
Title: Star Trek: The Next Generation: Season 7 (1993); Rating: 1.0/5.0
Title: End of the Century: The Story of the Ramones (2004); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Clerks (1994); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Jaws (1975); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Ray (2004); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: A Hard Day's Night: Collector's Series (1964); Rating: 1.0/5.0
Title: Superman: The Movie (1978); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Training Day (2001); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Fried Green Tomatoes (1991); Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: National Lampoon's Vacation (1983); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Man on Fire (2004); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Return of the Dragon (1973); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: S.W.A.T. (2003); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: The Professional (1994); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Hook (1991); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: National Lampoon's Van Wilder (2002); Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: Aliens: Collector's Edition (1986); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou (2004); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Lethal Weapon (1987); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Die Hard 2: Die Harder (1990); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: An Evening With Kevin Smith (2002); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind (2004); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl (2003); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Law & Order: Special Victims Unit: The Second Year (2000); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: 50 First Dates (2004); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Buffy the Vampire Slayer: Season 6 (2001); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Liar Liar (1997); Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: Being John Malkovich (1999); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Lock (1998); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Bad Boys (1995); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Aladdin: Platinum Edition (1992); Rating: 1.0/5.0
Title: Scream (1996); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Alien: Collector's Edition (1979); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (2001); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: A Fistful of Dollars (1964); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: This Is Spinal Tap (1984); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Wayne's World (1992); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Futurama: Vol. 1 (1999); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: From Hell (2001); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Braveheart (1995); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: The Silence of the Lambs (1991); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Finding Neverland (2004); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: The Mists of Avalon (2001); Rating: 1.0/5.0
Title: Escape from Alcatraz (1979); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Ghost (1990); Rating: 1.0/5.0
Title: Evil Dead 2: Dead by Dawn (1987); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Daredevil (2003); Rating: 1.0/5.0
Title: The Longest Day (1962); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: The Village (2004); Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: 28 Days Later (2002); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Men in Black II (2002); Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: History of the World: Part 1 (1981); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Lethal Weapon 3 (1992); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: The Last Samurai (2003); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Saw (2004); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Flatliners (1990); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: The Sting (1973); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas (1998); Rating: 1.0/5.0
Title: The Sum of All Fears (2002); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Angel: Season 4 (2002); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Law & Order: Special Victims Unit: The First Year (1999); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Passion of the Christ (2004); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Bowling for Columbine (2002); Rating: 1.0/5.0
Title: Army of Darkness (1993); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: A Nightmare on Elm Street (1984); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Apocalypse Now Redux (1979); Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: True Romance (1993); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Catwoman (2004); Rating: 1.0/5.0
Title: Gone in 60 Seconds (2000); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Mission: Impossible (1996); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Buffy the Vampire Slayer: Season 2 (1997); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Rushmore (1998); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Patriot Games (1992); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Miss Congeniality (2000); Rating: 1.0/5.0
Title: Tommy Boy (1995); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Jay and Silent Bob Strike Back (2001); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Sleepers (1996); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Spaceballs (1987); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: I (2004); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Dr. Strangelove (1964); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Monty Python's Life of Brian (1979); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Cool Hand Luke (1967); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Rocky (1976); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Star Wars: Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back (1980); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: VeggieTales: Duke and the Great Pie War (2005); Rating: 1.0/5.0
Title: The Manchurian Candidate (1962); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Henry: Portrait of a Serial Killer (1990); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Law & Order: Season 14 (2003); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: GoodFellas: Special Edition (1990); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Charmed: Season 2 (1999); Rating: 1.0/5.0
Title: Con Express (2002); Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: Memento (2000); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Snatch (2000); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Fight Club (1999); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Mummy Returns (2001); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Sin City (2005); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Young Guns (1988); Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: Amelie (2001); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: The Bourne Identity (2002); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Collateral (2004); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Law & Order: Special Victims Unit: The Fifth Year (2003); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Terminator (1984); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Scarface: 20th Anniversary Edition (1983); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Frailty (2002); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Rock 'n' Roll High School (1979); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Edward Scissorhands (1990); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Desperado / El Mariachi (1995); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Rush Hour (1998); Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: Good Morning (1987); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: The Fast and the Furious (2001); Rating: 1.0/5.0
Title: Ferris Bueller's Day Off (1986); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Armageddon (1998); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: The Usual Suspects (1995); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Natural Born Killers (1994); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: The Whole Nine Yards (2000); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers: Extended Edition (2002); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Eddie Izzard: Dress to Kill (1999); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Star Trek III: The Search for Spock (1984); Rating: 1.0/5.0
Title: A Simple Plan (1998); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: The Princess Bride (1987); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring: Extended Edition (2001); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Stand by Me (1986); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Men of Honor (2000); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Beverly Hills Cop II (1987); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Monster's Ball (2001); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Phenomenon (1996); Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: Dawn of the Dead: European Version (1978); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Blade (1998); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: The Bridge on the River Kwai (1957); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Top Gun (1986); Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy (2004); Rating: 1.0/5.0
Title: Apollo 13 (1995); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: O Brother (2000); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Bad Taste (1988); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Finding Forrester (2000); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Predator: Collector's Edition (1987); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Sopranos: Season 4 (2002); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Penn & Teller: Bullsh*t!: Season 2 (2004); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Buffy the Vampire Slayer: Season 5 (2000); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Conspiracy Theory (1997); Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: Friends: Season 5 (1998); Rating: 1.0/5.0
Title: Eraser (1996); Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: Seven (1995); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Pee-Wee's Big Adventure (1985); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Lara Croft: Tomb Raider: The Cradle of Life (2003); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Catch Me If You Can (2002); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Star Wars: Episode II: Attack of the Clones (2002); Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: Monty Python's And Now for Something Completely Different (1971); Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: Happy Gilmore (1996); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: The Royal Tenenbaums (2001); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: The Good (1966); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Citizen Kane (1941); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Terminator 2: Extreme Edition (1991); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Boogie Nights (1997); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Kiss the Girls (1997); Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: Ghost World (2001); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: South Park: Season 2 (1998); Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: From Dusk Till Dawn (1996); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: For a Few Dollars More (1965); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Texas Chainsaw Massacre (1974); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Elephant Man (1980); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: The Butterfly Effect: Director's Cut (2004); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: 12 Angry Men (1957); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Star Wars: Episode VI: Return of the Jedi (1983); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Exorcist: Restored Version (1973); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Mr. Deeds (2002); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Basic (2003); Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: The Fifth Element (1997); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Buffy the Vampire Slayer: Season 1 (1997); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Night of the Living Dead (1968); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Die Hard (1988); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan (1982); Rating: 1.0/5.0
Title: Broken Arrow (1996); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: American Pie 2 (2001); Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: Weird Science (1985); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Kung Fu Hustle (2004); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Gods and Monsters (1998); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: The Score (2001); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Road Trip (2000); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Cold Mountain (2003); Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: Dawn of the Dead (1978); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Taxi Driver (1976); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Being There (1979); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Four Rooms (1995); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Back to the Future (1985); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Ace Ventura: Pet Detective (1994); Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: Buffy the Vampire Slayer: The Movie (1992); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: The Apostle (1997); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Pulp Fiction (1994); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Stir of Echoes (1999); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Diary of a Mad Black Woman (2005); Rating: 1.0/5.0
Title: American History X (1998); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: 2001: A Space Odyssey (1968); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Brazil (1985); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Manchurian Candidate (2004); Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: A League of Their Own (1992); Rating: 1.0/5.0
Title: Penn & Teller: Bullsh*t!: Season 1 (2003); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers (2002); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Final Destination (2000); Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: Swordfish (2001); Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: Short Circuit (1986); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: The Fog (1980); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Shaolin Soccer (2001); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Shining (1980); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Clerks: First Cut (Not Theatrical Version) (1994); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Lost in Translation (2003); Rating: 1.0/5.0
Title: The Jerk (1979); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: The Godfather (1972); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: The Rock (1996); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Coming to America (1988); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Lethal Weapon 2 (1989); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Blade 2 (2002); Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: Behind Enemy Lines (2001); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Boys Don't Cry (1999); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Mystic River (2003); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: National Lampoon's Animal House (1978); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: X-Men (2000); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: The Boondock Saints (1999); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Schindler's List (1993); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: VeggieTales: Lyle the Kindly Viking (2001); Rating: 1.0/5.0
Title: Carrie (1976); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Buffy the Vampire Slayer: Season 4 (1999); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Angel: Season 2 (2000); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: The Lost Boys: Special Edition (1987); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Troy (2004); Rating: 1.0/5.0
Title: Blazing Saddles (1974); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: True Lies (1994); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: The Count of Monte Cristo (2002); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Law & Order: Season 3 (1992); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Rocky IV (1985); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Law & Order: Criminal Intent: Season 3 (2003); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Air Force One (1997); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Toy Story (1995); Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: Batman the Animated Series: Vol. 2 (1992); Rating: 1.0/5.0
Title: Mulholland Drive (2001); Rating: 1.0/5.0
Title: Total Recall (1990); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Angel: Season 1 (1999); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Suicide Kings (1997); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Trainspotting: Collector's Edition (1996); Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: Misery (1990); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King (2003); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid (1969); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Jurassic Park (1993); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: The Patriot (2000); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Monty Python and the Holy Grail (1975); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Lethal Weapon 4 (1998); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: The Believer (2001); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Law & Order: Criminal Intent: The First Year (2001); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Raising Arizona (1987); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Spider-Man (2002); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Kill Bill: Vol. 1 (2003); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: 12 Monkeys (1995); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Equilibrium (2002); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Shawshank Redemption: Special Edition (1994); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Die Hard With a Vengeance (1995); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Harold and Maude (1971); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Pet Sematary (1989); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Batman (1989); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: The Matrix (1999); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Tomb Raider (2001); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Angel: Season 3 (2001); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Dead Man Walking (1995); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Blade Runner (1982); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Dead Poets Society (1989); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King: Extended Edition (2003); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Monster (2003); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: The Day the Earth Stood Still (1951); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Sex and the City: Season 2 (1999); Rating: 1.0/5.0
Title: Ocean's Eleven (2001); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Independence Day (1996); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Mr. Smith Goes to Washington (1939); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: The Day After Tomorrow (2004); Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: Three Kings (1999); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: The Thing (1982); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Big Daddy (1999); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Traffic (2000); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: The Big Lebowski (1998); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Friday the 13th (1980); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Black Sheep (1996); Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: Day of the Dead (1985); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Welcome to the Dollhouse (1996); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Big (1988); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Amadeus (1984); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Resident Evil (2002); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Clear and Present Danger (1994); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Shine (1996); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Shade (2003); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Con Air (1997); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Star Wars: Episode IV: A New Hope (1977); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Green Mile (1999); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: The Fugitive (1993); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: West Side Story (1961); Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: Unforgiven (1992); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Old School (2003); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Dirty Harry (1972); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Face/Off (1997); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Blow (2001); Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: The Exorcist (1973); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Law & Order: Season 1 (1990); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade (1989); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Donnie Darko (2001); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Enter the Dragon: Special Edition (1973); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Meet the Parents (2000); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: The Devil's Advocate (1997); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Saving Private Ryan (1998); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: National Treasure (2004); Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: Soldier's Girl (2003); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Hitch (2005); Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: The Punisher (2004); Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: Full Metal Jacket (1987); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Run Lola Run (1998); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Requiem for a Dream (2000); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Vanilla Sky (2001); Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: Buffy the Vampire Slayer: Season 3 (1998); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Levity (2003); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: American Psycho (2000); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Velvet Goldmine (1998); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: A Midsummer Night's Dream (1999); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Reign of Fire (2002); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Taking Lives (2004); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Unleashed (2005); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Mean Girls (2004); Rating: 1.0/5.0
Title: Casino: 10th Anniversary Edition (1995); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Batman Begins (2005); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: The Others (2001); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: The Sixth Sense (1999); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: The Italian Job (2003); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: High Plains Drifter (1973); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Machinist (2004); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Grudge (2004); Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: Ladder 49 (2004); Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: The Evil Dead (1982); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Transporter (2002); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: House of 1 (2003); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: The Ring (2002); Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: Polyester (1981); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Repo Man (1984); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Porn Star: The Legend of Ron Jeremy (2001); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Sixteen Candles (1984); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: The Enforcer (1976); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Drunken Master (2000); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: From Dusk Till Dawn 2: Texas Blood Money (1998); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Dawn of the Dead (2004); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil (1997); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Back to the Future Part II (1989); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Freaks & Geeks: The Complete Series (2000); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Empire Records: Remix! Special Fan Edition (1995); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Apocalypse Now (1979); Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: A Bronx Tale (1993); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Ichi the Killer (2001); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: The Young Ones: Every Stoopid Episode (1982); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Guns of Navarone (1961); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Mad Max (1979); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Pale Rider (1985); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: L.A. Confidential (1997); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Serving Sara (2002); Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: McHale's Navy (1997); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Paint Your Wagon (1969); Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: Bubba Ho-Tep (2003); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: In the Line of Fire (1993); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Spider-Man 2 (2004); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: The Dead Pool (1988); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: The Adventures of Buckaroo Banzai (1984); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Spy Game (2001); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Hero (2002); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Dog Day Afternoon (1975); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Assault on Precinct 13 (1976); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: House of Flying Daggers (2004); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Fast Times at Ridgemont High (1982); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Every Which Way But Loose (1978); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory (1971); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Hang 'Em High (1968); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Any Which Way You Can (1980); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Crouching Tiger (2000); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Rambo: First Blood: Ultimate Edition (1982); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Tombstone (1993); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Nurse Betty (2000); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: The Negotiator (1998); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Magnum Force (1973); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Henry Rollins: Live at Luna Park (2004); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Super Size Me (2004); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Million Dollar Baby (2004); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Lemony Snicket's A Series of Unfortunate Events (2004); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Henry Rollins: Shock and Awe (2004); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: The Outlaw Josey Wales (1976); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Deliverance (1972); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Dirty Pretty Things (2002); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Alias: Season 1 (2001); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Invasion of the Body Snatchers (1956); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Hackers (1995); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Innerspace (1987); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: The Woodsman (2004); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Salton Sea (2002); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Willow (1988); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest (1975); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Serpico (1973); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Legend: The Director's Cut (1986); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The French Connection (1971); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Abyss (1989); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Narc (2002); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Heat: Special Edition (1995); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Donnie Brasco (1997); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Battle Royale (2001); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Forgotten (2004); Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: Runaway Jury (2003); Rating: 1.0/5.0
Title: Alias: Season 2 (2002); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: One Hour Photo (2002); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Minority Report (2002); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Carlito's Way (1993); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Cellular (2004); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Lone Hero (2002); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Bicentennial Man (1999); Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: Close Encounters of the Third Kind (1977); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Gothika (2003); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial: The 20th Anniversary (Rerelease) (2002); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: The Bone Collector (1999); Rating: 2.0/5.0
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netflix
|
Given the interaction history of a user with movies/shows as follows:
Title: Neon Genesis Evangelion; Genres: Action, Dementia, Drama, Mecha, Psychological, Sci-Fi; Rating: 8.0/10.0
Title: Neon Genesis Evangelion: Death & Rebirth; Genres: Drama, Mecha, Psychological, Sci-Fi; Rating: 8.0/10.0
Title: Neon Genesis Evangelion: The End of Evangelion; Genres: Dementia, Drama, Mecha, Psychological, Sci-Fi; Rating: 8.0/10.0
Title: Mahou Shoujo Lyrical Nanoha A's; Genres: Action, Comedy, Drama, Magic, Super Power; Rating: 8.0/10.0
Title: Scrapped Princess; Genres: Adventure, Comedy, Drama, Fantasy, Mecha, Sci-Fi, Shounen; Rating: 8.0/10.0
Title: Hoshi no Koe; Genres: Drama, Mecha, Romance, Sci-Fi, Space; Rating: 9.0/10.0
Title: Fate/stay night; Genres: Action, Fantasy, Magic, Romance, Supernatural; Rating: 7.0/10.0
Title: Kumo no Mukou, Yakusoku no Basho; Genres: Drama, Military, Romance, Sci-Fi; Rating: 9.0/10.0
Title: Hanbun no Tsuki ga Noboru Sora; Genres: Comedy, Drama, Romance; Rating: 8.0/10.0
Title: Suzumiya Haruhi no Yuuutsu; Genres: Comedy, Mystery, Parody, School, Sci-Fi, Slice of Life; Rating: 9.0/10.0
Title: Higurashi no Naku Koro ni; Genres: Horror, Mystery, Psychological, Supernatural, Thriller; Rating: 8.0/10.0
Title: Code Geass: Hangyaku no Lelouch; Genres: Action, Mecha, Military, School, Sci-Fi, Super Power; Rating: 9.0/10.0
Title: Byousoku 5 Centimeter; Genres: Drama, Romance, Slice of Life; Rating: 9.0/10.0
Title: Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann; Genres: Action, Adventure, Comedy, Mecha, Sci-Fi; Rating: 9.0/10.0
Title: Darker than Black: Kuro no Keiyakusha; Genres: Action, Mystery, Sci-Fi, Super Power; Rating: 9.0/10.0
Title: True Tears; Genres: Drama, Romance, School; Rating: 8.0/10.0
Title: Clannad; Genres: Comedy, Drama, Romance, School, Slice of Life, Supernatural; Rating: 9.0/10.0
Title: Toki wo Kakeru Shoujo; Genres: Adventure, Drama, Romance, Sci-Fi; Rating: 9.0/10.0
Title: Baccano!; Genres: Action, Comedy, Historical, Mystery, Seinen, Supernatural; Rating: 9.0/10.0
Title: Stranger: Mukou Hadan; Genres: Action, Adventure, Historical, Samurai; Rating: 9.0/10.0
Title: Kara no Kyoukai 1: Fukan Fuukei; Genres: Action, Mystery, Supernatural, Thriller; Rating: 9.0/10.0
Title: Evangelion: 1.0 You Are (Not) Alone; Genres: Action, Mecha, Sci-Fi; Rating: 9.0/10.0
Title: Higurashi no Naku Koro ni Special: Nekogoroshi-hen; Genres: Comedy, Mystery; Rating: 7.0/10.0
Title: Code Geass: Hangyaku no Lelouch R2; Genres: Action, Drama, Mecha, Military, Sci-Fi, Super Power; Rating: 8.0/10.0
Title: Minami-ke; Genres: Comedy, School, Slice of Life; Rating: 8.0/10.0
Title: Eve no Jikan; Genres: Sci-Fi, Slice of Life; Rating: 10.0/10.0
Title: Minami-ke Okawari; Genres: Comedy, School, Slice of Life; Rating: 7.0/10.0
Title: Macross F; Genres: Action, Mecha, Military, Music, Romance, Sci-Fi, Space; Rating: 8.0/10.0
Title: Strike Witches; Genres: Action, Ecchi, Magic, Military, Sci-Fi; Rating: 8.0/10.0
Title: Evangelion: 2.0 You Can (Not) Advance; Genres: Action, Mecha, Sci-Fi; Rating: 9.0/10.0
Title: Evangelion: 3.0 You Can (Not) Redo; Genres: Action, Mecha, Sci-Fi; Rating: 7.0/10.0
Title: Baccano! Specials; Genres: Action, Comedy, Historical, Mystery, Seinen, Supernatural; Rating: 10.0/10.0
Title: Bounen no Xamdou; Genres: Action, Military, Sci-Fi; Rating: 9.0/10.0
Title: Clannad: After Story; Genres: Drama, Fantasy, Romance, Slice of Life, Supernatural; Rating: 10.0/10.0
Title: Toradora!; Genres: Comedy, Romance, School, Slice of Life; Rating: 9.0/10.0
Title: Ga-Rei: Zero; Genres: Action, Super Power, Supernatural, Thriller; Rating: 8.0/10.0
Title: Mahou Shoujo Lyrical Nanoha: The Movie 1st; Genres: Action, Comedy, Drama, Magic, Super Power; Rating: 9.0/10.0
Title: Maria†Holic; Genres: Comedy, Parody, School, Shoujo Ai; Rating: 7.0/10.0
Title: Bakemonogatari; Genres: Mystery, Romance, Supernatural, Vampire; Rating: 9.0/10.0
Title: Minami-ke Okaeri; Genres: Comedy, School, Slice of Life; Rating: 7.0/10.0
Title: K-On!; Genres: Comedy, Music, School, Slice of Life; Rating: 8.0/10.0
Title: Summer Wars; Genres: Comedy, Sci-Fi; Rating: 9.0/10.0
Title: Minami-ke Betsubara; Genres: Comedy, Slice of Life; Rating: 7.0/10.0
Title: Toaru Kagaku no Railgun; Genres: Action, Sci-Fi, Super Power; Rating: 7.0/10.0
Title: Strike Witches 2; Genres: Action, Ecchi, Magic, Military, Sci-Fi; Rating: 8.0/10.0
Title: Angel Beats!; Genres: Action, Comedy, Drama, School, Supernatural; Rating: 8.0/10.0
Title: Katanagatari; Genres: Action, Adventure, Historical, Martial Arts, Romance; Rating: 8.0/10.0
Title: So Ra No Wo To; Genres: Military, Music, Sci-Fi, Slice of Life; Rating: 9.0/10.0
Title: Fate/stay night Movie: Unlimited Blade Works; Genres: Action, Fantasy, Magic, Supernatural; Rating: 8.0/10.0
Title: Working!!; Genres: Comedy, Slice of Life; Rating: 8.0/10.0
Title: Suzumiya Haruhi no Shoushitsu; Genres: Comedy, Mystery, Romance, School, Sci-Fi, Supernatural; Rating: 10.0/10.0
Title: K-On!!; Genres: Comedy, Music, School, Slice of Life; Rating: 9.0/10.0
Title: Ore no Imouto ga Konnani Kawaii Wake ga Nai; Genres: Comedy, Seinen, Slice of Life; Rating: 7.0/10.0
Title: Mouretsu Pirates; Genres: Sci-Fi, Space; Rating: 8.0/10.0
Title: IS: Infinite Stratos; Genres: Action, Comedy, Harem, Mecha, Sci-Fi; Rating: 7.0/10.0
Title: Steins;Gate; Genres: Sci-Fi, Thriller; Rating: 9.0/10.0
Title: Hanasaku Iroha; Genres: Comedy, Drama, Seinen, Slice of Life; Rating: 8.0/10.0
Title: Denpa Onna to Seishun Otoko; Genres: Comedy, Sci-Fi, Seinen, Slice of Life; Rating: 7.0/10.0
Title: K-On! Movie; Genres: Comedy, Music, Slice of Life; Rating: 7.0/10.0
Title: Strike Witches Movie; Genres: Action, Ecchi, Magic, Military, Sci-Fi; Rating: 8.0/10.0
Title: Mahou Shoujo Madoka★Magica; Genres: Drama, Magic, Psychological, Thriller; Rating: 9.0/10.0
Title: Ano Hi Mita Hana no Namae wo Bokutachi wa Mada Shiranai.; Genres: Drama, Slice of Life, Supernatural; Rating: 9.0/10.0
Title: Fate/Zero; Genres: Action, Fantasy, Supernatural; Rating: 9.0/10.0
Title: Mahou Shoujo Lyrical Nanoha: The Movie 2nd A's; Genres: Action, Comedy, Drama, Magic, Super Power; Rating: 9.0/10.0
Title: Yondemasu yo, Azazel-san. (TV); Genres: Comedy, Demons, Supernatural; Rating: 9.0/10.0
Title: The iDOLM@STER; Genres: Comedy, Drama, Music; Rating: 9.0/10.0
Title: Jinrui wa Suitai Shimashita; Genres: Comedy, Fantasy, Seinen; Rating: 8.0/10.0
Title: Ben-To; Genres: Action, Comedy, Martial Arts; Rating: 7.0/10.0
Title: Gyo; Genres: Horror; Rating: 6.0/10.0
Title: Aquarion Evol; Genres: Action, Comedy, Drama, Fantasy, Mecha, Romance, Sci-Fi; Rating: 6.0/10.0
Title: Kyoukaisenjou no Horizon; Genres: Action, Fantasy; Rating: 8.0/10.0
Title: Blood-C; Genres: Action, Horror, School, Supernatural, Vampire; Rating: 8.0/10.0
Title: Working'!!; Genres: Comedy, Slice of Life; Rating: 8.0/10.0
Title: C³; Genres: Action, Comedy, Ecchi, School, Supernatural; Rating: 6.0/10.0
Title: Denpa Onna to Seishun Otoko Special; Genres: Comedy, Sci-Fi, Seinen; Rating: 7.0/10.0
Title: Boku wa Tomodachi ga Sukunai; Genres: Comedy, Ecchi, Harem, Romance, School, Seinen, Slice of Life; Rating: 6.0/10.0
Title: Guilty Crown; Genres: Action, Drama, Sci-Fi, Super Power; Rating: 6.0/10.0
Title: Kyousou Giga; Genres: Action, Fantasy, Supernatural; Rating: 6.0/10.0
Title: Muv-Luv Alternative: Total Eclipse; Genres: Action, Mecha, Military, Sci-Fi; Rating: 7.0/10.0
Title: Another; Genres: Horror, Mystery, School, Supernatural, Thriller; Rating: 6.0/10.0
Title: Rinne no Lagrange; Genres: Action, Comedy, Mecha, Sci-Fi; Rating: 6.0/10.0
Title: Black★Rock Shooter (TV); Genres: Action, Drama, School, Slice of Life; Rating: 7.0/10.0
Title: Ano Natsu de Matteru; Genres: Comedy, Drama, Romance, Sci-Fi, Slice of Life; Rating: 7.0/10.0
Title: Sankarea; Genres: Comedy, Ecchi, Horror, Romance, Shounen, Supernatural; Rating: 7.0/10.0
Title: Nisemonogatari; Genres: Comedy, Mystery, Supernatural; Rating: 7.0/10.0
Title: High School DxD; Genres: Comedy, Demons, Ecchi, Harem, Romance, School; Rating: 7.0/10.0
Title: Fate/Zero 2nd Season; Genres: Action, Fantasy, Supernatural, Thriller; Rating: 9.0/10.0
Title: Senki Zesshou Symphogear: Meteoroid-Falling, Burning, and Disappear, Then...; Genres: Action, Music, Sci-Fi; Rating: 7.0/10.0
Title: Sword Art Online; Genres: Action, Adventure, Fantasy, Game, Romance; Rating: 6.0/10.0
Title: Accel World; Genres: Action, Game, Romance, School, Sci-Fi; Rating: 7.0/10.0
Title: Sekai de Ichiban Tsuyoku Naritai!; Genres: Action, Ecchi, Sports; Rating: 6.0/10.0
Title: Haiyore! Nyaruko-san; Genres: Comedy, Parody, Sci-Fi; Rating: 7.0/10.0
Title: Danshi Koukousei no Nichijou; Genres: Comedy, School, Shounen, Slice of Life; Rating: 8.0/10.0
Title: Kokoro Connect; Genres: Comedy, Drama, Romance, School, Slice of Life, Supernatural; Rating: 8.0/10.0
Title: Oda Nobuna no Yabou; Genres: Comedy, Historical, Romance; Rating: 7.0/10.0
Title: Natsu-iro Kiseki; Genres: School, Slice of Life, Supernatural; Rating: 7.0/10.0
Title: Koi to Senkyo to Chocolate; Genres: Drama, Romance, School; Rating: 7.0/10.0
Title: Hyouka; Genres: Mystery, School, Slice of Life; Rating: 9.0/10.0
Title: Jormungand; Genres: Action, Adventure, Seinen; Rating: 8.0/10.0
Title: Kyoukaisenjou no Horizon II; Genres: Action, Fantasy, Sci-Fi; Rating: 9.0/10.0
Title: Tsuritama; Genres: Comedy, Sci-Fi, Slice of Life, Sports; Rating: 6.0/10.0
Title: Shinsekai yori; Genres: Drama, Horror, Mystery, Sci-Fi, Supernatural; Rating: 9.0/10.0
Title: Hagure Yuusha no Aesthetica; Genres: Action, Ecchi, Fantasy, Super Power; Rating: 6.0/10.0
Title: Jormungand: Perfect Order; Genres: Action, Adventure, Seinen; Rating: 7.0/10.0
Title: Tari Tari; Genres: Music, School, Slice of Life; Rating: 8.0/10.0
Title: Robotics;Notes; Genres: Drama, Mystery, School, Sci-Fi; Rating: 7.0/10.0
Title: Psycho-Pass; Genres: Action, Police, Psychological, Sci-Fi; Rating: 8.0/10.0
Title: Little Busters!; Genres: Comedy, Drama, School, Slice of Life, Supernatural; Rating: 7.0/10.0
Title: Sakurasou no Pet na Kanojo; Genres: Comedy, Drama, Romance, School, Slice of Life; Rating: 8.0/10.0
Title: Zetsuen no Tempest; Genres: Action, Drama, Fantasy, Magic, Mystery, Psychological, Shounen; Rating: 8.0/10.0
Title: Girls und Panzer; Genres: Military, School; Rating: 9.0/10.0
Title: Vividred Operation; Genres: Action, Ecchi, Sci-Fi; Rating: 6.0/10.0
Title: K; Genres: Action, Super Power, Supernatural; Rating: 7.0/10.0
Title: Minami-ke Tadaima; Genres: Comedy, School, Slice of Life; Rating: 9.0/10.0
Title: Minami-ke Omatase; Genres: Comedy, Slice of Life; Rating: 7.0/10.0
Title: Chuunibyou demo Koi ga Shitai!; Genres: Comedy, Drama, Romance, School, Slice of Life; Rating: 8.0/10.0
Title: Ore no Kanojo to Osananajimi ga Shuraba Sugiru; Genres: Comedy, Harem, Romance, School; Rating: 8.0/10.0
Title: Yahari Ore no Seishun Love Comedy wa Machigatteiru.; Genres: Comedy, Drama, Romance, School; Rating: 9.0/10.0
Title: Fate/kaleid liner Prisma☆Illya; Genres: Action, Comedy, Fantasy, Magic; Rating: 8.0/10.0
Title: Boku wa Tomodachi ga Sukunai Next; Genres: Comedy, Harem, Romance, School, Seinen, Slice of Life; Rating: 7.0/10.0
Title: Hentai Ouji to Warawanai Neko.; Genres: Comedy, Harem, Romance, School, Seinen, Supernatural; Rating: 8.0/10.0
Title: Mondaiji-tachi ga Isekai kara Kuru Sou Desu yo?; Genres: Comedy, Fantasy, Supernatural; Rating: 8.0/10.0
Title: Kotoura-san; Genres: Comedy, Drama, Romance, School; Rating: 8.0/10.0
Title: High School DxD New; Genres: Action, Comedy, Demons, Ecchi, Harem, Romance, School; Rating: 8.0/10.0
Title: Nekomonogatari: Kuro; Genres: Comedy, Romance, Supernatural; Rating: 8.0/10.0
Title: Senki Zesshou Symphogear G: In the Distance, That Day, When the Star Became Music...; Genres: Action, Music, Sci-Fi; Rating: 8.0/10.0
Title: Hataraku Maou-sama!; Genres: Comedy, Demons, Fantasy, Romance, Shounen; Rating: 9.0/10.0
Title: Ginga Kikoutai Majestic Prince; Genres: Action, Mecha, School, Sci-Fi, Seinen, Space; Rating: 8.0/10.0
Title: Fantasista Doll; Genres: Fantasy, Magic, Sci-Fi; Rating: 6.0/10.0
Title: Tokyo Ravens; Genres: Comedy, School, Shounen, Super Power, Supernatural; Rating: 8.0/10.0
Title: Toaru Kagaku no Railgun S; Genres: Action, Sci-Fi, Super Power; Rating: 8.0/10.0
Title: Nagi no Asukara; Genres: Drama, Fantasy, Romance; Rating: 9.0/10.0
Title: Love Lab; Genres: Comedy, Romance, School; Rating: 8.0/10.0
Title: Tamako Market; Genres: Comedy, Slice of Life; Rating: 6.0/10.0
Title: Shingeki no Kyojin; Genres: Action, Drama, Fantasy, Shounen, Super Power; Rating: 8.0/10.0
Title: Devil Survivor 2 The Animation; Genres: Action, Demons, Supernatural; Rating: 6.0/10.0
Title: Suisei no Gargantia; Genres: Action, Adventure, Mecha, Sci-Fi; Rating: 8.0/10.0
Title: Kakumeiki Valvrave; Genres: Action, Mecha, Space; Rating: 9.0/10.0
Title: Watashi ga Motenai no wa Dou Kangaetemo Omaera ga Warui!; Genres: Comedy, School, Shounen, Slice of Life; Rating: 7.0/10.0
Title: Monogatari Series: Second Season; Genres: Comedy, Mystery, Romance, Supernatural, Vampire; Rating: 8.0/10.0
Title: Log Horizon; Genres: Action, Adventure, Fantasy, Game, Magic, Shounen; Rating: 9.0/10.0
Title: Genei wo Kakeru Taiyou; Genres: Magic; Rating: 8.0/10.0
Title: Stella Jogakuin Koutou-ka C³-bu; Genres: Military, School, Sports; Rating: 7.0/10.0
Title: Golden Time; Genres: Comedy, Romance, Seinen; Rating: 7.0/10.0
Title: Rozen Maiden (2013); Genres: Action, Comedy, Drama, Magic, Seinen; Rating: 8.0/10.0
Title: Servant x Service; Genres: Comedy, Slice of Life; Rating: 8.0/10.0
Title: Kyoukai no Kanata; Genres: Fantasy, Slice of Life, Supernatural; Rating: 7.0/10.0
Title: Gatchaman Crowds; Genres: Adventure, Sci-Fi; Rating: 8.0/10.0
Title: White Album 2; Genres: Drama, Music, Romance, Slice of Life; Rating: 8.0/10.0
Title: Strike the Blood; Genres: Action, Ecchi, Fantasy, Harem, School, Shounen, Supernatural, Vampire; Rating: 8.0/10.0
Title: Kakumeiki Valvrave 2nd Season; Genres: Action, Mecha, Space; Rating: 6.0/10.0
Title: Free!; Genres: Comedy, School, Slice of Life, Sports; Rating: 8.0/10.0
Title: Kill la Kill; Genres: Action, Comedy, School, Super Power; Rating: 8.0/10.0
Title: Aoki Hagane no Arpeggio: Ars Nova; Genres: Action, Sci-Fi, Seinen; Rating: 7.0/10.0
Title: Galilei Donna; Genres: Action, Adventure, Sci-Fi; Rating: 4.0/10.0
Title: Pokemon: The Origin; Genres: Action, Adventure, Comedy, Fantasy, Kids; Rating: 8.0/10.0
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anime
|
Given the interaction history of a user with hotels as follows:
Title: Felix River Kwai Resort Kanchanaburi; City: Kanchanaburi Kanchanaburi Province; Review: The Felix River Kwai is in a setting convenient to a walk to the famous bridge. The staff is very friendly and helpful. The food is well prepared and tasty. The accommodations are arranged in several separate three story buildings, but all only a short walk to the restaurants and lobby. My room (a king bed) was quite large and clean. The bed was very comfortable. I recommend this hotel.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Blackpool Hotel; City: Nuwara Eliya Central Province; Review: The goal of the hotel is to give the very best service and experience to their guests. It has a very English building style with very nice rooms and bathrooms. Efforts made to minimize use of plastic and to be more ecological sensitive. My room was very comfortable and clean. Staff very friendly and helpful. Buffets were very tasty. Used the hotel's laundry service and liked the results.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Mandara Resort; City: Mirissa Southern Province; Review: Large, clean room and bathroom. Pretty quiet location. Staff friendly and helpful. Buffets were more than adequate. Only one-night, arriving late and leaving early the next morning so didn't get a really good look at the facility.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Jetwing Jaffna; City: Jaffna Northern Province; Review: My room was large, clean, and the bathroom was very nice. My room had a view of the clock tower and a little peek of the ocean. All the people serving on the staff were friendly. The restaurant provided wonderful food. The hotel is located close to the Fort with an intersection adorned with very nice statues. I heard a lot of traffic noise and dogs barking well into the night.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Centara Ceysands Resort Spa Sri Lanka; City: Bentota Galle District Southern Province; Review: The hotel is located across the river from Bentota. A small boat is provided to transport guests to the lobby and main hotel facility. Recently refurbished, and really lovely. The beach is easily accessible and clean. Large pool arrangement. My room had a small covered sitting area accessed by sliding glass door. My room and bathroom were very clean. Room boy, Indika, was very diligent in that regard. Lovely indoor or outdoor eating areas with riverfront location. Very good buffets. The staff was very friendly and helpful.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
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hotelrec
|
Given the interaction history of a user with books as follows:
Title: My Big Animal Book (My Big Board Books); Author: Visit Amazon's Roger Priddy Page; Review: I bought this for my 2 month old for christmas, thinking he could use it when he was older, but it's cardbord and can be proped open and he just loves to stare at it while lying on the floor!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Living with the Passive-Aggressive Man: Coping with Hidden Aggression - From the Bedroom to the Boardroom; Author: Visit Amazon's Scott Wetzler Page; Review: This book is a great introduction to understanding passive aggressive behavior. It clearly explains what it is and how it is enabled. however, if you are looking for instruction on how to deal with passive aggression this book gives few examples and then suggests professional counseling.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Visions of Glory: One Man's Astonishing Account of the Last Days; Author: John Pontius; Review: Lots of food for thought here. A little difficult to get through, kind of a heavy read, but some amazing concepts a well. That said, I could not put it down until about halfway through, when I got bogged down. Keep reading though, it gets better again after a couple of chapters.; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: The Best Teacher in Second Grade (I Can Read Level 2); Author: Visit Amazon's Katharine Kenah Page; Review: well written and easily relatable, my son and I both love these books! Each story is about a different child in the classroom and their stories are both a life lesson and an enjoyable tale.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Easily Amused; Author: Karen Mcquestion; Review: An easy read and a clean romance; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Toads, and the Women Who Kiss Them. Aunt Alex's Army Manual: How to Free Yourself From the Narcissist; Author: Alexandra Nouri; Review: To the point and witty this book will give you great tips on how to recognize and deal with manipulative people.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Earl's Inconvenient Wife (Marriage by Scandal); Author: Visit Amazon's Ruth Ann Nordin Page; Review: I hated the lead man. The lead female was practically kidnaped by him and yet still fell in love with him. The way they reconciled was embarrassingly stupid. Hated this book.; Rating: 1.0/5.0
Title: Wired For Joy!: A Revolutionary Method for Creating Happiness from Within; Author: Visit Amazon's Laurel Mellin Page; Review: This book is clear, and the methods work. It can help you heal the wounds of the past or deal with current stress. This book also comes with the added option of online support. There are fees for the online support, but they come with several options and are affordable compared to sitting in an actual therapists office.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: How I Sold 30,000 eBooks on Amazon's Kindle: An Easy-To-Follow Self-Publishing Guidebook 2016 edition; Author: Visit Amazon's Martin Crosbie Page; Review: This book was a pleasure to read, up to date and very informative. I would recommend it to anyone who wants to know more about the business of being an author whether or not you plan to publish traditionally or otherwise.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Cure: A Novel; Author: Visit Amazon's Douglas E. Richards Page; Review: It would have been 5 stars except the twist in the middle made the rest of the book feel disjointed from the first half. However the writing was excellent and I could not put it down.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Wired; Author: Visit Amazon's Douglas E. Richards Page; Review: Great fast paced read, with a thought provoking ending. Douglas Richards is quickly becoming one of my favorite tecno-thriller authors!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Child of the Prophecy (Sevenwaters Trilogy, Book 3); Author: Visit Amazon's Juliet Marillier Page; Review: The first book in this trilogy seemed slow at the start, but the story soon had me in its grip. I loved the first book so much, I was worried the second would not stand up to my expectations, but ai loved it even more! Surely the third would be good, but how could it be better? Fiction does not make me cry easily but by the end of the third book tears of sorry and then joy were streaming down my face. (Also-I switched between reading and listening to the audio version and I highly recommend both but the audio was my favorite, it really brought out the feel of the story.); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Child of the Prophecy (The Sevenwaters Trilogy); Author: Visit Amazon's Juliet Marillier Page; Review: The first book in this trilogy seemed slow at the start, but the story soon had me in its grip. I loved the first book so much, I was worried the second would not stand up to my expectations, but ai loved it even more! Surely the third would be good, but how could it be better? Fiction does not make me cry easily but by the end of the third book tears of sorry and then joy were streaming down my face. (Also-I switched between reading and listening to the audio version and I highly recommend both but the audio was my favorite, it really brought out the feel of the story.); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: A Street Cat Named Bob: And How He Saved My Life; Author: Visit Amazon's James Bowen Page; Review: An entertaining and heartwarming story. I loved A Street Cat Named Bob from start to finish. Eye opening and thought provoking as well.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
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amazon_books
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Given the interaction history of a user with products as follows:
Title: Nyko Intercooler Slim for PS3; Brand: by
Nyko; Review: this thing heats up your ps3 even more, horrible. im going to return this as soon as possible its useless; Rating: 1.0/5.0
Title: Final Fantasy XIII-2 Collector's Edition - Playstation 3; Brand: by
Square Enix; Review: Got the standard edition on release day, very nice game passed it 100%. now i just bought the collectors edition for only 25$$. great price; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: 2 Pack - Gator Crunch Wii Gamecube 6FT Extension Cable / Cord (Lifetime Warranty, Bulk packaging); Brand: by
Gator Crunch; Review: well atleast one of them worked what else could you want for the price. the other one works too just not all the time; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Wii Energizer 2x Charge Station; Brand: by
PDP; Review: the charger works, the battery power doesn't last long though, at least I don't have to keep buying batteries anymore; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: 32GB PlayStation Vita Memory Card; Brand: by
Sony; Review: lot of memory but still not enough, the price is really high though way to high and I got it for 80; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Sharkoon Skiller Gaming Keyboard (000SKSK); Brand: Sharkoon; Review: it came out with a broken key, cheaply made sending back doesn't work with the ps4. wouold of kept it if it didn't have the broken key atleast; Rating: 1.0/5.0
Title: PlayStation Vita Memory Card 64GB (PCH-Z641J); Brand: Sony; Review: at 105$ is still expensive but not that much like before it still has a lot of room. wish it had more but o well.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
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amazon_Video_Games
|
Given the interaction history of a user with products as follows:
Title: Vicious; Brand: Ian McKellen; Review: Love the show. Glad I bought the DVDs.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Star Trek; Brand: Chris Pine; Review: I watch this movie every few months and never get tired of it. The casting was almost perfect!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Star Trek XI; Brand: ; Review: I watch this movie every few months and never get tired of it. The casting was almost perfect!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Panic; Brand: William H. Macy; Review: Well acted verbal movie. I watched because of William Macy, he delivered as always.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Dazed and Confused; Brand: Jason London; Review: American Graffiti meets stoners. Teenagers buck the "system".; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Danny Collins; Brand: Al Pacino; Review: Good writing, great acting. My only complaint was the ending; the movie did not end on a logical thread of the story. I felt cheated by the abruptness of the ending.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Independence Day Resurgence; Brand: Liam Hemsworth; Review: I enjoyed the special effects and was pleasantly surprised that Brent Spiner had a decent sized roll. A few friends told me they did not like this movie, but they were over thinking the story details. Just sit back and enjoy the ride.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: American Ultra Digital; Brand: Jesse Eisenberg; Review: Too much violence for my taste, but the story line was done so well that I enjoyed the movie.; Rating: 3.0/5.0
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amazon_Movies_and_TV
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Given the interaction history of a user with products as follows:
Title: Royal Canin Size Health Nutrition Mini Mature 8+ Dry Dog Food; Brand: Royal Canin; Review: Well, Royal Canin is a great pet food. The best in my opinion so when my Shih Tzu stopped eating her regular pet food, I didn't think twice and upgrade her pet food to Royal Canin and she's eating more now. I am very satisfied with this pet food as my dog has more energy since she started eating Royal Canin.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Purina Moist & Meaty Burger With Cheddar Cheese Flavor Adult Dry Dog Food; Brand: Purina Moist & Meaty; Review: My dog first tried this dog food in a hotel in Ashville that they gave her as gift so I searched in internet and I found it. My ShihTzu loves it. As she is a senior dog, I mix this dog food in her pet food and she gets excited to eat it. I also give her as a treat when we are having dinner so she stops asking for food. I recommend it.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Nutro Ultra Adult Weight Management Dry Dog Food 4.5 Pounds (Discontinued By Manufacturer); Brand: Nutro; Review: I bought this pet food after reading great reviews about it and how great this formula is for senior dogs but unfortunately my Shih Tzu didn't approve it. She doesn't like it and the only way for her to eat this pet food is mixing it with canned food. It has being a challenge to finish this bag.; Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: Natural Balance Belly Bites Grain Free Dog Treats; Brand: Natural Balance; Review: My Shih Tzu loves this treat. The size is perfect for a small dog and it's soft.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Purina Pro Plan Bright Mind Chicken & Rice Formula Adult 7+ Dry Dog Food - 16 Lb. Bag; Brand: Purina Pro Plan; Review: Best pet food for my Shih Tzu. I tried to switch to some different pet foods that it is said to better but my dog didn't approve them. She likes the Purina Pro Plan. I think this pet food is affordable, have good quality and it is in a great size for small dogs.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
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amazon_Pet_Supplies
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Given the interaction history of a user with products as follows:
Title: Belkin F5U237v1 High-Speed AC powered USB 2.0 7 Port Slim-Line Stackable USB Hub with 2 Top Loading Ports F5U237V1,; Brand: Belkin; Review: I had this hub for a couple of years, but only put it in use the last year or so. I mainly wanted it as an "extension cord" for my Mac keyboard, whose cord did not reach the back of my iMac from where I had to put my keyboard. It was working fine, but today suddenly quit. I took the keyboard to another Mac, and it worked fine there. I tried restarting my computer and checking keyboard preferences. I then plugged my keyboard into the back of the Mac I had been using it with, and it was fine. But i can't leave it there, as the cord has to snake over the top of my desk to reach that port. I do NOT recommend this hub unless you want to shell out $30 a year for a new one when the old one suddenly quits. I also wanted it for my Livescribe Pulse pen, only to find out from Livescribe that their pens won't work with even a powered hub. So, what's a person to do when more and more peripherals need a USB connection (don't like Blue Tooth, and another computer I use doesn't have Blue Tooth) and yet do not have a long enough cord to reach to the mere 4 USB ports in my 27" iMac?? Are there ANY powered hubs that DO work with a wider range of peripherals?; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Logitech Harmony 650 Infrared All in One Remote Control, Universal Remote Logitech, Programmable Remote (Silver); Brand: Logitech; Review: I am somewhat tech savvy. I never understood why people found it hard to program those video recorders of yesteryear. I've had computers since 1982--an Osborne was my first. I am often the "go to" person among my peers for computer and tech advice and assistance. But this Harmony Remote set-up spewed terms I had no knowledge of and gave options that had nothing to do with my specific models. I have an LGHDTV, an LG Blu-ray,a Yamaha soundbar, and a TiVO Premiere XL DVR. Pretty simplistic group of components. I use one remote to activate the sound bar, a TiVO remote for the TV, and another remote for the Blu-Ray. When I got my LGHDTV, I had to program my TiVO remote to turn on the TV, adjust volume, etc. to work with the TV and sound bar. For the Harmony I downloaded the software and created a Logitech/harmony sign on. Had my component model numbers and entered them (initially the form did not allow me to enter the model numbers for some reason). The 650 seemed to know my LGHDTV and Blu-Ray just fine. Never got to the Yamaha sound bar, since I got short circuited trying to program the TiVO functions. The first set of buttons to program included TiVO (Yes); Chan/Prev (No) and one other button my TiVO remote didn't have. Ok, so I went on to the next options. Didn't have one of the 2 or 3 offered there. One more try--but none of those choices were on my TiVO remote either. Then it came up with "couldn't find your DVR 5449," which is the model # of the TiVO Premiere XL. Logitech offered other model options, none of which was even close. I aborted the programming and called Logitech tech support. Stayed on hold for 45 minutes, then I gave up. Logitech assumes we all know the various terms used in their industry and never bothered to include definitions. Sorry, but I do not know the lingo, nor could I find definitions through a Google search. I can't be the only one who had this problem. I also searched the FAQ and some poorly designed forums. Logitech certainly doesn't use a Google powered search engine, so the searches I tried came up meaningless for what I was looking for. I submitted a tech support email, but that will take 2 days to get a reply, minimum. If Logitech cannot offer direct one-to-one live support for a give-and-take "walk-me-thru-it" session in a reasonable amount of time after my calling them, then I'll be returning the 650 to Costco. Bottom line--unless you are an audiophile, an engineer or programmer, don't bother buying this remote. You'll regret the frustration and waste of time. And we haven't even gotten to the problems that arise when trying to use a programmed 650.; Rating: 1.0/5.0
Title: VCT - 220V/240V AC 13A Universal Surge Protector / Power Strip with 6 Universal Outlets. 50Hz/60Hz - 450 Joules.; Brand: VCT; Review: Bought this for a trip to Italy's lake region. The power strip plug did not fit in any of the 3 & 4 star hotels I was in. Actually, it did fit in one bathroom outlet that appeared new, but even then, the power strip did not turn on. TOTAL WASTE OF $$$$$! Make sure your hotels will accommodate a larger diameter plug.; Rating: 1.0/5.0
Title: Yamaha YSP-3000BL Digital Sound Projector (Black) (Discontinued by Manufacturer); Brand: Yamaha Audio; Review: Finally, I can warn people about my experience with this sound bar. I got this item in 2010. I bought a TV, Blu-Ray player, and expensive,but beautiful and functional piece of furniture to load all the components plus my TiVo box. The company I bought it from came in and set it up. I never tho't I needed "lessons" to learn how to re-calibrate the sound bar--didn't even think it would need that ever (naive). First challenge was programming my TiVo remote to be able to access the on/off and volume control. That took a while. Never could use the TiVo to turn it ON, but it could turn the TV & sound bar off together. The remote for this Yamaha has about 72 buttons (!), more than any other remote I currently use. I use 2--turn ON/OFF, and AUX 1 to get it back to TV after using the LG Blu-Ray. There might be one more button, but I must not use it enough to remember. While the sound is OK (I needed the sound bar for a very small room--couldn't put surround speakers there), once it gets out of sync with the LG TV, problems begin. I also tried to program a Harmony remote--that held the programming for about 10 minutes, then un-programmed itself--multiple attempts and two 45+ min phone calls with Harmony customer support later I took it back to Costco. The company I bought all this from offered to sell me a "true" programmable remote--for $300 AND then another $300 to program it. What the......? I didn't need the One Remote THAT badly, even though I still have to use three-- the TiVo, the Yamaha, and the LG Blu-Ray--to get all these things working. Somehow the volume for the speaker for voices dropped so low that the speakers that broadcast music overwhelmed it. The manual is some 100 pages, and when I tried just to do the "test" that (supposedly) allows you to turn the volume of certain key speakers up or down, it didn't work. I could hear better if I just turned the darn thing off and used the LG TV speakers, pitiful as they are. There are something like 21 speakers in this bar. You can do all sorts of angling them for where you sit and setting the sound quality--but you'd better be an advanced audiophile to figure it all out. In summary, if you have the skill to understand how this all works, by all means, it's probably worth buying. BUT BEWARE if you cannot figure out the complexity of this piece of equipment. I maintain that it has a life of its own, and woe to anyone unskilled who dares think they can control it. Heck, I can't even understand the manual's description of the darn buttons. So if you are not confident in fiddling with this thing, make sure you get the techs to teach you how to do that correctly. I never had a problem programming VCRs when they came out (seems most people did), but THIS thing is WAY; Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: Black, Fine Tip Generic Refills for Livescribe 3, Smooth-writing Premium German Ink; Brand: Generic Refills; Review: Great product and customer service. Feel confident in buying. Writes smoothly, lasts longer than brand name refills. Comes in both fine and medium points.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: TiVo Roamio Pro 3 TB DVR (Old Version) - Digital Video Recorder and Streaming Media Player; Brand: TiVo; Review: Bought Roamio + (with 6 tuners!) Called on Xmas Day for help to set it up and move XL4 to another location. Tech spent 2 hours helping me. There were problems later on, and I called 2 or 3 times more on Xmas Day. Always got pleasant service, mostly competent, and open on Xmas Day to boot! Have had 4 TiVo boxes over the years. Onscreen guide is comprehensive, but easy to figure out. Customer service has always been good. If they keep this level of service and maintain well designed onscreen menus, I'll continue to say, "Highly recommended!"; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: TomTom VIA 1605TM 6-Inch GPS Navigator with Lifetime Traffic & Maps; Brand: TomTom; Review: This was a great product UNTIL the darn thing started flipping to other screens while on route to a destination. Apparently this is common in this unit as it ages. I got mine through costco years ago, and everything was fine until recently. A search found that this is common and there is no reliable fix. Some claim it's because the case warps in heat and the pressure from the warping makes it change screens often. If it's out of warranty (which mine is), there's no fix. So, don't buy a used one! Keep it cool (yeah, good luck driving in summer if you have a windshield mount). I love the 6" screen, and I'm just not finding good reviews on other newer TomToms with 6" screens. Don't really like Garmins or other brands.; Rating: 2.0/5.0
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amazon_Electronics
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Given the interaction history of a user with products as follows:
Title: Alpha Grillers BBQ Grill Brush. Stainless Steel Bristles, 18 Inch Long Tools. Best Cleaner For A Weber Barbecue; Brand: Alpha Grillers; Review: Really does the job; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Maverick ET-733 Long Range Wireless Dual Probe BBQ Smoker Meat Thermometer Set; Brand: Maverick; Review: This is going to be used for smoking; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Buddeez Kingsford Kadddy Charcoal Dispenser for 24 lb. Bags; Brand: Buddeez; Review: This will be used to keep pellets dry.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: 6-Foot Replacement Hybrid Probe for Maverick ET-732/733/735 - Also fits Ivation IVA-WLTHERM & IVAWT738; Brand: BBQ Butler; Review: This is superb. HeLPS withe the smoker; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Alpha Grillers Heavy Duty BBQ Grilling Tools Set. Extra Thick Stainless Steel Spatula, Fork, Basting Brush &; Brand: Alpha Grillers; Review: Great BBQ tools; Rating: 5.0/5.0
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amazon_Patio_Lawn_and_Garden
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Given the interaction history of a user with products as follows:
Title: Nine West Women's Camya Leather Platform Pump; Brand: ; Review: This shoe makes my feet appear longer than they are.; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Nine West Women's Camya Peep-Toe Pump; Brand: ; Review: This shoe makes my feet appear longer than they are.; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Nine West Women's Beautie Platform Pump; Brand: ; Review: Pretty color and it fits nice!! This is my first time buying patent shoes.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Adrianna Papell Women's Sleeveless Sheath Dress; Brand: ; Review: This is a beautiful form fitting dress!! The color is somewhat a dusty pink, but I like.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: TWINTH Loose Fit Tunic Top High Neck Longsleeve Pleats Plus Size; Brand: TWINTH; Review: This is a high quality product. I will purchase it in other colors and I highly recommend buying it.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Anne Klein Women's Short-Sleeve Cowl-Neck Sheath Dress; Brand: ; Review: I like this dress alot. Nice fit.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: SaraSara Truly Me, Big Girls Tween Cascading Ruffle Chiffon Dress, 7-16; Brand: SaraSara; Review: Beautiful dress for pre-teen!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Hot Hanger Girls 3/4 Sleeve Belted Skater Dress Top; Brand: Hot Hanger; Review: Cute Dress; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Timberland Men's Nubuck Leather Boot Glove; Brand: ; Review: My husband love these gloves.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Calvin Klein Women's Gayle Pump; Brand: ; Review: Very nice shoe...I would have given it 5 stars but they were too big. When ordering this shoe, order up a size; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Crocs Women's Leigh-Ann Leather Mini Wedge Sandal; Brand: ; Review: Nice sandal but it will stretch a bit...you may want to size down a half.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
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amazon_Clothing_Shoes_and_Jewelry
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Given the interaction history of a user with books as follows:
Title: Charlie Cook's Favorite Book; Author: Visit Amazon's Julia Donaldson Page; Review: INMHO, this book is not Julia's best. Concept is humorously different, but it will may not catch on for a child who isn't reading yet.; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Sherlock Bones and the Missing Cheese; Author: Visit Amazon's Susan Stevens Crummel Page; Review: This is one of the best books ever for a 3 year old toddler. Very seldom do I go for the New York Times listings, but depend on testimonials on Amazon. This time, Amazon suggested this book and I am extremely pleased and so is my grandson!! Good story,illustration,rhyme and a song at the end to boot. Can't go wrong with this one. This book is equivalent to Julia Donaldson and maybe a tad better.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Wilfred; Author: Ryan Higgins; Review: My grandson loves books. He especially love books that tell a story that compels you to read on. This book, very much like "Sherlock Bones" does just that.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: YOU WILL BE MY FRIEND! (Starring Lucille Beatrice Bear); Author: Visit Amazon's Peter Brown Page; Review: Can't put my finger on it, but the book was missing something. Grandson liked it, but didn't ask for a re-read as he usually does when enthusiastic.; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Now I'm Growing! I'm a New Big Brother - Little Steps for Big Kids; Author: Visit Amazon's Nora Gaydos Page; Review: This book exactly what I was looking for. Every page hit the mark. Illustrations were done in a postive, delightful way.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Wide-Mouthed Frog (A Pop-Up Book); Author: Visit Amazon's Keith Faulkner Page; Review: The book came with dents in the pages. I suspect it was a used book. The pages are big and colorful, but paper quality on the cheap side. Have had other pop up books where the pop ups were sturdier.; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Bean Dog and Nugget: The Ball; Author: Visit Amazon's Charise Mericle Harper Page; Review: Wow.....what a disappointment. This book is not only small, but cartoonish in a way that is simply is not appealing. The author trying for a Mo Willem efffect, but not as clever or smart or engagingly witty. Price might be right, but don't bother.; Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: Is Nothing Something?: Kids' Questions and Zen Answers About Life, Death, Family, Friendship, and Everything in Between; Author: Visit Amazon's Thich Nhat Hanh Page; Review: I am going to be the only one not to like this book for kids. From all the positive reviews, I was so looking forwards to it for my grand children. A couple of answers a bit too harsh and esoteric. Example: The question of not seeing/talking to grandpa when he died. The answer was you can see him in the shape of a kernel of corn that is the continuation that becomes part of you.. . IMHO, this is too esoteric for kids to grasp. Another question was about eating meat. The answer that it is not for us to add to animal suffering. Where does that put us who eat meat? The guilt feelings would be so overwhelming. 3 stars because I actually like this book for ME. Maybe I am totally off the mark, someone enlighten me, please.; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: The Busy Tree; Author: Visit Amazon's Jennifer Ward Page; Review: It's okay in that it could have had more illustration for underground activity. Maybe view worms, snails, and their secret world. Illustrations good, but again, there could have been a tad more in script. Perhaps a flowering tree with busy bees doing their work. Am giving it to my 21/2 year old grandson today and not only do we see if he likes it, but if he requests it again later.; Rating: 3.0/5.0
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amazon_books
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Given the interaction history of a user with hotels as follows:
Title: Amazones Villas Apartments; City: Stalis Crete; Review: 3rd visit - Greeted with hugs by Marion who really is part of the furniture +_+ a great time AGAIN, weather was fab, the strongbow cold and Marion was on top form (apologies for the boys giving you so much stick) nice to see some familiar faces too - never ever known a place where so many people return year after year! Mum & Dad enjoyed their 70th birthday present too Marion remember Luke and the boys are coming back late August - Flower bed inspections may be needed!!! xxx; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Kingsway Hall Hotel; City: London England; Review: perfect location - very friendly staff - great rooms, originally booked on a voucher scheme "what a find" really good value for money especially in London and a few minutes walk to Covent Garden...... That good we have been back and also recommended the hotel our friends who have also used it; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Rainbow Apartments; City: Stalis Crete; Review: What can I say - a brilliant visit again, we return time and time again and have nothing to complain about. Everyone is so friendly and helpful, the Rainbow now seems like our 2nd home. We bring someone new with us each time we visit and they can not wait to return, the apartments offer all you need for a self catering holiday - there are plenty of sunbeds, nice pool area. The pool bar offers plenty to drink and munch during the day and they also have good evening events to join in with including BBQ and Pasta nights - the apartment suits all ages; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Sandos Benidorm Suites; City: Benidorm Costa Blanca Province of Alicante Valencian Country; Review: Just left Marconfort Suites this morning - what can I say - rooms very good, beds probably the best I have slept in on any holiday! Food very good, great choice and plentiful - drinks "ok" but what you would expect at an AI, though I would say we had International brands while we were there which we had to pay for and compared to other AI they were exceptionally CHEAP!!! All the staff we spoke/saw were very polite and helpful. Sunbeds a definite complaint (thou u can buy a padded cushion at the shops for about 8-9 Euro's) Better bath towels are needed as the ones supplied do not dry you - If I had any complaint it would be some of the holiday maker's A: those that visit regular seem to think they are entitled to certain spots to sunbath B: male/female groups are thoughtless about other holiday makers AND C: you will always get selfish sunbed hoggers that put their towel on beds that they hardly ever use SO on the whole NO complaints about the hotel as such; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Wyndham Canterbury at San Francisco; City: San Francisco California; Review: Easy to find - Valet parking ($31+tax a night is a bit steep!) checking / reception friendly and helpful - mentioned popping over to the "resort desk" but I said we wasn't interested and to be fair they didn't push. Everywhere is very clean - nice room, very well decorated - small kitchen / dining area / lounge with decent TV for those wanting to relax - good bedroom, not huge but nicely done (thou bed was a bit hard and standard size) nice roomy bathroom (walk in shower only) We were contacted by our "personal concierge" for vouchers & guides, thou you get maps etc it is a Time share ploy for a free brekkie and information video - we said no we were not interested, we are previous time-share owners and this did not suit our holidaying requirements so had not further interest in any type of scheme, so we went about our cpla days in San Fran with no further hassle. Our first night we walked to Union Sq - I found the amount of homeless people quite unnerving; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: AKA Times Square; City: New York City New York; Review: I booked 2 x 1 bed apartments which were very spacious, clean and modern - everything you need. The most comfortable bed and the best pillows I have ever slept on. We love NYC and will definitely be returning and booking AKA - we have been a few times and this is the best accommodation we have used. Perfect location, just 2 minutes from Times Square so a reasonably quiet street, polite welcoming , friendly staff. I will definitely recommend these apartments to anyone I know who is visiting NYC; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Ashbourne Hotel; City: North Killingholme Lincolnshire England; Review: Party of 6 adults all very big HP fans - drove for 3 hours each way for this special afternoon tea - in general pretty good, themed decoration of the hall were good, sorting hat to put your party in houses (though not everyone relishes "passing the hat" from head to head) food was especially good, very fresh and plentiful - waiting staff dressed as characters from the films "however" it was disappointing there was no Harry, Hermione, Draco, Prof Snape or Prof Mcgonagall which most HP fan's see as the main characters. (I do understand you can not employ a whole cast but these are main people) It would have been nice for waiting staff to communicate in some way as their character, especially when they sat at the main table after serving, when people had eaten they didn't really know what to do afterwards - It would have been great for the team to have asked trivia questions or even have a quiz sheet for each party (something that costs next to nothing to produce) Kids and adults would enjoy this. Fun afternoon, little tweaks would make it even better. We stayed overnight at the hotel which was most pleasant, we had dinner in the restaurant which was very nice, nice clean spacious rooms, very good choice at breakfast - all staff very bright, polite and friendly; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Newmarket Boutique Apartments; City: Newmarket Suffolk East Anglia England; Review: I booked a 2 bed apartment for the weekend to go to the races to celebrate a friends birthday - the apartment was spotless, had everything and more inside the apartment - tastefully decorated beautiful high ceilings. We had a hot tub and BBQ (everything provided) we had a small patio (neighbouring apartments through greenery/shrubbery WE will definitely book again - so much more freedom and comfort than a hotel. Joanne is just so lovely - it's a real jem xx; Rating: 5.0/5.0
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hotelrec
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Given the interaction history of a user with books as follows:
Title: The BOOK THIEF; Author: Visit Amazon's Markus Zusak Page; Review: Wonderfully written, from a new perspective. Hitler's Germany and a young girl's muddling through. I recommend it to people of all ages.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: A Man of Some Repute (A Very English Mystery); Author: Visit Amazon's Elizabeth Edmondson Page; Review: Could have been told with a lot less words.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: The Nightingale: A Novel; Author: Visit Amazon's Kristin Hannah Page; Review: Not all French people were cowards and collaborators. This story of courage in the face of unbelievable obstacles is an amazing read.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Atlas of Tolkien; Author: Visit Amazon's David Day Page; Review: I enjoy the book, even the upside down and backword pages.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Curls: Versatile, Wearable Wraps to Knit at Any Gauge; Author: Visit Amazon's Hunter Hammersen Page; Review: Sorry, I do have this book. Just didn't remember it. I only give it 3 stars because it was not what I was hoping for.; Rating: 3.0/5.0
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amazon_books
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Given the interaction history of a user with hotels as follows:
Title: Baymont by Wyndham Corbin; City: Corbin Kentucky; Review: We were on the road and had the "coupon book". This place was very well maintained. Excellent breakfast. Workout room had some of the best equipment I've seen on the road - Precor treadmill and elliptical. My husband even went back after breakfast when he discovered the nice ellipical. Very nice place!!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Comfort Inn Suites; City: Cleveland Tennessee; Review: All door entrances chipped, elevator dirty, back door was beat up, pool unusable on a hot day. We checked in and back out within an hour. We went next door to the Wingate for the same price and were very satisfied!; Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: Wingate by Wyndham Cleveland; City: Cleveland Tennessee; Review: Nice place. It was clean. Staff was excellent, especially the breakfast gal Friday morning! Pool was clean. Fitness center was in good shape. We are very happy we stayed here for a rafting trip with Cherokee.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Hampton Inn Detroit Auburn Hills South; City: Auburn Hills Michigan; Review: We liked this place so much last year we returned for the Woodward Dream Cruise this year. Mark the manager was so nice to call us a month in advance and inform us that we had the incorrect date reserved - Many thanks to him! Excellent staff! Great Breakfast! Great fitness room. The only thing I could wish for would be a clock in the pool area to know how long I was swimming. We'll be back next year!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Cobalt Coast Grand Cayman Resort; City: West Bay Grand Cayman Cayman Islands; Review: Cobalt Coast is a great resort! The staff and dive shop folks are awesome! They took great care of my mother while I was out diving. Dive masters were the best! Definitely go with the meal and drink plan. Food was good!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Sunset Cove Beach Resort; City: Key Largo Florida Keys Florida; Review: After a very long day on the road, I was thrilled with the deal we got on an ocean front condo. The place is super cute with life size critters that make perfect photo ops. Nice little areas to enjoy an evening drink or group gathering. A walk to next door for good food and entertainment. The staff was awesome. The breakfast leaves a bit to be desired, but I would definately come back!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
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hotelrec
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Given the interaction history of a user with hotels as follows:
Title: The Light Hotel Resort; City: Nha Trang Khanh Hoa Province; Review: This is an aged and basic hotel that has certainly lost all his glory. Breakfast incl. a 2 inch cockroach and in the room (on the 9th floor) we also found some cockroached in the bathroom. If possible avoid it!; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Riverside Hotel Saigon; City: Ho Chi Minh City; Review: I'm afraid not being able to share some positive comment regarding this hotel. It has passed surely it's exp. date! The room smelled awful, sure there is a moisture problem (see pics attached). It is badly maintained, and room 108 supposed to be "deluxe" (extra charge) is all but that. When politely mentioned the problem to the reception we got the answer that somebody would check. The result was that the cleaning lady came in with a deodorant spray, and sprayed the whole bottle of toilet freshner on the carpet... Well it only made it worse! Sleeping in this room was just not possible, but there was no further action from the staff. In the shower electricity wires are just nude and can be in contact with the water when showering. Realy not safe at all! I would suggest seeking for a better option when staying in HCMC.; Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: Holiday View Hotel; City: Cat Ba; Review: Old hotel. Not very attractive. Mainly occupied by "Ha Long Bay"-tour travelers. Food quite average. Breakfast ok!; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Hanoi Gecko 2; City: Hanoi; Review: Friendly, clean, helpfull. Good price/quality relation. Since it's located in a little side-street, you can sleep without the sound of the motorcycles! Just the breakfast could be "more". A fried egg and a coffie might just not be enough.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Gold Coast Hotel; City: Da Nang; Review: We stayed here one night after our stay in Hoi An to be able to catch an early flight at Da Nang airport. The rooms are very clean, airco is working perfect. Good price/quality report. The restaurant is a little depressing. The beds are so hard that sleeping is a challange! There is absolutely nothing fun in the surrounding of the hotel. The beach is app. 1km walk away, is beautifull, bus has no facilities. The staff is very friendly. and helpful.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: ORCHID HOTEL; City: Hue Thua Thien Hue Province; Review: I can only recommend this hotel. We stayed in the deluxe room, and price/quality is ok here. Very friendly staff (Tha), a lot of small attentions in the room. Clean, a real pc in the room. Safe attached to the wall (rare in VN, most of the time it just stands in the closed, and everybody can take it along). Bill was 100% correct. So go for it!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Unitas Hotel; City: Prague Bohemia; Review: You will enjoy this place! Excellent location, clean, friendly; Rating: 5.0/5.0
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hotelrec
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Given the interaction history of a user with products as follows:
Title: Gem Stone King 24 Inch Black Stainless Steel French Rope Chain Necklace with Lobster Clasp; Brand: ; Review: as advertised; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: 4030534 WWJD What Would Jesus Do Leather Bracelet Christian Scripture Jesus Inspirational; Brand: Christian Leather Bracelets; Review: GREAT; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: W.W.J.D. Bracelet Assortment (26 pc) 13 Colors Plus Bonus Friendship Bracelets What Would Jesus Do Bracelets; Brand: Christian Apparel; Review: GREAT; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Doublju V-Neck Handkerchief Hem Long Tunic Shirt Top For Women With Plus Size; Brand: ; Review: as advertised; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: VIV Collection Full Length Women's Solid Color Brushed Leggings (XS - 2XL); Brand: ; Review: as advertised; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: VIV Collection Popular Printed Brushed Buttery Soft Leggings Regular Plus 40+ Designs List 5; Brand: ; Review: as advertised; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: VIV Collection Popular Printed Brushed Buttery Soft Leggings Regular Plus 40+ Designs List 5; Brand: ; Review: as advertised; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: VIV Collection Popular Printed Brushed Buttery Soft Leggings Regular Plus 40+ Designs List 2; Brand: ; Review: as advertised; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: BaiShengGT Women's Flared Comfy Loose Fit Tunic Top; Brand: BaiShengGT; Review: as advertised; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: ETCYY Women's Summer Casual Stripe Sleeveless Loose Beach Maxi Dress; Brand: ETCYY; Review: as advertised; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Wolverine Men's W03226 Durashock Boot; Brand: Wolverine; Review: as advertisedas advertised; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Michael Kors Men's Lexington Silver-Tone Watch MK8405; Brand: Michael Kors; Review: as advertised; Rating: 5.0/5.0
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amazon_Clothing_Shoes_and_Jewelry
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Given the interaction history of a user with products as follows:
Title: Neutrogena Oil- and Alcohol-Free Facial Toner, with Hypoallergenic Formula, 8.5 fl. oz; Brand: Neutrogena; Review: So far so good. I like it. I like the Neutrogena products.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Scott Extra Soft Toilet Paper, Double Roll, 12 Count, Extra Soft Bath Tissue, Sewer-Safe, Septic-Safe, 1-Ply Bath Tissue; Brand: SCOTT; Review: I really like this toilet tissue. Scott brand is great.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Swanson Premium White Chunk Chicken Breast, 12.5 oz. Can; Brand: Swanson; Review: I got a super deal on these through Amazon Prime. Great price. Good product.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Aussie 3 Minute Miracle Strong Conditioning Treatment, 8 Fluid Ounce; Brand: Aussie; Review: My hair felt so soft after using this. I would buy it again.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Stress Control Night Cleansing Pads with Maximum-Strength Salicylic Acid Acne Medicine, 60 ct.; Brand: Neutrogena; Review: I like the Neutrogena products. This is convenience in a bottle buy just using a cleansing pad at night before going to bed.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Aussie Moist Conditioner With Pump 29.2 Fluid Ounce; Brand: Aussie; Review: I like this brand of hair care products. I've been using it since the early 90's.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Aussie Moist Shampoo with Pump, 29.2 Fluid Ounce; Brand: Aussie; Review: I like Aussie products.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Kleenex Trusted Care Everyday Facial Tissues, Flat Box, 160 Tissues per Flat Box, 4 Packs; Brand: Kleenex; Review: I usually buy Kleenex brand tissues.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Maxwell House Original Blend Ground Coffee, Medium Roast, 30.6 Ounce Canister; Brand: MAXWELL HOUSE; Review: Our coffee of choice in the office.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: DenTek Complete Clean Floss Picks, 90 Count; Brand: DenTek; Review: A must have. We use these all the time!; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Gevalia French Roast Coffee, Dark Roast, Ground, 12 Ounce Bag; Brand: Gevalia; Review: I didn't care for this. It's to strong.; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: JOLLY RANCHER Hard Candy Assortment, 5 Pound Bulk Candy; Brand: Jolly Rancher; Review: one of my childhood favorites; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Febreze FABRIC Refresher, Allergen Reducer, Clean Splash (1 Count, 500 mL); Brand: Febreze; Review: I only thought this one was okay. I think I'll stick to regular Febreeze fabric refresher.; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Colgate Extra Clean Full Head Toothbrush, Medium - 4 Count; Brand: Colgate; Review: Very pleased with these toothbrushes. I would buy them again.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Benadryl Liqui-Gels Antihistamine Allergy Medicine & Cold Relief, Dye Free, 24 ct; Brand: Benadryl; Review: I would buy these again.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Bisquick Pancake and Baking Mix, 20 Ounce; Brand: Bisquick; Review: Smaller box than I normally used to buy. Gave these along with a Bisquick cookbook.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Mrs. Meyer’s Liquid Hand Soap, Lavender, 12.5 fl oz; Brand: Mrs. Meyers; Review: I lke these soaps exvept they are spendy.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: ReaLemon 100% Lemon Juice, 8 Fluid Ounce Bottle; Brand: ReaLemon; Review: I missed the fine print, only 8 oz. It is a tiny bottle therefore way over priced for the size.; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Planters Flavored Peanuts, Salted Caramel, 6 Ounce Canister; Brand: Planters; Review: It has a fake taste. I didn't care for it.; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Glad Zipper Food Storage Snack Bags - 50 Count; Brand: Glad; Review: Great size for measuring out snacks in advance.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Oxford Ruled Index Cards, 3" x 5", White, 100 Cards per Pack (31); Brand: Oxford; Review: A good price. Just as described.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Bounce Fabric Softener Sheets, Outdoor Fresh, 240 Count; Brand: Bounce; Review: smells nice.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Larabar Gluten Free Bar, Blueberry Muffin, 1.6 oz Bars (5 Count); Brand: LRABAR; Review: tastes good; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Dawn Ultra Dishwashing Liquid Dish Soap Original Scent, two 21.6 oz bottles; Brand: Dawn; Review: always does a good job and smells good too; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Slim Jim Snack-Sized Smoked Meat Stick, Original Flavor, 14 Count; Brand: Slim Jim; Review: smaller size than I expected. very greasy, more so than I had remembered.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Quaker Oatmeal Squares Cereal, 14.5 Oz Box; Brand: Quaker; Review: A new favorite!!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Mr. Clean Magic Eraser Kitchen, Cleaning Pads with Durafoam, 4 count (Packaging May Vary); Brand: Mr. Clean; Review: I only get about one use out of these when I do use them, but they do work.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Thai Kitchen Gluten Free Thin Rice Noodles, 8.8 oz; Brand: Thai Kitchen; Review: My new noodle, no wheat.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Olay Fresh Outlast Cooling White Strawberry and Mint Beauty Bar, 4 Count, Packaging May Vary; Brand: Olay; Review: I thought this would be a lot better. It is not a very smooth or lathery soap. It is a bit rough and does not have much scent to it at all in my opinion.; Rating: 3.0/5.0
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amazon_Prime_Pantry
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Given the interaction history of a user with products as follows:
Title: Ka-Bar Original TDI Law Enforcement Serrated Knife; Brand: Ka-Bar; Review: Comes very sharp! The blade is thick and sturdy, feels like a tank. The handle fits my hands perfectly and feels as though I have full control of the knife. The included sheath is great, and has never caused me any issues.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Bundle - 2 Items: UCO Match Container Kit with 75 UCO Stormproof Matches - Waterproof & Windproof; Brand: ; Review: Just as described, if not better. The delivery was quick, and well packaged. The match boxes come with a generous amount of extra strikers, and matches. The match case itself (comes filled with matches as well) is very rugged, waterproof, and small/light enough to be taken on a hiking/backpacking trip.Now onto the matches themselves. Wow. First off, don't light them inside, they produce copious amounts of smoke and a strong odor. They seem almost impossible to put out. I have submerged them in water, stomped on them, buried them, blown on them with an air compressor, they really are impressive. I have even soaked a match in water and then struck it while it was still wet and it sparked up easily. 100% recommended to anyone looking for a reliable emergency fire starter, or just something to get the charcoal burning for a barbecue.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: 5 LED Bicycle Rear Tail Red Bike Torch Laser Beam Lamp Light; Brand: ; Review: This light will no doubt capture the attention of night-time drivers. It has three functions for the LED, blinking, strobe (kind of) and solid. The lasers project well and can be set to flash or remain solid. Awesome product. Hopefully it holds up.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: PTI Schwinn 12 Function Computer (Colors May Vary); Brand: Schwinn; Review: Feels solid, does its job. Pretty easy setup. The tire size was a bit annoying to calculate, but that's not the manufacturers fault.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
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amazon_Sports_and_Outdoors
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Given the interaction history of a user with products as follows:
Title: Yellow Box Women's Stormy Flip Flop; Brand: Yellow Box; Review: The sandal is beautiful and extremely comfortable except for the cross strap that rubs in the wrong place if you have bunions.; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Harmonie Womens Two Color Stripe Legwarmer; Brand: Harmonie; Review: My 98 year old mother in law is in a nursing home and gets easily chilled. These leg warmers keep her warm. She loves how soft and cozy these are. I am much younger and am considering buying a pair for myself. They are also very cute.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: NYDJ Women's Sleeveless Pleat Back Blouse; Brand: ; Review: Bought this in three colors because of its classic-dressy or casual look. Good fabric and quality made. Wear with jeans or a skirt. Good fit for me at 5'4" 120 lbs size small; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Champion Women's All-Out Wirefree Full Figure Support Sports Bra; Brand: ; Review: Very comfortable, easy on , easy off sports bra. Good hold for sports. Very attractive style. I bought this bra in 2 different color combinations.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Vasque Women's Vista Waterproof Hiking Boot; Brand: ; Review: As soon as I put these on, I knew my feet would be protected and comfortable on hikes. Nice look with enough room for hiking socks.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Natori Women's Power Yogi Convertible Sports Bra; Brand: ; Review: I really love these comfortable, well made bras. I have several. They hold wonderfully for medium to high activity and wash beautifully (hang to dry).; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Under Armour Womens Strike Zone Slider Compression Shorts Black/Graphite; Brand: ; Review: Nice running short. Works well under tennis skirts.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Kechika Women's Solid Board Short Slightly Fitted Waist, 10" Inseam, Front Pockets; Brand: Kechika; Review: Did not fit my body- hourglass body. Seems more suited to a straighter taller body. Otherwise style is ok.; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: K-SWISS Women's Ultra Express; Brand: K-Swiss; Review: Like the style but too narrow for bunions.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Under Armour Women's Endure Sports Bra (DD Cup); Brand: Under Armour; Review: Great for sports!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Prince T22 Lite Womens Tennis Shoe (Grey/Purple/Blue); Brand: Prince; Review: Wonderful sneakers for a comfortable game of tennis. I usually take a size 6.5 but took a size 6.0 in these. The wider toe box accommodates my bunions without pain. I am hoping these last a long time!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Fitkicks Flexible Flats - Grey/Lavender - Small; Brand: FitKicks; Review: If I didn't have bad feet- needing side support, these would have been wonderful. They were a little wide for my narrow feet. My feet kept slipping side to side. Otherwise soooo comfortable.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: FitKicks Flats Flexible Shoes with Free FitWrist Wallet; Brand: FitKicks; Review: I like the feel, however, my narrow foot slides which would concern me to walk in them. These may be better for normal width, higher instep feet.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
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amazon_Clothing_Shoes_and_Jewelry
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Given the interaction history of a user with products as follows:
Title: V7 TD21BLK-1N Premium Messenger Bag for 10.1-Inch Tablet, iPad Air & iPad; Brand: V7; Review: This small bag is perfect for carrying around an iPad. It's sleek and comfortable to hang over a shoulder and it provides easy access to the iPad and a few accessories.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Cateck Premium 4 Port Aluminum USB Hub with 11 inch Shielded Cable for iMac, MacBooks, PCs and Laptops; Brand: Cateck; Review: This USB hub is terrific! It's light weight and matches my MacBook Air perfectly!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: KVAGO iPad Air 2 Keyboard; Brand: KVAGO; Review: This cover for the iPad Air 2 is great. It's lightweight, sleek and looks terrific. The ability to select a color for the backlighting of the keys is a nice feature. I do find that it's awkward to open the iPad ... there's no really convenient way to grip the device and open it without using two hands. But, that's easily enough worked out. I also really like that the iPad shuts off when the cover is closed! My former cover didn't do that so this one has a definitely advantage over that one.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Laptop Cooler Cooling Pad for 10"-17" Notebook - Portable Chill Mat with 2 LED Fans by LotFancy; Brand: LotFancy; Review: This cooling pad is lightweight and cools well enough. However, it's a bit flimsy for my taste and I wish I'd purchased one a bit more sturdy. I do like the bluish purple backlighting. The glow is comforting!; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Wireless Bluetooth Unpluggit Earbuds, Noise Cancelling With Microphone v4.1 (red); Brand: Unpluggit; Review: Wireless earbuds ... great! No messy cords hanging down from your ear to the device. That's great for me when exercising.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
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amazon_Electronics
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Given the interaction history of a user with books as follows:
Title: Unseen (The Unseen Trilogy) (Volume 1); Author: Visit Amazon's Stephanie Erickson Page; Review: I enjoyed reading this book. It kept my interest to the end and left me wanting to know what happens next.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Silent Sentry; Author: Visit Amazon's Theresa Rizzo Page; Review: I absolutely loved this book. I received this book as an ARC and was not disappointed. Theresa pulls you into the lives of Giana and Joe and what they go through both in their respective professions and their Italian family ties. I was hooked with the very first chapter and it kept me guessing who was responsible for everything happening to them until the end. Buy this book you won't be disappointed. Can't wait to read more from Theresa Rizzo.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Lightning Lingers (Lightning Strikes) (Volume 2); Author: Visit Amazon's Barbara Freethy Page; Review: I fell in love with the first book in this series and this book definitely lived up to my expectations. Following the storyline from the first book, it was filled with action and romance. I can't wait for the story to continue with her next book in this series.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Summer Rain (Lightning Strikes) (Volume 3); Author: Visit Amazon's Barbara Freethy Page; Review: I received Summer Rain as an ARC. I love Barbara's books and this book was no exception. I read the first two in the series and this picks up right after the second one. It has the perfect blend of suspense and romance and you will be hooked right from the beginning. Alicia, Jake and Dani finally have the answers they looked for guided by the lightning. Itwas the perfect ending to the trilogy. A must read in my opinion.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Pineapple Lies: A Pineapple Port Mystery: Book One (Pineapple Port Cozy Mystery); Author: Visit Amazon's Amy Vansant Page; Review: I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a review. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. It was fun and quirky following the adventures of the residents of Pineapple Port. It had the perfect mixture of humor and mystery. Amy's writing brings you right along with Charlotte as she deals with the dead body found in her back yard and the funny retirees who try to solve the mystery. I look forward to reading the other books in this series.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Whispering Vines; Author: Visit Amazon's Amy Schisler Page; Review: I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a review. I enjoyed reading this book. I loved how intertwined the lives of Alex an Nicholas were. I also looked forward to them reading the Signora's journal. Amy's writing took you straight to the vineyard and I could picture it all in my mind. The description of the war in the journal was so realistic. Excellent book.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Fooling Around With Cinderella (Storybook Valley) (Volume 1); Author: Visit Amazon's Stacy Juba Page; Review: I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a review. I found this book to be entertaining. It was a fun quick read. Jaine definitely had the Cinderella part down pat with demanding sisters and an evil co-worker out to get her fired. She ended up with her happily ever after with her very own Prince Charming.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Angeli - The Pirate, the Angel & the Irishman (Volume 1); Author: Visit Amazon's Amy Vansant Page; Review: This book had just the right blend of mystery, monsters, and romance. It held my attention through the end and left me excited to read the next in the series. If you're a fan of urban fantasy this book does not disappoint.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Dead World (The Dead Room Trilogy) (Volume 2); Author: Visit Amazon's Stephanie Erickson Page; Review: This is the second book in the Dead Room Trilogy. It gives a closer look into the life of Bennett Ashby and the nanobots he created. It tells about the current generation of survivors of the aftermath of the destruction caused by the massive invasion of the nanobots who were programmed to replicate and destroy everything around them. We are first introduced to these bots in the first book, The Dead Room, but it isn't until the second book that we understand what they are and how long they have survived. After reading Ashby's diary they are convinced there is a way to stop them. I really enjoyed this book more than the first and can't wait for the conclusion to the story when Alive come out.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Closer To You (Callaways) (Volume 11); Author: Visit Amazon's Barbara Freethy Page; Review: I received this book as an ARC. Once again Barbara has not disappointed me in her writing. I loved this new addition to the Calloway series. It was a great mix of romance and mystery with a twist at the end you would never have guessed. Ian visits Grace with a box from her estranged father and there was an immediate connection. Ian was the one thing she hated, a Scientist like her father. Add in a snow storm, someone searching for something they may have, and a growing attraction and you have the perfect recipe for a great read. A must read.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Sweet Somethings; Author: Visit Amazon's Barbara Freethy Page; Review: I received this ARC and I voluntarily give my honest review. As with all of Barbara's books I fell in love with the characters and storyline. Juliette, a baker following in her father's footsteps, returns to Fairhope and opens up her own bakery. Roman is a Marine on medical leave who returns to Fairhope to help his grandfather rehab a house he bought. Juliette runs into Roman when she finds her childhood home being torn apart by him. When Roman finds a box containing love letters, Juliette and Roman work together to try and solve the mystery behind the letters. The romance between them is sweet and also complicated by the fact that Roman could return to active duty. They find the writer of the love letters and were surprised to find out who they were meant for. I am never disappointed in Barbara's writing. I absolutely loved this book.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Angels in Our Lives: A Pearl Maker Short Story; Author: Visit Amazon's Melissa Storm Page; Review: I received a free copy of this book. I loved reading it. I have always believed that our pets are meant to be with us and this book connected with me. I had a Rottweiler named Tasha who was my son's Angel. I loved the way Melissa showed how Lulu became Emily's Angel. The story was well written and very heartfelt. I am looking forward to reading the rest of Melissa's books, especially the Pearl Makers series.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Pineapple Mystery Box: A Pineapple Port Cozy Mystery: Book Two (Pineapple Port Mysteries) (Volume 2); Author: Visit Amazon's Amy Vansant Page; Review: This is the second book in the series I have read and I loved it. The quirky characters that make up Pineapple Port, a retirement community, are the funniest I have read in a long time. Amy's cozy mysteries add humor with a mysterious twist that keeps you reading. I look forward to reading the other books in this series.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Diving for Pearls: The Complete Collection (The Pearl Makers); Author: Visit Amazon's Melissa Storm Page; Review: I received a free copy of this book and I would have definitely purchased it had I not. In this collection we follow Elizabeth who died in childbirth and then became her daughter Daisy's protector as an Angel. Along her journey we are introduced to other Angels and family members who play an intricate part in her daughter's life. Ultimately ending in heartbreak, Elizabeth finds out that Daisy's life was not fulfilled and that Daisy has been reincarnated as Floramaria who remembers her life as Daisy. Elizabeth now becomes Flora's protector. Flora struggles in life because of her memories but ultimately ends up living the life she was meant to live. There is so much more to this story but you have to read it for yourself to know how we are all connected both in this world and after we move on. As in all of Melissa's books she clearly writes from her heart. I can't wait to read everyone else's stories in the rest of the collection.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Love's Promise (The First Street Church Romances) (Volume 2); Author: Visit Amazon's Melissa Storm Page; Review: I received this book as an ARC. I thoroughly enjoyed this story. It follows the struggles and ultimate triumph of life and love of Kristina Rose and Jeffrey. Kristina has problems with her weight and diabetes and Jeffrey doesn't live up to following in his father's footsteps. She undergoes Gastric Bypass Surgery but continues to struggle with her self esteem. Jeffrey has feelings for her but doesn't want her to think it's because of her weight loss. Through their connection to Mabel's diner they find the love they were destined to have. Once again Melissa delivers a powerful story that seems to connect with her readers on so many levels. A beautiful story.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Love's Prophet (The First Street Church Romances) (Volume 3); Author: Visit Amazon's Melissa Storm Page; Review: This is the third book in the First Street Church books. I have read all three and I can honestly say that this was my favorite so far. It follows the lives of Liam and his daughter Molly Sue after the tragic death of his wife, Rebecca, from cancer. Jennifer is the Sunday School teacher who reconnects with them both about a year after Rebecca's death. Molly Sue had become her daddy's Angel at her mother's request so he won't be sad anymore. It is a sweet tale of believing that God has a plan for us all and that we need to have Faith. Molly Sue plays matchmaker for her dad and Jennifer remembering what her mother had written to her in letters before her death. You made need tissues when her letters are read. But they will be happy tears.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Miss Match (No Match for Love) (Volume 3); Author: Visit Amazon's Lindzee Armstrong Page; Review: I enjoyed reading Miss Match. Brooke made her living as a matchmaker who thought she found her perfect match in Antonio. Her best friend of 8 years, Luke, was in love with her but because of their rules of friendship she would only see him as her good friend. It wasn't until Antonio wanted to move to Italy for work that she felt there might be something more than friendship. After realizing she can't marry Antonio she finds him with another woman. She decides to take a chance that Luke really is her perfect match.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Love's Vow: A First Street Church Wedding (The First Street Church Romances); Author: Visit Amazon's Melissa Storm Page; Review: I enjoyed reading about Ben and Summer as they planned their wedding. Just like the ups and downs they faced in Love's Prayer this was destined to put their faith in God to the test. When Ben's father shows up with his wife and daughter, Summer feared she would lose Ben to his depression. As the wedding date approached, one disaster after another threatened her perfect wedding. Once again their faith brought them through and with the help of the people of Sweet Grove she and Ben had a beautiful wedding where they first fell in love. This is another great book from Melissa.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Pineapple Land War: A Pineapple Port Mystery: Book Four (Pineapple Port Mysteries) (Volume 4); Author: Visit Amazon's Amy Vansant Page; Review: This is the fourth book in the Pineapple Port Mystery series. We get to follow Charlotte in her quest to get her Investigators license when she has to find out how Bucky, the philandering husband of Cora died. Up for grabs is the purchase of Cow Town a prized piece of land owned by him. There are many twists and turns and a lot of quirkiness. We get to find out more about Stephanie and her murderous mother. As in the previous books, Amy leaves us with just enough of a teaser that will be answered in the next book. I enjoyed reading this story and look forward to reading the next one.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Pineapple Beach House: A Pineapple Port Mystery: Book Five (Pineapple Port Mysteries) (Volume 5); Author: Visit Amazon's Amy Vansant Page; Review: What do a butter dish coffin, a blog filled baggie, and a reptile covered school bus have in common? Plenty if you're a resident of Pineapple Port. What was supposed to be a free "working" vacation at the North Carolina beach house of Darla's friend Brenda, it quickly turned into a strange mystery. After finding a severed finger in the trash and a tooth lodged in the kitchen sink our top sleuths, Charlotte and Seamus begin looking for clues. Everything seemed to point towards an elder care home next door. Amidst a terrible storm they keep finding missing pieces. The story keeps us guessing what happened until the end. As in the past Pineapple Port books there is a great mix of humor and mystery as the truth unfolds. I loved reading this latest book and look forward to the next in the series.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Let There Be Love (The Sled Dog Series); Author: Visit Amazon's Melissa Storm Page; Review: I had received an advance copy of this story for my honest review. I absolutely loved this book. It takes place in Alaska where Lauren becomes a handler for Shane's sled dogs. After her father died she was left with unanswered questions about his life. She sells everything to move back to her hometown with hopes of finding the answetrs. Shane is recovering from a devastating injury that threatens his career as a musher. He has secrets himself and is very angry and bitter. Little by little she begins to break through his barriers only to find out she needs his support just as much as he needs hers. He has a daughter who he hasn't seen in four years and she finds out she has a mother she thought had died when she was two. Their love continues to grow through all of this and as all fairy tales go Lauren gets her happily ever after. This was a well written story as are all of Melissa's books. A must read.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Vampire Girl (Volume 1); Author: Visit Amazon's Karpov Kinrade Page; Review: I found this series after reading Stephanie Ericsson's book, Unknown, in Kindle World. I had to read Vampire Girl to see how this all began. I am so glad I did. In order to save her mom, Arianna must live with the Princes of Hell and choose one to marry. The seven Princes are vampires who had been cursed and each lives in his own realm. She must become one of them to fulfill the deal made by her mother and keep her mother alive. I was hooked with the first chapter. An intriguing story that kept me reading well into the night.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Mending Fences (Artists & Billionaires); Author: Visit Amazon's Lorin Grace Page; Review: This was the first book in the Destined for Love series that I have read and I look forward to reading the rest in the series. I enjoyed reading the story of Mandy and Daniel. Two friends who spent a summer together when they were young and reconnected years later. Daniel was a much sought after bachelor who was always followed by the paparazzi and Mandy was a teacher who was close to getting her Masters Degree. Through a series of unfortunate events involving Daniel and a host of women during a trial he had to attend Mandy started doubting whether or not she could have a relationship with him. Finally free of his obligations he was able to explain everything and as all love stories go they got their happily ever after.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Kiss Me in the Rain (Kiss Me Romance); Author: Visit Amazon's Lindzee Armstrong Page; Review: Kiss Me In The Rain was a great book to read. It has confusion with Layla being forced into an arranged engagement to Grant to save her home. Sadness when the love of her life, Taylor, moves to town for her and she can't explain the engagement, and mystery surrounding bogus charges for events at the mansion her father couldn't explain. It kept me reading as the questions Layla had kept pointing to different people. Once the truth came out she was able to get on with her life with Taylor and have her happy ending.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Let There Be Light (The Sled Dog Series) (Volume 2); Author: Visit Amazon's Melissa Storm Page; Review: This is the second book in the Sled Dog series and once again Melissa does not disappoint. The story follows Scarlett in her attempt to become a musher and win the Iditarod. She meets a very handsome stranger at the Miners and Trappers Ball. There is an immediate attraction to him until she finds out that he is Henry Mitchell, III, The grandson of the most hated person in Alaska. She sees the good in him that no one else does and her feelings for him grow. That all changed when he is teamed up with a politician threatening to close the one thing that means the world to her, the library. They both are running in the Iditarod and a very angry Scarlett has some very harsh words about him. Scarlett has a very bad accident and Henry comes to rescue her. I loved how they got their happily ever after. As with all of Melissa's books there is an equal balance of conflict, drama, and love. But first and foremost God is always present.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Kiss Me in the Moonlight (Kiss Me Romance); Author: Visit Amazon's Lindzee Armstrong Page; Review: Another great story by Lindzee. Set in Europe we are drawn into the world of diamond smugglers. Believing he is there to watch for a possible kidnapping, he joins a tour group of teens. One of the chaperones is Paige whom he broke up with through an e-mail. As the story develops Nick finds too many ties to a bust gone bad. Paige still has feelings for Nick but can she trust that he won't leave her again. Following two of the teens who ran away from the group, Nick and Paige never realize they are walking into a trap until it's too late. This story is full of mystery, intrigue and romance.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Memory House: Memory House Collection (Volume 1); Author: Visit Amazon's Bette Lee Crosby Page; Review: Memory House is a great start to an amazing series. Ophelia runs a Bed and Breakfast and is getting on in years. She has an ability to read memories from objects she touches. She hopes to find someone who has the same abilities as she before she passes on. Annie comes to stay and Ophelia feels an immediate connection to her. Is Annie the person she is looking for? I loved reading this book and have since finished all of the series. It is well written and all of the characters continue their stories through each book.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Finding Mr. Happily Ever After: Nathan (Volume 1); Author: Visit Amazon's Melissa Storm Page; Review: I received this as an ARC and I am leaving my honest review. Thanks to Melissa Storm for this opportunity because I have now found another great author in Melissa McClone. This is a cute short story about Jazz Michaels search for her true love. Getting ready for her wedding her hairstylist asked her about how she found her Mr. Happily Ever After. In this first book in the series we meet Nathan, Jazz's childhood friend. They both have come from broken homes and their friendship grows into love. Can he be the one? Or will a relationship with him end their friendship. I can't wait to read the next book in this series to find what lies ahead for her.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Finding Mr. Happily Ever After: Xavier (Volume 3); Author: Visit Amazon's Melissa Storm Page; Review: This is the 3rd book in the series where we meet Xavier. After another failed relationship Jazz moves back to New York to persue her career. After her dream job falls through she is offered a job by her handsome neighbor, Xavier at a dating service. To become familiar with how the service works she answers the questionnaire and finds that he is her perfect match. They become friends very quickly and romance follows. Could he be her one true love? Another fun collaboration from Melissa Storm and Melissa McClone.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Finding Mr. Happily Ever After: Edwin (Volume 4); Author: Visit Amazon's Melissa McClone Page; Review: In this fourth book in the series we meet Win. Once again Jazz finds herself single only this break-up was planned. When her two year marriage to Xav resulted in only friendship feelings, they mutually divorced. Once again she says she will not date anyone else. Jazz meets Win at a fundraiser for Xav and is drawn in by his good looks. She really does try to not think of him romantically but he is persistent even to the point of selling the company he owns just to date her. Their relationship has It's ups and downs too. His controlling parents being the main reason. In the end Win finds he cannot live without her in his life. He proposes and she accepts. Can this be it? Will he finally be the one? You'll have to wait for the final book.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
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amazon_books
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Given the interaction history of a user with products as follows:
Title: VNOX Stainless Steel Square Red Rhinestone Solitaire Ring for Men Wedding Band Engagement; Brand: VNOX; Review: Looks great!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: U.S. Polo Assn. Men's Solid Vest With Small Pony; Brand: U.S. Polo Assn.; Review: Good purchase.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: MISSLO Portable Nylon Travel Shoe Bags with Zipper Closure (Pack 4, Black); Brand: MISSLO; Review: Great for travel.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Influence Men's Steve Casual Lace Up Tennis Trainer Sneaker; Brand: ; Review: Looks good, I like the style.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: wayne-Size 8-15 Jewelry Man's AAA Sapphire 18K Gold Filled Ring R199; Brand: wayne store; Review: Looks good, I like the style.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Vip Jewelry Co Men's Princess Cut Blue Montana & Clear Cz Silver Stainless Steel Ring Band Size 8-13; Brand: Vip Jewelry Co; Review: Looks good, I like the style.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: 925 Sterling Silver US Marine Corps Small Military Pendant; Brand: American Heroes; Review: Looks good, I like the style.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Geminis Mens Personality Gold Plated Cubic Zirconia Wide Band Rings; Brand: Bystar; Review: Looks good, I like the style.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Oakky Jewelry Men's Women's Mosaic Cat's Eye Stone Stainless Steel Opal Rings, Wide; Brand: Oakky; Review: Looks good, I like the style.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
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amazon_Clothing_Shoes_and_Jewelry
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Given the interaction history of a user with products as follows:
Title: BISSELL PowerFresh Steam Mop, Floor Steamer, Tile Cleaner, and Hard Wood Floor Cleaner, 1940; Brand: Bissell; Review: This steam mop does the job each and every time. I was surprised at how much dirt this steam mop could pick up as opposed to a regular mop. It works well on laminate floors, is easy to use and is quick drying. Mop attachments are easy to clean and I look forward to using it each time. Watch the video that another customer had posted. That's what helped me decide on this steam mop. Efficient and does the job it's meant to do.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Casio Iq-126-5 Wall Clock with 10 Inches Thinline Quartz Marron Wood Frame and Beige Dial Battery Included Limited Edition; Brand: Casio; Review: I purchased this as a kitchen clock because 10 inch clocks are not that easy to find anymore. This fits perfectly in the area where I needed it fit and it's quiet. The numbers are large enough to see and it works very well. Very pleased with this purchase.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: RSVP Endurance Stainless Steel Salt and Condiment Spoon; Brand: RSVP International; Review: Overpriced for a salt spoon.; Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: Perfect Fit | Gusseted Quilted Pilllow, Hypoallergenic, 233 Thread-Count, Medium Density, Set of 2 (Stomach Sleeper, Queen); Brand: Perfect Fit; Review: Pillows are now flat and don't fluff the way they should. I will not buy this again.; Rating: 1.0/5.0
Title: Thirstystone Marble Salt and Pepper Pinch, Black/White; Brand: Thirstystone; Review: The containers are a bit small, but they do work for what I need.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Peakeep Battery Digital Alarm Clock with 2 Alarms for Optional Weekday Mode,Snooze, Night Light (Black); Brand: Peakeep; Review: Working the way it should. I like the fact that it has two alarms; so far, so good.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Home Fashion Designs Adalyn Collection Deluxe Reversible Quilted Furniture; Brand: ; Review: Covers the chair I needed it for and keeps it clean. What I don't like is that I have to continually fix it each time someone sits in the chair. The top slides down periodically.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Ashley Furniture Signature Design - Breegin Chair Side End Table - Contemporary Style - Rectangular - Dark Finish; Brand: Signature Design by Ashley; Review: Great table for use next to a recliner. It fits perfectly and is great for newspaper/magazine reading and remote for TV. My dad is very happy with it as it was a gift for Christmas. Putting it together wasn't too bad, but to align the screws, it's better with two people doing it. Overall very happy and pleased with this purchase.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Dyson Cool AM06 10 inch Air Multiplier Desk Fan, White/Silver; Brand: Dyson; Review: This has proven to be a great fan. I use it in the winter months too as the room gets too hot and unbearable with the heat going on. It is easy to clean and I'm glad I made this purchase. I wish it did come with the cleaning instructions, but I found a Youtube video to help me out. It is well worth getting if you need a good solid fan. I've never had a Dyson before, but I am surprised at how well it works and serves its purpose. No blades to worry about and on and off is a dream. Thank you Dyson!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
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amazon_Home_and_Kitchen
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Given the interaction history of a user with products as follows:
Title: Slippers International Men's Perry Slipper; Brand: Tamarac by Slippers International; Review: I was told these are very comfortable and warm!!! Bought them as a gift for my son and he LOVES them!!!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Suvelle Men's Slim Genuine Leather Bifold Wallet Removable Flipout ID Window W031; Brand: SUVELL; Review: VERY nice wallet; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: N'Ice Caps Kids Thinsulate Waterproof Easy On Zip-Up Reflector Winter Mittens; Brand: ; Review: These mittens keep my daughters hands warm and dry!!! The zipper makes it very easy for her to put them on by herself at school.. Thank you!!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Merrell Glove 2.0 Trail Runner (Toddler/Little Kid/Big Kid); Brand: Merrell; Review: Shoes are GREAT but do run a bit on the small side; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Thorogood Men's American Heritage 8" Emperor Toe, Composite Safety Toe Boot; Brand: ; Review: Great boots and are made in the USA!!!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Hippie Elephant Sling Crossbody Bag Purse Thai Top Zip Handmade Black S11; Brand: Thai Hippie Bag; Review: Great bag, my sister LOVES it.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Merrell Moab Ventilator Wide Width Men 11.5; Brand: Merrell; Review: AWESOME shoes and oh so comfortable!!!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Merrell Men's Moab Ventilator Hiking Shoe; Brand: Merrell; Review: AWESOME shoes and oh so comfortable!!!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Merrell Men's Moab Ventilator Hiking Shoe; Brand: Merrell; Review: AWESOME shoes and oh so comfortable!!!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Levi's Men's Big & Tall 559 Relaxed Straight-Leg Jean; Brand: ; Review: My son said they are the best jeans he has have ever owned!! He will be buying more.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Levi's Men's Big & Tall 559 Relaxed Straight-Leg Jean; Brand: ; Review: My son said they are the best jeans he has have ever owned!! He will be buying more.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Levi's Men's Big & Tall 559 Relaxed Straight-Leg Jean; Brand: ; Review: My son said they are the best jeans he has have ever owned!! He will be buying more.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Levi's Men's Big & Tall 559 Relaxed Straight-Leg Jean; Brand: ; Review: My son said they are the best jeans he has have ever owned!! He will be buying more.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Levi's Men's Big & Tall 559 Relaxed Straight-Leg Jean; Brand: ; Review: My son said they are the best jeans he has have ever owned!! He will be buying more.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
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amazon_Clothing_Shoes_and_Jewelry
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Given the interaction history of a user with products as follows:
Title: ElegantPark Women Pumps Closed Toe Platform High Heel Buckle Satin Evening Party Wedding Shoes; Brand: ; Review: I have Asian feet and I'm 5 feet and a half. Most of my shoes are a size 6 even the ones in this style. Once in a while, I fit in shoe sizes 5.5 and 6.5. This runs half a size too big for me. It's only half an inch bigger than my feet but it wasn't slipping off my ankles when walking. I'm keeping it and wearing it for my wedding since they do not have a 5.5. I've never owned a 5 so I don't want to switch for something that small. The shoes came with a nice white shoe bag, gel inserts and heel pads which I'm hoping would solve the .5 gap. The shoes are very beautiful and the colors are true to color in the picture. My wedding has navy in the color theme and this fits perfectly. I took off a star only because of the fit. I feel a little bummed about paying this much for shoes that isn't so snug. However, the shoes feels very comfortable and I think would survive a 6hour+ wear time without killing my feet (I'm an avid heel wearer so). Overall, the fit aside, a 5 star shoes. If you are looking for something classic, elegant and quality these shoes are for you. Will definitely wow against a white dress. Showed the picture to the fianc who knows nothing about women shoes but likes style that is classic and traditional with a bit of glam and he was wowed! Thus, this one was instantly a keeper :); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: iCollection Women's Lace Garter with Satin Bow; Brand: iCollection Lingerie; Review: Runs a little big if you have skinny legs but works for my purposes! Just gotta push it a little higher up my thighs. Loves it still. Will update on how well it holds up for the wedding.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Metal Factory Sterling Silver 2MM High Polish Plain Dome Tarnish Resistant Comfort Fit Wedding Band Ring; Brand: Metal Factory; Review: Love it. The 4.5 fits me perfectly. If it changes color in just a couple of days I will come back to take off a star.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Anni Coco Women's Classy Audrey Hepburn 1950s Vintage Rockabilly Swing Dress; Brand: Anni Coco; Review: I'm 5'2 and 119 lbs. I followed the sizing guideline by the seller and it's slightly loose. I bought a Medium because the S is one inch smaller than my waist. I kind of wish I got the S instead because the fabric comes with a stretch. I've decided not to return because the looseness gives me more fabric and more flow to the dress. I took off a star because the dress came very wrinkly. But I guess that can't be helped because of shipping. But overall, a very beautiful classic and elegant dress.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Kim + ONO Women's Kimono Robe Short - Lace Trim; Brand: Old Shanghai; Review: It's a little loose and came a wrinkly. But overall, for the price, does the job well.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: GRACE KARIN Women 50s Petticoat Skirts Tutu Crinoline Underskirt CL8922; Brand: ; Review: Perfect for the audrey hepburnesque dress that I have. It's not showing under the dress. It gives the dress volume but not over-the-top.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
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amazon_Clothing_Shoes_and_Jewelry
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Given the interaction history of a user with movies/shows as follows:
Title: Rush Hour 2 (2001); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Sleepless in Seattle (1993); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: 50 First Dates (2004); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Princess Diaries (Fullscreen) (2001); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Sister Act 2: Back in the Habit (1993); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Bruce Almighty (2003); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Shark Tale (2004); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Raising Helen (2004); Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: Pretty Woman (1990); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Sister Act (1992); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Cheaper by the Dozen (2003); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Benji (1973); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Dirty Dancing (1987); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Eddie (1996); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Royal Tenenbaums (2001); Rating: 1.0/5.0
Title: Daddy Day Care (2003); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Father of the Bride 2 (1995); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Princess Diaries (Widescreen) (2001); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Coming to America (1988); Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: The First Wives Club (1996); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Space Jam (1996); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Father of the Bride (1991); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: National Treasure (2004); Rating: 5.0/5.0
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netflix
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Given the interaction history of a user with products as follows:
Title: Invicta Women's 0726 Angel Collection Diamond Accented Ceramic Watch; Brand: Invicta; Review: I have been wearing this watch daily and just love it! It's almost an opalescent white band with an easy to read, very pretty, watch face. The weight of the watch is in the watch face itself. The band is very fluid and flexible to the touch. When I received the watch, the band was too long, as I normally wear a 7-1/2 to 8" bracelet, with the 8" hanging loose. A jeweler took the necessary links out of the watch at a minimal fee. (This watch would easily fit a 9" wrist and maybe even larger). I am a fair skinned, senior gal and this watch looks great on me and can be worn casual or dressy depending upon clothing and accessories. I don't think there is an 'age' that can or cannot wear it - it's how you feel within yourself :) I agree with other reviewers who said the suggested retail price is too high. The diamond accents, are indeed, accents and not a diamond with a point system. Now, if the bezel surrounding the watch face was paved with diamonds that would be another story! :) I think Amazon's price is very realistic as this is a lovely, well-made watch.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Invicta Men's 1245 II Collection Chronograph Black Dial Stainless Steel Watch; Brand: Invicta; Review: The one thing my husband and I both like about Invicta watches is that they always have an extra long band, whether for a man or a woman, and the only inconvenience is going to a local jeweler to have it shortened, which is either free or a very minimum charge is involved. You can really appreciate this if you have ever found a watch you just loved only to find out the band was too short and if you just had to have that watch, then you had to either buy an extension made by the manufacturer that was expensive, or you had to buy a new band that never seemed to look as good as the original one that came with the watch! Been there, done that a couple of times. Not so with the Invicta watches we own. We have always had to have them shortened. I have never understood the suggested retail price listed on the hang tag on Invicta watches, which in this case is $695.00. It always seems to be excessively, if not ridiculously, high. Amazon sells them for a great price in my opinion, especially with the free shipping and return policy. As to the appearance of the watch - it is very good-looking. The black dial with the red and white stands out and along with the stainless steel band and back it makes the watch look expensive. It is a well made watch. We have never had a problem with the ones we own. Yes, it is a large faced watch. The band is approximately 7/8" wide and the face of the watch, including the stem, measures approximately 1-7/8" wide. It is also a heavy watch, weighing approximately 6.6 oz / 185 gms. A person who is comfortable wearing this style and size of watch will be quite proud to wear this one! Highly recommend!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Invicta Men's 1770 Pro Diver Collection Chronograph Watch; Brand: Invicta; Review: My husband loves Invicta watches and this one is no exception! Again, it arrived with a longer than normal band which had to have a link or two removed and this time the jeweler charged us nothing to do it. Invicta makes their watches for every wrist size whereas most manufacturers do not and there is nothing more frustrating than buying a watch online only to find out it has a short band and then what? You either buy a new band retail or send it back. Invicta has already thought of that for both men and women and that's another reason we are both happy with our Invicta watches. This is a very stylish watch. It will be noticed! It's heavy and extremely well made and easy to read. The band has not shown any scratches in the month it has been worn. This watch is going to be around and worn for a very long time! Definitely recommend!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Invicta Women's 1277 II Collection Chronograph 18K Rose Gold Ion-Plated Stainless Steel Watch; Brand: Invicta; Review: When I opened the box, I fell in love with the rose gold color and the style of the watch. It's gorgeous on and goes with most fashion colors. Honestly though, it took me a while to adjust to wearing Rose Gold because I have always been a white gold/stainless/14k gold/sterling watch wearer. Once I got used to it and got compliments on it, I realized just how outstanding it does look!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Haggar Men's Performance Cotton Slack Straight-Fit Plain-Front Pant; Brand: ; Review: So, if you are expecting a definite shade of Ash as in light grey, this is not it. It is a very neutral color. They fit my husband nicely and he said they were very comfortable for wearing the entire day. They washed well and were removed from the dryer with no wrinkles and no shrinkage. You really can't go wrong with the Haggar brand which is the one my husband wears most often because it is the easiest to take care of in his opinion and by that I mean he does his own laundry and it needs to be easy! You can usually find them on sale perhaps with a store coupon, which is why I rated them 4 stars instead of 5. Saving money means being able to buy more than one pair.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Cole Haan Women's Indiana Waterproof Riding Boot; Brand: ; Review: These are so beautiful in the black suede. I have worn them with a long skirt and with a knee length suede skirt. Boot cut jeans are about the only ones I can wear the boots with because of their height and because the jeans have a looser cut. I did find them a bit snug in the calf area so I had them stretched and now they are fine. I cannot find anything negative about these boots. They are comfortable to wear and to walk in for hours!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Rhodium Plated Sterling Silver "I Put My Faith In You" Cross Bracelet and Necklace Jewelry Set; Brand: Amazon Collection; Review: I personally think this is more suited for a young girl, but not too young as the set is so delicate and dainty that it perhaps would not hold up with pulling, etc. It's a lovely, simple, faith based set. It's rhodium plated sterling silver so I don't know how it will hold up if worn all the time and in the shower, etc.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Sterling Silver Created Sapphire and Created White Sapphire Pendant Necklace, 18"; Brand: Amazon Collection; Review: This truly is a lovely and well made piece of jewelry. It is man-made but I hesitate to call it fashion and/or costume jewelry because it is in an entirely different class in my opinion. It is dainty, but not petite as in only a small person could wear it. Anyone could wear it because it is a nice wearable size. It is a believable size, but not everyone would be comfortable wearing it in the daytime and/or to work, etc. Maybe for special evening occasions, but in today's world, anyone can wear anything, anytime they want to. There are no jewelry police to run after you and tell you something like this should only be worn at night. It should be worn whenever you feel the need to wear it and wear it with flair because that's what it has! It's a fun piece of jewelry, an affordable piece of jewelry and could be worn all the time as a statement piece, especially for Ruby or Sapphire birthday girls :) I found the length appropriate for the size of the pendant, but it could be put on any number of chains. I also found the clasp to be secure and easy to put on and take off.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: 18k Yellow Gold Plated Sterling Silver Genuine Tiger Eye Dangle Earrings; Brand: Amazon Collection; Review: They are not only pretty to look at and comfortable to wear, they are well made and look substantial without being heavy. They are not flimsy by any means. They catch the light and have a nice shine, not at all brassy or overdone. The leverback closure gives them a more classic look and of course, a much less chance of losing one.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Anne Klein Women's AK/2134CRGB Gold-Tone Mesh Bracelet Watch; Brand: ; Review: I have been wearing Anne Klein jewelry for many years so was looking forward to getting this watch and I was not disappointed! It really IS a beautiful, classy looking watch. It measures approx 7-1/2" long end to end and weighs approx 60 gms so it has a nice weight to it. The band resembles a woven band I had on a vintage Longines watch. It is like a wheat pattern. It is a solid band, yet flexible. The watch face is approx 1-3/8" from edge to edge. It has roman numerals and it is easy to read. It has a second hand. So far it is keeping perfect time. The band itself is approx 5/8" wide which nicely enhances the large watch face. So many watches now have a large dial with an itty bitty band that just looks silly. I think Amazon's price is very reasonable considering the quality of this watch. The high end retail stores will no doubt offer it at a considerable amount more, especially with the holidays around the corner. I put this watch next to my 14k gold one and the color on the Anne Klein is an almost perfect match. It is a warm, rich color, not at all brassy as some are. I wear an 8" bracelet and this watch fits me perfect with no draping, but it is not snug either. Just a good fit. With the extension piece removed the watch measures about 7" end to end so will fit a smaller wrist. I love this watch and I'll be wearing it all the time! What a great gift for yourself or someone you care about :); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: RFID Blocking Clutch Wallet - Fashionable and Chic Vegan Leather Purse For Women; Brand: Wirezoll; Review: The outside is nice and attractive with good stitching and a smooth working zipper. I do not care for the large logo on one side in gold-tone lettering. I think that could put some people off buying the wallet. I think it could be more subtley placed and smaller in size. Inside - The one I received actually has a loose center interior which slides back and forth while trying to insert something. The shiny material must be some type of polyester but credit cards do not fit in the slots easily and are difficult to remove because of the material and the size of the slots themselves. The zippered coin compartment is very small and would only hold a few coins. The cardboard underneath the material in the center compartment is very flimsy. There is no separate slot for a driver's license as many wallets do have. I think this would be a good wallet for it's intended purpose - to protect a person while shopping, on a trip, etc.., but I would question it's long term stability based on the interior construction. I was sent a sample to use and review.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Invicta Men's 21377 Pro Diver Analog Display Quartz Silver-Tone Watch; Brand: Invicta; Review: This watch comes ready for gift giving in an Invicta presentation box. They do it nicely with all their watches and this one is no exception. The watch is large and masculine in it's presence. If you are looking for a watch that can go from cut-offs to a suit, then you might consider this one. It's impressive and it might not have all the bells and whistles as some others have, but if you are not looking for that, then at this price point this is a great watch.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Lucien Piccard Women's LP-16539-11 Fantasia Analog Display Quartz Silver Watch; Brand: Lucien Piccard; Review: This is a really nice looking, classic watch. I buy bracelets that are 8" and this watch fits me perfectly with a nice drape - it does not fit snug. It has a fold-over clasp. It weighs approx 90 gm. The watch face is approx 1-1/4" across and the band is almost 3/4" wide. I set the time and it is working well. I am a senior gal and I don't have any problems reading the roman numerals. The date is tiny, but really, how many times are you not going to know what the date is? By the time you get out of bed and get your act together you will know the day and date - or should, anyway :) This is a nice everyday watch that could be worn with jeans as well as that little black dress. It arrives in a very nice black presentation box - great for storage or gift-giving.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Invicta Men's 21658 Specialty Analog Display Swiss Quartz Gold-Plated Watch; Brand: Invicta; Review: Geez, INVICTA, this is a nice looking watch so why not put it in a black presentation box - anything other than the normal egg yolk yellow box which clashes so badly with the coloring of the watch and actually cheapens it in my opinion. The box just does not do the watch justice but deters from admiring it..........just a thought............. This watch is big and bold and heavy so it is definitely for the person who can wear it and wear it well. It weighs approx 165 grams! The band is almost 7/8" wide. The face of the watch from side to side is almost 1-7/8". Top to bottom the case is almost 2" long. With a soft tape measure the inside diameter measures approx 9" so this will fit a large wrist. And, for a smaller wrist, there is the mall jeweler to remove links. If you are truly looking for a large, impressive watch I would consider this one. The plating is a good color - it's a rich looking color. The price point seems very reasonable. INVICTA always shows these huge markdowns so I am not sure what the correct retail would be, but this purchase price seems more than fair. But, the yellow presentation box is just awful!; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Wolverine Men’s Double Topstitched Leather Belt Roller Buckle w/Updated Buckle!; Brand: Wolverine; Review: This is an excellent belt - well made and durable. It is a very classy, expensive looking belt and the price on Amazon is exceptional for the quality you get. My husband loves it! I was sent a sample by the vendor to use and review and I definitely recommend it.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Rhodium Plated Sterling Silver Oxidized Round Chinese Turquoise Celtic Pendant Necklace, 18"; Brand: Amazon Collection; Review: It arrives in it's presentation box inside a bubble envelope. There is no packing inside the presentation box and I could hear the necklace clinking as I opened the envelope. The result was a jumbled mess of chain that needed to be untangled. It's a 'cute' pendant on a flimsy chain. The pendant is less than an inch in diameter. It's small. I think the price is about right for the type and style of pendant. The picture on line makes it look oxidized and it is not, but the coloring appears to make it look as though it is. The chain does fit into two tiny bails that allow it to lay flat against the neck. It would be almost impossible to replace the chain because of the bail size. Tiny. It would look great with a t-shirt and jeans or with a black dress because it is versatile. It is in the price range where it is affordable and would be a good pendant to do layering of other chains around it.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Wolverine Men’s Leather Grommet Reversible Belt Black to Brown; Brand: Wolverine; Review: OMG - this style of belt takes me right back to the 70's, only the ones I wore then were a bit wider and in suede and looked so good with bell bottoms!!!!! And that's where the similarity ends. This is really a well made, stylish and attractive belt that can be worn by either men or women. I love that it is reversible! I did receive a sample from the manufacturer to use and review. My husband and I both tried it. It looks great with jeans or slacks or cargo or cut-offs....; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Sterling Silver Multi-Chain Puffed Heart Strand Bracelet, 7.25"; Brand: Amazon Collection; Review: Sweet, dainty and feminine is what this bracelet is all about! It is appropriate for any age, but the clasp is small and that might be a problem for some. It has a nice drape to it when on. It's shiny and classic looking. An every day wearable bracelet that would make a lovely gift for yourself or someone you care about :) 4 stars because of that very small spring ring clasp. Would much prefer a lobster claw one.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Lucien Piccard Women's LP-40037-02MOP Noureddine Analog Display Quartz Black Watch; Brand: Lucien Piccard; Review: This really is a beautiful, classy, simple yet elegant watch. It is keeping perfect time and is easy to read. It is also easy to put on and take off. I wear an 8" bracelet and I always have a bit of a drape left that I like. This watch measures approx 9-1/4" end to end and it fits me with room to spare. The leather band is approx 3/4" across and the watch face is approx 1-5/8" across including the stem. Approx 1-3/4" top to bottom including where the band is attached. Weighs approx 45 gms. I love it!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Fossil Men's Adam Front Pocket Bifold Wallet; Brand: ; Review: My husband wears a lot of cargo pants and this is a great wallet for that. It's slim yet holds what is important. Fossil always has a quality product and this wallet is no exception.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Skagen Lilli Iphone 6 or Samsung S4 Phone Sleeve, Oatmeal, One Size; Brand: Skagen; Review: This is a perfect fit for my phone which measures 5-1/8" x 2-3/4" x almost 5/8"W with no extra room. It is a well made, attractive case and I love the zipper compartment which zips down the side and the bottom of the case for easy access. This case would also hold - instead of a phone - small frame reading glasses as it opens to almost 1-3/4" across. Love the oatmeal color because it goes with everything!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Haflinger Women's GZW Rhythm Grey Flat; Brand: Haflinger; Review: I have a hammer toe and finding a wearable shoe is next to impossible so I have been forced to wear slipper clogs. When I read that another reviewer had a similar problem and these shoes worked great for her I decided to try them. OMG - they work! There is ample room in the toe box for a problem. Many people said they run big and I wear a 10M so I ordered a 9 and had to return them as they were too small and snug and I couldn't even get the foot with the hammer toe to fit inside comfortably. I exchanged for the 10M and it works great. I intend to buy a couple of the other colors in this style. One other thing I noticed is how well I can walk in them. I have an upcoming hip replacement so I tend to walk like a penquin and most of the time use a cane for support. I walk slow and these shoes have helped me so much even with the added height since I have been shuffling around in slipper clogs for months. The seller I bought them from is excellent. The exchange was painless and the replacement shoes were received in a matter of a few days. I would definitely buy from them again!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Movado Mens Bold - 3600279; Brand: Movado; Review: It's beautiful, classy and heavy. It's definitely a statement piece. I didn't have any problem getting it set, but I would definitely recommend reading the owner's manual that comes with it before trying to do anything with the watch! It is keeping accurate time and I cannot begin to tell you how beautiful it is. You will find yourself continually looking at your wrist.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: PEDS Women's Unseen Loafer Liner with Anti-Slip Gel Tab and Odor Defense, 4 Pairs; Brand: ; Review: These are a tad bit thicker than I am used to, but they fit better. I wanted to try them for a particular type of shoe I wear and they work great. I like them and I am getting more comfortable wearing them. I think the price is very reasonable so once I really get used to the thickness I will be glad I have them.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Vanity Fair Women's Beauty Back Strapless Underwire Bra 74345; Brand: ; Review: This style bra fits snug, but then that's what a strapless bra should do or it will slip and this does not. I like the style and the fact I do not have to deal with falling bra straps. I like the fact the the center part does not just go across flat between the cups as I have a bit of a physical issue that can be painful if a bra is too tight in that area, i.e.., a hiatal hernia and this bra gives me some breathing room if that makes sense. In other words, the indentation the material makes allows me comfort where the hernia is. I have worn Vanity Fair bras for many years and rarely have been disappointed in quality or fit. This bra is no exception.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Vanity Fair Women's Beauty Back Strapless Full Figure Underwire Bra 74380; Brand: ; Review: I haven't worn a strapless bra in eons, but have been losing weight the past months and am so tired of bra straps falling down I thought I would give this bra a try. The fit is quite snug which is to be expected in a strapless bra. I love the slight padding (like for a t-shirt bra) just because I wear a lot of tank tops with open shirts or jackets and I hate the lace look showing through the material. I got this in several different sizes so as I keep losing weight I can keep wearing the same style. I am loving the no straps. This bra would be perfect for so many dress styles where a strap showing is just so uncool.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Vanity Fair Women's Flattering Lift Full Figure Underwire Bra; Brand: ; Review: Recently I have been wearing strapless bras because I have been losing weight and was just so tired of bra straps falling down. That doesn't happen with his bra. The straps are nice and thick to where they fit the bra so well they just don't fall off the shoulder. I love the contour of this bra. So many larger size bras are just blah and not flattering to the figure or to look at. This bra is sexy and looks sexy on. And, it is not lacy so there is no worry of that showing through a sheer tank top or blouse. I will be buying this style bra as my sizes change because a strapless bra is great but not always what I want to wear.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Maverick Men's Relaxed-Fit Jean; Brand: ; Review: There is nothing to not like about these jeans. They are inexpensive compared to a lot out there and the material is a good quality and the fit is good. My husband is a 34 but the 35 fits him perfect. He hates tight. These are a great, basic jean. Time and washings will tell on longevity, but for the price I just don't think a buyer can go wrong.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Household Essentials Decorative Keepsake/Jewelry Box Set of 2, Large and Small, Floral Pattern; Brand: Household Essentials; Review: First, be prepared for a VERY large, heavy box to be delivered. Inside is the box containing the set. They are well packed. From a distance they are quite pretty and ornate, but closeup a few flaws can be seen such as the paint being not so well applied to the screw on top and a flaw here and there on the boxes themselves, but to just look at them, they are pretty and they are useful. Not so much for jewelry as it's just a deep box so you would have to put a lot of smaller boxes inside similar to the drawer on a large jewelry armoire. A set in tray would have been a good idea on the larger box. If you are buying these for a gift I would have them shipped to you to inspect if the recipient is not in another state because paying over $100 for items that might have noticeable flaws is not a good idea in my opinion. I do like them. I think they are a bit large for a normal dresser, but in my home they look great on wide shelves in my walk in closet. I have them filled with smaller boxes and trays of makeup and hair items. So much neater than having them in plastic drawers.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Fruit of the Loom Women's Plus Size Fit for Me 5 Pack beyondsoft Brief Panties; Brand: ; Review: I like them. They have good coverage for a plus size gal, front and back. I have been wearing JMS for years, but I will be switching to Fruit of the Loom Women's panties because they actually fit better with no gaps like I have in the front with JMS. I hate when a panty does not fit my body right and there is a gap on the side of my tummy. They feel nice on and move with my body. They wash well. I never put undergarments in the dryer and I do use a fabric softener because of the hardness of the water here. I have no problems with static electricity with these panties.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Vanity Fair Women's Comfort Where It Counts Full Figure Underwire Bra 76364; Brand: ; Review: Very nice, supportive bra, but I do wish the straps were a bit wider. A wider strap gives even more support and there is less chance of the strap slipping off the shoulder. I found the bra to be as expected. I have always worn underwire bras and this is one of the nicer ones because of the way the underwire is hidden and covered. Less chance of getting 'poked' by an unruly wire. I love the finish of the bra. I wear a lot of silk blouses/tank tops and really prefer a bra with no fancy lace decoration to show through the fabric. This is truly a lovely bra and I do recommend it. The price is better at Amazon than retail, but sometimes one has to go to a store to find the proper fit and style.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Fruit of the Loom Women's Plus Size Fit for Me Brief Panties; Brand: ; Review: These fit me quite well with no gaps around the tummy area. I love the colors which are a pastel assortment and the material feels smooth on the skin. I prefer a brief style and these fit as expected. I would order them again.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Van Heusen Men's Flat Front Ultimate Traveler Pant; Brand: ; Review: My husband is very slim - straight up and down - and these fit very nicely. A bit on the short side, but that is my fault for not getting a 30" instead of a 29". They are okay with shoes with little to no heel. Nice looking pant which could go from casual to dressy with the change of a jacket/blazer. Wash and dry well and NO ironing!; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Adolfo Men's Reversible Cut-Edge Belt; Brand: Adolfo; Review: What a great value this belt is! It looks nice and it fits a pair of pants well. I really thought it was 100% leather it is that soft and pliable. My husband wears a 34 pant and I got the 36 belt and he has a lot of room left, but it buckles and fits great. It's one of the easiest belts I have seen to reverse to the other color. I've bought very expensive brand name reversible belts that had to be sent back to the B&M stores because we could not get them to reverse to the other side. This is a substantial belt with a secure buckle.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Adolfo Men's Braided Belt; Brand: Adolfo; Review: Very nice looking belt! It's thick so I would order up a size. My husband wears a 34 pant and I got a 36 belt and no way could he have worn a 34 in this style. It's a rich brown color and the belt looks good on. He wears khaki colored cargo pants most of the time and this belt looks great with that color. He really liked that the holes go almost to the end of the belt so it's much easier to find a hole to fit instead of a large distance in between. Would make a great gift!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Original Penguin Men's 3-Pack Trunk; Brand: ; Review: My husband liked the style and the material, but they were just too snug and he wears a 34 pant. I wish the sizing was 34-36 instead of 32-34. He is in that between size where a 34 is a bit snug and a 36 a bit large so in-between would work for him. Sizing seems to differ depending on make and where a product is made these days (for both men and women). These are great for the person with the right shape.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Lacoste Men's 3-Pack Essentials Cotton Boxer Brief; Brand: ; Review: My husband is 6' and around 200#. He wears a 34 / medium pant. He is straight up and down, but still has had problems finding a boxer brief that fits well and wasn't old man baggy (even though he is one :). This IS it!!! He NEVER comments on the fit of anything unless there is a real problem. Last night he just went on and on about having worn a pair of the Lacoste boxers all day and how soft they were and how nice they felt, etc. He even knew where they were made. He had actually READ the package information! He is a diabetic and has very dry skin and we live in a very dry and hot area so comfort in the summer months is really important and more so as a person gets older. Bottom line, these are his new boxers! As long as they are being made, we'll be purchasing them!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Levi's Women's Plus-Size 415 Classic Bootcut Jeans; Brand: ; Review: Just didn't fit right. Too large in waist, tight in upper legs, fabric is not stretchy. Do not like as well as the line /style they discontinued.; Rating: 3.0/5.0
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amazon_Clothing_Shoes_and_Jewelry
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Given the interaction history of a user with books as follows:
Title: Soul Survivor: The Reincarnation of a World War II Fighter Pilot; Author: Visit Amazon's Andrea Leininger Page; Review: I bought this book as a present for my husband. It was the same book and less expensive to get it here! Thanks Amazon!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: If You Ask Me: (And of Course You Won't); Author: Visit Amazon's Betty White Page; Review: The only thing better than reading "If You Ask Me: (And of Course You Won't) is having Betty White read it TO you! I enjoyed every minute.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Daring to Dream / Holding the Dream / Finding the Dream (Dream Trilogy); Author: Visit Amazon's Nora Roberts Page; Review: I love Nora Roberts stories. Every character has their flaws and their redeaming qualities. I listen to these audio books to and from work daily. I nefver have trouble remembering who or what is going on because Nora Roberts is so good at describing everything! I'm just along for the ride; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Daring to Dream (Dream Trilogy); Author: Visit Amazon's Nora Roberts Page; Review: I love Nora Roberts stories. Every character has their flaws and their redeaming qualities. I'm just along for the ride.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Warriors: Secrets of the Clans (Warriors Field Guide); Author: Visit Amazon's Erin Hunter Page; Review: I got this book for my Grandaughter, Lorali. She is the big fan of Warrior Cats, not me. I'm sure she'll love it since that was her big Christmas hint.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Home Before Dark; Author: Visit Amazon's Susan Wiggs Page; Review: This was a very moving story. It will have you wiping at a few tears and then cheering outloud in the same chapter.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Mary Engelbreit 2014 Deluxe Wall Calendar: Positively!; Author: Mary Engelbreit; Review: I just love Mary Engelbreit stuff... Positive, touching and the graphics are outstanding! The format is easy to work with also, plenty of room to write in your own important dates.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Nora Roberts Bride Quartet Boxed Set; Author: Visit Amazon's Nora Roberts Page; Review: I love listening to Nora Roberts books. Makes time pass quickly and who doesn't like a good love story! I will say that this paticular series about wedding planners has exasperated me at times with all the abbreviations such as MOB for Mother of Bride, FOB for Father of Groom, RB for Ring Bearer... etc... Sometimes it has made me feel like I should QL ED for Quit Listening Eject Disc, but if you can get past all of that, it is a really good story that had me lauging and at times crying..; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Warriors: Dawn of the Clans #2: Thunder Rising; Author: Visit Amazon's Erin Hunter Page; Review: I think Lorali has read every book in this series! She started at about 8, is now 10, and when there is a new one published, she craves it!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: History Decoded: The 10 Greatest Conspiracies of All Time; Author: Visit Amazon's Brad Meltzer Page; Review: My nephew wanted this for Christmas. I got it, He was delighted~! Sorry I can't really rate the pages as I haven't read it nor plan to. My nephew has and claims it is fantanbulous!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Collector; Author: Visit Amazon's Nora Roberts Page; Review: I love her books! Usually I read/listen to her series of 3 or 4 because I love seeing what happens next, but when this one came on audio I snatched it up! Intriguing characters, murder, mystery and love! What's not to like??; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Hush; Author: Visit Amazon's Karen Robards Page; Review: My sister and I both enjoyed this book! We listen on our way to work and the way back home. Suspense at it's best!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Mary Engelbreit 2016 Day-to-Day Calendar: Enjoy the Joy; Author: Mary Engelbreit; Review: JOY is the perfect title for ANYTHING Mary Engelbreit does!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Mason Jar Salads and More: 50 Layered Lunches to Grab and Go; Author: Visit Amazon's Julia Mirabella Page; Review: I got this as a gift, along with an Aladdin Classic Mason Salad Jar, for my, health conscience, sister. She loved them both! I love ice-cream...; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Creed: What Christians Believe and Why (Creed series); Author: Visit Amazon's Adam Hamilton Page; Review: Come on... its by Adam Hamilton! How could you go wrong?; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: 2017 Shoebox by Hallmark Daily Desktop Calendar; Author: Hallmark; Review: It's not as funny as I'd hoped it would be. A nice feature is that on the back of each day, the paper is a lined note.; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: J. D. Robb In Death Collection Books 30-32: Fantasy in Death, Indulgence in Death, Treachery in Death (In Death; Author: Visit Amazon's J. D. Robb Page; Review: Dallas rocks!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: 2018 Shoebox Daily Desk Calendar: Halmark Approved. Sorta.; Author: Shoebox Greetings; Review: Most days, it makes me laugh. Some days, it is a little much...; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Captivated & Entranced: An Anthology (Donovan Legacy); Author: Visit Amazon's Nora Roberts Page; Review: You just can't go wrong reading anything Nora Roberts writes.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
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amazon_books
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Given the interaction history of a user with products as follows:
Title: Sterling Silver and Cubic Zirconia Charm Bracelet, 7.5"; Brand: Amazon Collection; Review: I love this bracelet! It's looks really nice and it stacks well with my other bracelets (Pandora). It looks very real but does have a tendency to turn downwards since it's a bit too top-heavy. Unfortunately one of the crystals already fell out so I am bummed about that, hopefully I can find a crystal to replace it with a little glue. No biggie for me and I'm still happy I have it.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Samsonite Lift 25" Spinner Luggage Red - Exclusive; Brand: ; Review: Love this luggage, sharp looking, easily maneuverable and nice styling. It does tend to get a bit dirty when the baggage handlers move it but cleans up well.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: 320 gauge Sterling Italian Silver Snake Chain; Brand: ; Review: Very well made chain that is exactly what I was looking for... great quality, nice shine. Many thanks!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: U.S. Polo Assn. Men's Solid Half-Zip Sweater with Faux Shearling-Lined Collar; Brand: U.S. Polo Assn.; Review: This is not a genuine product from what I can see.... The only reason I say that is the logo is completely strange and comparing it to what I see in major department stores, it's just not authentic. If you are wanting a knock-off then look further otherwise go to a dept store and buy the real thing.; Rating: 1.0/5.0
Title: Miss Oops Show Stoppers; Brand: Miss Oops; Review: I bought these thinking they were a different brand. If you want a superior product (to me), try the ones in a pink package....; Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: ReneeC... Women's Vivid Print Sleeveless Mini Urban Short Dress - Made in USA; Brand: ReneeC.; Review: Love love love! I want this dress in every color!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
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amazon_Clothing_Shoes_and_Jewelry
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Given the interaction history of a user with businesses as follows:
Title: Cafe Pontalba; City: New Orleans, LA; Review: Wonderful place to eat right in Jackson Square! I ordered the red beans and rice, and a hurricane- WOW! Fantastic meal. Best red beans and rice I've had. Enjoyed listening to the square's musicians, and watching people go by through the big open doors to the street. A must for your visit to NOLA!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Crowne Plaza New Orleans French Quarter; City: New Orleans, LA; Review: We really enjoyed our stay at this hotel. The location is very convenient, and the staff is knowledgeable and pleasant. The concierge Federico was particularly helpful. The room was beautiful and comfortable, and we had a great view. Only complaint is that we waited a long time to get our car back from valet after checkout, but it was a very busy day at the hotel. I would stay there again.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Cafe Fleur De Lis; City: New Orleans, LA; Review: Wonderful food and pleasant atmosphere. I ordered the Spinach and Feta Wrap and a latte and I was very impressed! Great way to start the day. We also enjoyed shopping in the unique shops nearby on the street after breakfast. I will return there on my next trip to NOLA.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Mardi Gras World-Riverfront; City: New Orleans, LA; Review: Amazing place to visit in New Orleans. See floats from the last parades being transformed by the artists for next year's themes. Learn about the history of Mardi Gras, taste king cake, and take photos with the float props. Really fun for adults and kids!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Fudgery; City: New Orleans, LA; Review: Amazing fudge shop, owned by wonderful people! You can taste whatever you want before you make a choice, and the people who work there are really nice and fun!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Cafe Beignet on Royal Street; City: New Orleans, LA; Review: Always a must on a trip to New Orleans! The coffee is perfection and I love the beignets. I got a veggie omelet this past time and it was scrumptious. The patio is a great place to be in the morning in the shade of the palms.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Columbia Cafe on the Tampa Riverwalk; City: Tampa, FL; Review: Always amazing food and staff and general experience! Every location is awesome. This restaurant is one of my favorites and I always want to stop there to make any trip special!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Anchor Bar; City: Tampa, FL; Review: Great tap selection. Clean atmosphere with a lot of TVs. Really nice bartender. I would definitely stop back by!!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Sushi House; City: Willow Grove, PA; Review: Great sushi at amazing prices. The ambience is nice too. We will be going back again and again!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Buckingham Valley Vineyards & Winery; City: Buckingham, PA; Review: We just had a wonderful time at Buckingham Valley Winery! The staff was so knowledgeable and kind. The building and grounds were so well maintained. We did a tasting, which is self poured but staff is available to answer questions. Some snacks are provided and you can buy some there. Super cute merchandise available. Try the wine slushies! Beautiful picnic grounds to bring a lunch and buy a glass or bottle! Awesome prices and selection. We will be back!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Richman's Ice Cream; City: Levittown, PA; Review: This place has every tasty fun food you can think of. The options are crazy. Have to go back again!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Pura Vida; City: Philadelphia, PA; Review: We love this place! Amazing fresh food, great service, nice atmosphere! The patio is lovely. It's BYOB. This is a place to bring friends and have a great time. We tried the Pura Vida appetizer this time and loved it. (Pictured); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Fox & Son Fair Foods; City: Philadelphia, PA; Review: Interesting new takes on corndogs! Got the sweet potato and the chili corndog. Delish! It looked amazing too and stopped people in the street wanting to know where we got those corndogs. Haha! Really nice staff too!!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Jules Thin Crust Pizza; City: Newtown, PA; Review: Love this place! Great variety of pizzas with organic ingredients. The thin crust is perfectly crispy. I had the veggie #2 and the buffalo chicken. Lots of vegetarian options!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Irish Rover Station House; City: Langhorne, PA; Review: Cool local place just to have a burger and beer and relax. Very good service and nice atmosphere. Great weekly specials. Glad this place is nearby!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Zeeno's Pizza; City: Penndel, PA; Review: Tasty pizza to pick up quick! Nice people too. Love grabbing dinner here to go. Not fancy, but a great take out pizza when you're sick of the chains!!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Little Sicilian Food Truck; City: Philadelphia, PA; Review: We chose this food truck at the Yardley Harvest Festival and we were glad we did! Tried a pizza ball and a buffalo chicken ball. Both were delicious! Great ingredients. The rice was so perfectly soft and then had crunchy fried outside. The people who worked the truck were nice too.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Jade Asian; City: Levittown, PA; Review: Our favorite Chinese restaurant nearby. Super nice people and great food! We love to get take out there, but the inside of the restaurant is very nice too.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Margaritas Mexican Restaurant; City: Langhorne, PA; Review: Their margaritas really are great! Just got the original on the rocks with salt- really good! Kayla our server was wonderful and patient with our questions. -- BUT if you want a happy hour drink special you must sit in the lounge or on the patio! We did not know this and were disappointed when the bill came. There is no mention of this on the website or on any signs, and no one mentions it at the restaurant until you get the check. I think this is very unprofessional and rude of the establishment. **Update: Still waiting on any actual follow up from the restaurant, despite the nice comment from them below.**; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: El Limon - Ambler; City: Ambler, PA; Review: One of our absolute favorite places. We always get at least one steak tostada. Delicious! The prices are great and it's BYOB with no corkage fee.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Fritz's Bakery; City: Langhorne, PA; Review: This bakery is our go-to for when we have guests to serve breakfast, a great dessert, or just for fun! They have a great variety of tasty pastries. I like the seasonal items like the leaf shaped cookies, etc. Glad to have this as our local bakery.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Pizza Village; City: Doylestown, PA; Review: We really love this place! The staff is very nice, and WOW do they serve amazing varieties of pizza! Deep dish or crispy! It was hard to choose two pieces. They have a great lunch special with 2 slices and a drink for $5.99. Great atmosphere too!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: MyEyeDr; City: Newtown, PA; Review: We went in when it was not busy, and got zero assistance from the two people on staff. We wanted to buy designer sunglasses, but they just pointed at the wall of frames and said "There" ... and that was it. After we made it clear we did not see what we were looking for, they did not say a word and just let us leave. They just looked at their computer screens.; Rating: 1.0/5.0
Title: Oishi; City: Newtown, PA; Review: This is one of my new favorite places! Wonderful atmosphere and service, and the food is AMAZING! Got a sushi roll and the chicken pad thai. Cravable!! Enjoyed it being BYOB too.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Big Bear Natural Foods; City: Langhorne, PA; Review: This store always has exactly what I'm looking for at a great price! I'm amazed by it. They must have a keen eye for products because this is a small location but they have all you need! The people are helpful too. I always go here for gluten free and organic products.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Crossing Vineyards & Winery; City: Newtown, PA; Review: Excellent wines and a great experience! This is a wonderful family owned operation. They have been around a while, AND have kept their property and events completed updated and modern! Their patio is lovely, and their fireplace room. But they also have a new bar you should check out- with great options for beer lovers too! We consider ourselves regulars and enjoy sharing it with friends.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Osaka Sushi; City: Langhorne, PA; Review: Excellent sushi at great prices! We like the miso soup too. The staff is friendly and the vibe is nice but we usually get our sushi to go. It's the sushi place I recommend!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Salvatore's Cucina; City: Levittown, PA; Review: We will definitely be back to this restaurant! The food was wonderful. I am on a gluten free diet, so it's awesome that they have gluten free pasta for $1 more. I've never had such great gluten free noodles. My husband got the vodka rigatoni; he is allergic to peas and they happily made it without peas. It is BYOB with no corkage fee. It has a modern and pleasant interior. Great for large groups. The server was friendly and the owner came out and introduced himself, a great guy. Highly recommending this place!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Happy Mixer Gluten Free Bakery; City: Langhorne, PA; Review: I was so HAPPY to find this bakery! I was desperate for decent gluten free bread to just enjoy a good sandwich! They have wonderful, soft sandwich bread that is now a staple in my kitchen. I've also really enjoyed their donuts, cookies, peanut butter cake bars, and... their coffee! A cute, clean store with friendly employees, you need to check it out. They have cakes, cupcakes, brownies, you name it. Go crazy!!!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
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yelp
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Given the interaction history of a user with hotels as follows:
Title: Glacier Lodge; City: Estes Park Colorado; Review: We stayed at Glacier Lodge for 3 nights, along with another family. Each family reserved one of the cabins on the upper portion of the property (75 yards away from the office, 100 yards from the pool, 150 yards from the river). We couldn't have selected a better spot to call home for the long weekend! David, Karen and their entire crew were the most hospitable. As for the property itself, all 5 of our boys (ages 4 - 11) were able to play, with the adults looking on from our comfortable perches at either end. The layout enabled the kids to be kids, with quite a bit of freedom, while also allowing us adults to monitor their play without having to follow them every time their curiosity shifted. A perfect situation for all. The large kitchens, interior and exterior dining spots at each cabin provided ample space for all 9 of us to eat dinner together. David lit the fire pit for us each night; a great way to wrap each day. Steps from our cabin, the pool, river, shuffleboard and playground area, sand box complete w construction toys, horseshoes, ping pong table, scooters and trikes provided all that we needed without having to bring any extra toys from home. We are really looking forward to our return in 2014!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Vail Residences at Hotel Talisa; City: Vail Colorado; Review: We've stayed in 4 of the Cascade's Millrace condos... all located directly on Gore Creek. The benefits of the extra space, full kitchen and private condo cold pool and hot tub, combined with all of the amenities of the hotel and spa simply place the Cascade at the top of our list for visits to Vail. The condos all share a cold plunge pool (55 degrees F or so), along with a 15+ person hot tub; there's a restroom and pool house with towels adjacent to the pool area. While the Cascade's pool is awesome, there are times when we all want a bit of solitude. I always ask my kids (7 and 4) to "notch it down a bit" when we are at the condo pool, out of respect for the other guests, and the boys gladly oblige. The rocks embedded into the pool's edge and entry are super special for them, plus they can have plenty of space either on the steps or throughout the enlarged hot tub. As for the units themselves, they are kept up nicely, with granite, stainless and fresh furnishings. On our most recent stay, we occupied a 2BR, 2 full Bath unit. the kitchen and living area were on the top floor, along with a dining room, breakfast bar and balcony overlooking the rushing creek. Downstairs, the boys shared a room with two twins and a flatscreen tv plus their own bathroom with shower was located just down the hall. Our king bedroom was spacious and had it's own private bathroom (sink separated by a door from the toilet and bathtub shower combo). The full sized laundry was located in the garage. Loading our stuff into the condo was super easy as these owners thankfully added a door directly from the garage into the boy's bathroom. No hauling luggage up the stairs through the kitchen entry was a pleasant surprise! The Vail Safeway is only 5 minutes away so stocking the fridge for our long weekend was a breeze. The kids always ate food that we prepared. One night we adults treated ourselves to take out from the hotel's restaurant, but opted to eat on our private balcony once the kids were asleep. It's always nice for us when we can stay in top notch accommodations, with daily maid service, but avoid walking through a hotel lobby and yards of hallway to get to our room. Toss in the free Cascade Vail shuttle, nice kitchen and million dollar+ surroundings of the Millrace condos, and we are fans for life! PS - we never pay full price for our condo rentals where ever we travel. Be sure to speak with your reservations agent re discounts, if available. If your travel dates are flexible, you might even reap the rewards of 30% or more off of your stay!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Crystal Pier Hotel Cottages; City: San Diego California; Review: We enjoyed 2 nights in Cabin #19 last weekend (mid-October 2013). Our 2 bedroom cottage, located at the eastern most part of the pier was the perfect fit for 3 of us. Not too many reviewers have commented about #19, so I admit I was a bit nervous prior to arrival. Would it be noisy? I must say, it was worth the splurge to have 2 full bathrooms and bedrooms; the parking space was also a huge bonus, although we rarely moved the car until departure day. Sea World is only 10 minutes away; La Jolla only 15 minutes; the airport 15 minutes on a weekday afternoon. Like previous reviewers, I found the kitchen more than ample (we stocked up at Ralph's market on the way in) and the bathrooms were just fine. The living space was great, affording us ample space to hang out on cool mornings before heading outside for the day. I think that this cottage was recently renovated (new flooring, paint, fixtures and furniture). The blue and white beach theme was great. Even better, the incredible ocean front / beach view you'll ever have in San Diego. The pier was fairly quiet at night, even with our location. Although I could rarely hear any cars, I could hear some bar music late night while in the living room (we were in the heart of Pacific Beach after all); but with the windows open, the ocean crashing onto the beach trumped any other noises. The cottage and beach were true highlights of our San Diego vacation (just as unique and special as our LEGOLAND Hotel stay...even the kids would admit to that!) Having travelled with my 4 and 7 year old, I really enjoyed being on the beach in 3 minutes plus having all day access to our kitchen and bathrooms without having to navigate a huge lobby. Cooking and snacking were really affordable and easy with our little ones. We truly look forward to returning!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Ptarmigan Inn; City: Steamboat Springs Colorado; Review: We've stayed in the highest end hotels and resorts in Steamboat Springs over the years, but when traveling with our two sons (7 and 4) this winter, The Ptarmigan Inn provided EXACTLY what we needed. Our goals... to have EASY ACCESS to the ski school and gondola, outdoor pool and hot tub, plus space for our family of four. Our LOFT ROOM, immediately off the lobby, was very convenient to ski storage, the restaurant, and pool area. Our windows overlooked the ski area and a hill which provided a ton of snow play for our kids where we could watch them from inside our room Just outside our room was a comfortable lobby sitting area and gas fireplace which we all enjoyed throughout our stay. The kids enjoyed the ladder accessible loft area, with twin beds. Were the linens luxurious? Was the décor modern? Certainly not. But the front desk staff, restaurant and bar crew and fellow guests all contributed to the warm, cozy feeling that only a small hotel can offer. The restaurant was quite a pleasant surprise. Never crowded, during the day or evening, but we were treated to EXCELLENT dining. Private ski instructors frequented the restaurant during the day with their students; quite an endorsement for sure. SKI IN/ SKI OUT for under $250/nt during Christmas week... this trip, the Ptarmigan Inn delivered what we paid for and more.; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Pikes Peak Paradise Bed and Breakfast; City: Woodland Park Colorado; Review: We just spent one night in Ron's double queen room with our sons, 5 & 8. We had ample room within the updated suite, and direct access to the patio overlooking the national forest. Many B&B's haven't been nearly as updated as PPP; from the lobby and kitchen public areas, to the expansive decks, to the linens and A/V in our room, we couldn't have been more pleased. Apparently, the inn was fully booked, but we never once saw or heard other guests - a rarity at B&B's! Ron's hospitality was spectacular and the breakfast, scrumptious! We only wish that we would have had more time to relax and explore in and around the inn... our visit to the nearby wolf sanctuary and cave of the winds landed us at PPP, and we couldn't have been happier! -- avoiding the crowds in Manitou was the icing on the cake!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Vail Residences at Hotel Talisa; City: Vail Colorado; Review: We returned to the Vail Cascade for an extended family vacation, including 4 kids under the age of 10, 2 mid-age couples, and one set of grandparents. Coldstream 24 continued to impress, with ample space for resting and relaxing together and apart. Appointed nicely with a large kitchen and dining area, living room and 3 separate sleeping areas, this 5 bedroom townhome was far beyond all expectations. The condo office staff and housekeeping team were a dream, meeting any and all requests in a very timely manner. The condo community's private pool and tennis court, across Gore Creek from the main hotel's amenities, provided the perfect spots for sun, fun, shade and play. One garage space, plus ample guest parking made it very easy to get out when necessary, although, we all found that staying at Coldstream was simply wonderful. Shuttle service is provided from your front door to the hotel's main lobby when necessary, although, it's only a 10 minute stroll if time isn't an issue. Access to Aria Spa and the fitness center is included, as well as all of the fun activities offered by the hotel. We absolutely adore staying at the Cascade's private condos and townhomes, and always look forward to returning.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
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hotelrec
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Given the interaction history of a user with hotels as follows:
Title: Kissos Hotel; City: Paphos Paphos District; Review: Not the best hotel iv ever stopped at but by no means the worst Food was OK but could benefit from a couple of microwaves in the canteen to warm up breakfast We stayed in a superior room which was an extra 19€ a day but as you get the fridge and safe in with that price your saving 5€ a day. Room was fine... Towels changed every day along with bedding but room in general could have done with a deep clean at some point. Location is fine... Beach 5 mins walk but a bit rocky.... O,niels bar just over main Rd does amazingly strong cocktails and the kingfisher restaurant just up past McDonald's on opposite side of Rd does fantastic fish dishes..... I can highly recommend the fish platter 😀; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Okeanos Beach Hotel; City: Ayia Napa Famagusta District; Review: Stopped here in September on a tour of Northern Cyprus..... Perfectly situated and amazing rooms..... Breakfast was lovely and the staff very friendly..... Only down side was no sun on the pool after around 3 in the afternoon but a small price to pay for a lovely hotel; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Chalelarn Hotel Hua Hin; City: Hua Hin Prachuap Khiri Khan Province; Review: Booked for 4 nights while travelling around thailand At 1st glance the hotel is indeed very nice but under close inspection is in fact a bit tired Dirty walls and broken tiles are the main issues so really a simple fix which would make this hotel worth the money (£45 per night) Also breakfast unless you go for the Thai version is freezing but there is a good selection of fruits and toast available so we managed fine On a plus side the roof top pool is amazing with see views and towels provided.....all in all not a bad hotel perfectly situated but could be so much nicer with a little work; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Hilton Hua Hin Resort Spa; City: Hua Hin Prachuap Khiri Khan Province; Review: Well what can I say ...... apart from .... amazing,fantastic,superb,breath taking.....i could go on lol We never actually stayed at the Hilton but whent there on recommendation from a friend for the Sunday buffet.....if I remember correctly it was around £17 each which in Thailand is quite expensive but we thought it was worth every penny and more ... The resturant is on the top floor of the hotel so even befor you eat you are blown away by the views ...you are greeted by your waitress as you enter the restaurant who is dressed in a Japanese style dress and are all stunningly beautiful (don't tell the wife I said that)... Once you are seated they give you a menu /list of all the dishes they do you just simply put a tick at the side of each dish you want ....and as many as you want ...its all you can eat for that price ....did I mention that? Now don't start to think this is some sort of mass produced rubbish that they line up on the side so you can just help yourself.. .this could not by further from the truth.....the food is amazing and just keeps coming as long as you keep ordering...and all the time in an amazing location with incredible views... My only criticism would be the price of the wine...me and the wife had 3 large glasses each of chardonnay and it came to more than the cost of our meals put together.....which was a bit if a shock at the end lol... ..but I would still go back and still do it all over again......i hope you do too 😃; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Best Western Weston Hall Hotel; City: Bulkington Nuneaton Warwickshire England; Review: Great night at the Charlie's night club reunion Drinks not over priced and bar staff friendly..... and music great....looking forward to the next one..... Only charged £5 entry fee.... well worth the money 😁😁👍👍👍🍸🍸🍷🍷🍷🍺🍺🍺🍻🍻🍻; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Hilton Birmingham Metropole Hotel; City: Birmingham West Midlands England; Review: Whent to watch John bishop recently and stayed at this amazing hotel Room was great staff very friendly Only real criticism would be the drinks being overpriced and having to pay £12 for parking even though I paid £90 for a room already !! But a small price to pay I suppose for an excellent stay and and excellent breakfast; Rating: 5.0/5.0
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hotelrec
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Given the interaction history of a user with news articles as follows:
Title: Katie Holmes' Wool Blazer Gave Off the Perfect Fall Vibes; Abstract: All she needs now is a PSL.; Category: lifestyle
Title: Miguel Cervantes' Wife Reveals Daughter, 3, 'Died in My Arms' After Entering Hospice Care; Abstract: Miguel Cervantes' Wife Reveals Daughter 'Died in My Arms' After Hospice Care; Category: tv
Title: Felicity Huffman Is Scheduled to Be Released from Prison on October 27 After Serving 13 Days; Abstract: Felicity Huffman's Release from Prison Set for Oct. 27; Category: news
Title: Ryan Reynolds Shares the First Photo of His and Blake Lively's Newborn Daughter; Abstract: This is the first time the actor has talked about his newborn daughter.; Category: movies
Title: Long Hollywood romances that ended in short marriages; Abstract: Find out which celebrities dated longer than they were married.; Category: entertainment
Title: Mad About You Star Helen Hunt Taken to Hospital After Car Is T-Boned and Rolls Over in Accident; Abstract: Helen Hunt Rushed to Hospital After Car Gets T-Boned in Accident; Category: tv
Title: Rosie O'Donnell: Barbara Walters Isn't 'Up to Speaking to People' Right Now; Abstract: Rosie O'Donnell: Barbara Walters Isn't 'Up to Speaking to People' Right Now; Category: tv
Title: See Every Amazing Throwback Photo Kim Kardashian Has Shared with the World; Abstract: Every Amazing Kim Kardashian Throwback Photo Shared by the Star Herself; Category: tv
Title: Prince Harry acknowledges tensions with William in ITV interview; Abstract: Britain's Prince Harry has acknowledged tensions with his older brother Prince William for the first time, saying they are on "different paths."; Category: lifestyle
Title: Secrets to making perfect cookies; Abstract: A chocolate chip cookie is the ultimate sweet treat, but how do you get the ultimate chewy vs crisp ratio? Should you use chips or chunks? And can healthier cookies ever be delicious? We've got all your cookie questions answered in this ultimate guide.; Category: foodanddrink
Title: Look of the Day; Abstract: Katie's closet is filled with simple-yet-sexy sweaters (remember her cardigan?) and this light brown knit, which showed a bit of shoulder, is no...; Category: lifestyle
Title: Jessica Biel dresses up as husband Justin Timberlake for Halloween; Abstract: The couple have a history of elaborate Halloween costumes, but this one might be a winner.; Category: lifestyle
Title: Trump's visit to Chicago creates stir before he even arrives; Abstract: President Donald Trump's visit to Chicago is stirring up a tempest even before he arrives in the city that he's repeatedly derided as the poster child of urban violence and dysfunctional Democratic politics.; Category: news
Title: ICYMI: The week in TV news for Oct. 20-26, 2019; Abstract: Wendy Williams bashes Duchess Meghan, Days of Our Lives star John Clarke dies, Christie Brinkley sobs over daughter's DWTS elimination and more TV news.; Category: tv
Title: Kylie Jenner Throws Dinner for Caitlyn Jenner's 70th Birthday See Which Kardashians Attended; Abstract: Kim Kardashian, Kourtney Kardashian Attend Caitlyn Jenner's Birthday Dinner; Category: tv
Title: Property Brothers' J.D. Scott Marries Annalee Belle in Vintage Theatre-Themed Wedding; Abstract: J.D. Scott is Married! Third Property Brother Ties Knot; Category: tv
Title: Kendall Jenner Celebrates Her Birthday Early With Rob Kardashian, Leonardo DiCaprio, Hailey Bieber and More; Abstract: Kendall Jenner got her birthday festivities started early with a star-studded costume party on Halloween.; Category: music
Title: 1 dead, 8 others hospitalized in Salmonella outbreak likely tied to ground beef; Abstract: The CDC said the latest Salmonella outbreak is not tied to one type or brand of ground beef.; Category: news
Title: Bette Midler mocks Lori Loughlin's college admission scandal; Abstract: In a new tweet, Bette Midler pokes fun at Lori Loughlin's involvement in the college admission scandal.; Category: music
Title: Pamela Anderson gets backlash after wearing a Native American headdress for Halloween; Abstract: Pamela Anderson is under fire after posting risqué photos of herself wearing a Native American headdress in honor of Halloween. The Canadian actress and animal rights activist, who rose to fame for her role as a lifeguard on the series Baywatch, took to Twitter like many other celebrities to post photos of herself in her Halloween costume. In the first photo, the 51-year-old sports a pair of high-waisted underwear, and appears to be drenched in...; Category: tv
Title: Reality television star Kevin O'Leary and his wife were sued Wednesday for wrongful deaths in a boat crash in Canada's backwoods.; Abstract: Reality TV star Kevin O'Leary and his wife were sued Wednesday over an August boat crash in Canada's backwoods that killed two people and seriously injured three.; Category: tv
Title: Stars They're Just Like Us!; Abstract: Stars They're Just Like Us!; Category: entertainment
Title: Meghan Markle earns Duchess Camilla's support, royal expert says; Abstract: Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall, has been a "pillar of support" to Meghan Markle after the Duchess of Sussex admitted in a shocking documentary that the ruthless press scrutiny meant she was "existing, not living."; Category: lifestyle
Title: Kristen Stewart is planning to propose to her girlfriend, plus more celeb love life news for early November 2019; Abstract: Keanu Reeves and girlfriend go public, Kylie Jenner's relationship with Drake turns romantic, Reba McEntire, Nina Dobrev and Ian Ziering end relationships.; Category: entertainment
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mind
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Given the interaction history of a user with movies/shows as follows:
Title: Schindler's List (1993); Genres: Drama, War; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Colors (1988); Genres: Action, Crime, Drama; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Sabrina (1995); Genres: Comedy, Romance; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest (1975); Genres: Drama; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Braveheart (1995); Genres: Action, Drama, War; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Bounty, The (1984); Genres: Adventure, Drama; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Home Alone (1990); Genres: Children, Comedy; Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: Casablanca (1942); Genres: Drama, Romance; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Happy, Texas (1999); Genres: Comedy; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Saving Private Ryan (1998); Genres: Action, Drama, War; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring, The (2001); Genres: Adventure, Fantasy; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Arrival, The (1996); Genres: Action, Sci-Fi, Thriller; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Klute (1971); Genres: Drama, Mystery; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Restoration (1995); Genres: Drama; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Jungle Book, The (1994); Genres: Adventure, Children, Romance; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Heathers (1989); Genres: Comedy; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Treasure of the Sierra Madre, The (1948); Genres: Action, Adventure, Drama, Western; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Stop Making Sense (1984); Genres: Documentary, Musical; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert, The (1994); Genres: Comedy, Drama; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Chinatown (1974); Genres: Crime, Film-Noir, Mystery, Thriller; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Along Came a Spider (2001); Genres: Action, Crime, Mystery, Thriller; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Seven Years in Tibet (1997); Genres: Adventure, Drama, War; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Ruthless People (1986); Genres: Comedy; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Scent of a Woman (1992); Genres: Drama; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Exorcist, The (1973); Genres: Horror, Mystery; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Children of a Lesser God (1986); Genres: Drama; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Butcher's Wife, The (1991); Genres: Comedy, Romance; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Princess Mononoke (Mononoke-hime) (1997); Genres: Action, Adventure, Animation, Drama, Fantasy; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Mission to Mars (2000); Genres: Sci-Fi; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Virgin Suicides, The (1999); Genres: Drama, Romance; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Runaway Bride (1999); Genres: Comedy, Romance; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Five Easy Pieces (1970); Genres: Drama; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Frequency (2000); Genres: Drama, Thriller; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Mission: Impossible II (2000); Genres: Action, Adventure, Thriller; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Independence Day (a.k.a. ID4) (1996); Genres: Action, Adventure, Sci-Fi, Thriller; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: In the Name of the Father (1993); Genres: Drama; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Disclosure (1994); Genres: Drama, Thriller; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Elizabeth (1998); Genres: Drama; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Month in the Country, A (1987); Genres: Drama; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Starman (1984); Genres: Adventure, Drama, Romance, Sci-Fi; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Don't Look Now (1973); Genres: Drama, Horror, Thriller; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: City Slickers II: The Legend of Curly's Gold (1994); Genres: Adventure, Comedy, Western; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Sound of Music, The (1965); Genres: Musical, Romance; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Effect of Gamma Rays on Man-in-the-Moon Marigolds, The (1972); Genres: Drama; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Butterflies Are Free (1972); Genres: Comedy, Drama; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Crocodile Dundee (1986); Genres: Adventure, Comedy; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Gift, The (2000); Genres: Thriller; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Streetcar Named Desire, A (1951); Genres: Drama; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Fanny and Alexander (Fanny och Alexander) (1982); Genres: Drama, Fantasy, Mystery; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Russia House, The (1990); Genres: Drama, Thriller; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Face/Off (1997); Genres: Action, Crime, Drama, Thriller; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Cider House Rules, The (1999); Genres: Drama; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Strangers on a Train (1951); Genres: Crime, Drama, Film-Noir, Thriller; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Graduate, The (1967); Genres: Comedy, Drama, Romance; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Spy Kids (2001); Genres: Action, Adventure, Children, Comedy; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Scarface (1983); Genres: Action, Crime, Drama; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Dances with Wolves (1990); Genres: Adventure, Drama, Western; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: My Cousin Vinny (1992); Genres: Comedy; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Birds, The (1963); Genres: Horror, Thriller; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Misérables, Les (1998); Genres: Crime, Drama, Romance, War; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Being John Malkovich (1999); Genres: Comedy, Drama, Fantasy; Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: Bounce (2000); Genres: Drama, Romance; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Clash of the Titans (1981); Genres: Action, Adventure, Fantasy, Romance; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Desperately Seeking Susan (1985); Genres: Comedy, Drama, Romance; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: 2010: The Year We Make Contact (1984); Genres: Sci-Fi; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Mosquito Coast, The (1986); Genres: Adventure, Drama, Thriller; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Bambi (1942); Genres: Animation, Children, Drama; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Gods Must Be Crazy II, The (1989); Genres: Comedy; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Angel Heart (1987); Genres: Film-Noir, Horror, Mystery, Thriller; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Jurassic Park III (2001); Genres: Action, Adventure, Sci-Fi, Thriller; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: How to Make an American Quilt (1995); Genres: Drama, Romance; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Sirens (1994); Genres: Drama; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Gone in 60 Seconds (2000); Genres: Action, Crime; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Jumanji (1995); Genres: Adventure, Children, Fantasy; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Man Who Would Be King, The (1975); Genres: Adventure, Drama; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: It Could Happen to You (1994); Genres: Comedy, Drama, Romance; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Clockwork Orange, A (1971); Genres: Crime, Drama, Sci-Fi, Thriller; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Dead Again (1991); Genres: Mystery, Romance, Thriller; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Babe: Pig in the City (1998); Genres: Adventure, Children, Drama; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Searchers, The (1956); Genres: Drama, Western; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Carrington (1995); Genres: Drama, Romance; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Dark City (1998); Genres: Adventure, Film-Noir, Sci-Fi, Thriller; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Singles (1992); Genres: Comedy, Drama, Romance; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Hamlet (1990); Genres: Drama; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Cousin Bette (1998); Genres: Comedy; Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: Billy Bathgate (1991); Genres: Crime, Drama; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Cheech & Chong's The Corsican Brothers (1984); Genres: Comedy; Rating: 1.0/5.0
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movielens
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Given the interaction history of a user with hotels as follows:
Title: Comfort Inn; City: Kalamazoo Kalamazoo County Michigan; Review: Stayed here 2 days for a conferance in downtown. The staff was very friendly and the hotel clean. The staff had fresh baked cookies in the lobby for guests to eat for free. They serve a breakfast in the morning that seemed to be enjoyed by others as I was not able to try it. My room was more updated then some of the pictures show. Other all a very nice stay.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Yogi Bear s Jellystone Park Mammoth Cave; City: Cave City Kentucky; Review: Great place and close to the mammoth cave national park. Had a water issue when we arrived that the water spout would not turn on. After the park was unable to get it on they gave me extra hose to reach the next site over and closed that site so it could not be rented. Then came back with a goodie back to make s'mores and a bundle of firewood for the trouble. Over all have a good time I would stay here again. Happy Camping; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Duck Creek RV Resort; City: Muskegon Muskegon County Michigan; Review: Great RV resort... Gated access, clubhouse, pool & hot tube open 9am-11pm with adults only after 9pm. Large/ level site with full hook ups and cable tv, wifi and good size fire pits. Close to Michigan Adventure so you can save on parking and just walk. Small camp store is one down side and no planed activities, but with so much to do in the area it's good to get out and explore.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Yogi Bear s Jellystone Park Camp Resort at Barton Lake; City: Fremont Indiana; Review: This family owned and operated campground is great. With over 600 sites and cabins and cottages to rent you won't be disappointed. This campground sells out just about every weekend and is still fairly full during the week. Lots of planed activities ranging from kickball to adult bingo games. 3 pools and a splash pad, indoor pool, gem mining, water ballon wars, paddle boats, putt putt golf... You will not be bored and your kids will sleep good :) Great staff and great all around good time. Come visit Yogi, Cindy and Bo Boo; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Lake George RV Park; City: Lake George New York; Review: Check in process was smooth and the sites are pretty level. The firepits are a good size, bigger then most is seen. Each site is a full hook up and also has cable TV . The park has many trails to walk or bike that are also connected to other trails outside the resort. The camp store is one of the best, lots of groceries, rv/ camping needs and much more. Staff was always friendly and helpful. Camped here in a 5th wheel.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Pinederosa Camping Area; City: Wells Maine; Review: We were really only here as a place to sleep as we were visiting friends and taking in the sites. Campground was clean, the site was fairly level. Campground doesn't accept any type of credit card, CASH only. Not many over night sites, many seasonal sites.; Rating: 3.0/5.0
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hotelrec
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Given the interaction history of a user with news articles as follows:
Title: Tiger Woods is finally writing a memoir and it has the perfect title; Abstract: HarperCollins Publishers has acquired the rights to the first-ever memoir authored by Tiger Woods.; Category: sports
Title: Joe Giudice Speaks Out For the First Time Since Leaving For Italy; Abstract: "At the end of the day, people make mistakes," the reality star said in a video posted on Bravo's The Daily Dish. "Nobody's perfect."; Category: tv
Title: Sofia Vergara Ordered to Pay Ex Nearly $80,000 Amid Frozen Embryos Legal Battle; Abstract: The Modern Family star has been ordered to pay her former fiancé Nicholas Loeb $76,433 in attorney's fees and $2,959.26 in costs; Category: tv
Title: Singer stands up to heckler who told her to take shirt off; Abstract: After being heckled on stage and told to "free the nips" at a concert in Texas, singer Maggie Rogers voiced her anger about the harassment.; Category: video
Title: Lori Loughlin's Daughters No Longer Enrolled at USC; Abstract: Lori Loughlin's Daughters No Longer Enrolled at USC; Category: tv
Title: Elton John Has Not Seen 'Bohemian Rhapsody' And Refuses To Watch It; Abstract: John and Mercury were just too close for him to handle the film.; Category: music
Title: Lori Loughlin Is Facing New Charges in the College Admissions Scandal; Abstract: Federal prosecutors brought new charges on Tuesday.; Category: tv
Title: Rob Kardashian Appears Thinner at Kim Kardashian's Birthday Party in Rare Video; Abstract: Rob Kardashian Appears Thinner at Kim Kardashian's Birthday Party; Category: tv
Title: Jason Momoa Says His Latest Role Made Him 'More Attentive' to His Wife Lisa Bonet; Abstract: Jason Momoa Says He's 'More Attentive' to Wife Lisa Bonet; Category: tv
Title: Watch Jessica Biel Admit She Was NOT a 'Huge' Fan of *NSYNC In HILARIOUS Old Interview; Abstract: Jessica was hilariously confronted by Jimmy Fallon on Tuesday's 'Tonight Show,' with a clip where she admits she was not a 'huge' fan o; Category: video
Title: Four flight attendants were arrested in Miami's airport after bringing in thousands in cash, police say; Abstract: Four American Airlines flight attendants were arrested at the Miami International Airport and charged with money laundering after bringing large amounts of cash into the country, police said.; Category: news
Title: Celeb couples with big age gaps; Abstract: Age is just a number for some stars!; Category: entertainment
Title: Demi Moore Names Male Co-Star Who Didn't Deserve to Make More Money Than Her; Abstract: During a game of "Spill Your Guts or Fill Your Guts," James Corden also shared why rapper Rick Ross was the worst 'The Late Late Show' guest.; Category: tv
Title: The best celebrity couple Halloween costumes; Abstract: From Chrissy and John to Kim and Kanye, see the stars with the best coordinated costumes.; Category: entertainment
Title: Supreme Court refuses to block lawsuit against gun manufacturer brought by Sandy Hook families; Abstract: The Supreme Court refused to shield Remington Arms Co. from potential liability for the 2012 school shooting that left 26 dead in Newtown, Conn.; Category: finance
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mind
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Given the interaction history of a user with businesses as follows:
Title: Wrap It Up; City: Reno, NV; Review: This place is amazing. It's my husband's and I favorite place to eat. The owners the staff are always friendly and kind! Their lentil rice and chicken shawarma are delicious. Highly recommend it!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Atlantis Sky Terrace Oyster Bar; City: Reno, NV; Review: I've never eaten sushi and I can't stand sea food so I was convinced by my husband to try their Crystal Shrimp! All I can say their shrimp was cooked tempura style and it is amazing. Tastes like chicken! So if your not a sea food person I recommend to start off with that!; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Capital Insurance Service; City: Reno, NV; Review: I am addressing this review to corporate. Today 11/18/16 my brother decided to go into the office to make his payment to renew his insurance. He did not have the complete amount available and was asked to pay in full. He drove to a 711 to make another money order! When he returned he was addressed by the office manager Stephanie who told him she will no longer be taking his payments and to not show up at the office anymore! If he needed to deal with anything regarding insurance he had to call them directly! You want to know why?!? According to her Because I had posted a bad review on google some time ago regarding the poor customer service and Misinformation my family or I had received in this recent past. When you go through the same incident twice where you lose a customers payment and then advise them they didn't pay because you can't find it then call and state you found it and all you can say is I'm sorry you cannot expect a customer not be aggravated! I am sorry but if one thing I know is that a review should never be a reason to hold anything against a customer! If someone shares the experience they've had with any company it should serve as a way to see where the company can improve. In this case it was being careful when receiving payments and giving proper information! Dear Stephanie learn not to take reviews to heart nor take it out on other people's family members.Dear corporate I can gladly tell you that we are more than happy to stay away from doing business with your capital insurance office! My father never had an issue with you guys since he started business with you back in 2006 that's 10 yrs ago when you had an amazing staff! Unfortunately we cannot say the same now. I for example stopped doing business after my insurance expired with you guys and have been handling directly through the provider whereas my family decided to keep you but not anymore! I wish this company much success and may you not keep losing more people. People stay away from doing any negative reviews otherwise it'll be a ticket to the bad side of the office manager! People really do stay away from doing any business here!; Rating: 1.0/5.0
Title: Pizza Plus; City: Sparks, NV; Review: The staff here is amazing. Never had any issues. Only thing that sucks is they can't deliver all the way to south Reno but the drive to sparks for this pizza is worth it.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Sierra Car Wash; City: Sparks, NV; Review: Worst place to take your car! If you have time to waste and have employees put an attitude with you this is the place to come. Waited and hr and 20 minutes to get my car, lady gave me my car which she had left it on. I drove away thinking my keys were left inside but nope. My car started beeping saying no key (it's a keyless vehicle). I drive back and talk to the lady who was cleaning my car and she had no damn clue where my keys might be. She goes to the another lady named Araceli and asks her where my keys were as she had moved my car and this lady has no idea either. By now I'm frustrated and start asking for my keys and saying how irresponsible they are. With attitude and all that Araceli employee says if you keep arguing I'm not going to help you, which I ask if I can talk to the manager and she just turns away and says I'm not going to help you. The lady who cleaned my car ends up telling me this is also my mistake for not asking about my keys, to which I tell her my car was on and if it's on it's because the keys are close to it. By now I am way angry! So what happens , she finds my keys by my windshield wipers! They left my keys on my windshield wiper!! Can you imagine what would've happen if they would've fallen out!?!? I tell this lady they have to be careful when I have them my keys I left them inside not on the tires nor out on my windshield wiper. I told her I'm never coming back again and all she said well if you feel that way it's up to you! But no these uneducated people don't care. They won't take fault and put all the blame on you. Managers need to really train these people to be more careful and respectful! Never coming here again! Seriously people do not come here!; Rating: 1.0/5.0
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yelp
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Given the interaction history of a user with products as follows:
Title: Warlords; Brand: Jet Li; Review: Very graphic in terms of violence, but it has a good plot. I know little about China and the mind set but this movie gives insight into the things that are important to the rich and powerful.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Israel: The Royal Tour; Brand: .; Review: Feist and the PM have great time showing you the sites of Israel. Many were not tourist but more sites the Israelis visit for there own R & R. I believe this was a PR for Israel but I enjoyed watching it. I saw the desert, the Red Se and other places I have only seen on TV.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Masterpiece Mystery: Endeavour Series 1; Brand: .; Review: Love it!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Through The Wormhole With Morgan Freeman: Season 3; Brand: Morgan Freeman; Review: Love this series, so many interesting topics; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: To Wong Foo Thanks for Everything VHS; Brand: Wesley Snipes; Review: Great fun movie; Rating: 5.0/5.0
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amazon_Movies_and_TV
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Given the interaction history of a user with businesses as follows:
Title: China Wok; City: Hendersonville, TN; Review: My family has been getting food from here for over 15 years.. While my parents don't go so often anymore bc they live on the other side of town, I always try to stop by when I'm visiting home. The shrimp lo mein/fried rice combo is the b e s t and is what I put all other Chinese places up to and nothing compares. It's not heavy but the portions are big and the prices are sooo good.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Club Wyndham Avenue Plaza; City: New Orleans, LA; Review: Everything was cool til we had to move rooms at 3 AM because of bed bugs. Pretty freakin gross. All they offered was a hot wash, dry, and fold of the clothes we brought but they washed it and shoved it all back in the suitcase. Why say it at all if you're not going to do it.. We did get a room change. Waking up in the middle of the night because creepy crawlies are all over you is traumatizing. Anyways, it's easy to get to and from Bourbon via the bus. The trolley system was down while we were here though. There's a convenience store with everything you could ever ask for called Red Zone and a cute cafe for coffee and breakfast/brunch called Avenue Cafe just a walk down the street. But the bed bugs. ugh. Attached some pics, warning, they're not pleasant.; Rating: 1.0/5.0
Title: Superior Seafood & Oyster Bar; City: New Orleans, LA; Review: Great atmosphere. The tables by the huge windows have the best lighting for food pics ;) Went twice while we were visiting and I would still do almost anything to go back. $6/dozen oysters between 4-6 pm every day. They also have drink specials during the same time... what more could you ask for!!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Tableau; City: New Orleans, LA; Review: All around pass. Food is overpriced and just "ok. Truffle crab fingers were just super buttery and oily. 3 of the 5 at our table got the tableau burger, 2 medium well and 1 medium rare (she's unusual lol) and all of them were dry and overcooked.. The fries were good at least. I got the asparagus seafood salad which was like 3-4 pieces of asparagus, 2 shrimps, and a little pile of crabmeat. It was lacking real flavor, again just tasting buttery and heavy. We had two waiters for whatever reason.. I guess training, but they were NOT communicating with eachother and asked the same thing multiple times or we'd said we were too full for dessert and asked for the checks and the other one would bring us all dessert menus anyways. It also took 15 minutes too long to get the checks figured out. We didn't split any items, just had individual checks and there was literally one other 5 top and one table of 2... wasn't busy. Don't waste your time or money... unless you wanna pretend to be fancy. |: 2 stars for the awesome, historic building and super cool bathrooms.; Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: Bartaco; City: Nashville, TN; Review: Bartaco doesn't miss a beat when providing a cool Nashville feel to classic street tacos! From the service to the tacos, everything was great. Everyone was so cheery and happy to help even after a lunch rush. They have a cool lil system where you stick a card up and any server available comes to take care of you in case yours isn't available so no flagging people down ;) Our waiter was super attentive though so A+ there. The guac was seasoned to perfection and the chip to dip ratio was ~perfect~. We ordered 5 tacos to share and they were all so different but so good. Each flavor combination was well thought out. The spicy cucumber salad side dish was refreshing in contrast. The tequila is made in house and the juices for the mixed drinks are also fresh! The drinks are around $10 each, but the tacos and side dishes are only $2-4! They also offer rice bowls for those that aren't feeling tacos :); Rating: 5.0/5.0
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yelp
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Given the interaction history of a user with products as follows:
Title: Elizabeth: The Golden Age; Brand: Cate Blanchett; Review: After reading some of the reviews I was a little shocked that there was so much to do over the lack of historical accuracy. This is hollywood not the PBS. I thought the peformances were wonderful, the costumes and sets were magnificent and the story solid. Story, not history. Just goes to show that you will never please everyone and it is good to have varied points of view. SEE IT :); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Dr. Strangelove: Or, How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb; Brand: James Earl Jones; Review: A classic, the quintessential parody of the cold-war mania the was so pervasive in the 1960 and arguably Peter Sellers' best work.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Whitechapel Series 1; Brand: Rupert Penry-Jones; Review: Without a doubt, the best show on tv! The British have got it right, realistic actors, perfect characterizations, and twisted plots galore. I just wish American television would pull it's head out and take some much needed lessons from the British.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Enlightened: Season 1; Brand: Laura Dern; Review: Couldn't even get through the first episode. Another show about whinny people, my momma was mean to me and daddy was never there. Poor, poor me. Not in the least bit funny but just sad.; Rating: 1.0/5.0
Title: Road to Bali / Road to Rio; Brand: ; Review: Bob Hope at his very best! This film was a perfect showcase for the comedic talents of one of the finest comedy actors of all time. and the support cast of Dorthy Lamour, Peter Lori and Lon Chaney Jr. just puts this movie over the top. Do no miss seeing this movie!; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: MURPHY BROWN: S1 (DVD); Brand: Various; Review: Absolutely love this show! I can not wait for other seasons to become available.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
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amazon_Movies_and_TV
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Given the interaction history of a user with products as follows:
Title: Gerber Baby Girls' 5 Pack Onesies; Brand: ; Review: Very cute, practical set. Kids go through clothes like no other so this is perfect for frequent changes when a mess occurs.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Skechers Women's Keepsakes-Freezing Temps faux fur-Lined Boot; Brand: ; Review: I had been told this book ran a little small so I ordered an 8 rather than a 7 1/2 and they fit great even with big fluffy socks. Love them. Super cute!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Funny Girl Designs LACROSSE Stick Rhinestone Cotton Stretch Headband LAX Team Gift; Brand: Funny Girl Designs; Review: Got it for my niece when she started to play lacrosse. I liked the punkish, rocker, yet girly look it had to it. She says she likes it so I'm happy. No complaints.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Ray-Ban, Justin RB4165, Unisex Classic Sunglasses; Brand: ; Review: Look amazing! Better than i expected. I have a small face as well so these fit great.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Glamorise Women's Full Figure No Bounce Plus Size Camisole Wirefree Back Close Sports Bra #1066; Brand: ; Review: Fit exactly how expected. Thankful to find a sports bra that is a true fit for such a busty lady. Its hard to find bras this large sometimes.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Havaianas Metallic Sandals (Various Colors), 6, Metallic Gold; Brand: ; Review: Happy with the flip flop. Its always good to have a staple white (although this is more a creamy gold color) and black flip flop. Decent grip so not slippery.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Reef Women's Reef Chakras Flip-Flop; Brand: ; Review: Very cheaply made and flimsy feely. Bends very easily. A cheap white flip flop. Not much more to say.; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Chemo Beanies; Brand: Chemo Beanies; Review: My grandma is going through chemo and radiation right now. I bought her a few head scarves. This brand is by far her favorite and easiest to slip on. She loves them. They look great.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Ouman Short Bridesmaid Dress Chiffon Party Evening Dress; Brand: Ouman; Review: Fit wrong in all the wrong places. Was too small but then had a huge extra amount of space between the boobs and shoulder region on one side. Did not fit well at all.; Rating: 1.0/5.0
Title: RFID Money Belt For Travel With RFID Blocking Sleeves Set For Daily Use; Brand: Alpha Keeper; Review: Too bulky. Ended up not using and taking on my trip as it would have been way to obvious I was wearing this belt.; Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: Skechers Performance Women's Go Walk 4 Kindle Slip-On Walking Shoe; Brand: ; Review: What a wonderful shoe. I wear these all the time. The reason I give it a 4 star rather than a 5 star is I don't feel it looks very good in black. Has kind of a grandma feel to it for some reason. Own a pair in another color and those are 5 star all the way. Spent hours upon hours walking in these shoes and they are fantastic. One of the most comfortable pair of shoes I have ever owned.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: RFID Money Belt For Travel With RFID Blocking Sleeves Set For Daily Use; Brand: Alpha Keeper; Review: Too bulky. Ended up not using and taking on my trip as it would have been way to obvious I was wearing this belt.; Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: Skechers Women's Keepsakes-Brrrr Boot; Brand: ; Review: Excellent boots. I wear them ALL the time in the winter. My go to winter shoe. Good in the snow as well although I don't spend long periods of time trending through the snow when I do. I also added scotch guard to mine when they arrived.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Kids Girls Top Love T Shirt & Splash Print Fashion Legging Set Age 5-13 Years; Brand: A2Z 4 kids; Review: My niece loved these! <3; Rating: 5.0/5.0
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amazon_Clothing_Shoes_and_Jewelry
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Given the interaction history of a user with hotels as follows:
Title: The Park New Delhi; City: New Delhi National Capital Territory of Delhi; Review: Rooms are great. Very clean bathrooms Service is great. The food variety and quality is one of the best in the industry. Staff make u feel at home with very good service the lounge on the top floor is nice they do upgrade u if you are frequent; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Aakar Lords Inn; City: Saputara Dangs District Gujarat; Review: This is a very nice hotel...good service...clean...good food..good place for weekend with family and children... it is the first hotel as you enter saputara.it is the best hotel in saputara and the newest Pool is clean and rooms are also big in size... Best as far as saputara goes; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Treasure Island Resorts; City: Lonavala Pune District Maharashtra; Review: its a huge property and Food was decent and good variety was provided. its pure veg and at a decent price point. need more inhouse activity for spending more time in the hotel. staff is good but room service can be better; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Lemon Tree Hotel Aurangabad; City: Aurangabad Aurangabad District Maharashtra; Review: The room was fine, Food was okmcan be better. \staff is cooperative and helpfull..It is the perceptive and friendly service that makes it worthwhile staying Pool is just gr8 and dont fell like coming out of it; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Cocobay Resort; City: Kumarakom Kottayam District Kerala; Review: No car access as you have to go through canal which connects to the back waters by a small boat, Warm welcome by with flower garlands and a welcome drink, Location was Beautifull with house boats touching the hotel property for pick up. Food was Ok and needs more varity, staff was good. 2 nights is the max you can stay. Value for money; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Aranyaka Resorts; City: Pallivasal Munnar Idukki District Kerala; Review: I have stayed in october at this place with my wife and 2 yr old kid the view from the cottage is out of the world with waterfall, clouds, wind touching you. We stayed at Aranyaka for 3 nights. All night long we heard the water.fall The cottage rooms are a bit small but has a balcony which is fine Food has to be ordered at least 2 hours in advance as they have only 10 rooms and cook as per request and don't have a running kitchen Perfect for a couple but with kids it would be a bit boring.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Kyriad Hotel; City: Calangute North Goa District Goa; Review: This property is near baga-calangute junction..the property is a bit cramped and there are residential buildings on all sides with no view but the rooms and service is nice..breakfast is very well spread and lot of options for vegies...nice mix of indian and other food stuff...the front office staff expect one mr gaurab is very polite.....pool is small and only 4 feet...no open space in the hotel and has too many rooms for the property...when the hotel is full u need to wait for tables in the cafe for breakfast...housekeeping guys are very helpfull..THE HOTEL IS OVER PRICED FOR THE LOCATION/ OVER ALL..; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Chandelao Garh; City: Chandelao Jodhpur District Rajasthan; Review: This is a very old haveli and is well maintained...its in a small village and no connection to the city.. its nice for a day to relax nothing other than that...nice for couples to relax... Rooms are good...food and service is also fine Just that there is nothing else other than the pool; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Hotel Victoria; City: Jaisalmer Jaisalmer District Rajasthan; Review: Stayed in this beautiful place with my wife and 3 year old kid from 30th to 2 dec and must say that its was the best view i had from the balcony kind of an window..The owner is a very nice person, his family was also there when we were staying in this place and they made us feel very much at home..My child had a bad stomach and the owners wife took all the pain to make some special food for my daughter and also arranged the medicine i needed late in the night... The terrace is bliss Will definitely recommend this place; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: U Tropicana Alibaug; City: Alibaug Raigad District Maharashtra; Review: A very peaceful resort with good food...The pool was very clean...the staff was very polite and reasonable service..There are cycles to ride...for a couple very much recommended or with a group...Over a very much recommended place; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Sea Princess Beach Resort; City: Port Blair South Andaman Island Andaman and Nicobar Islands; Review: its a old hotel and the interiors need to be done up completely bathroom was very old and need complete make over. food and the location is ok the garden and restaurant location is very very good. overall its average; Rating: 3.0/5.0
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hotelrec
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Given the interaction history of a user with books as follows:
Title: Country Boy: The Rise and Fall of a Southern legend (Country Boys); Author: Visit Amazon's Blake Karrington Page; Review: This book was great! I was trying to space it out so I wouldn't read it so fast but I was so curious to see when Q was gonna get cut! Awesome book please hurry with Country Boy II. And thanks for the great price for the Kindle version....; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Bankroll Squad *Official*; Author: Visit Amazon's David Weaver Page; Review: This book was great!! So good that I could not put it down, the author really roped me in from the beginning to the end can't wait to read book 2, hopefully Mr. Weaver won't keep us waiting too long..; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Me and My Bitch; Author: Visit Amazon's David Weaver Page; Review: What a great read! I am so mad that I couldn't pace myself a little better, I finished it in one day...This book had me so caputured and the ending was so suprising, my mouth was left wide open. Can't wait for the next one!!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: A Love Story; Author: Visit Amazon's David Weaver Page; Review: Great read once again! Mr. Weaver always delivers. The love scenes were so real its almost as if I was acutually in the book hmmmm! Waiting on part 2!!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Bankroll Squad 3: The Finale (Volume 3); Author: Visit Amazon's David Weaver Page; Review: So happy and sad at the same time, happy for the Finale but so sad to see the Bankroll Squad go! This was a great series one that I could read again now that I have the set. David you are an amazing and talented man, you have done what some will never do. You found your true purpose in life. Keep up the good work! Can't wait for the movie lol!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Lipstick Clique; Author: Visit Amazon's David Weaver Page; Review: My favorite author has struck again! Knowing his work and his dedication to the team I expected nothing less. This book was definitely worth the wait that Amazon put us through. Lipstick Clique had me caught up from the beginning to the end, so good I read it twice in 48 hours. Hands down David Weaver is the best! #TeamBRS 4 Life!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Union; Author: Visit Amazon's Tremayne Johnson Page; Review: The Union was an awesome read from beginning to end! Cant wait for part two! But then again Mr. Johnson is a member of #TeamBRS so excellence comes naturally!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Bawss; Author: Visit Amazon's David Weaver Page; Review: Bawss earns 5 stars on a whole different level. Mr. Weaver gives us an emotional journey through our past he takes us back to where it all began. The emotion is so strong it could be felt from paragraph to paragraph. Standing ovation! History has been rewritten!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Throne (Volume 1); Author: Mr Cole Hart; Review: From the very first page until the last this book will have you caught up! This book could have easily been read in one setting, but I wanted to take my time to make sure I didn't miss a thing. Cole Hart I salute you, you did your thing. I am stuck hanging off the cliff! Can't wait for part 2! #TBRS Nothing but the best.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Supremacy; Author: Visit Amazon's Torica Tymes Page; Review: Great read! Lots of action, storyline flowed really well. First time release but right on target. Can't wait for the next one! #TBRS does it again!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Union 2: Priscilla's Return (Volume 2); Author: Visit Amazon's Tremayne Johnson Page; Review: Just as expected Tremayne knocked it out the box again! From beginning to end this book was full of action and loaded with drama. Good thing about it, is that it could stand alone even though it is a sequel but I promise you if you haven't read part one after reading part II you will! Great read!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Power Family; Author: Visit Amazon's David Weaver Page; Review: Five Stars is not enough, for this action packed read. Mr. Weaver keeps you on the edge of your seat with this one. This book is filled with everything a great book needs. The raw emotion of this book clearly shows that David put his all into this book as he always does. Awesome job!!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Hated by Many, Loved by None; Author: Visit Amazon's Shan Page; Review: Myss Shan what a read! This was an excellent book from beginning to end. Each page kept me guessing on what was coming next. I can not wait for part 2! If you want an action packed page turner this is it! #WERK; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Cum in my Mouth; Author: Visit Amazon's David Weaver Page; Review: HOT! HOT! HOT! This book is on fire I am so glad that my Kindle is able to stand alone, reading this one it was hard to keep my hands above my waist! Erotica at it's finest! Excellent job Mr. Weaver!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Rap Star; Author: Visit Amazon's Chanel Jones Page; Review: Awesome job Chanel! This story will have you so caught up you will read it in one sitting. It just flowed and was so real, I'm mad at you about the ending so hurry up with part 2! If you want a good read this is it.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Truth Hurts, Lies Kill; Author: Visit Amazon's Raymond Francis Page; Review: Loved this book from beginning to end. Loaded with love, lust, loyalty and lies. Can't wait for part 2! Great job.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Bankroll Squad Trilogy; Author: Visit Amazon's David Weaver Page; Review: I enjoyed each one of these books separately so the trilogy was even better, reading the series at once I remembered all the page turning action that made this one of my favorite series from the beginning. If you want an action packed adventure this is for you!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Love in the Chamber; Author: Visit Amazon's Rasheed Carter Page; Review: From the first paragraph to the last word of the last sentence, this book is awesome! The twisted emotions in this book had me caught up and wanting more. Can't wait to see what happens in part 2!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Lipstick Clique; Author: Visit Amazon's David Weaver Page; Review: After reading the first book in this series I was like how will Mr. Weaver top this?? Well Lipstick Clique 2 is the answer. From beginning to end I was captivated! This book will have you so caught up, I found myself yelling at my Kindle. Great job Mr. Weaver this is one of those series that I never want to end!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Streets or My Wife (Volume 1); Author: Visit Amazon's Shamica Gonzalez Page; Review: OMG! What a read! I could not put this page turner down. The authors are so synced I could not tell where one stopped and the other began. Great debut novel by two very talented authors. Keep up the excellent work waiting for part 2!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Broken Crayons Still Color: Based on a True Story; Author: Visit Amazon's David Weaver Page; Review: You can buy a new box but broken crayons still color... This book is going to change someone's life. Awesome job!!!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
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amazon_books
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Given the interaction history of a user with hotels as follows:
Title: Quality Inn Long Island City; City: Long Island City Queens New York; Review: We chose this hotel 2 subway stops from Manhatten because we found everything on Manhatten very pricey. This hotel is a short walk--3 blocks--from the subway. The only thing I didn't like about the location is that we couldn't go back to the hotel for a short break during the day--it was too far. The first day we were in a below ground room with a small window at the ceiling looking out to the parking lot. We asked for another room and were told they were full but could move us the next day. Once we were upstairs it was better. the room was comfortable and no complaints. The continental breakfast is minimal, and you're lucky to find a place to sit. The few tables fill up quickly. For the price it was fine--nothing great, but no big disappointments either.; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Hotel du Canal; City: Castelnaudary Aude Occitanie; Review: A simple hotel right on the canal, and close to the train station, restaurants and Le Boat. We walked from the train station to the hotel. Our room was on the second floor--hump your suitcases up the stairs. The room had linoleum floors, a double bed, a desk, TV, and bathroom with a tub/shower. One large window opened to the canal--beautiful view! It was an easy walk to restaurants, and we found La Belle Epoque easily and had the famous cassoulet. really good. In the morning there was a buffet breakfast for six euros that was very nice. cereal, granola, fruit, bread, coffee, yogurt. Some employees could speak English. I would stay there again.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: St Claire Hotel; City: Toulouse Haute Garonne Occitanie; Review: Even though the St. Claire was a little off the main drag, it was still noisy most of the night from the bars on the streets below. I wanted to have the window open to the air but it was either close the window and get some sleep, or leave it open and hear the loud talking/singing/carrying on all night. In fact, we were up at five to catch a cab to the airport, and people were still standing on the street talking. but we found this in Paris also. I think when the weather is as lovely as it was in September, the French like to take advantage of it because it won't stay that way for long. Aside from that, the hotel was great. We were offered coffee as soon as we arrived. someone is there 24/7 so no matter how late you stay out, someone will be at the front desk when you get in. The elevator was very small--almost too small for two people and two suitcases. we were on the 3rd. floor, a corner room, and there were two large windows. The room was very clean and comfortable and the bathroom was large with a tub/shower. No shower curtain so you have to be careful if you don't want to get everything wet. the staff was great. they spoke English and they were so helpful. I loved our stay and would recommend this hotel. We walked all over Toulouse and everything was easy to get to.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Motel 6 Tucson North; City: Marana Arizona; Review: We were on our way through Tucson expecting to stay with relatives but when that didn't work out, we looked for lodging. The only problem was, the gem and mineral show was in town and no one had any rooms left--except Motel 6. I think we may have gotten the last room available in Tucson! The desk clerk apologized for the inflated price, explaining about the gem and mineral show. The train noise didn't bother me. I grew up close to tracks so that wasn't the problem. The biggest problem was the cigarette smell in the room. There was an ashtray on the bedside table with the no smoking logo on it. Then the window was rigged in a very non-professional way so that it would only open about 6 inches. We were on the second floor so I wondered what that was all about. So we couldn't get much fresh air in the room. Then I loved the beer bottle opener screwed into the granite counter in the bathroom. Ha Ha Ha--I guess the desk got tired of people asking for openers! You gotta laugh! It was clean at least.; Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: Super 8 by Wyndham Sitka; City: Sitka Alaska; Review: This hotel has recently been updated so it's comfortable and clean and everything works. The only drawback is there is no elevator, so you want to be on the first floor if you have heavy luggage. They stored our luggage for us since we arrived early before our room was ready. Free wi-fi, cable TV, a large window that opens to the fresh air, a comfy overstuffed chair. Nice bathroom. It's located a couple of blocks from the main street so it's convenient. And it's very close to a great coffee shop by the fire station. There is a meager breakfast offered in the morning--toaster waffles, cold cereal, coffee/tea/juice and sometimes yogurt. It will get you started. From what I heard from others, it beats the Sitka Hotel.; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Days Inn Suites by Wyndham Houston Hobby Airport; City: Houston Texas; Review: We got stuck in Houston overnight on a recent flight to Albuquerque. I called some hotels from the airport and Days Inn had a vacancy. They sent a shuttle to pick us up. The woman I spoke to on the phone (9 p.m.) was courteous and she asked me how many beds. I said we only needed one bed. She quoted me a price that was very reasonable so I was expecting a small room. We ended up in a large room with a kitchen and two beds--a king and a full. The room was clean and there were a lot of nice touches--water bottles, snacks, and in the morning, breakfast in the lobby. Our room was on the 2nd story and there was no elevator. (My suitcase is Heavy!!) Also, even though it was a non-smoking room and the paint was fresh, the faint smoke smell never goes away. I would recommend this hotel. For the price, it's unbeatable.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Hotel am Borsigturm; City: Berlin; Review: Only 15 mins from the airport, by taxi about 17 euros. I was pleasantly surprised at the modern and very comfortable room with large windows that opened for fresh air. The beds and bedding were wonderful--great pillows, and I'm pretty picky. The bathroom had a towel warmer--love that. And a great shower. We thought that it looked as though it had been recently updated. Or maybe it's a newer hotel. There's a hot pot and a fridge, but in the lobby by the front desk is a cooler with soft drinks, beer and wine priced reasonably. The free wifi was a good connection. Downstairs there was a 24 hr. cappuccino machine and orange slushie machine. In the morning, the breakfast was fantastic! Everything was fresh and there were many choices. Homemade waffle dough! The dining room was bright, neat and clean. Both of the young men at the front desk were fluent in English. There is a shopping mall across the street, and a short walk away is a street called Alt-Tegel with some shops, restaurants and ice cream shops. Part of it is closed to cars, and there were many families enjoying the evening. I was sorry we were in Berlin for only one night.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Hotel San Francesco; City: Assisi Province of Perugia Umbria; Review: It's a Medieval city, and the building is centuries old. Yes, it wasn't up to par with our other accommodations--the room was very tight and we had to get creative about where to put the second suitcase--but we're in the center of a Medieval city, and that is so awesome! We were even willing to give up wifi for one night and the world didn't end!!! We didn't get a view of the church, but our window opened over the street, and the view was beautiful (see photo). It rained while we were there so we didn't go to the roof and we didn't have to deal with faulty air conditioning since it wasn't hot. Our bathtub was fine--no split level. All that being said, I didn't come to Assisi to be in a hotel room. Even in the rain we were exploring this amazing city.; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Sleep Inn Potomac Mills; City: Woodbridge Prince William County Virginia; Review: Woodbridge is close to the Regan airport where we rented a car. We headed south to Williamsburg the next morning. The staff at this Sleep Inn was friendly and helpful. Parking was plentiful. Breakfast was adequate. The price was good. I remarked to my husband that although the hotel was non-smoking, it smelled like smoke. Not horribly--it's hard to get it out of carpets and walls. We ate dinner at a Mexican restaurant--El Paso. Great food!; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Gerloczy Rooms de Lux; City: Budapest Central Hungary; Review: First of all, know that “quaint old world charm” means the building is from 1892, so don’t expect anything modern. The spiral staircase goes all the way to the 4th floor (5th in America ). There is an elevator that will fit 4 people. At first I was skeptical. The cab pulled up to a door in what seemed like a long alley, and there was construction going on in the street ahead. The cab driver had to ring for someone to open the locked door. Once inside the foyer, it was up a few steps to the desk which isn’t like any hotel desk. It’s very small, but the building was a residence in the 19th century, so the foyer is dark and narrow. Once we checked in we made our way to the elevator and up to the second floor. When the elevator doors opened, we were met with color! Deep aqua blue walls and carpet to match all the way down the hallway. (Later we explored to see if the other floors were the same color. No! 3rd floor was a celery green, and 4th floor was a pinkish-red.) Then to our room. Yes, old world for sure. Lots of brass fixtures, a chandelier, huge windows, a pedestal sink in the bathroom. What I liked: It was clean. I loved the parquet floors, 12’ ceilings and tall doors, antique furniture, king bed which was hard but comfy, a large wardrobe for suitcases, and a restaurant downstairs which is excellent. What I didn’t find charming: only a small glass shelf under the bathroom mirror for stuff. (The small round table in the bathroom helped.) There’s a brass soap holder in the shower that would fit a bar of soap, but it was loose and tipped around, so nothing for your bath condiments. Speaking of, we were provided with 2 small bars of soap, 2 shower caps and 2 shower gel. The TV didn’t work. No comfortable seating in the room. We had two wooden straight back chairs. The only trash can is in the bathroom. My main concern is that I didn’t see a fire plan. Fire is a concern in old buildings—especially with restaurants attached. The building is narrow, and the spiral staircase goes right up the center. I looked out the window in our 2nd story (3rd in America) room which is big enough to crawl out of, but no way to get down, and a concrete street below. Because of that alone I wouldn’t recommend this hotel, but otherwise it was something out of the ordinary and I liked it.; Rating: 3.0/5.0
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hotelrec
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Given the interaction history of a user with hotels as follows:
Title: San Juan Marriott Resort Stellaris Casino; City: San Juan Puerto Rico; Review: Short version: This is an excellent resort with one major problem-- mildew. It's a shame to give this place 2 stars instead of 5, but the stench of mildew in our damp room(s) was a huge detractor from the friendly service, great location, and otherwise fabulous rooms. If mold/mildew does not bother you or cause you respiratory problems, then definitely stay here. Otherwise, keep looking! Long version: We were given a room on the Cabana side, 7th floor. We noticed the smell immediately and called the front desk. They said there were no other rooms and sent up a kid from housekeeping with a spray bottle of greenish liquid that he said was "to cover the smell." Since the problem was in the air, we did not know where he was supposed to spray, and neither did he. Called down again and suddenly there were other rooms available. A super-nice guy from housekeeping showed us two more rooms. One was two floors below us and had a strong chemical smell. Guy said it was from the freshly cleaned carpets and the smell would dissipate. He was right-- the "carpet cleaner" smell went away in a few hours and was replaced with the same musty, moldy stench. We were placed on a waiting list for a dehumidifier (the hotel has several, and they were all being used by other guests-- red flag!). After a damp, sleepless night we called down again and got the same story. After a day on the beach there was still no dehumidifier. More calls downstairs did not help. Only after we went to the front desk and acted like a couple of jerks did they "find" us a dehumidifier. The machine ran non-stop, filling with water every few hours. The smell got better, but never went away. By the 4th day it had invaded our clothes, too. Marriott needs to do something about the air quality in this hotel before someone gets really sick. As mentioned, the rooms were otherwise great-- nice furniture, fabulous bed/bedding, new flat-screen TV, spacious bathroom (no fan, though). Cabana rooms are definitely bigger than those in the main tower. Everything was clean and housekeeping kept it that way throughout our stay. Everyone on the staff was extremely polite and friendly, even when we were complaining. The beach is good by San Juan standards, and there are plenty of chairs/umbrellas. Drinks/food are at typical resort prices, with acceptable quality. As you walk out of the hotel, there's a liquor store to the left and a Walgreen's to the right, both nearby. You can stock up on drinks/snacks and keep them in your room fridge. Tips: The blackjack tables in the casino are "no peek." So, if the dealer is showing an ace or face card, you should think twice before splitting or doubling down-- the dealer could end up with blackjack and you'll lose more than your original bet. Also, shop around before booking a tour with the hotel. They put us on a rainforest excursion that was basically just a $53 bus ride; Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: Fairmont Orchid Hawaii; City: Puako Kohala Coast Island of Hawaii Hawaii; Review: This was our first stay at a Fairmont, and we're fans! We stayed in the South Tower, overlooking Brown's restaurant and the ocean beyond. Our suite was spacious and very well maintained, and the furniture was elegant (not outdated as some have said). We would have liked a duvet on the bed, but otherwise the room was extremely comfortable. We wish we would have had more time to just hang out and explore the resort, but we were busy seeing the Big Island's sights. It takes a long time to drive around the island, so we were in the car a lot. It's a shame because there was plenty to keep us busy at the resort for several days! Perhaps when we return. Other advantages include a warm/welcoming staff, the resort's commitment to the environment, and several great restaurants. We had a fabulous dinner at Brown's one night with a lovely team of servers. The food was incredible. (Also note-- the hotel will cook your fish for you if you catch one during your stay!) Yes, resort prices are expensive, but everything in Hawaii is expensive. At least you get your money's worth at the Fairmont. If we could have changed one thing about this property, it would be the hot tub / kiddie pool situation. Which is it? No one seems to know. It has jets like a hot tub, but we saw it full of parents with babies. Diapers and hot tubs do not mix. It looks like a perfect spot to watch the sunset, so we would vote to make it an adults-only zone.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Ca del Nobile; City: Venice Veneto; Review: We stayed here in September for a few days. It was ok, but not nearly worth all the money we paid for our room. We had the Casanova room, which was very small, but we figured that it would be. We chose this place based on reviews saying how wonderful and helpful the owners were. Well, over 3 days we never saw these people. The sweet young woman who checked us in was there sometimes, and other times there seemed to be just random men hanging out in the lobby. They said "hi," but didn't introduce themselves, so we thought they were guests. Turned out they worked for the hotel, if you can call it "work." Mostly they sat on the couch and drank wine. The biggest problem was the bathroom. It was cramped and poorly kept, but the worst part was the lighting. The shower area was pitch dark. The light fixture was made out of overhead projector bulbs. There were about 10 bulbs in the fixture, but only 3 of them were working. All 3 working bulbs were pointed at the toilet. After the hotel staff told us it is a permanent issue with the electrical wiring and there was nothing that could be done about it, we tried to fix it ourselves. We managed to get the 3 bulbs pointed toward the sink/mirror area, but you still couldn't see well enough to properly get ready in the morning. Speaking of the morning, the continental breakfast was not good. The coffee was disgusting. There must be something wrong with the hotel's water because there's just no other way to make coffee taste the way this tasted. Also, coffee is made one cup at a time, so be prepared to wait, especially if there are other guests trying to eat at the same time. As for the location, it was on a quiet side street, just steps from the most crowded streets you can imagine. You walk out the door and half a block to the corner where you hit a slowly moving wall of humanity. At night it was a little better, but during the day it was insane. Apparently everyone walks through this area on their way between St. Mark's and Rialto. Also, coming to the hotel from the vaporetto stop at Rialto, you have to cross two bridges-- remember that when you're packing your suitcase. Overall, this place is not a good value. They need to lower their prices by half.; Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: Del Mar by Joy Resorts; City: Punta Cana La Altagracia Province Dominican Republic; Review: First off, we got a pretty good deal on our Alsol Del Mar vacation: $236 per night for two people in a Jr. Suite, all inclusive. Keep in mind that this resort does not have all of the usual amenities that a typical AI resort has. But, we were also allowed to use the amenities at The Sanctuary resort next door. The Santuary’s pools and beach were overcrowded, but their restaurants were easy to access. As noted by previous reviewers, the Alsol staff is great, with very few exceptions. All things considered, we had a good vacation for the price we paid. Unfortunately, we had lots of trouble with our room(s). Our first room, in building 10, seemed ok when we dropped off our luggage and headed to the pool after a long trip. When we returned to the room to get ready for dinner, it was extremely hot, around 90 degrees on the thermostat. The AC was running, but clearly something was wrong. We called the front desk and were told that maintenance was coming “right away.” An hour passed and we called again, then called again later. We asked to be moved to another room, but were told there were no other rooms. Eventually we gave up hope of going to dinner and asked the restaurant to bring food to our room. Finally two workers showed up, but neither one of them had any tools. One guy jumped up on the bathroom vanity and opened a panel in the ceiling. He banged around in there a while and played with the thermostat. Around 9 pm we were told that he had made it better, but “it’s not 100%” and he would have to come back. We were instructed to shut the balcony door so that the room could cool down. After another hour, the room was not any cooler and no one had come back. We called the front desk again and this time they said they’d move us to another room. Our new room was literally next door to our first room. We’d had a long day and went to bed immediately. The mattress was totally uncomfortable, with no mattress pad and cheap, rough sheets. We were so tired that we practically passed out, only to be jolted awake when someone unlocked our door and walked into our room. We yelled at them to leave, which they did without apologizing. The next morning we found that our room had no safe, no phone, really foul-smelling water, and the microwave did not work. We stopped at the front desk and reported these issues. After a few hours at the pool, we went to the front desk for an update. We were told that the resort had a lot of room problems and it would take more time for someone to get to ours. Later we went to our room and found the microwave beeping once every 10 seconds. We couldn’t make it stop. We still had no phone, so we went back to the front desk and informed them that; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort Spa; City: Honolulu Oahu Hawaii; Review: First and foremost, we had a great stay here and would stay here again if we ever return to Honolulu. The staff were all super friendly and helpful. The service was on par with what you'd get in a 5 star hotel. Can't think of a single employee who failed to smile at us. We wished we had taken more small bills for tips. The only suggestion we have for the staff is for them to Slow Down in the parking deck. The deck is extremely tight and it's hard for two vehicles to squeeze past each other. It helps if you're not rounding the corners at 40 mph. We were upgraded a bit to an Ocean Front "pure" room. We appreciated how big it was, with plenty of space to spread out our suitcases and we weren't tripping over them. Bathroom was in need of a remodel and the sink area needed more electrical outlets. Also, there was no exhaust fan in the shower/toilet room. The bed was fantastic--comfortable, with nice linens and pillows--and we slept well in it. The A/C was a little tricky and it would blow freezing air in your face if you sat at the desk while it was running. This room category comes with an air purifier which we ran the whole time. We found that it helped drown out the street noise, especially at night. Housekeeping was excellent and the room was clean, but we didn't feel like it was especially "pure." The hotel is oceanfront except for a few lanes of traffic to cross. There are no buildings blocking your view of the surfers across the street. Hyatt provides free beach chairs and towels that you can take to the beach, but Waikiki is incredibly crowded. We tried it one day and gave up after just two hours. Luckily, the hotel is just a short drive from several good beaches and about an hour from some really great ones. We loaded our free chairs/towels in our rental car and went beach-hopping around Oahu. This alone made the Hyatt the best choice for us. If you don't like the beach, the pool/pool bar is a terrific place to hang out. Breakfast was included with our room, so we ate at the hotel several mornings. The food was good, but it's more Japanese than Hawaiian. Maybe coconut syrup isn't authentic Hawaiian, but we expected to see it on the buffet. They brought us some from the kitchen when we asked. The hotel also offers an express breakfast so you can just grab food and go. This is a great option if you have an early tour or if you want to hit the gym first, then take breakfast to eat on your own private balcony. (The hotel gym is another feature we highly recommend). Overall, we felt this hotel was a great value. We're so glad we didn't shell out the extra cash for an ocean view room at the Westin or the Royal Hawaiian. Many thanks to everyone at Hyatt who took care of us; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Belmond Cap Juluca; City: West End Village Anguilla; Review: If you are someone whose top vacation priority is the beach, definitely go to Cap Juluca. Book a ground floor room so that you can walk straight off of your patio and onto the sand. You won't be disappointed. You don't even need to read the rest of this review. The beach is fantastic, but overall Cap Juluca is not a good value. For what you pay, the rooms are dated, the bed is not very comfortable, and things just don't work the way they should. The worst for us was the shower because it was impossible to regulate the temperature or the pressure. It went from boiling hot to freezing cold, and barely running to blasting so hard you had to move out of the way. Also, there was some loud equipment near our room that would come on every 5 - 10 minutes, run for about 60 seconds, then shut off. This occurred throughout our entire stay, every few minutes, day and night. Since our room was very close to the pool and restaurant, we think it could be pool equipment or maybe an ice machine. There were other problems with the room, but we didn't want to waste our vacation time dealing with the front desk or maintenance. We did call on our first night when we realized there was no safe in our room. It took 3 phone calls and 3 hours before anyone even came to look at the empty space where a safe should have been. For what we paid, we expected a more problem-free stay. Breakfast was pretty good, but nothing to write home about. The Wednesday night beach BBQ is NOT a beach BBQ. It's a buffet dinner at Blue. It was the most expensive dinner we had on the island, by far, and it was not nearly the best meal. Again, not a good value. Maybe we could have gotten our money's worth by filling up on grilled lobster, but it just wasn't very tasty. The staff was mostly helpful, but we ran into a few who could have been nicer. Check-in could be better organized and it should include a welcome drink and a property map, neither of which were offered to us. If the resort is renovated, or if they cut their prices, we would consider going back again.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Encantada Tulum; City: Tulum Yucatan Peninsula; Review: We were lucky enough to spend a few days at this beautiful property in February. This hotel is surrounded by plenty of shops, restaurants, and busy beach clubs, but all that somehow melts away the minute you walk through the entrance to Encantada. It’s amazing how peaceful and relaxing this property is. The rooms are exactly as they are pictured on the internet—beautiful! Spacious, too. The buildings are well constructed and meticulously maintained. Our bed was heavenly and we loved waking up to watch the sunrise every morning without even having to move. As everyone else has said, the staff was fantastic. They’re genuinely warm and engaging. They took excellent care of us but were never intrusive. We didn’t have the chance to meet any of the chefs/cooks, but we hope they know how much we enjoyed the seriously delicious food they prepared! Likewise, the bar staff prepared many excellent cups of coffee for us, which we missed as soon as we got home. Overall our stay felt a lot like staying at the private home of a (very wealthy) friend. Can’t wait to go back!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
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hotelrec
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Given the interaction history of a user with products as follows:
Title: Malice (BOOK 1) eBook; Brand: Visit Amazon's Amity Hope Page; Review: I loved this book. It was very fast paced and kept me reading. I can't wait for the next one in the series.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Dare to Dream (The Maxwell Series Book 2) - Kindle edition; Brand: Visit Amazon's S.B. Alexander Page; Review: I loved this second book in the series! It completes what was unknown from Book 1 and was very entertaining :); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Persuading Him (The Heiress Book 1) - Kindle edition; Brand: Visit Amazon's Michelle Dare Page; Review: The story moved along very nicely and kept my interest. It is about a rich heiress and her "pilot". The ending leaves you immediately looking for book 2 !; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Needing Him (The Heiress Book 2) - Kindle edition; Brand: Visit Amazon's Michelle Dare Page; Review: Book continues where book 1 left off and leaves you wanting book 3! I enjoyed this fast read between her "pilot" and the "heiress". There is a lot of romance and drama throughout this book and it moves rapidly along.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Just One Summer: A Summer Romance Novella - Kindle edition; Brand: Visit Amazon's A.D. Justice Page; Review: Just One Summer..... loved the story of Jagger and Mali! Supposed to be for just one summer that Jagger is to help Mali be more like Jagger as far as wild rather than sheltered. The novella goes through the summer to a great ending. Good to read anytime of the year, very enjoyable!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Devil's Lair (Book 4.5 of The Back-Up Series): A Lair Novel - Kindle edition; Brand: Visit Amazon's A.M. Madden Page; Review: A great novella about the favorite guys of Devil's Lair including their wives :) Greater insight into Hunter on their overseas tour. A very enjoyable read with new characters coming into the fold.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Killing The Sun: Part 1 - Kindle edition; Brand: Visit Amazon's Mara White Page; Review: Different type of suspense love novella. I read all three and would love to read more about what happens to Aimee! The story moves right along alternating between Danny and Aimee and filling in history as it goes. Gangster and sex scenes along with looking for love in all the wrong places....; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Prince & The Player (Dirty Players Book 1) - Kindle edition; Brand: Visit Amazon's Tia Louise Page; Review: Loved this fairy tale romance novel with just the right amount of suspense! I can't wait until next month for sequel :); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Promise (The Promise Series Book 1) - Kindle edition; Brand: Visit Amazon's Kate Benson Page; Review: Very good book but a little slow in the beginning but definitely moves fast to cliffhanger ending. I enjoyed reading about Sophie, Chase, Ana and Drake. The alternating narrations give different views but repeat at times the story to slow it down. Overall the book has a very good story line and I would recommend reading. I look forward to reading Book 2 to continue the series.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
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amazon_Kindle_Store
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Given the interaction history of a user with products as follows:
Title: DHP Separate Trundle for DHP Metal Daybed Frame - Black; Brand: DHP; Review: Easy assembly my 12 year old son put it together; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Best Price Mattress 6" Memory Foam Mattress and New Innovative Box Spring Set, Queen; Brand: Best Price Mattress; Review: Love my mattress easy assemble..only thing is they delivered my mattress first then two days later my box spring; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Essential Home Emily Breakfast Nook Kitchen Nook Solid Wood Corner Dining Breakfast Set Table Bench Chair Booth; Brand: Essential Home; Review: Thin wood..hard to assemble..need wood glue..and a small drill..; Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: Persian Area Rugs 6x9 3285 Gray Black White with Squares; Brand: Persian Area Rugs; Review: Regular rug worth 6 bucks..smaller than i expected; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Sorbus Kid’s Shoe Rack Junior Organizer Storage – 4 Levels for Shoes– Easy to Assemble – No Tools Required; Brand: Sorbus; Review: Rods don't fit; Rating: 1.0/5.0
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amazon_Home_and_Kitchen
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Given the interaction history of a user with movies/shows as follows:
Title: Russian Ark (2002); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Sunset Boulevard (1950); Rating: 1.0/5.0
Title: The Producers (1968); Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (2001); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: To Have and Have Not (1944); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone (2001); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Italian Job (2003); Rating: 1.0/5.0
Title: Seabiscuit (2003); Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: And Then There Were None (1945); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: O Brother (2000); Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: Anger Management (2003); Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: The Spy Who Came In from the Cold (1965); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Royal Tenenbaums (2001); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Death on the Nile (1978); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Under the Tuscan Sun (2003); Rating: 1.0/5.0
Title: The Godfather (1990); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: The Godfather (1972); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Dangerous Liaisons (1988); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: The Third Man (1949); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Night and Day (1946); Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen (2003); Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World (2003); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Somewhere in Time (1980); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Sirocco (1951); Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban (2004); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Talented Mr. Ripley (1999); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Agatha Christie's The Mirror Crack'd (1980); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Ocean's Twelve (2004); Rating: 1.0/5.0
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Given the interaction history of a user with books as follows:
Title: The Strain (The Strain Trilogy); Author: Visit Amazon's Guillermo del Toro Page; Review: It all begins with a single airplane that touches down and then goes dark, no lights and no sign of life which signals the beginning of the end of mankind as we know it. We are not alone and only too late do we learn that vampires are real. Forget the legends. Forget the myths and forget the movies featuring handsome men in dark capes with pointy white teeth. What springs forth from the imagination of Guillermo Del Toro and Chuck Hogan is so much more horrifying than all the myths and legends combined. But every myth and legend has some basis on fact but will the good guys be able to sort out the fact from fiction before it's too late? Only time will tell. Time we are running out of! Tired of pretty vampires with a conscience? Then you've come to the right place! These vampires are the kind that "you don't want to be bitten by." Think of them as as kinda like the mutated vampires in Blade 2 only much much nastier and why wouldn't they be after all Guillermo Del Toro was the director of Blade 2. So we have vampires, a horrible earth-ending plague, street thugs turned vampire hunters and one old man with way too much knowledge. Throw in the CDS for good measure and the result is one heart stopping, pulse pounding, adrenaline rush of pure terror. You get to enjoy all of the espionage, action and thrills that you've come to expect from Chuck Hogan along with the macabre, fantastic and dark twisted creatures that Del Toro is so well known for and you end up with this book: The Strain. From start to finish this book will leave you wanting more all the while praying that daybreak will soon banish the dark shadows of night. 5 Stars for this book from me. I always like a mean vampire tale that has a bite to it and this one has one heck of a bite!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Fall (The Strain Trilogy); Author: Guillermo Del Toro; Review: --- Very Little Or No Spoilers Here --- In the Strain Guillermo Del Toro and Chuck Hogan showed us a world where myth and legend were so much more horrifying that we could ever imagine ending the book on a near cliff-hanger aftermath of the ultimate struggle between good and evil. And now we have the Fall which picks up right where the Strain left off only now that we've had most of the characters introduced and the lines drawn between good and evil the book kicks the action and fear up a notch. Humankind is not alone and only a few people truly understand what is happening. While they struggle against an evil that seems near unstoppable they also try to make the world understand what is truly happening. This is not a normal virus! No normal strain! This is The Fall! Born from the evil of a master vampire and the heroes must race against the clock to find a way to stop it. Without giving away anything I can only say if you loved the Strain then you'll doubly enjoy The Fall. This book has more action, more horror and more answers that only lead to more questions. In book one the Characters were introduced and the plot established so with book two the authors were free to really put the peddle to the metal. I found myself unable to put this book down and my only regret is that I didn't pick these books up until they'd all been written. How will I ever make it until October when the third one comes out? I don't know but when it does come out get your night lights ready and make sure you have plenty of batteries because you won't want to spend too much time in the dark.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Dark-Eyes' War: Book Three of Blood of the Southlands; Author: Visit Amazon's David B. Coe Page; Review: I'm not going to go into plot on this one. There are plenty of those above but I do want to take a moment to let everyone know what I think of David B. Coe's writing. Recently I just finished the Southlands trilogy after reading The Winds of the Forelands series a while back and it was wonderful. David wrapped things up nicely and the Dark Eyes Wars was one of his best. Every time I read on of his books I'm amazed and reminded over and over why he is now one of my all time favorite authors. The man knows how to write. Do yourself a favor and pick up his books, you won't be disappointed.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Strain (The Strain Trilogy); Author: Visit Amazon's Guillermo del Toro Page; Review: The Night Eternal was a satisfying conclusion to this hair raising series. The first half of the book starts off a bit slower than the previous two but cleverly pulls you in, showing the horrors of the world under it's new regime before kicking into full throttle that leaves the neck breaking speed of the other two combined novels well behind. I love how the fist half subtly lulls you into a sense of peace and calm with a few shadows only ever seen from the corner of your eyes and just when you think it's safe to go to sleep the true horror descends upon you keeping you well up into the night, afraid of the shadows in your room and the vampires that may be hiding within. Excellent series that ends perfectly. If you loved the other two then you're in for a real treat with this one.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Moon Dance (Vampire for Hire, Book 1); Author: Visit Amazon's J.R. Rain Page; Review: I was bored a couple of weeks ago so I started downloading some free kindle books from Amazon and Moon Dance happened to be one of them. I was trying to choose which book to read first and eventually chose this one - I don't know if it was the cover which looked so much better than most of the other free books or if it was the description but regardless I gave it a try and I'm so glad I did. I cannot stop reading his books now. I ended up buying every sinlge book in this series along with all of the short stories and I had such a blast. Vampire for Hire is such a fun, light reading experience. The books aren't too long or too short, they're just right especially for the bargain price you get them for. I don't know which surpised me more the fact that these books are written so well and that I can relate to so many characters or the raw humor/emotion and sometimes horror that Samantha Moon exhibits. I love that she seems to enjoy Judge Judy as much as I do :) Not to mention the fact that she has evolved into one mean (yet curvy) crimefighter all the while having to deal with martial issues, new boyfriend issues, her own nature, keeping a conscience and doing what's right and doing what no one else can do all the while having to pick her kids up from soccer practice. I could go on and on but I'm now working on his Knighthorse series and am very surprised that I'm having just as much fun with those too. I don't even really read mysteries but Mr. Rain happens to be onto something very special here. I like how all of his characters co-exist in the same world. It's like a freaky, fun soap opera without any of the bad acting. I'm hooked for life and can't wait for the next Vampire for Hire book to come out.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Christmas Moon; Author: Visit Amazon's J.R. Rain Page; Review: This was another outstanding story by J.R. Rain. I was so expecting a nice little Christmas story, maybe with Santa (At least at the mall but heck you never know in these books) and maybe a bit of shopping and of course some Judge Judy but instead I got this very intersting tell. I don't want to give anything away but there's a reason this book is refferred to as book 4.5 I would definetly buy it after reading Moon child and before Vampire Dawn. It leads right into Vampire Dawn and has a major new interesting character that you will be seeing more of in books to come. I've mentioned on my first review of Moon Dance that I happened to download it for free along with a bunch of other kindle books and for some reason decided to start with it first. Needless to say I'm completely addicted to his books now. I haven't even read any of my other free books yet. I bought the rest of this series along with all the short stories and I just finished the fist Knighthorse book which I liked a lot which surprised me since I don't really read mysteries. He just has a very unique ways with words and humor/emotions that I seem to relate to which makes his characters feel very real no matter how crazy things get. Don't miss this one.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Vampire Dawn (Vampire for Hire Book 5) eBook; Author: Visit Amazon's J.R. Rain Page; Review: This book has been my favorite so far in the Vampire for Hire series. I really don't get why anyone complains about the size of these books, they're fun light reading kinda like a amped up soap opera. For 3.99 you cant really beat them. 168 pages might not sound like alot but try writing a good story that size and see how long it takes. I for one think the books are perfect in length and price. I like that I can finish a story fast after work or before work in a couple of hours or I can read them over a few days and take my time. You don't get bogged down in unimportant fluff to make the book longer like a lot of authors do instead you get all the good stuff at once. I've completely fallen in love with all of his characters and enjoy the humor and emotion that he writes with. Smantha Moon has been evolving into a really cool character and this one was by far my favorite. Give it a try and enjoy.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Vampire Games (Vampire for Hire Book 6) eBook; Author: Visit Amazon's J.R. Rain Page; Review: Wow I cannot believe how much I enjoy each book in this series. I just can't wait for the next to come out. Something very important happens to one of the main cast of characters in Vampire Games. I don't want to ruin it for anyone. I love how each book has a self contained story yet each book in the series has an over all story arc that leaves you wanting more at the end. J.R. Rain is one of my new favorite authors. I still can't believe how good these books are. I didn't have high hopes but tried the first book because it was free and now I'm completely addicted to all of his books even though Vampire for Hire is so far my favorite :) Can't wait for the next one now!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Host; Author: Visit Amazon's Stephenie Meyer Page; Review: This is one of my all time favorite books ever written. Yes, I enjoyed the Twilight Saga but the Host is just leaps and bounds so much better. It's extremely thought provoking and is really a fascinating portrait of humanity. It's not super action packed, there's no shirtless werewolf/vampire beefcakes running around but it's truly such an amazing book. I've read it twice so far and still not a day goes by that I don't think about it. This book will leave you thinking long after you've finished it. I know alot of people don't like Twilight and think the writing is atrocious but I really don't believe Stephenie Meyer is a bad writer or is bad with English. I think Bella was the one who was bad with English. This book more than proves that Stephenie Meyer not only has a great imagination, can tell a great story but can also write a great story. Maybe she was just holding back on Twilight or maybe it's just one of those things where you grow better as you practice your art. Kinda like sharpening a pencil. Either way the book was a very nice read. All of the characters felt more than real and had such a depth to them. I don't think anyone's ever done the whole pod people thing on this level. Usually you get to see it from the humans perspective and the invaders are evil but with the Host you find yourself in the aliens point of view and not only do you realize that they aren't evil but they're actually very nice. They didn't invade out of malice or anything: it's just what they do. In fact you actually come to see the humans as more barbaric and undeserving of this planet they occupy and then just when you almost dislike them Stephenie Meyer pulls out all the stops and makes you fall in love and like each side. It's very interesting reading a story from the invaders point of view and that alone would have been great but the aliens Host is still alive and trapped in her own body. I don't believe there's ever been a "love triangle" quite like this. In fact I don't think you could even call it a triangle. I know I'm being vague but I don't want to give anything away. Read the Host. Whether you enjoyed Twilight or not shouldn't matter. This story deserves to be judged on it's own merits and is an awesome thought provoking book. I could go on all day harping about it. Do yourself a favor and read this book. Don't wait for the movie which looks to be more action packed than the acutal book. The real action in the book is the internal dialogue between Wanderer (the invader/soul) and Melanie (her host). Part of me hopes she doesn't write any sequels because it is just such a perfect book even though a part of me wants more. It's a rather large book but by the last 100 pages or so I was; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Eona; Author: Visit Amazon's Alison Goodman Page; Review: I have to say I really enjoyed Eon/Eona alot. Remember people, the book has a different title based on different countries. The US version is Eon/Eona while the UK version is different. Anyway I found Eona every bit as engaging as the the first book. I did kinda miss the city though. I really loved the architecture and Alison Goodman's way of describing everything through Eon's view. Like I said in my review for Eon I don't think I've ever read such a descriptive first person pov book before. I really liked Eon and loved her progression throughout the two books. Remember this isn't your standard YA fantasy. There are some major adult themes going on here such as Eona's dual nature, prostitution, A woman's soul born into a man's body type stuff. The ongoing themes are very adult too. I see alot of people not liking Eona's character because she makes bad decisions and gets blamed even when it's not her fault. Personally I found it very refreshing. I get tired of all the goody goody too perfect female leads or even worse yet the goody goody I'm a victim and can't do anything without big strong and dumb to protect me and will just so like kill myself if he like ever leaves me. Sorry about that but honestly Eona very much represents real life. People screw up - ALOT! I make bad decisions everyday and guess what? If you make a decision and something happens that's bad because of your decision even if you didn't know that thing would happen you get blamed. It happens at work, at school, heck everywhere in the real world. That's why I loved Eona. She was real, she didn't know all the answers and much like real life she was kinda winging it as she went. I really loved her evolution from being a man in a man's world to finally rediscovering the woman inside of her. The world didn't need another man it needed Eona but she'd buried the female part of her so deep that no matter what kind of dress you put on her she'll never fully be a woman and I kinda liked that. She'd lived in both worlds and now resides somewhere inbetween. Oh don't get me wrong she's all woman but she's also very hardened. Will fight when needed and will love just as strongly when needed. Sigh, I could go on and on all day. Read Eon/Eona. Don't pass on such a rich world with even richer characters who are very true to life. These books have so much to offer: Plot, characters, sights, smells and sounds are all in rich vivid detail. I could almost smell the Cinnamon :); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Branded: Fall of Angels; Author: Visit Amazon's Keary Taylor Page; Review: Frist of all let me say this isn't my cup of tea but I read the book in two days so that has to say something. I felt there were alot of really neat ideas and I wanted to see what would happen. It was a pretty neat story and the author obviously worked very hard on it. Give it a try, it's free and you have nothing to lose. If you like romance and a good paranormal mystery then you should enjoy it.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Racing the Dark (Spirit Binders); Author: Visit Amazon's Alaya Dawn Johnson Page; Review: It's been a while since I read Racing the Dark but I can remember how much I loved this series. Alaya Dawn Johnson is a masterful storyteller and you would never guess that this is her debut novel. She writes like an old pro. There are just so many reasons why I would reccommend this book to anyone. She has a vivid imagination and I can honestly say there has never been anything quite like this story before. Her education in Foreign cultures really shines in this series. I'm not going to really go into plot, you can read the description for the book but I will say her characters are very three dimensional. It's not your average cliche coming of age tale. Lana's is both strong and tragic, she does good things and makes her fair share of mistakes. I've read the sequel and her writing just gets stronger and stronger as she goes. Nothing ever feels forced or fake in her stories. Do yourself a favor and read this tragic tale. I promise you've never read anything quite like this before.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Darkness Breaks: Darkness Breaks (Volume 2); Author: Visit Amazon's Jessica Sorensen Page; Review: All I can say is wow. I read the first one which was free and was instantly sucked in. I think the first book had one of the best opening lines ever but as much as I liked the first book and expected the second one to be just as good I was completely blown away. The second book was just so awesome and even better than the first. You get to find out a little bit more about what all is going on. The characters continue to grow and change in so many amazing ways. I honestly don't get how books like Maze Runner can be in every freaking store and on the NY Times bestsellers list while a truly great book like this isn't. Darkness Falls 1 and 2 deserve to be in every book store, Walmart, etc that is around. Not only are the chracters so much more believable but the storyline itself is just so much more imaginative. I'm eagerly awaiting the third book and will be buying it the second it comes out. My only complaint is that now I have to wait for the next one. Jessica Sorensen is a very good writer who seems to get better and better as she goes. I'm still amazed at how many mysteries within mysteries are within these books and I'd bet anything the last book is going to totally throw out some stuff that none of us will see coming. I can't wait!!!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Fallen Star: Fallen Star Series; Author: Visit Amazon's Jessica Sorensen Page; Review: I wasn't really sure I'd like this series. I'd just finished reading her Darkness Falls which is absolutely amazing and I had the first book of the Fallen Stars Series already downloaded since it was free. So I began reading and wasn't really sure I liked it alot. Honestly it wasn't until the end when I purchased the second book just to see what happened that I really starting enjoying it. Jessica Sorensen seems to get better and better which each book she writes. I've read all the books in this series and liked each one twice as much as the previous one. These are just fun books with some interesting chracters and ideas. Nothing too heavy to read which is maybe why I enjoyed it so much. Anyway, if you're not sure if this is your cup of tea or not then just give it a chance. The first one's free and they just get better and better as they go. I'm probably going to buy her new series which is a spin off of this one today. They're just too fun.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Underworld: Fallen Star Series; Author: Visit Amazon's Jessica Sorensen Page; Review: I really enjoyed this series and this book. I wasn't too sure on the first one but bought the second one because I wanted to see what happened. I ended up buying the whole series and enjoying them quite a bit. A very fun and enjoyable read. Jessica Sorensen just seems to get better and better with each book she writes.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Vision: Fallen Star Series; Author: Visit Amazon's Jessica Sorensen Page; Review: I really liked this book. I started with Jessica Sorensen's Darkness Falls series which was awesome and so far it's my favorite books by her. I'm waiting for the third one to come out :) I decided to read the first Fallen Star book because it was free and I enjoyed her other series so much. It was very different and I wasn't really sure I was into it but the first book left me wanting to know what would happen which I'm glad it did because the second book really got me into the whole series. Each book in her series (actually each book she writes) just seems to get better and better. This was a really fun book to read - very light reading and I had a blast with it.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Promise: Fallen Star Series (Volume 4); Author: Visit Amazon's Jessica Sorensen Page; Review: This book - actually this series was very fun to read. I liked the way she tied everything up and how it all ended. I consider books like these and J.R. Rain's to be "light" reading or fun reading. They're definetly a guilty pleasure I don't mind indulging in. And with the price they're well worth it. I always mention her Darkness Falls series which I absolutely love. That was the first series of hers that I read before trying these and you can just tell that with each book she becomes better and better at telling her story. If you like the rest of the Fallen Star series then this book won't let you down. Sorry not much of a discription but I hate spoilers so I refuse to give anything but my thoughts away.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: American Vampire; Author: Visit Amazon's J.R. Rain Page; Review: This series just gets better and better. Samantha Moon is evolving into a force to be reckoned with. Sometimes you have to fight fire with fire and even though she doestn't totally embrace her "darker" side she has no problem using her powers to give justice to those who are powerless to do it for themselves. I so love these books.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Vampire Moon; Author: Visit Amazon's J.R. Rain Page; Review: J.R. Rain has quickly become one of my greatest guilty pleasures. I started with the first book in his Vampire for Hire series called Moon Dance and totally fell in love with Samantha Moon. It was the first "free" book I'd ever read on the kindle for pc and I had received a Amazon gift card for my birthday so I ended up buying the rest of the series. These books just get better and better as they go. They're quick and fun to read yet somehow manage to have the depth found in larger books. Mr. Rain has a very unique form of humor - sometimes dark humor that I really relate to and I look forward to each new book that he writes.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Moon Child; Author: Visit Amazon's J. R. Rain Page; Review: Samantha Moon is a soccer mom, ex-wife and private investigator all in one but she's also a vampire who's life just keeps getting weirder and weirder. She's tackled serial killers, child predators and creepy stalkers along with other much more unnatural things that go bump in the night. Now she has met her greatest challenge and it is an enemy that even she might not be able to fight. Faced with immortality and power she never asked for she's worked very hard to be a good person, a great P.I. and an even better mom but what happens when one of those closest to her suddenly becomes very ill and might possibly die? When her youngest child becomes sick and grows worse each day Samantha faces a moral dilemna. What would a mother do to save her son? She has the power running through her veins to combat any sickness but the price would be to turn her loved one into a blood drinking vampire. Will she stand by and let nature take it's course when her sole duty on this earth is to protect those she loves? And what would the cost of saving her son the only way she knows how be? This by far is the best one yet. Samantha Moon and friends continue to evolve and change and every decision they make could have dire consequences.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Lost Soul: Fallen Souls Series (Volume 1); Author: Visit Amazon's Jessica Sorensen Page; Review: As much as I enjoyed the Fallen Star series I have to say I think I like this one even better. The characters are a little more grown up and mature although this series is still fine for YA. Jessica Sorensen has taken all of the characters we have all come to love and is taking them in exciting new directions. At first I wasn't too sure if I'd like this one but she managed to pull it off and keep things new and refreshing. Not knowing who's good or bad half of the time was cool and honestly Evil Gemma is so much fun. I can't wait to read more!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Blood Oath; Author: Visit Amazon's Christopher Farnsworth Page; Review: With all the fluff, cutesy, sweet romance vampires out there it's nice to see authors like Christopher Farnsworth writing a vampire novel you can really sink your teeth into. This book has it all: action, mystery, secret agents, scary vampires, damsels in distress (Well, sort of), villains that would do any James Bond movie proud, even a new sidekick. Nathaniel Cade is a scary man, of course he's not a man at all but a vampire and not just any vampire but the Presidents Vampire.. He is our last line of defense against all of the things that go bump in the night. Sworn to a blood oath over a century ago Mr. Cade protects our country from not only terrorists and other man made evils but also the horrors that must remain invisible to the common man. I had a great time with this book. It was action packed and was a very fast read. The book had a nice flow and doesn't ever get bogged down in pointless details or fluff to extend the pages. I've seen some reviewers saying it read's more like a movie and maybe it's because Mr. Farnsworth write screenplay's but I think his writing fits his characters perfectly. Mr. Cade is not a deep person (at least on the outside). He doesn't bemoan his situation, doesn't sit and whine oh why me, poor me. He only does one thing and he does it well but at the same time I feel that we haven't even scratched the surface with him and belive Mr. Farnsworth has left so much more of his past for later. This was a great debut novel. It's very James Bond meets ... well Vampires. The villians are top notch. They are mean, ruthless yet at no time do they feel fake or too over the top. There are so many things going on with the villians and shadowy organizations that you just know you'll be hearing more from them in the future. The action sequences are good and you get these brief looks into Mr. Cade's mind here and there. I for one can't wait to read more. The next book is already in the mail.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: A Wizard of Earthsea (The Earthsea Cycle); Author: Visit Amazon's Ursula K. Le Guin Page; Review: This book is simply magical. I feel no shame saying The Earthsea trilogy are the greatest pieces of literature since Shakespeare, maybe even of all time. Ursula K. Leguin is a true artist who brings a colorful world to life in ways no other author ever has or maybe ever will again for me. I still have my original books and pull them out at least once a year to read again. No other fantasy books have ever felt this magical to me. A true work of art.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Samantha Moon: The First Four Vampire for Hire Novels, Plus the Christmas Moon Novella and a Never-Before-Published Short Story; Author: Visit Amazon's J.R. Rain Page; Review: These books are so much fun to read. Whether writing from a male point of view or a female he never ceases to amaze me. Each of his characters in all his books feel very real and they all have their own unique sense of humor. One minute he can make me laugh and then the next nearly cry. Give Moon Dance a try, it's free so you have nothing to lose then go for these. Four great books at an excellent price. I've read most of his books and constantly check to see if he has any new one's out and can honestly say that I've probably enjoyed this series more than anything else I've read in a long time. This is a great series that will leave you wanting more. Plus who doesn't like it when Judge Judy totally hammers on some deadbeat :); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Moon Island; Author: Visit Amazon's J. R. Rain Page; Review: I've read each Vampire for Hire book and somehow J.R. Rain manages to do the impossible and that's to make something that's already great just get better and better with each book. I don't know if it's because of the smaller-form factor of his books or the fact that each one has a self contained story with an with an overreaching story-arch that flows through each book much like a soap opera. Maybe it's his wit and humor or the romance and gut wrenching drama. Or maybe it's a combination of all of the above. Whatever it is he's definetly onto something. Samantha Moon has become a staple in my house and I eagerly look forward to each new book in the series. This time Samantha Moon finds herself investigating a seemingly normal death of a gentelemen who drowned in his pool but this time it's on a mysterious ilsand complete with tales of sunken pirate ships, lost booty and even a pirate curse. Even with all that things are not what they seem on this island and now Samantha must meet her greatest challenge yet. (I know I say that everytime but it's true everytime) As the forces of darkenss grow Samantha seems to be rushing headlong towards her destiny. Once again Samantha Moon continues to evolve and grow. We get to briefly meet a new boyfriend and Samantha is once again faced with some difficult choices. Will she listen to her inner demon or her conscience? Find out in J.R. Rains latest isntallment. What is it about cool pirate islands that authors seem to be drawn too? I don't know but when it works it works and J.R. Rain manages to capture it well. I'm always amazed at Mr. Rains writing, the way he can make you laugh in one sentence and cry in the next. I come away from each of his books feeling as if it can't get any better than this. Hardly any author can create hit after hit, heck even Stephen King puts out a "Not quite so great" book every so often so I'm extremely impressed that each and every book I've read from J.R. Rain is a great story. On a side note I also want to let everyone know that this book is much longer than most of his other works. Alot of his books will end around the 70 something percent mark but not Moon Island. It lasted all the way to 96% and actually seemed to take much longer to read than his normal books which was definetly a nice Christmas bonus.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Red, White, and Blood: The President's Vampire 3; Author: ; Review: After reading Red, White and Blood I felt like I'd just stepped off of a rollercoaster. My adrenaline was pumping and the ending just left me speechless. Christopher Farnsworth is truly at the top of his game with his third outing of Nathaniel Cade. I loved Blood Oath and thought it was very unique. The Presidents Vampire had a neat story, some cool characters that will be showing up in future books and some great action but I felt that Mr. Farnsworth tried to do a little bit too much in that story. There was too much going on while it seemed like nothing much was happening at least until the end. Red, White and Blood is back to form and even better than his original book. This time he just concentrates on one big badguy: the Boogeyman who is attempting to destroy The President along with Nathan during the presidential elections. The Shadow Company is still present but we spend less time with them and less time setting everything up and more time on all the good stuff. Nathan, Zach and the Boogeyman all get the spotlight and it works well. Words can't truly even express how awesome this book was and the ending.....gah, I have no idea what's going to happen on the next book. I'm excited, nervous and extremely worried all at the same time. Farsnworth really knocked the ball out of the park with this one. I cannot wait for the next book to come out so I can see what happens next.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The President's Vampire; Author: Visit Amazon's Christopher Farnsworth Page; Review: After reading Blood Oath I was ready for some more adventures with Nathan Cade. I really liked the first book but honestly have to say I was a little bit let down by The Presidents Vampire. I think Christopher Farnsworth tried to do too much in his second outing and after two thirds of the book I was left thinking that there were alot of words but very little going on. Of course the last third of the book completely made up for it. Once again I feel Mr. Farnsworth's writing style really fits his characters. Nathan Cade is a man of action and little words so the fast paced action works really well here. I was originally thinking of giving this one three stars but after reading the third book I had to upgrade it to four. There are alot of new characters that you'll be seeing in his future books so it's really important not to skip this one. I kinda feel like this book is the equivilant of Back to the Future 2. It's a good story, just not as good as part 1 and 3 but it's an extremely important bridge that helps set the pace for future events perfectly. The characters as always are interesting, the story was good and well paced and of course the action was spectacularly over the top. I definetly would reccommend reading this one to get yoursel prepared for the third book which in my opinion completely blows away the other two.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Thieftaker (The Thieftaker Chronicles); Author: Visit Amazon's D. B. Jackson Page; Review: First of all I want to state that D.B. Jackson AKA David B. Coe is one of my favorite fantasy authors. I got into his books when I chanced upon the first book in his Winds of the Forelands series and bought the rest immediatly. If you haven't read them then do so, you will love them. David B. Coe finally has mixed his education in History with his art of writing and what he's produced is one of the best Historical Fantasies you'll ever read. The story is set in the pre Revolutionary era of Boston and involves Ethan Kaille a Thieftaker whose job it is to locate stolen goods. Only this particular Theiftaker is also a Conjurer or Spellmaker. I don't want to go into the story too much so I won't ruin it for you bet rest assured when purchasing this book that you're going to get a great story. David B. Coe is a master storyteller who's talent with words is as good if not better than the best authors in the field. He has a true talent when it comes to characters and "keeping them real". He doesn't do what alot of what I consider "High Fantasy" authors do which is give their villians/heroes unlimited power with hardly any explanation. His magic always feels real, even the most powerful characters have weaknesses. They're still only human. He also has such a way with the characters that even the evil one's are not over the top evil. There's alot of grey in his books instead of your standard black and white and I absolutely love it. Ethan Kaille is a man who feels fear, pain, and doubts. He's an honest man who's done some things in his past that he regrets. All of the characters feel real and nothing ever feels forced in his books. I could go on all day but I'll just say do yourself a favor and try this book out. You won't regret it.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Skinwalker (Jane Yellowrock, Book 1); Author: Visit Amazon's Faith Hunter Page; Review: I absolutely loved this book! I decided to try reading some Faith Hunter books after reading most of David B. Coe's fantasy works. They share a blogsite along with some fellow authors which is how I learned about her and the Jane Yellowrock series looked like alot of fun so I thought I'd give it a try. I have to say I was instantly hooked. Finally we get a great fantasy author who's not afraid to make her main character have a tender side. Sure she's tough and sexy but she's not just a killing machine. She's human...well sort of....and she is afraid at times, cries at other times and has a strong sense of morals, right and wrong plus she goes to church when she can. She's also not super omg-uber powerful and can't just kill everything in sight by batting an eyelash. She takes on some nasty opponents and gets hurt. Alot. Also every man in the world doesn't bow down to her and want her although she does have her fair share of interested guys. I guess what I'm saying is she's pretty normal, for a shapechanging gal that is and I like it. The characters are interesting and the world feels real to me. I can't wait to read each book in this series.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Blood Cross (Jane Yellowrock, Book 2); Author: Visit Amazon's Faith Hunter Page; Review: I really liked the first Jane Yellowrock novel so I was happily surprised when the second one was even better. We get more info on the Vampires and their politics and lore. We get a better look at the Witchy community and we get to start seeing a new side of Jane all in one book. I really liked the tension between Jane and Leo in the first book but after what happened in it things are even more tense with Leo and not in a good way. I love the fact that Jane and Beast are two seperate entities who co-exist and help each other and the fact that they both have thier own distinct voices. I like it when Beast is in control and we get to listen to her thoughts. She's alot smarter than Jane realizes and does some pretty crazy stuff this time around. The badguys are even badder. Jane gets some help from some old friends and the showdown at the end was tense. Ahhh, it just doesn't get any better than this. At least not until the next book :); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Mercy Blade (Jane Yellowrock, Book 3); Author: Visit Amazon's Faith Hunter Page; Review: I really enjoy the Jane Yellowrock series. So far each book has been better than the previous one and Jane's world continues along with herself to grow and evolve. Lots of important stuff happens in this book. Several new supernatural creatures come out of the closet (so to speak) and Jane finds herself in the middle of a brewing war between races. Every side wants a piece of Jane and not only does she have to figure out how to avert a war, but also how to rescue someone she cares about and figure out the identity of whoever it was that committed a murder on her watch. Things are changing in Jane Yellowrock's world and sometimes not all of those changes are good. Leo still isn't quite himself and what does a mysterious new person who also happened to save Jane's life have to do with all of the above? Find out in Mercy Blade.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Raven Cursed; Author: Visit Amazon's Faith Hunter Page; Review: Jane Yellowrock is sent with an envoy of Leo's to Asheville, North Carolina to act as securty when the head vampire there seeks permission to become Master of the City but unfortunatly evil from Jane's past follows her there. Amid crowded protests that people are making about the vampires something is killing campers in the woods and the fearful city folk think it is the vampires who have come to town. Jane's job is to find who or what is killing people along with keeping Leo's people safe and she's about to gets a whole lot more than she bargained for in the process. I honestly have to say that THIS is the book where everything starts to change. Jane's mysterious past starts to catch up with her. New foes along with rash decisions will plague Jane for a long time. She is also forced to confront a growing evil, an evil that is all to familiar to her and her friends and in the process she may lose everything that she holds dear. Do not skip this one. It is probably the single most important book in the series and my second favorite in the series right after Death's Rival.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Death's Rival (Jane Yellowrock); Author: Visit Amazon's Faith Hunter Page; Review: ---WARNING---[Minor Spoilers] I've loved every Jane Yellowrock book so far and Death's Rival is hands down the best in the series. Jane kicks some serious butt in this book. She and Beast did indeed prove that Jane/Beast is not prey! After the final battle I'm pretty sure that the whole Vampire community if not the world now knows that Jane is not to be trifled with. Alot of good and bad things happen in this book. We are introduced to 2 new characters that work for Jane - Not for Leo or Derrek or anyone else, just Jane. One's an Ex-Ranger and the other is a damn good computer hacker and they form a formidable duo of brawn and brains. We also get to meet a few members of the PsyLed team which Rick Joined and once again Jane has to face a nasty new foe who is more powerful than anything she's taken on so far. The big bad guy is also mysteriously linked to Jane's past which we get to find a bit more about. I've always liked that Jane's past is a mystery with her walking out of the woods alone and naked, unable to speak English at the age of 12 (I think she was 12). Well, we learn a bit more about her past in Death's Rival and finally get to find out whether or not she avenged her father's death. Even though those answers are finally solved we're still left with a bit of mystery such as what happened to her to cause her to be alone as Beast and what caused her to come out of the woods alone, naked and bloody. The final fight in this book alone is worth the price. It was simply incredible. I also felt this book was alot faster paced than the rest and had alot more action. It was very hectic and chaotic for Jane. Along with all the good things that happened to Jane she also had to face her share of bad things. Something horrible (well, in a way) happens in this book but I don't want to give it away. Also her issues with trust cause her a bit of trouble. How is everything going to work out? I have no idea but can't wait to read more in the next book which is supposed to be out in April (I'm keeping my fingers crossed). I simply cannot wait for more.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Bonds of Vengeance (Winds of the Forelands, Book 3); Author: Visit Amazon's David B. Coe Page; Review: I can honestly say after reading the Winds of the Forelands series that David B. Coe is one great writer. He's as good if not better than the top writers in the field. Mr. Coe has a real knack for characters and nothing ever feels faked or forced. There's a huge cast in these books which is usually hard to pull of but he manages to do it well. You have your action, adventure, mystery along with political intrigue. There's really very little black and white in these books. Even the vilest characters have shades of grey and because of that they are very lifelike. I'm not a fan of what I consider High Fantasy. Basically High Fantasy is when authors include magic with no boundaries or limits. I just don't care for all powerful sorcerers who draw on their magic from "who knows where" and it's just unlimited. The Qirsi are born with their powers and they are very limited. Yes they can be dangerous and yes the Weavers are very powerful but there are limits. Even a weaver without a whole group of Qirsi gets tired after using his magic a few times and each use wears him out more and makes the magic weaker. A normal Qirsi shaper can shatter a few blades before he's too worn out for any more. And even a Weaver with a small army of Qirsi can be beaten. A weaver is a Qirsi who can weave together the magic of other Qirsi and combine thier powers making them greater as a whole. I could go on all day but will just say if you love fantasy, a large cast of interesting and unique characters who feel and act real then do yourself a favor and read this series. An Excellent read!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Weavers of War: Book Five of Winds of the Forelands; Author: Visit Amazon's David B. Coe Page; Review: Finally the Weavers face off in a war that will forever change the Forelands. Once again David B. Coe shows his mastery of the craft. With a large cast, plenty of action, adventure and political intrigue this book has it all. This is by far one of my favorite series of all times. The characters are very real, the magic plausible and the story itself as a whole was incredible. If you love fantasy then give this series a try. I promise you will not be disappointed. One of Mr. Coe's strongest points is his characters. Much like real life there isn't always just black and white, good and evil but shades of grey. At one point in the series I found myself laughing with glee as the badguy took over a kingdom. A badguy who I hated very much. That is a testemat to the power of his characters. When you can sympathize and support a villain that you hate then the author has done a damn fine job. The assassin who started it all is another example. I started out hating him but grew to really like his character and even sympathize a bit even if I didn't truly like his actions. Not that anyone just suddenly turns goody goody all of a sudden and goes agains their own natures. Nothing like that really happens it's just that he makes his characters so human that you can't help but enjoy them. All in all one of the best fantasy series I've ever read and I enjoyed every moment of it.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Sorcerers' Plague: Book One of Blood of the Southlands; Author: Visit Amazon's David B. Coe Page; Review: I had just read the Wind of the Forelands which is one of my all time new favorite series and saw these books. I didn't know what they were about other than they were set in the same world and that they were written by David B. Coe which was enough for me. I was very happy and surprised to learn that they were about one of the main characters in the Winds of the Forelands and his continuing journey along with his new wife and child. Mr. Coe does it again. We are once agin thrown into the middle of political intrigue, action, adventure and the racism between the two races that the main character thought he'd left behind in the Forelands only to find that old grudges and feuds exist centuries later in the heart of his people's homeland. Only now a horrible plague is affecting the Qirsi's magic, using it against them, killing all in it's path and the main Weaver must find out who and or what is causing it. Especially if he wants to leave the powerful tribe of Qirsi that has claimed him. If he succeeds he and his wife may go free, if not then he must submit to the Chief and marry another Weaver leaving his wife. He doesn't intend for that to happen no matter what and his nature demands that he help to stop this horrible plague. All in all another excellent book in an awesome new series with strong characters that are as real as they come. I love this world!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Horsemen's Gambit: Book Two of Blood of the Southlands; Author: Visit Amazon's David B. Coe Page; Review: The second book in the Southland trilogy picks up where the first one left off. We're introduced to more characters and even though the source of the plauge has been stopped, it continues to spread weakining the Qirsi leaving them vulnerable to an attack that the humans have been dreaming of for years. As war brews in the Soutlands Grinsa's loyalties are tested. Once again he finds himself pitted between the Qirsi and the Eandi. Only this time his wife and the new home he hopes to make for himself are threatened. David B. Coe is an excellent writer. His characters are so extremely real and nothing ever feels fake or forced. He has a way with words and is very good at introducing alot of characters and making you like each and every one of them no matter how good or bad they are. The cast isn't quite as large as it was in the Forelands but it is every bit as intersting. I love these books.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Vampire in the Iron Mask (The Spinoza Trilogy Book 3) eBook; Author: Visit Amazon's J.R. Rain Page; Review: And so the Spinoza series comes to a conclusion. Right next to The Vampire for Hire series this one is my favorite. These books were just so much fun to read! J.R. Rain knows how to tell a good story and how to wrap things up nicely while still leaving room for the future in case he ever wants to revisit these characters. This book was excellent and practially brought tears to my eyes. For the third and final volume in the Spinoza Trilogy Spinoza is hired to look into a person who may be being held against their will at a Medievel Times like place. Every day for the show someone is wheeled out in a Hannibal Lecter type cage and then wheeled back in and down an elevator. The worker who hired Spinoza has never seen this "actor" before. Nobody knows who it is and nobody seems to want to talk about what may or may not be in the basement. So Spinoza does what he does best and along the way runs into an old friend who he saved in the first book. Together they work to unravel the mystery of the person in the Iron Mask and in the process must face a growing evil yet one question remains. Is the thing in the Iron Mask there for a reason. Is it good or bad? Read to find out. I love how Mr. Rain throws in characters from other books here and there or mentions them. In each book we either get hear about and see other characters such as Jim Knighthorse, Elvis and even a mention of Samantha Moon. It's these fun little things along with the awesome stories and his great sense of humor which always keeps me coming back for more. I loved every minute of this book and hope to see Veronica and Natassa in their own series or maybe even show up in the Vampire for Hire books.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Body Departed; Author: Visit Amazon's J.R. Rain Page; Review: If I had to just sum this book up with one sentence then I'd say this book was beautiful. It's extremely thought provoking and imaginitave and will make you think. Every action has a consequence and sometimes those consequences last with us even long after death. I think that even if only one person could learn something from reading this book then the Earth will be a much better place. The storyline was fantastic and I don't really want to give anything away so if you enjoy a good ghost story along with the power of compassion and forgiveness then do yourself a favor and read The Body Departed.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Zombie Patrol (Walking Plague Trilogy); Author: Visit Amazon's J.R. Rain Page; Review: Wow! I loved every second of this book and cannot wait for more! I pre-ordered Zombie Patrol a day or two ago and couldn't stop reading it today. J.R. Rain is one of my favorite authors and I quickly snatch up anything he puts out. I know that when I'm getting one of his books that it's going to be a fun and exciting story. With that being said I've never read on of his collaborations until now. I've read most of his books: the Vamire for Hire series (my personal favorite - now along with Zombie Patrol), his Jim Knighthorse and Spinoza series, Elvis has not left the building and The Body Departed (great ghost story - brought a tear to my eyes) along with most of his short story collections. So I wasn't sure if I'd like this one as much but it was everything and more than what I've come to expect from Mr. Rain. I haven't ready anything from Elizabeth Basque yet but after this book I definetly intend to check her works out. In Zombie Patrol Jack Carter is a Forest Ranger who deals with wild animals, drug runners and the occassional criminal. He's also a single father who's going through all the things a normal father do rasing a teenage daughter on his own. He has to deal with Anna's grwoing up, starting to like boys and becoming more independent and if that wasn't enough now he has to also deal with a Zombie Invasion. One day Jack's brother Joey (A Navy Officer) and a friend show up on his doorstep sick with what seems like at the time your average flu bug but it's not the flu and Jack's about to learn that being a father and brother are about to get alot tougher in this new zombie ridden world. I'd like to let everyone know that this story is a bit darker than Rain's usual stories. His characters are every bit as real. They're heroic yet flawed, caring yet make mistakes. The plot flows almost effortlessly and it's easy to get caught up in Jake's life while he tries to figure out how to help his family and keep his daughter safe. I really cared about the characters and found myself at the edge of my seat with worry in more than one spot in the story. I can honestly say I haven't been this excited about a new series in a long time. I truly cannot wait for the next one. I need to know what's going to happen next!!!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Vampire Gold: A Samantha Moon Story; Author: Visit Amazon's J.R. Rain Page; Review: Once again J.R. Rain proves why he's won my trust and admiration as an author. I will pretty much buy anything he puts out and especially enjoy his Samantha Moon or Vampire for Hire series. There's a few short stories to go with the Samantha Moon story but they're all very short - like 2-4 pages but I had fun with them. I appreciate Mr. Rain's sense of humor and his stories always bring a smile to my face. The Samantha Moon story takes up most of the book and was a fun, light read. Samantha Moon is hired to find a buried treasure from the grandson of a crazy grandfather who hid it somewhere. There's a treasure map with a big red X along with four riddles to solve and whoever finds it gets the treasure. After a few years of searching most of the family members give up leaving one man to try and hire Samantha. It was a fun and heartwarming story and it even had a hint of what may be to come in his next book along with a reference or two from Moon Island. All in all this book was a enjoyable read and I can't wait for more Samantha Moon books to come out! On a side note I just wanted to say that I do not think it's very fair giving bad or low ratings because people think the book is too small or the stories are too short. It is listed as a short story and everyone is able to view the page count before buying. It's like buying a 10 lb. bag of rocks and then complaining it's not a 20 lb. back of rocks even though there's a giant sign that says 10lbs. in big red letters and a big 10lb. Printed on the bag. It makes no sense. Please look at the page count and leave a review based on how much you enjoyed the actual story. It clearly states how many pages!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: War of the Fae: Book 1, The Changelings (Volume 1); Author: Visit Amazon's Elle Casey Page; Review: I had such a fun time reading this book! I seem to have had a nice good luck streak going with finding really awesome independent books/authors on Amazon lately but even with that streak I was more than pleasantly surprised with this book. It's really one of the best books I've read in quite a while and I've read some really good books lately. Ms. Casey's voice is refreshingly unique and I found Jayne to be a complete riot. All of her friends were just so fun to read about and I especially liked Becky (she's just too cute!) There wasn't any of the usual teenage angst or coldness coming from any of the characters like in alot of nYA books ow and I liked all of the characters alot. Jaynes wit and sense of humor along with her language had me laughing through most of the book. Yeah she's a rebel and yes she curses but she's also a good person, a loyal friend, someone who can take charge, someone who has a bit of an ego (what teenager doesn't?) without being too egotistical or full of herself. I really like how real everyone seemed and acted. Nothing felt forced or fake. None of the kids are perfect and all of them have their problems but they're good decent people. Just because you're good doesn't mean you can't cuss, smoke a cigarette or enjoy a beer every so often : ) I could go on all day long and I'm definetly hooked on this series and cannot wait to read more from Ms. Casey. My only problem is I have to wait till payday to get the next book. What was intended to be a book to hold me over became a series I now HAVE to read.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: War of the Fae: Book 2, Call to Arms (Volume 2); Author: Visit Amazon's Elle Casey Page; Review: As much as I loved War of the Fae Book 1, Book 2 was even better. These books are just so much fun. I really enjoy a great series and so far this is turning out to be one of the best. In all of the best series in each subsequent book it feels like you're coming home to friends and family and that's exactly how I feel about Jayne and her fae friends. It's like I'm part of the gang, living their adventures with them, laughing (alot) and learning about their miraculous new world beside them. Jayne's sense of humor and choice of words are constantly cracking me up. I really don't think I've had this much fun reading a book in a very long time, if ever. This is only the second book I've read by Elle Casey but I've already given this great author a folder of her own on my Kindle because I plan on reading everything she's written. I really advise anyone who enjoys reading to check these books out. You won't be sorry.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: War of the Fae: Book 3, Darkness & Light (Volume 3); Author: Visit Amazon's Elle Casey Page; Review: Things are definetly starting to heat up in Darkness and Light: Book 3 of War of the Fae. The fist two books dealt with Jayne and her friends finding out they were Fae and dealt with their training and how they reacted to finding themselves in an extrodinary world with extroidinary powers. In Book 3 they're still training but the additon of Jayne's best friend to the Fae really amps up the level of that training and things start to heat up as the war between Light and Dark ignites. I enjoyed the first two books alot and this one didn't disappoint. Jayne is still Jayne, crude language and all. Tim is still a crazy pixie with bad gas and all of their friends continue to evolve, grow and change (some in not so good of ways). This book was a little more intense than the last two due to certain events that take place along with the brewing war but as always the way Jayne deals with every situation is so much fun. I like that not all of my questions have been answered yet and I cannot wait to see what happens next. I also really enjoy that these stories are not predictable. I have no idea what's going to happen next most of the time and anything and everything can and will happen. It really keeps you on your toes. The writing is superb and Mrs. Casey really has a way with words. There's just something special about this series that brings a smile to my face, it's impossible to have a bad day after reading them (maybe they have some type of pixie spell on them?).; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: War of the Fae: Book 4, New World Order (Volume 4); Author: Visit Amazon's Elle Casey Page; Review: NO Spoilers Here: Wow! I really cannot even express how much I enjoyed this series but I will try to anyway. I started the War of the Fae with the first book which was free as a way to tide me over until the last book in the Infernal Devices comes out. What started out as another free book ended up being a complete series that I ended up reading back to back. It's not unusual for me to read multiple books/series at once and I was currently reading the Otherworld series by Tad Williams and His Dark Materials Trilogy by Philip Pullman (which are both outstandingly excellent series) and I had to put them both on hold because I was enjoying War of the Fae so much. I love both of those other series but this book was just too much fun and I couldn't put it down. In New World Order this series that I thought was heading in one direction takes a complete 180 degree turn and goes somewhere I wasn't expecting (I can't say too much without giving it away) The ending was simply incredible. I think I had a big smile on my face for the whole last couple of chapters. Things wrapped up nicely in this book and give you a hint of what's to come in the follow up series Clash of the Otherworlds. This was by far one of the best endings (Beginnings) I've seen in a book and I cannot wait to see how Jayne and her friends deal with everything in the next series. Every once in a while a book just comes out of the blue and blindsides you with it's awesomeness and this was one of them. I simply cannot recommend these books enough. If you enjoy fantasy, lots of colorful language and just enjoy life in general then you should enjoy these books. Thank you Mrs. Casey for taking me on such a wonderful adventure.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Clash of the Otherworlds: Book 1 (After the Fall) (Volume 1); Author: Visit Amazon's Elle Casey Page; Review: I don't know how Elle Casey does it but somehow each book just gets better and better! Clash of the Otherworlds picks up immediately right after New World Order (War of the Fae book 4) and doesn't let up until the very last page. I love how each book leaves off in a cliffhanger and not a normal to be continued cliffhanger either but a Lol OMG WTF, My brain will explode unless I get to read the next book cliffhanger. Jayne and all her friends are back but this time around they have to deal with problems on a cosmic scale. New friends and enemies are introduced and Jayne is still nearly clueless when it comes to her abilities and the fae world in which she inhabits although she still manages to kick serious butt. Her language is still just as colorful and having Tim and his family around make it so hilarious. Nothing like a baby pixie going around repeating the one word or words that you don't want him to repeat. This is truly a great book, so good in fact that I went ahead and put off getting the Infernal Devices 3 which comes out in a few days so that I could buy the rest of this series along with the first book in the Apocalypsis series. There's just something infectious about Elle Casey's writing. I'm a fast reader but not usually this fast. I couldn't put this book down and have missed a lot of sleep these last two weeks and I've enjoyed every minute of it. Be sure to read War of the Fae first so you'll know what's going on and enjoy this book even more. You might not get much sleep reading them but you'll have a blast. Once again Elle Casey has outdone herself proving why she has so quickly become one of my favorite all time authors. One of my many favorite passages from Clash of the Otherworlds Book 1 After the Fall: "I'll have you know that the fruit of my loins? ... It's passionfruit, baby. Passionfruit" "More like fruit loops," I've never used bookmarks or highlights on my Kindle but some of the stuff being said in this book was just too funny so now I have Mrs. Casey to thank for learning how to use these features :); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Clash of the Otherworlds: Book 2 (Between the Realms) (Volume 2); Author: Visit Amazon's Elle Casey Page; Review: Once again Elle Casey raises the bar. Just when you think it can't get any better you read the next book and are blown away. I haven't been a Young Adult in quite a while except at heart which just goes to show that anyone of any age can enjoy these books. Just when I think I have everything and everyone figured out Mrs. Casey takes the story on an unexpected turn. I really did not see certain events coming. There's a character (or two) that I really want to like but it's getting very hard after all the bad things they've done. I hope they can change but it's hard to tell at the moment. I think Jayne has finally settled on who is going to be her romantic interest and I was happy to see who it was (pretty much the guy I was hoping she'd fall for since the first book) although you never know with these books so I'll just keep my fingers crossed. Tim and his son are insane. I don't think I've ever laughed so hard in my life. What's with the "Spider Nakies" and "polly balls"? I don't even know how she comes up with this stuff but I'm certainly glad she does. Elle Casey has a wonderful imagination, her characters are real, flawed, funny and everything you'd expect out of a motley group of friends. Her sense of humor leaves me laughing for most of the book (my relatives think I'm insane by now I'm sure) and her pacing is perfect. She's truly a talented author and I'm so glad that Amazon, Goodreads, etc have made it possible for independent authors everywhere to share their stories with us. This book deserves to be on the shelf at every single bookstore, Walmart, Target, anywhere books are sold, it's simply that good. I have to go start the 3rd book now. It's been hard writing this review and waiting even this long to see what happens next. These books just pull you into them and once there you never want to leave.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Clash of the Otherworlds: Book 3 (Portal Guardians) (Volume 3); Author: Visit Amazon's Elle Casey Page; Review: This was an exceptional book! Clash of the Otherworlds along with it's predecessor series War of the Fae are now my favorite fantasy series. This book was just so good! All of my questions were answered and all of my favorite characters ended exactly where they should and with who they should. One thing I don't like sometimes in a book, especially a series is when they end it right after the final battle and the goodguys walk into the sunset or something. I like to know how everyone is doing after the big final confrontation is over and I was so happy that this book did that. There were several chapters left to go after the final fight and we get to see how everyone's doing, where they're at, who they end up with, etc. and it was just a perfect ending. Jayne ended up with the person I was hoping she would end up with :) This book along with the whole series was just so much fun to read. I don't think I've ever laughed so much reading before, especially when Jayne and Tim are doing something. Their dialogue just cracks me up. I ended up reading this one in just one day. I notice a lot of people in the reviews section saying the same thing. It's really really hard to put these books down. I would be happy reading another 20 books about Jayne and all her fae friends but unfortunately all good things must come to an end. If Elle Casey ever decides to revisit this world I'll definitely do a happy dance but if not then that's cool too, I'm sure she has other wonderful worlds just waiting to be created. There's just something very magical about her writing and I cannot wait to read more from her. War of the Fae along with Clash of the Otherworlds are two series that I will be reading again and again someday in the future.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Apocalypsis: Book 1: Kahayatle (Volume 1); Author: Visit Amazon's Elle Casey Page; Review: A FEW MINOR SPOILERS!!! This is quite possibly one of the best dystopian novels I've ever read! The setting for this series is very unique, a weird plague or something has wiped out all of the adults and young children leaving behind only those teens who are in puberty. Once most of the food has run out the locals go all cannibal and start attacking other children for food. It's really creepy and horrible. I love the main characters. Bryn is awesome and her fighting skills rock. Peter is sweet and such a good person but he's super smart. I have a feeling we'll be seeing much more of what he can do in books to come and then there's Bodo the crazy German exchange student. I really liked his character. He just seems to go with the flow and is almost always happy and optimistic. The fact that he doesn't understand a lot of American phrases makes him so funny. There was a chapter in the book where Bryn and Bodo were talking about doodling and it had me laughing so hard I almost fell out of my chair. I wonder what Bodo's backstory is? The real hero of the book though is Buster the poodle. You can tell Mrs. Casey has a poodle. Nobody who hasn't ever had the great fortune to have such a loyal family member would be able to do them the proper justice. My mom has had two poodles and they're every bit as loyal, fierce, smart and loving as she portrays them to be. It's impossible to have a poodle without getting all silly and using baby talk or poodle talk with them. Buster is just so awesome and I hope he makes it through everything. There's just something about books like this that I really enjoy. I mean except for the whole cannibal thing I think there's a part of me that really likes the idea of complete freedom and just living the best you can off of the land without having to worry about society, money, politics, etc. I wouldn't really want to do that but I like to dream about it :) Just living your life how you want with some good friends and a nice place to call home. Elle Casey's characters are always top notch. They become the readers friends and family and we suffer along beside them. We laugh when they do and cry when things are bad. They're extremely relatable and once again I was sucked into the world she created. I cannot wait to see what happens next for everyone. I love that they ended up with a Native American tribe or what's left of it. I so hope they can build a good home there for themselves but with things going so bad in the outside world you never know what's going to happen and from reading her other books I know anything and everything can and will happen and I probably won't see any of it coming. I just have to try and finish each; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Clockwork Princess; Author: Visit Amazon's Cassandra Clare Page; Review: The Infernal Devices especially this last book: Clockwork Princess have given me a whole new appreciation for the Mortal Instruments. Don't get me wrong, I really liked the first series a lot - it's definitely a 5 star rating but the Infernal Devices trilogy was just simply spectacular. All of my main questions were answered and this series made me understand the motives and personalities of all the characters in the Mortal Instruments so much better. I now completely understand why Magnus Bane helped Jace and Clary along with all the other Shadowhunters. I really liked Magnus Bane in the first books but now that I know and understand his motives even more he's become one of my favorite characters. Cassandra Clare is growing as an author and her books just seem to get better and better. The relationship between Will, Jem and Tessa was extremely deep. These characters are not carbon copies of the first series at all. They have their own personalities, tragedies, loves and problems. I was sucked into this book alongside it's characters and laughed and cried with them. This series in my opinion ranks at the top of my favorites list alongside the likes of A Wizard of Earthsea trilogy by Ursula K. Leguin, The War of the Fae/Clash of the Otherworlds by Elle Casey and the Coldfire Trilogy by C.S. Friedman. I knew going into it that this was going to be a tragic tale but the way in which events happened took me by complete surprise. There were some stunning twists and turns that I never saw coming and I was very relieved and satisfied with the way this series ended. I'm also hopeful that we'll be seeing some of the characters in the last book of the Mortal Instruments. I think I'm going to have to go back and read the Mortal Instruments (It's been a while since I've read them) so I can see how everyone is related. Unfortunately the Kindle version didn't come with the family tree which is kinda a good thing since it would have spoiled the story for me, but now that I finished the book I'd love to look at it. I would love to talk about everything that happened and the characters but don't want to spoil anything. Although I do have to say that I hope the Shadowhunter's nowaday's finally recognize Henry's genius. He might have been absentminded but his contributions to the Shadowhunters are huge. Some of his devices are used to this day and I hope his genius is mentioned in City of Heavenly Fire. I also noticed that Casandra Clare plans on publishing some smaller stories about Magnus Bane and other characters. Ones called "What really happened in Peru" (The Bane Chronicles) More Magnus Bane? Yes please! I cannot wait to read it. I don't think there will ever be such a thing as too much Magnus Bane for me. Do yourself a favor and read the Mortal Instruments then the Infernal Devices. You'll enjoy both series so much more after reading them; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Wrecked (Volume 1); Author: Visit Amazon's Elle Casey Page; Review: This isn't the type of book that I normally read. In fact I was about to get Aces High which I'm going to buy very soon. I read the sample along with this one and was just totally hooked in. I don't know if the sample chapters for Wrecked were just longer or what but I just had to see what was going to happen and how they ended up stranded. Normally I read pretty much any kind of fantasy, as long as it has the supernatural in it in one form or another I'll give it a try. Elle Casey is hands down my favorite author and having read some of her previous works I know that I can expect strong characters and a fun storyline and I wasn't disappointed. I really enjoyed Wrecked and was amazed at how the characters transformed before my eyes. I liked Jonathan and Candi from the get go but wasn't too sure about Sarah or Kevin. I thought Sarah was shallow and mean and didn't like how she was treating Candi but you quickly come to see who she truly is on the inside and why she acts the way she does. Kevin surprised me though. I thought he was just going to be a shallow jock who would bully and make fun of Jonathan the whole trip but he turned out to be a fun easy going kind of guy with a lot of depth. Sure he was shallow on the outside, dating all the same type of girls, not caring too much about them and just concentrating on his sport but deep down he's a good person who seems afraid of finding the "right one". You could tell early on that he was enjoying being around Candi and Jonathan and it was probably a nice change of pace from his normal life. All four of the kids grew and changed over the course of events in the book. It's like all four of them were perfect for each other. Sarah and Kevin became the people that they were always afraid to show others, Candi learned that she was not only smart but beautiful and courageous. Jonathan's "too much information" was a real asset for once and they all complimented each other nicely. This book is great for young adults of all ages. I'm nearly 40 but still have the soul of a teenager so I could totally relate to everything. I haven't grown up so much that I can't remember how awkward being a teenager is. Not being good around girls, or being popular enough, of never knowing the right thing to say and being jealous of those that in all truths I really wouldn't want to be like anyway. At one point or another in life I've pretty much felt like each of them do and at no time did I have to suspend my disbelief to understand where they were coming from. This book had it all: adventure, romance, action all wrapped in a great story. The end had me on; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Reckless (Wrecked) (Volume 2); Author: Visit Amazon's Elle Casey Page; Review: Feeling a little Reckless and need some adventure? Then this is the book for you. During Wrecked: Jonathan, Sarah, Candi and Kevin were shipwrecked on a seemingly deserted island and learned how to live in the wild while learning a lot about themselves. Each character matured and grew on each other while growing on us the readers. Finally they pretty much rescued themselves and ended up coming home. Each of them changed in various ways. Jonathans endless bank of knowledge became very useful, Candi slowly came out of her shell realizing she was not only beautiful but brave and smart. Kevin became the person he was on the inside and learned to allow others to see his true self and Sarah learned to let others past the wall she had built around herself. So now in Reckless they should be home, safe and sound right? Wrong! I was afraid that after being stranded on an island that there really wouldn't be much action in this book compared to the first one and I was way wrong. Once again the characters are very well fleshed out and they have to work as a team to stay alive and help each other. I love how Jonathan, Sarah, Kevin and Candi fit so well together and how they've realized as a family they can accomplish so much more than by themselves. What began as a fun adventure in Wrecked becomes a defining moment in this group of young adults lives that will forever change them. I really enjoyed watching everyone mature in so many different ways and how their self training on the island aided them in this book. There was a person in the first book that I so hated and I was very happy to see their personal problems resolved in this one. There were a lot of very fun moments, my favorite being when Sarah was trying to lay down in a hammock but there was also a lot of tense moments also. I was very sad towards the end but can't really say much without giving it away so I'll just let you'll know that I was very pleased with the ending. Actually I think I can say the ending was perfect. If you love a good action book with deep characters who you can relate to then give Reckless a try (make sure you read Wrecked first though) and then check out War of the Fae, Clash of the Otherworlds and Apocalypsis. They're all awesome series. I'm only sad that I read it all in one sitting instead of savoring it but it's impossible to slow down with Elle Casey's books. Oh, I almost forgot I really liked Xena and James too, poor Xena and Sarah have so much in common. I'm going to miss these characters but you never know, maybe one day we'll see them again. Reckless is just another reason why Elle Casey is my favorite author. Thank you.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Blood Trade (Jane Yellowrock); Author: Visit Amazon's Faith Hunter Page; Review: Faith Hunters Jane Yellowrock series is one of my must read books. I eagerly look forward to each and every one and they never fail to satisfy me. Jane Yellowrock has gone through a lot during the span of the series and Blood Trade picks up exactly where Death's Rival left off. In Death's Rival you see Jane starting to get back to the basics and break away from the big bad Master of the City Leo and all his cronies and she goes even further in this book. She's got her own crew, friends and family and is no longer quite so dependent on Leo or any other organizations. Much like the first book Blood Trade shows Jane doing what she does best and that's hunting down rogue vampires and protecting the weak. Some old friends ask Jane for help while she's in the middle of working for the MOC of Natchez to hunt the leftover Naturaleza vampires that do not obey the Vampire Carta or law and believe they have the right to take their meals from whomever they want, whenever they want. And she gets caught up in a race against time to save a friend and figure out the mystery of who's controlling the Naturaleza and why. I'm eagerly awaiting the next book in Jane's evolution and thoroughly enjoyed Blood Trade. Some more of her past is revealed and we get to start seeing the bigger picture and how everything she's done since coming to New Orleans is linked. The creation of the original vampires is finally explained but most importantly Jane going to Natchez and getting away from Leo for a while helps her to reestablish her independence and she gets backs to the basics. No more security detail, just killing the badguy's and helping the goodguy's. She still has help from a lot of old friends along with some new ones and I think this book is going to be a major turning point for Jane. I hope that her business (hunting vampires) will become broader. She's got good help, plenty of talent and she's good at what she does. The world needs someone who's not working for the Vampires or the Government. Someone who can help out both sides when needed but most importantly someone who will ALWAYS be there for the little guy. The Jane Yellowrock series simply rocks and if you've enjoyed the previous books then this one will be sure to please. If you haven't read any of the other books then what are you waiting for? Jane Yellowrock is Urban Fantasy at it's finest!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Find You in the Dark; Author: Visit Amazon's A. Meredith Walters Page; Review: Mental Illness is such an easily overlooked and at times ignored subject but A. Meredith Walters takes the proverbial bull by the horns and tackles the subject matter head on. Her knowledge of the subject is spot on, she worked for a decade as a counselor for troubled and abused children and teens. Working first at a Domestic Violence shelter and then later in a therapeutic program for at risk youth so she has firsthand knowledge about what she is writing about. She doesn't pull any punches or tip toe around anything. She shows exactly how bad the darkness can be yet also shows you the light. This book hits really close to home. I've had my share of demons and she described nearly each and every one of them while taking me on a trip through Clay and Maggie's love. I find it quite fascinating that the author showed that both Maggie and Clay were responsible for their own actions, how Maggie's codependency developed. How something as simple as love and wanting to help someone can cause just as much if not more problems than to begin with. Sometimes love is not enough, sometimes love is everything. Nobody, especially a teenager is truly equipped to help someone with mental illnesses. Love, unfortunately is not always enough. Yet at the same time it can lead you into the light If you let it. If you want it to. If you're willing to fight for it and for yourself. This book was quite simply beautiful. I'm going to have to be a wuss here and admit that it brought tears to my eyes. The ending was nearly perfect. I'd love to say so much more but don't want to ruin anything for anyone. If you haven't read Find You in the Dark yet then please do so. You don't have to love romance books to enjoy these books. Thank you A. Meredith Walters for taking up this topic and writing this series.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Lark (Volume 1); Author: Visit Amazon's Erica Cope Page; Review: I really enjoyed Lark. The fact that the book was about elves was a nice change of pace from all of the usual angels/vampires, etc. Quite original and refreshing. I cannot wait to read it's sequel and highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys fantasy. Give it a try, it's only .99 cents at the moment. You can't beat that. Great book!!!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Passion Potion: A New Adult Paranormal Romance (The Golden Enchanters) (Volume 1); Author: Visit Amazon's Mary Beth Daniels Page; Review: I found this book from visiting my favorite authors Facebook page and I'm so glad I did. Jet is a Nix, a person who is born from Enchanter parents but doesn't have any magic, they can see magic but can't use it and nobody in the Enchanter (Witching) community is allowed to associate with Nix's. Her mother was a legendary chemist (a lot of Enchanters take chemistry for brewing their potions and stuff) but Jet has just failed school. Her grades have gone down since the death of her mom in a horrible accident, plus she just can't stay away from the cute guys. So on the way home to go back and live with her dad who's surprisingly not upset he drops a big bomb on her and tells her that her mom was an enchanter and was working on a powerful potion that's never been invented before: a love potion for a man named Dei Lucrii who turns out to be a Dark Enchanter and may be responsible for her moms death. Jet's mom had to remortgage the house to pay for all of the expensive components for the house and unless they can complete the dangerous potion they stand to lose everything. But how can a Nix without any powers possibly create a potion that killed one of the greatest Enchanters out there? You'll have to read to find out. I normally don't read romance, I'm a guy but lately I've been pretty much reading anything as long as it has a good story and although Romance isn't my main love: I prefer anything with the supernatural but after reading this and a few other books they read just like the books I enjoy. There may be some romantic sex here and there but it's not overdone and in Passion Potion's case it just enhances the story. I really enjoyed the unique take on magic and hade a great time with Jet learning about her past and heritage. I can't recommend this book enough. Don't let the few ratings scare you off. I've read books with over 100 reviews that weren't half this good. Take a chance, it's only .99 and I would have gladly payed 5-7 dollars for it. I hope to read more adventures of Jet's someday and absolutely loved the world. Give it a try, get the sample, do anything, just read this book. You'll thank me for it later.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: My Deliberate Mistake; Author: Visit Amazon's Claire Svendsen Page; Review: Is this book about the supernatural or a damaged girls mind creating delusions and illusions? You'll have to be the judge of that. When Ana was eleven she crashed her moms car into a lake in an attempt to kill her sister Julia and had meant to die with her but fate intervened and she lived. Now she's a young adult trying to get away from her old life with it's old demons and start over but she needs a scholarship for college and plans on getting one through a summer art school in Florida but her past isn't so easy to leave behind and Julia refuses to stay behind or buried. Throughout the story it's hard to tell what's up or down. Is Ana simply crazy? Is Julia real? Even when Julia seems to do things or influence others it's hard to tell if that's what's really happening or just the way Ana's mind perceives things? This book had so many twists and turns and once things begin to happen they happen fast. This book goes from mysterious to intense at the turn of a page. My Deliberate Mistake is a bit of a thriller, with some supernatural and romance all mixed up in an action packed mystery. It's sexy, fun and scary. Claire Svendsen somehow managed to make an art school even spookier than a insane asylum, grave yard and hospital all put together. This book is very well written, has a natural flow to it and each scene is stark and vivid without a single typo or error to be found. This is hands down a great book and I can't wait to read more from this author.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Daughter of Smoke & Bone; Author: Visit Amazon's Laini Taylor Page; Review: I just finished this book last night and I'm reading the sequel but I can't stop thinking about this book. Words alone can't truly express how I felt reading it but I'll try anyway. Daughter of Smoke and Bone is a true work of art. It reads like poetry: very good poetry in fact. The world building is simply stunning, the characters rich and detailed and the story so fantastical yet at the same time manages to feel so very real. Every moment I read was sheer joy. The love between Karou and Kiva was breathtaking, beautiful, heartbreaking, haunting and sad. The way Laini Taylor melded the past and the present together was quite brilliant. Until the story of the past popped up I had no idea who Karou was and the way that past and present came together with a simple wish was one of those moments that will always stand out in my mind. Laini Taylor is a masterful storyteller who chooses her words with care, they're rich, poetic, vivid and each scene is painted in stunning colors. Each page is a canvas rich with color and beauty. Not only did I enjoy reading it but I felt something reading it which is priceless. Ever get that tingle up your spine when you listen to great music or see a truly inspiring scene in a movie? Well this book gave me a never ending tingle down my spine. It hit all the right spots and brought more color to my world and for that I'm very grateful.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Days of Blood & Starlight; Author: Visit Amazon's Laini Taylor Page; Review: I absolutely fell in love with Daughter of Smoke and Bone. Laini Taylor's writing style is elegant and her characters are vivid and real. The words in the first book read like poetry, like the gentle flow of a river that carries you along on it's journey and the second book is the same except this time the river has turned into white water rapids, it still flows with majestic ease but the water has become tumultuous, crashing upon rocks with a heavy surge that threatens to break you into pieces and take you under. Where the first book was more about love and mystery this one is more about pain and was much darker than the first but you still get glimpses of the dream Karou and Akiva once shared, and the end. OMG the ending was insanely intense and masterfully done. I really didn't think the author would be able to outdo the first book especially with the nice twists she had in the story that I didn't see coming but I was wrong. This book has it's own twists that you never see coming until it's too late. Sacrifices were made, love answers hatred and hope still remains. I cannot recommend this book along with the first one enough. If you want to lose yourself in not only a great story but one that's very well written then look no further. Every page is like music for the mind. The story was refreshingly different, so fantastical and odd yet Mrs. Taylor makes it all seem so real and possible. And to think I'd passed over this book so many times. The day I bought Daughter of Smoke and Bone and started on this incredible journey will be a day etched in my mind forever.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Shine Not Burn; Author: Visit Amazon's Elle Casey Page; Review: Andie's a tough lawyer who doesn't take no for an answer in the courtroom. She's smart and knows exactly what she wants out of life. Growing up she was in a bad situation and had no control over her life nor her destiny and so she came up with the "life plan". A plan that would allow her to gain her freedom and happiness and she's followed that plan to the letter her whole adult life. It got her through college and is on the way to making her a junior partner at her law firm. Her plan includes her career an eventual husband and 2.5 kids by the time she's thirty five. There's only one problem, her boyfriend and hopeful future husband just broke up with her and she has to go to Las Vegas for a bachelorette party for her friend who is getting married so even though her life plan doesn't call for a girls night out she reluctantly gives in. While in Vegas she ends up drinking way too much and meeting the sexiest cowboy she's ever seen in her life (heck, the sexiest man she's ever seen in her life) Her life plan doesn't have any contingency plans for Las Vegas or Mack but what can one night hurt? Surely she's allowed a one night stand just this once. What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas or so she thinks. Two years later she's back on plan, a Jr. partner and is about to get married, there's only one little problem. Apparently she's already married to a cowboy named Mack and she has to get him to sign the divorce papers before anyone finds out about it and her life plan goes down the drain. I'm a huge fan of Elle Casey. She's by far my favorite author and has proven her skill with Young adult, paranormal, adventure and dystopian novels. I've never read a romance novel from her and wasn't sure what to expect even though I knew I was bound to love the characters and I was right, I did love the characters but I also found myself turning the pages just as rapidly as I have all her other books. I'm a guy and don't read a lot of romance books, although I've been getting out of my comfort zone and reading different genres and I admire Elle Casey for leaving her comfort zone behind too. Shine Not Burn is just as good if not better than anything she's written before. I'm not a huge fan of reading sex scenes but then again I don't read a lot of steamy books so maybe I'm wrong. Regardless I had a blast with this book. The sex wasn't just thrown in for filler or anything like that, it was there to enhance the story and it did very much so. I've always wondered why women enjoy reading romance books and I get it now. Once again I found myself enjoying every single page, whether it was a steamy scene or a horseback ride with a beautiful; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Thieves' Quarry (The Thieftaker Chronicles); Author: Visit Amazon's D. B. Jackson Page; Review: A day or two after Independence Day I noticed DB Jackson's new book Thieves Quarry was out. I enjoyed Thieftaker quite a bit and thought what better way to celebrate the holiday than with his new Historical Urban Fantasy. I have to say I was completely blown away. I liked the first one a lot but feel that Thieves Quarry was even better. I think this series might just be his best work yet which is saying a lot. Winds of the Forelands along with it's sequel series Blood of the Southlands are two series that are among my favorites when it comes to fantasy. Once again DB Jackson proves that his world building is just as imaginative and strong as ever. His education in History goes a long way to making the book feel authentic. The magic is truly different and plausible. I can almost imagine real Conjurers during our Pre-Revolution days working as Theiftakers and soldiers. His characters are extremely life like and three dimensional. I love the fact that Ethan is a loyal citizen of England who up until events in this book has considered himself a Tory and not a Whig. Certain events that take place during the story start to change his views and while he's still a proud citizen of England he starts to become more sympathetic to the people of Boston and the colonies who are against England's newfound aggression. I think it takes a bold author to create a character that might not necessarily share his own personal point of views or opinions. It makes Ethan a much richer character. The characters in Thieves Quarry are not all black and white. Sure there are those that I consider heroes along with ones I think of as villains but hardly any of them are pure good or evil, they're made up of many shades of grey. Even the best of people make bad mistakes, much like Ethan in his youth when he took part in a naval mutiny. He served his time in hard labor for it. He's not perfect but who really is? The fact that he's a Speller or Conjurer when most people believe that they are witches and a product of Satan is bad enough. Sure the Salem Witch Trials may be long behind them but witches are still feared and hanged. So it's even worse for Ethan who is considered by many to have once betrayed England and his duty but he's a good guy. He made a mistake and paid for it dearly and does the best he can with what he has each day. He is a man of his word and will stand up for the little guy but he also obey's the law. He's as complex as he is unique and I applaud Mr. Coe for making him so. Saphira Price his main enemy and rival is equally complex and each scene she's in is deliciously fun. I truly can't praise this book enough, it's as fine a fantasy as you'll find anywhere, actually it's much better; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Scourge (Brilliant Darkness) (Volume 1); Author: Visit Amazon's A. G. Henley Page; Review: I'd been eyeing this book for a while and was out of good books to read so I thought I'd give it a try so I sent the sample to my Kindle and instantly fell in love with the story. I was so drawn into it that I'd forgotten it was a sample and when it ended I immediately bought the book and clicked as fast as I could to get back to where I was at. This is just one of those stories that sucks you in and you never want to leave. Halfway through the book I noticed I wasn't even seeing any of the words, I was there with Fenn and Peree, adventuring right beside them, seeing everything they see, or didn't see in Fenn's case and sharing their journey. I love Dystopian books and I absolutely love the type of setting in this book. Even though there's horrible things going on, there's just something about a society that lives off the land that greatly appeals to me. I'm too much of a wuss to do it myself but I do love to daydream about it so this book gave me a lot to daydream about. The Scourge is a very character driven story. Sure there's action but the real meat of the story is in the characters and A.G. Henley does a great job of bringing them to life. What really impressed me was the way she described the world through the eyes of Fenn who is blind. I was wondering how a book could be descriptive with the main character being unable to see yet she handled it beautifully. You get a full detail of every little thing Fenn encounters, not only through her sharp senses but also through the eyes of those around her. I was simply amazed at how detailed this world is. I also enjoyed the fact that it's not just your average run of the mill zombie horde. There's some nice twists in this book that fit so well with the overall theme of the story. It looks as if this was A.G. Henley's first book which impresses me even more. Not only is it a wonderful story that's beautifully written but it's also extremely well edited. I didn't find a single error or anything to distract me from my wonderful reading experience. It seems all too often some independent authors take editing for granted so it's very nice to see those that put their heart and souls into their work. It shows here and for that she deserves to be congratulated. I will definitely be buying the next book and recommend this book to anyone who loves strong characters, a great storyline with rich detail and a bit of romance. If you're looking for something a bit different then give The Scourge a try, you'll be glad that you did.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Island of Fog (Book 1); Author: Visit Amazon's Keith Robinson Page; Review: I see a lot of reviews stating that Island of the Fog: Book 1 is a great children's book and it is but it's so much more than that. I'm nearly 40 and enjoyed the book very much. Not only is the book kid friendly but you will also find yourself loving it just as much as your children do. The world is hauntingly familiar yet contains many elements of fantasy and lore. Most of the time I don't really enjoy reading a book about children. Only a handful of very good authors seem to do books with kids as the main characters justice. They're able to get inside the kids complex mind or they are able to recall what it was like to be younger and treat them with the intelligence and respect that they deserve without making them too clich. Books like Harry Potter or His Dark Materials are great examples. And of course on the other end you have YA books where the authors put way too much emphasis on action instead of characters or story and manage to only paint a mere shadow of the complexity of young adults. Bad examples like The Maze Runner which while a fun read did not manage to capture any depth with the children it portrays. So Island of the Fog was a welcome treat and is very character driven. The characters are complex and vivid and the storyline keeps you hooked until the last page. The action is used to enhance the story and it does so nicely. For everyone who's ever dreamed of Dragons, unicorns, large sea serpents, centaurs, fairies and Ogre's then this is the book for you. It manages to capture the child within us all and I am greatly looking forward to the next one.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Lost; Author: Visit Amazon's Nadia Simonenko Page; Review: I was in the process of reading a different book but just wasn't into it and really wanted some type of romance book. I've just recently become addicted to romance novels thanks to Elle Casey's Shine Not Burn and so I went to Amazon and ended up downloading Lost. I really like romance books that have a bit of a darker edge. Books like this and Find You in the Dark by A. Meredith Walters. I guess I just relate better to broken people being one myself and although I've never been abused by anyone but myself I can still relate to these types of characters but it's not so much that I like reading about abused or broken people, I enjoy the whole aspect of redemption, light and finding love for those who are different, messed up or have had a lot of problems whether they are self inflected problems, abuse by others or mental problems. I just really enjoy that light at the end of a dark tunnel and Lost gave me exactly that. Nadia Simonenko writes beautifully and it's obvious she takes her writing seriously. There wasn't a typo or error to be found in this book which is always nice. The characters were very fleshed out and were easy to relate to, care about and root for all the while you're anger at what was done to them just grows and grows with each page. Each time Maria fumbles around a stranger or becomes scared it just made me angry that someone would do this to her just like each time Owen relives his past I just wanted to teleport into the book and beat his father black and blue. Both characters have many scars, some of them are flesh deep and others are much deeper. Their nightmares haunt them both in their sleep and in the waking world and you can't help but to root for them with every tiny baby step they make towards each other and embracing a life without pain and horror. The author does a lovely job of letting you into the characters head and it's as if you're right there beside them through the whole journey. The author deserves some major props for tackling such tough subjects as rape and abuse and for not sugar coating anything. There's nothing nice about abuse whether it's mental or physical and there's no easy way to talk about it sometimes but she handles the subject with a deft touch. I only wish someone had called the cops on Owens dad when he showed up. That creep should be in prison but unfortunately much like in real life a lot of people do not do this. I imagine that it's very hard when someone you love is the one who is abusing you. There are a lot of conflicting emotions but when it's a parent there's still some love no matter how horribly they've hurt you. Even though they're not deserving of that love it's hard not to want acceptance and love from a parent or; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Ruining Me; Author: Visit Amazon's Nicole Reed Page; Review: I just finished Ruining Me and have to say that the title is very fitting. I felt ruined after reading this. I still don't know how I feel about it all. The ending was intense and unexpected. I'm not talking about a cliffhanger, heck that word doesn't do it justice. It's more like the Grand Canyon plus the Mariana Trench meet's falling off of the moon only to find out gravity is a hoax and you plummet straight down through the universe. Great googly moogly I still can't take my mind off it. Ruining Me was very well written and Jay was horribly flawed yet fascinating in a train wreck sort of way. She's likable and you want to root for her, love her, protect her and hope that she can find herself once again all the while knowing it's an impossible task. You'd have more luck moving objects around the room with your mind. Something happened to her, we all know it and the slow sense of dread builds up to one event but instead of one thing happening the book does a one eighty on you before slamming into a brick wall leaving you staring in disbelief. That's how the ending felt to me, thank goodness there's a sequel or I'd probably throw my Kindle out a window. That's not to say I didn't love the book because I did it's just that it elicited that strong of an emotion in me which is what every good book should do. Jay is a mess, but she's a beautiful mess. At time's she's carefree and fun and at others she's dark and brooding. The men in her life are just as intense. There's JT her old boyfriend who doesn't understand why she suddenly broke up with him one day and distanced herself from everyone she's ever known. He's the all around highschool football star, a really good guy but he's not just an average hero. He's an exceptional hero. He's the type of guy that every girl would love to meet. Kind, caring, understanding, strong, passionate and will stop at nothing to get the one thing back that he can't live without - Jay. Then there's the new hottie in town: Kane. He's strong, built and has some awesome tattoo's. He drives a motorcycle and wears a leather jacket but he's not your typical badboy, in fact he's a hard worker who's trying to help his brother build a business and doesn't have time for a relationship. He's not looking for anything serious but from the first moment he lays eyes on Jay the sparks fly and he finds himself drawn to her and she to him. He's funny, makes her feel safe and most of all has nothing to do with her old life plus he's the sexiest man she's ever seen. Will their fledgling love blossom or will the darkness put that torch out too? Last but not least is Rhye her go to guy when she left JT. He's in a rock band is destined to be a; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Ruining You; Author: Visit Amazon's Nicole Reed Page; Review: I loved Ruining You! I'm not going to talk about the characters or the story because after the ending of Ruining Me I just can't think of anyway to do so without giving anything away. I loved Jay's story and could read about her forever if only there were more books. Ruining Me left off at such an emotional point, it was a major and I mean MAJOR cliffhanger and this book resolves Jay's life nicely. Will she let her past get her down and bring her to the point of absolute despair again or will she find the love within herself to not only let those who care about her into her heart but to also love herself and to move on from the past? You'll have to read to find out. Once again the book was beautifully written and I couldn't get enough of the characters, especially Jay. She was so broken yet there is just something about her that attracts others to her. Everything and I mean everything is resolved nicely in one way or another. I don't normally write short reviews I just don't want to screw this one up and ruin it for you'll. Drop everything you're doing and read this great book, just make sure you read Ruining Me first. Do not throw your Kindle out the window afterwards though, just keep reading and see how it all turns out : ) Great Book!!!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Fearless (The Story of Samantha Smith #1) (Volume 1); Author: Visit Amazon's Devon Hartford Page; Review: !!!WARNING: MIGHT BE SOME SLIGHT SPOILERS!!! Fearless was very much different from what I thought it would be - but in a totally good way. I think the author has definitely found his calling and I was extremely impressed how good this book was especially since it was his first. Judging by the cover I was thinking this was going to be your average badboy with lots of hot sex and a little story thrown in to fill the chapters up with and I was way off. Don't get me wrong, there were some pretty hot scenes but the book was just so much more than that. I've seen a few reviews that just didn't like Sam a whole lot or thought she was weak and I have to disagree. I totally get Samantha and understand exactly where she's coming from. I didn't think she was weak at all. She was just starved for affection. The past combined with her parents never really openly showing her love or encouragement were the reasons she was like she was. Yes she had a bit of a jealous streak but who doesn't? I mean if I was a chick and was going out with Adonis I'd probably be jealous too. But I liked the fact that she knew she was being unreasonable and even stopped herself so many times from making a comment or a scene. And honestly Adonis comes across as a bit of a manwhore when she first meets him so who could blame her for thinking the worst. Of course once she got to know him she constantly fought against her jealousy. She still had problems though. Because of her past she didn't feel that it was fair for her to enjoy life or to have love and the only love she'd ever really experienced turned out disastrous for her. In some ways she was very mature but in others she was still very much that sixteen year old that she'd been when everything changed. The ending alone proves how incredibly strong she is. I love people who create for a living whether it's music, writing, painting, poetry, etc. The fact that Adonis is such a great artist really enhances the story and of course there's Sam who couldn't even recognize her own beauty much less the talent within her and I really enjoyed watching Adonis help to ignite that spark of creativity within her. Adonis was great, he was protective of Sam, kind, caring, good looking, could fight but never started trouble. As tough as he was it was nice to see that he also had a tender side to him and wasn't afraid to show his emotions or to cry on Sam's shoulder. There were just so many stories within this story and I felt that it gave it a lot of depth. The supporting characters were awesome too. Every scene Romeo was in was a blast and Sam's best friend was the type of friend we should all be so lucky to have. The author did a great job; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Fear of Falling; Author: Visit Amazon's S.L. Jennings Page; Review: I have to say that I fell for Kami and Fear of Falling very hard. I've been reading a lot of books like this lately. I just really enjoy the range of emotions stories like this can elicit within me and greatly appreciate stories about people finding happiness after pain, light after dark and redemption. Fear of Falling can proudly stand amongst the best books I've read that deal with these topics. I just want to say that this book is probably not for the faint of heart. It deals with some major subjects such as abuse, child abuse and rape and like the author states, for people who may have experienced these things this book could act as a trigger but I'd urge you to throw caution to the wind on this one and give it a try because I feel that it's message is so much more important than the tough subjects it tackles. And tackle these subjects S.L. Jennings does with a very deft hand. She states that this story was inspired by true events and I can't help but feel that the author has a personal deep knowledge of the subject matter whether she or someone she knows has gone through similar things because Kami and her pain are just too real and too raw. You never once for even a second doubt that her past was horrible. You can feel it in her every thought, every breath and every action she takes. Even when Kami is happy her happiness is tinged with pain. S.L. Jennings does a fantastic job with her characters, allowing us to live within them. To see, feel and touch everything that they do. Kami is a broken woman. She's tortured, in a lot of pain and doesn't believe in love. She doesn't want love, nor does she really know what love is. "Daddy's love hurts me. I don't want him to love me anymore." Kami goes through most of her life going from man to man and always running away if they get too close. Once they utter the L word she runs. She is deathly afraid of love and doesn't believe anyone can love her. She's settled into her life of pain with her two best friends Dom and Angel who both have their own issues but the three of them form a dysfunctional family and they are the only two people she will allow herself to love. And then she meet's Blaine - her scary beautiful man. There is a chemistry between them from the first moment that they meet which was probably one of the hottest scenes I've ever read. As Blaine works his way into her heart Kami does everything she can to push him away and deny herself the love that she deserves. No matter what my body felt, my head knew that I could never give myself to Blaine. And my heart? It never got a say. It was buried under years of mistrust and apprehension. It had been broken far beyond repair before it ever got; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Hopeless; Author: Visit Amazon's Colleen Hoover Page; Review: If there was such a thing as a perfect book Hopeless would be it. The story doesn't just suck you in, it transforms you. You're still the same person after it's through but there's a little something extra that's been added to your life. The characters were unique and real with their own personalities and quirks like the way Sky just blurts out things that she is thinking or the way she normally doesn't let situations embarrass or bother her and then there's Holder who always pauses a bit before answering a question. Not because he wants to come up with the perfect answer but because he's analyzing the question from so many different angles and giving it the though it deserves so that when he does answer his response is the absolute perfect thing to say at the exact perfect time. I became so immersed in their story that I felt like I had known them for most of my life, they were like my friends and family. With every triumph I cheered and with every heartbreak I cried. I have never wanted so much to give two different people hugs as I did with Sky and Holder and I have never and I mean NEVER hated someone so much as I did a character in this book. I've been reading a lot of books with similar themes in them lately and pretty much thought I'd seen and read it all but I was so wrong. This book had several twists and curves and while I saw one of them coming a different on totally caught me off guard and I never even thought of it even though it was hiding right in plain sight the whole time. It completely sucked the oxygen out of my lungs and hit me right in the chest. My world actually spun when it happened. I so love Sky. She is beautiful, strong and was someone I wish I had the pleasure of knowing in real life. And Holder, good lord Holder. I actually feel kinda sorry for any boyfriends of the girls who read this. I just can't help feeling that all of us guys will compared to him and found wanting. He was just so perfect, flaws and all. "I'm pretty sure we just broke the record for the best first kiss in the history of first kisses- without even kissing." I have to say that first non-kiss kiss was probably one of the hottest kisses I've ever read about. Their whole relationship was just intense and I can only hope that one day I'll meet a woman and be able to pour all of the love and desire I feel into my eyes and gaze at her with the same type of intensity that Holder does with Sky. Everything he says and does is perfect but not because he's perfect even though he is. I know it doesn't make much sense but you'll have to read to understand. I was lost in their relationship. I cried when they did, I laughed along; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Sea of Tranquility: A Novel; Author: Visit Amazon's Katja Millay Page; Review: I've been putting off writing this one because I just don't know how to do this story justice with a review. This book is one of the reasons why I love this genre so much. I'll pretty much read anything but I've been on a major Romance trip lately, especially when it comes to books about love and redemption. The Sea of Tranquility got everything right. It was real! There was not one single line or scene where I had to suspend my disbelief. The romance between Nastya and Josh was slow to build up. There was no insta-love, no giant automatic connection and no giant whirlwind of drama to bring them together. Instead it was like each character lived in their own world but gravity started to pull them towards each other, slowly at first but building up over time and even when they tried to fight it, it was just impossible to resist that pull. This was a heartwrenching and beautiful book. Certain events were just so mindless and random much like real life and showed just how quickly your life could change. You go around without a major care in the world and all of a sudden it's all gone. Your comfort, security, your hope, dreams and love all gone or at least you think so until one day you wake up in someone's garage wondering how you got there and hoping you'll never ever have to leave. All of the characters including the side characters were written with such detail that you literally know them after you're through with the book. You don't just wish that they could be your friends like you do in a lot of books but realize that they are your friends. You've just been through too much together with them and know them too well to be anything but friends. Josh and Nastya both have had issues in their past and each have their own ways of dealing with them. Josh works every spare moment in his garage building stuff in order to stay busy and keep his mind off of things while Nastya invents a new identity for the public. She never speaks and dresses in extremely skimpy outfits along with giant spiked heels while doing the whole goth thing with her makeup. The person everyone sees in public and at school is just an illusion which she hides behind to stay safe yet she never truly feels safe anymore. One day at school Nastya notices Josh who is just as alone as she is. In fact she thinks it's like he has a force field around him that nobody else can or will enter and she wishes she had one too. She's not instantly just attracted to his looks although she thinks he's good looking nor is she instantly attracted to his pain even though she's not quite aware of it's depth. Late each night that she can, she runs to help quiet her mind and sleep. She feels safer at night than in the broad daylight and one each night; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Ruin; Author: Visit Amazon's Rachel Van Dyken Page; Review: I'm going to keep this one short because I just can't do my full gazillion page review without ruining anything. I really enjoyed this book. The beginning sucked me in but by the middle I wasn't so sure. I just started thinking that Kiersten was just too innocent and it didn't seem real but then I thought back to my younger years and remembered how shy I was and even though Kiersten wasn't shy I realized that with a lot of people there are just things that happen in life and that not everyone gets to always have a normal teenage life. Some people may be shy, others end up having a hard life or having to raise their own siblings or take care of sick relatives, etc. So once I realized that there are a lot of Kierstens out there I was fine and by the end of the book I found myself really loving the story and it's message. Kiersten is from a small town and has a led a sheltered life whereas Wes has had a seemingly perfect life. His family is super rich, he's athletic and good looking and a great football player. He is living the American dream or so it seems but sometimes looks can be deceiving. Both of them have had to deal with so many things in their past. Kiersten and Wes have both been alone for so long but one chance encounter leads to something that neither of them ever expected and to be honest they both need each other. But finding each other isn't the ending, it's only the beginning in this story and they will need every bit of their new found love for each other to not only overcome the past but to also face all the hurdles that life decides to throw at them. I just want to take a moment to say this book is a beautiful dedication. To what I refuse to say because I don't want to ruin it but most of us have known someone who has dealt with this problem. I really want to say more but I'm just going to leave it at that. Once you read you will understand and I hope that Ruin can bring others the same comfort that it brought me. That alone is priceless, but I got it for .99 cents :) I truly got the better end of this bargain and want to thank the author for sharing this story with me.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: In This Moment; Author: Visit Amazon's Autumn Doughton Page; Review: In This Moment is the perfect title for this story because it's so full of those moments in life that can either pass you by, leaving you scarred and a wreck or you can grab ahold of them, cherishing each and everyone of them, no matter how painful they may be because in life all we have are these moments. Aimee has moved away to go to college. She's running from her past and one tragic moment that has defined the rest of her life when she literally runs into (or falls into) Cole Everly. Cole is athletic, gorgeous and knows his way around women. Like Aimee Cole has a past too that he's trying to escape yet unlike Aimee he finds his escape in the arms of other women (lots of women) and he never allows himself to get too close or to fall in love. Aimee and Cole keep running into each other and despite their own fears they both become closer over the course of the book. Aimee is afraid to relive her past and to let anyone know the truth about her. She's withdrawn and feels like she doesn't have the right to experience joy or love while Cole doesn't want to ever experience love. He has never been in a real relationship but since running into Aimee he can't get her out of his mind and the more he's drawn into her the scarier it gets for both of them. Cole and Aimee are runners, it's what they do. when things go bad they run the other direction as far and as fast as they can but sometimes you can't outrun you past and sometimes, just sometimes running can be more painful than staying because some things are worth fighting for. Both characters have their hang ups, neither one of them is perfect and both make plenty of mistakes. They are well fleshed out along with the side characters like Aimee's new best friend and Cole's roommate. This is just one of those books that grabs your heart and chews it up, spitting it out before super gluing it back together for you in the end. You can't help but feel for Aimee and Cole and when both relive their pasts and tell their stories you just want to be there to hug them. If you're like me and love stories about love and redemption, of hope when everything seems hopeless then you'll love In This Moment. I've seen this book compared to The Sea of Tranquility and the themes are similar so if you enjoyed that one then you'll love this book. Both have slow building relationships that aren't perfect and don't just happen overnight and both deal with loss and love. Heck even if this isn't your genre of choice give it a try anyway. I'm pretty sure if you're human then you'll love this book. Actually I'm pretty positive that space aliens would enjoy it too. It's just too good of a book.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Ren of Atikala (Kobolds); Author: Visit Amazon's David Adams Page; Review: It's been a while since I've read a standard fantasy book. The first books I ever read were the Dragonlance series by Margaret Weis and Tracey Hickman. I didn't read for several years after that until I discovered the wonderful Earthsea Trilogy by Ursula K. Leguin at my highschool's library. It was that trilogy that really kindled my love for reading. Much like the beautiful covers of the Earthsea books which always reminded me of tiles for some reason the cover of Ren of Atikala drew me in and made me want to know what the book was about and the premise of it was so extremely unique. There are plenty of your standard human heroes, elves and even a dwarf or two but a kobold? I'd never read about one and not only was a Kobold the main character but also the hero of the book and on top of that Ren is a female kobold. I just had to know more so I eagerly dug into Ren of Atikala and discovered that there was nothing "standard" about this fantasy book. It was exceptional! Ren's world is a big scary place and her travels instantly took me back to my childhood, of playing Dungeons and Dragons, reading Dragonlance, learning about Drizzit for the first time. It brought back all of those memories and added to them. Ren might be a little Kobold by human standards but there's nothing little about her, her tale or her destiny. The book starts out by introducing us to Ren's world deep inside her cavern home with her community. Kobolds are very different from the other races yet so eerily similar. They love their homes, guard them with their lives and they value their community. In fact the normal Kobold lives each and every second for their community so when tragedy strikes and Ren is forced to leave everything she's ever known behind we begin her journey into not only discovering the big wide world but also who she really is. Ren has always been different and it's not just the color of her scales which are pure golden. She's always had a bit of an independant streak but inside her home she's never really had a chance to grow or even think about what she really wants or who she really is in the great scheme of things. Home. The word has a special resonance with us all. Great or humble, rich or poor, everyone cherishes their home and if deprived of it loses a pice of themselves. Ren is not only a little bit differnt but she's also a warrior and a sorcerer. I disliked being unable to control my mind while I slept, but I knew sorcerers always dreamed. Our dreams reflected the faint sliver of powerful blood in our veins, a body stuffed with too much soul, the excess spilling into the night hours. It was the price we paid for our arts. As Ren and and her companion Khavi travel through the tunnels leading to the world beyond and to Ssarsdale; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Unbroken (Beachwood Bay) (Volume 1); Author: Visit Amazon's Melody Grace Page; Review: Unbroken is the aptly named story of two broken people trying to pick up the pieces, to find what they had once thought was lost forever and about allowing yourself the right to love others along with giving someone else the chance to love you back. It's about lost love, that one true great love of your life that no others can compare to, wounded hearts and taking that one risk that's so far in the back of your mind that you're not even fully aware that it's there until you're pulling into Beachwood Bay after four long years. Juliet and Emerson met the summer before Juliet is going off to college. Her mom drags her to the small seaside town in order for their family to have one last summer together. Juliet's family is dysfunctional at best. Her dad is an alcoholic and professor wannabe who spends most of his time hanging with his rich sophisticated crowd, trying to keep up and spending money that he doesn't have. He's written one book years ago which he likes to talk about and is always telling people about his "new book" which he will never actually write. Juliet's mom is starved for affection which she never gets from her husband and when he does notice her it's to make fun of her while pretending to be joking. Juliet's sister cares only about bagging that rich husband and hanging out with her friends so Juliet isn't particularly thrilled to spend the whole summer with them but this will be the last summer before she's free to go to art school and start her new life over. On the way up they get into a minor accident and Emerson enters the picture. "I'm Emerson,' he calls. Then he smiles, a flash of something true and reckless, so darkly beautiful I feel my heart stop all over again. This is what they write stories about, I realize, as if from far away. All those books and movies and poems I've read, this is what they all were preparing me for, the day when a strange man smiles at me, and makes me forget who I am. Emerson has had an even harder time than Juliet. His dad ran out on them when he was young and his mom has battled with addiction for years leaving Emerson to practically raise his younger brother and sister. Eventually his mom just altogether abandons them and Emerson who wants nothing more than to get away from Beachwood Bay and to start his own life is stuck working several jobs to raise his siblings. He's damaged, he's his mother's son and eventually after hearing the whispers behind his back from those who live in his small town he starts to believe that he's no good, worthless and quits fighting to prove them wrong. So he drinks, he fights and he has a lot of sex but then one day a chance encounter out of the blue he meets Juliet and for once he starts to believe that maybe he is worthy,; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Buried Memories: A Vulnerable Girl and Her Story of Survival; Author: Visit Amazon's Katie Beers Page; Review: I'm not going to go into many details on the book itself. Chances are if you're here then you remember the national headlines and like the rest of us sat glued to your television set each day as the horrific events about Katie's abduction played out on an national stage. As each day progressed the world learned more and more about Katie and her awful surroundings. More light was shed on the amount of abuse, neglect and pain this poor girl must have suffered through in her short life. At age 9 she was kidnapped by a family friend who made it look like she was taken at knife point by a stranger and locked into a small coffin sized box underneath his garage. For the next 17 days she would stay there as his prisoner facing unimaginable terror but that is only part of the story. In Buried Memories: Katie Beer's Story we are taken back to hear earliest years and shown a life of neglect, struggle and very little love. We are given accounts of her horrible ordeal before and after the kidnapping and then are shown her recovery and those who came to her rescue. The system which initially failed this little girl did a commendable job of trying to atone for it's past mistakes. She was put into a loving foster home with a new family. She had a great team, an amazing psychologist and all of the authorities involved did an outstanding job of not only putting away the two vile monsters in her life but also helped to keep the media at bay so this little girl could move on with her life and go to school without being hounded each and every day. This is one of the hardest things I've ever read but also I feel one of the most important things I've ever read. To say Katie Beer is courageous is a gross understatement. I doubt many children could have survived what she did but not only did she survive but she moved forward and prospered. She was a tough little girl who was extremely street smart and wise beyond her years. I think it's awesome that the author and reporter Carolyn Gusoff was one of those who respected this girls wishes and stayed away from her instead of trying to get a scoop after everything was said and done. She was the perfect choice to help write this book. She managed to tell Katie's story with a great deal of compassion and respect. I think every parent owes it to themselves to read this harrowing tale. Unfortunately most of the time that children are sexually abused it is not by a stranger but by a relative or family friend: someone the child knows and loves which is just a betrayal beyond words. I would urge parents everywhere to read this. To talk to their children and make sure that their children KNOW that they can come to them with anything and that they won't get into trouble. It's important that children understand; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Don't Make Me Beautiful; Author: Visit Amazon's Elle Casey Page; Review: I knew this book was going to be good but the word good is such a huge understatement, this story was....beautiful, amazing, incredible: all of the above and yet even those words fail to capture how great this story was. Ever since Elle Casey first announce Don't Make Me Beautiful I've been looking forward to it, playing out different storyline scenarios in my head and I love the fact that no matter how many times I imagined how this book might possibly turn out, I never even came close. She always takes a story so much further than my imagination can reach and in so many different directions that it never ceases to amaze me. I would really like to talk about the story and share some quotes I saved on my Kindle but I can't. I truly do not want to ruin a moment of this for anyone. I don't even want to post the quotes that really don't give anything away because I feel it could somehow lessen each line for someone and trust me, this is a book where you really need to experience each and every word for yourself. This is a powerfully moving book! The book starts out showing two very different worlds. One world full of hope and dreams and another full of fear and hopelessness. From the very first lines I was sucked in, my heart grew heavy and that sensation only got stronger and stronger. By the end of the book it felt like my heart was turned into glass, shattered into a million pieces, melted down and then remade whole and even better than before. It pains me to know that there are real monsters out there like this, that anyone has ever had to go through anything even remotely similar to what Nicole went through. Domestic abuse is always a subject that needs more awareness and I applaud Elle Casey for writing such a challenging book with the compassion and respect it deserves. I love the fact that majority of the book concentrated on the healing over the horror and I hope this story will be able to help those who may not feel that they are able to help themselves. Many of us have lived in homes with domestic abuse but much like Nicole we do not have to let it define our lives. I know many people might not be able to understand why anyone would stay in a abusive relationship but it's easy for a sane and healthy mind to judge one that no longer is. Basically people like Nicole are prisoners of war. That's the simplest way to think of it. Words like Stockholm Syndrome cannot even begin to truly describe what goes on in a victimized mind and that is only one form of abusive control, there are many unfortunately. Somewhere along the way it's easy to lose yourself out of fear and pain and when that happens you simply go into survival mode. I really don't even know what else to say so I'll just say; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Starfish: A Mother's Recovery from Addiction; Author: Visit Amazon's Donna M. George Page; Review: Starfish: A Mothers Recovery from Addiction is an inspiring, raw, unflinchingly honest account of one mothers journey through addiction and recovery. I was in the process of reading another really good book that I was enjoying but for some reason my mind was just going ninety miles per hour and I couldn't concentrate on it so I downloaded a few free books, this being one of them and after reading a few chapters from the other ones I tried this one and I could not put it down. I've been reading a lot of books about damaged and broken people, stories about hope and redemption and I guess they just got my memory churning and I couldn't really concentrate on any one book until I started this one and I have to say it was EXACTLY what I needed at that time. Donna gives us a very detailed look at her world, of being a single mom and growing up in the sixties. Donna is a free spirit and as much a product of that generation as any other free spirit. We are given glimpses of her childhood, of her many problems starting with the sexual abuse by her father and the neglect and anger from her mom. No matter how hard she tried her mom just didn't seem to love her or any of her other children. She went to church, tried extra hard but in the end it never made a difference so somewhere along the way she quit trying and left just as quick as she could once she turned eighteen. She had hopes and dreams of going to college but like many other young women she became pregnant with one and then two children. She ended up a single mom and eventually spiraled into addiction. The journey of an addict is always a subtle journey. It doesn't just happen overnight. There are many reasons why people turn to drugs and at first it's just fun, you're still in control. You're not really hurting anybody...are you? But one day you wake up, years have gone by and you're a hopeless addict who cannot figure out how you got to where you are. This is Donna's journey that starts when she is arrested for trying to pass fake prescriptions to feed her ever growing opiate dependency. She is addicted to heroin and much like many other heroin addicts will use any type of opiates when money is tight or heroin can't be found. And so Donna goes into treatment. She's been to many before and it has never worked for her. This is her last chance. Her kids are in Hawaii where she left them with some lady she barely knew, the courts are involved and she may lose them for good and if this doesn't work she will face jail time. So with a heavy heart and wanting to be sober but not really at the same time Donna goes to the Sunlflower house which is a long term treatment. Keep in mind this is back in the early; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Morrigan: Emergence - Kindle edition; Author: Visit Amazon's Amanda McKeon Page; Review: Wow, it's not often that a witch story really impresses me. I think the last one was the Mayfair Witches by Anne Rice. I'm just not really a big witch fan, I like the fae, vampires are great, werewolves can be fun but witches just don't usually do it for me unless they're very well written and have a unique quality to them. I'm very happy to say that not only was Morrigan: Tale of a Teenage Witch very well written and unique but the storyline was great. I simply could not put it down and I absolutely loved the Irish culture in this book. There were just certain phrases or the way Morrigan uses the word Mum instead of Mom that just made it feel so quaint. The witchcraft in the book is the kind I really prefer: very old, celtic and not all powerful even though obviously Morrigan has a lot of power she will eventually learn to use. Morrigan is wonderfully written and the chapters fly by in no time at all, I did not see a single error anywhere (I'm not saying there isn't one, just saying I didn't notice anything at all) which is always super nice. I know this is probably classified as a YA but honestly the whole book just felt very mature to me. I'm not sure I'm describing it properly but that's how it felt to me. I really liked Morrigan. She's not perfect yet she's good, she makes mistakes, some very big mistakes but to give her credit it was an honest mistake. She had no way of knowing certain things like that could happen. She's nice but can have a mean streak when done wrong, she's attractive yet not vain. She's brave but not stupid. Honestly in another life she would be a pretty average girl which is what I really liked about her. Mo is having to deal with some major issues and guilt all while discovering who she is and what she is. It was fun to watch her grow in confidence as a person and a witch while learning about her powers. The town she lives in is not a very good places for witches: think the Salem Witch Trials and you'll be on the right track which adds another whole layer of intrigue and tension to the story. The characters were all top notch and felt real, even the one's that I hated. The setting was beautiful. I simply loved the descriptions of Ireland and the dialect was just icing on the cake. I could literally hear the characters accents in my head and I'm a huge sucker for accents, especially in women and let's face it Irish accents are awesome. They're right up there with French and Italian in my opinion. All in all a really great book and I've already bought the second one. I got it about the time I was halfway through with this one. I could already tell I was going to want to read more. If you want a nice deep; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Boy Who Lived with Ghosts: A Memoir; Author: Visit Amazon's John Mitchell Page; Review: I won a singed copy of this book on Goodreads and thought I was getting a ghost story. I know it said memoir but I was thinking it was about a child growing up seeing ghosts. Well I was partly right, there are plenty of ghosts in this book and unfortunately they're much more terrifying than the traditional ghosts shaking chains in the attic. The Boy Who Lived With Ghosts: A Memoir by John Mitchell is his account of growing up in England during the 60's. It's about poverty, abuse, mental illness and so much more. Abandoned by his father who is an alcoholic John's family had to make do in a time where the stigma of being a single mom with children was very hard. Not only were they frowned down upon but there just weren't as many options for women back then, educated or not. John's mom is on the verge of a mental breakdown trying to take care of her three children. John suffers nearly daily abuse at the hands of his older sister and he grows up thinking there is a dead ghost in his house, it's in the attic, in the walls and always in the darkness just at the edge of his vision waiting for him. But that is only the beginning of John's nightmare. I was sucked into the book immediately, it is a memoir but reads unlike any memoir or true account I've ever read. Not only is the pacing superb but John has such a way with words that you just don't want to put the book down at all. One of the best surprises about this book is the way that John is able to recall his childhood and tell the tale through his younger self. I have never seen anyone reconnect with their inner child in such a way. It doesn't read like a man wrote it nor like a man trying to recall things through his childhood eyes. It reads exactly as if a 9 year old was telling the tale. And as the years go by and the boy grows older his narrative changes with him, becoming more mature, wiser in years yet still always a child although I'd argue that John never really got to be a child. He was thrust into the role of being the man of the house at a very young age and took his role seriously. Reading his attempts to help his mom combat her depression was priceless. There are some truly horrible moments in this book but Mr. Mitchell tells his tale with so much depth and humor that I found myself both horrified and laughing at the same time, then I felt bad about laughing because it really isn't a laughing matter but you just can't help it. So many things are told with such a unique humor that you can't help but laugh at it and that really above anything else helps to bring some much needed levity to so many deep and disturbing moments. I'd really like to talk; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Ghost and The Graveyard; Author: Visit Amazon's Genevieve Jack Page; Review: The Ghost and The Graveyard (Knight Games 1) is about Grateful Knight (yeah I totally hated the name at first too but then liked it as it made perfect after I'd finished reading the story) who after a horrible breakup in which her ex pretty much drains her bank account and forces her to start all over ends up moving into an old house owned by her dad. It's a bit out of town, pretty much by itself and would be the perfect place to start over except for the gigantic graveyard which surrounds it. After nearly wrecking her car at the first sight of a really hot guy she finds out that his name is Rick and he is the cemetery caretaker and she feels an instant connection to him (no, not one of those types of connections but a real one based off of memories that keep popping up in her head of him - memories she doesn't quite understand) She settles into her house, working on her self esteem and saving her money up to move (the cemetery totally creeps her out) and things should pretty much be getting back to normal for her by now except they're anything but. She soon comes to learn that her house is haunted by several ghosts, one of who is Logan, another sexy guy....er ghost with his own dark secrets. Soon sparks fly between Grateful, Logan and Rick. She feels bound to Rick by forces greater than herself plus she thinks he's totally hot but Logan is the perfect roommate. He cooks, he cleans and he's pretty much quite as a ghost most of the time. There's only one problem. Neither Rick nor Logan seem to care for the other. Both tell her not to trust the other one and as more and more weird events start to happen around the cemetery and dark forces from an ancient evil make themselves known Grateful finds out more than she bargained for. Will she be up to the challenge? Who will she choose? The Ghost or the Graveyard? You'll have to read to find out! I got this one for free and read it a while back and I have to say I really enjoyed it. The Ghost and the Graveyard takes the same old thing: witches, vampires, demons and good vs. evil yet manages to put a brand new twist on them. Most of the story takes place around Grateful's new house and the cemetery that surrounds it but there's plenty going on. Basically it was just a fun read, not too heavy nor too light. Not too serious yet serious enough. Not too sexy yet plenty sexy. The book rode a good middle ground for me and I'm looking forward to the next one in the series. I really wasn't sure if I was going to like this one and quite a few reviews seemed to not care much for the ending but I didn't feel that it really left everything in the air. The book had a self contained story yet; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Finding Cinderella: A Novella; Author: Visit Amazon's Colleen Hoover Page; Review: I've been waiting on Finding Cinderella for a while now. I loved Hopeless and really enjoyed Losing Hope so I couldn't wait to delve back into this world and see my old friends again. First of all I just want to say how amazing this novella is. Smaller stories are always so much harder to write well. Sometimes there's just not enough pages or enough going on for readers to connect with the characters like they can in a full length novel. Obviously that is not the case here, not only was I able to connect with Six and Daniel I was also very surprised that I was so invested in their story that I no longer cared that the story wasn't about Sky and Holder. Six and Daniel were just so engaging but of course Sky and Holder both make appearances which was just icing on the cake which already had really good icing. During Hopeless I never really gave it much thought when Daniel was talking to Holder about the girl he met in the close at school. It just never really registered with me until this story. Daniel was seeing that crazy mean girl (Was it Vicky? I'm not sure) and I never even suspected that the girl that he was with could have been Six but it makes so much sense. Daniel had so much more depth to him in Finding Cinderella than he did in Hopeless. With him being one of the two main characters you really get a good idea of who he truly is on the inside and he was so perfect for Six. Six is literally looking for the exact same thing that Daniel has always been looking for and when they met in a dark closet and pretended to be in love it was so very sweet and even more so when they met each other again and fell in love for real. Of course there's a bit of sadness too but just like with Hopeless Colleen Hoover handles it so well that it makes you care for both characters even more. There's nothing clich about Six or Daniel, they're not your stereotypical teenagers and this isn't your stereotypical romance, they're not perfect which is why they're so very perfect for each other. I loved both of their sense of humor, I enjoyed Daniels parents quite a bit and also really liked how much Six hand changed. There's just so much going on in such a small book. It never really felt like a Novella to me, more like a quick novel : ) By the end of the novella I cared for them both just as much as I did Sky and Holder and it was so nice seeing where Sky and Holder are at now and how they are doing. I think I have to agree with Colleen Hoover about her publishers telling her she was nuts for giving this one away for free because I definitely would have paid for this book although I'm glad she did release it for; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Reckless: The Story of Samantha Smith #2 (Volume 2); Author: Visit Amazon's Devon Hartford Page; Review: A lot of times sequels usually just aren't as good as the original books but that wasn't the case here. As much as I loved Fearless, I enjoyed Reckless even more. I'm really amazed at Devon Hartford, he's already a very good writer but I think it's pretty rare and wonderful to see an author who's already very talented become so much better in such a short time. Fearless was really good but Reckless was even better. It had all the things that I loved from the original and also so much more. More depth, more humor, more romance, more drama, just more everything and I had a really good time hanging out with Samantha, Christos, Mads, Romeo, Kamiko, Brandsome (sorry, can't get that name out of my head) and yes even Hunter the new jerk in town. Seriously, Hunter and Tiffany should totally get together, their evil love would destroy the universe. Reckless picks right up where Fearless left off. Samantha and Christos have taken their relationship to the next level. Not only that but Samantha is taking her art to the next level and everything is going great. So where's the drama? Don't worry, there's plenty of it here and not just from Tiffany who's personal goal in life is to make everyone around her miserable, especially Sam. Everything's going wonderful them BAM! Roadblocks start appearing all over the place. Roadblocks to Sam's art and school, her and Christo's relationship and even her friendship with Kamiko. Things continue to escalate, going from about 1 to 175mpg about as fast as Christos on his Ducati right up until the very end where we crash head first into a guard rail and are hanging over a steep mountainside starring at the tiny dots of trees below us as our life hangs in the balance. Well, that didn't happen literally but it's a good enough analogy. I for one happen to love yet hate cliffhangers at the same time but I loved this one. Don't worry, we're not left off too badly, we get a full self contained storyline but we do have to wait until the next installment in the Story of Samantha Smith to find out what happens to everybody. I can't wait for the next book. Is Christos going to be okay? Will Samantha's parents ever see reason? Will Tiffany ever grow up? Yeah right! I'm also hoping that Romeo as well as Kamiko get a little love. Heck, maybe they should get their own spin-off series. I'd also really like to know more about Brandon. Is he really such a jerk? Why was he so caring and nice to Kamiko only to be such a jerk later? I hope there's more to him than that, maybe he's under pressure from his family the way Samantha is, or maybe he's just afraid of true love. Of course he could just be a jerk, only time will tell. This is just a fun series, there was a lot more humor this time around along with a lot more romance. It seems; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Last Bastion of the Living: A Futuristic Zombie Novel; Author: Visit Amazon's Rhiannon Frater Page; Review: I saw a review of this book on a friends book blog site and it looked really good so I thought I'd give it a try and wow The Last Bastion of the Living was literally a perfect futuristic zombie book. This was my first book by Rhiannon Frater but it will definitely not be my last. I really don't want to even talk about the story because I just can"t think of any way to do it without ruining something and I really don't want to do that. The Last Bastion has so many surprises and turns in it and it's just one of those books that's best to experience it for the first time without any spoilers so instead of talking about the story I'll just let you'll know what I thought about it. I thought it rocked!!! What really impressed me the most about this book, other than the great storyline, the rich characters, the well thought out world or even the incredible twists and turns was the fact that it just gets better and better the further you read. It starts out really good but as you keep going the characters which you're already very drawn to become even closer, you find yourself more than just a little attached to them and the story just continues to grow in depth. The action becomes more heated and the lines between good and evil or at least good and not so good become less blurred and pretty much every time you think you have all the answers and there's just not enough room for any more surprises another one pops up. It was just astonishing to me how after every few chapters the book would just sort of double in depth, the story would grow more intense, the plot would grow thicker and what started out as a simple kind of soldier vs. zombie's turns into something so much more. The author kind of eases you into it then just kind of increases the pressure of the plot little by little until you're wound up, on the edge of your seat and it's 4:30am in the morning and you have to be up a 7:00am to work. This was just one of those books that was impossible to put down. I stayed up way too late reading it that first night and only forced myself to go to bed because I had work to do in the morning. The author did such a stunning job creating her characters and their world. The technology wasn't too advanced even though it was in the future, after all the Bastion is pretty much on it's last legs. There was some clever plot devices concerning the scourge or the zombies that I thought were very unique and original but at the heart of this novel is a love story and I enjoyed seeing the depths that the main character as well as the man she loved would go to for each other and for the last remaining members of their race. The ending was; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: When Women Were Warriors Book I: The Warrior's Path (Volume 1); Author: Visit Amazon's Catherine M Wilson Page; Review: The top review by Cathy S. Umbehagen says everything I would want to say and more. When Women Were Warriors is quite simply a beautiful book. The words flow like music, the story is slow and unfolds before your eyes like a delicate flower but the pacing doesn't suffer from the lack of action. Far from it, the story is actually the better for it. So many books rely on action to drive the story and that's not necessarily a bad thing but with this book the elegant words and the characters themselves drive the story. I've rarely read a book by independent or published authors that was so beautifully written. I'm getting the next two tomorrow and I'm looking forward to reading them very much. I've always enjoyed the winter time, in fact it's always felt more like a time of renewal to me than spring ever has and it just seemed fitting that I started this book at the start of winter while it was nice and cold outside with stars shining brilliantly overhead although I have a feeling that any season would be the right season for this book. The story reminded me of home, of being wrapped in a warm blanket in front of a cozy fire, of the very heartbeat of the world. At it's heart it is a story of life and of learning. It is a story of love, courage and honor. Of making your own path yet being a part of a larger picture. Of friends and enemies, lessons learned, wisdom and destiny. And magic, there is plenty of magic in this book but it is as subtle as life itself. It was beautiful and I feel like a better person who lives in a better world after reading it. I would rather talk about how the book made me feel than the story itself so that's what I've tried to do although words always fail to fully capture how any given story makes me truly feel. Discover it for yourself and prepare to go on an unforgettable journey back in time to When Women Were Warriors and discover a time and place that feels so much like coming home.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Only For You (Forever and Always); Author: Visit Amazon's E. L. Todd Page; Review: I too received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. I just finished Only for you by E.L. Todd and not only was it the first book I've read by this author it was also the very first contemporary romance book I'd read. I'll admit it took me a little bit to get into it but please keep in mind that I'm used to reading YA and New Adult type romance novels and without all the usual teenage angst drama I was a bit lost. Not to say there isn't plenty of drama here because there is but it took me a bit to realize that "my hangups" were exactly that: my hangups. Once I finally let go and let myself just enjoy the journey I had a blast. I don't know why but I'm just not used to reading about mature adults, adults who are looking for a life partner and love. Adults who have somewhat stable jobs, etc. I just want to say it was a very nice change of pace and I enjoyed it very much. I've been wanting to expand on what I read and Only For You was the perfect place to start. Now onto the good stuff :) Scarlet's best friend Sean who she's known forever is going through a breakup. The love of his life Penelope has just left him and has been cheating on him with another man. Scarlet and Sean have weathered many breakups before and have always been there for each other but this time it's different. Penelope was the love of Sean's life and he's devastated. So like any good friend would do Scarlet is there for him. She keeps him busy and helps to keep his mind off of his pain. They spend a lot of time together and sleep in the same bed which is not unusual for the two of them being such close friends but eventually after a night out on the town they cross a line and end up having sex. Scarlet realizes that she's always loved Sean and that is part of the reason she hasn't really been looking for anyone else. Afterwards Scarlet is happy, she's in love and believe Sean loves her back but he's still confused, torn over Penelope and just thinks they were friends comforting each other or friends with benefits. Scarlet is an Editor and she's great at her job. Unfortunately she has a total scumbag for a boss and she tries to tell Sean her problems concerning her boss that night that they had sex but Sean wasn't paying attention because Penelope walked into the same bar and after a bad day at work involving that total douche of a boss and a robbery she comes home only to find heartbreak and betrayal. She realizes that Sean doesn't love her the way that she loves him and does the only thing she can do at the time which is to flee. With nowhere else to go Scarlet moves from the city, leaving her job, her apartment; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Tempest (The Scribes of Medeisia); Author: Visit Amazon's R. K. Ryals Page; Review: Finding a great book out of the blue always feels a bit like a treasure hunt to me. Sometimes you come away with nothing much yet sometimes you strike gold. Then there are times you find those rare gems: a treasure which is so precious and unique even amongst all of the wondrous treasure you've discovered in the past. Tempest: Book 2 of the Scribes of Medeisia is one of those rare gems. This story is sometimes dark, extremely epic and very familiar yet completely unique and new in it's own way. It is a very character driven story that completely sucks you in from the very first page and holds you down in it's murky yet brilliantly lit depths until the very last page. There is a wellspring of depth in this novel and is so very well written that the pages just fly by as you are absorbed into every single moment of the characters lives and struggles. When we last left off in Mark of the Mage Drastona, Kye, the dragon Lochlen and their group of rebels had decided to go to war against the mad King Raemon but they soon realize they are going to need a lot more help in order to overthrow the King of Medeisia. Things grow much worse in Medeisia as it's citizens live in constant fear and persecution. Armed with the proof that Raemon intends to invade Sadeemia they make a daring and dangerous plan to try to cross the Ardus (the inhospitable desert which separates their two nations). Their courage and strength will be tested along the way, lives will be lost and the rebels who already understand the high cost of war will soon come to question whether the price for freedom is too high. This book is simply incredible! Not only is it even better than the first one which is a rare feat considering how good the first one was but it also takes the story into brand new uncharted waters and I for one really enjoy the direction this series is heading. We are introduced to new characters, new allies and new villains. Speaking of new characters I really liked Prince Cadeyrn's character. He brings a surprising amount of depth and emotion to this book which is already rich with both those features. I love the magic and how it seems to be tied to nature and the elements. I loved the differences between the two nations of Sadeemia and Medeisia: a difference of night and day. Where one nation suffers from an evil king, poverty and oppression the other grows prosperous under an honorable and caring ruler, it's people free and scribes along with mages are welcome and even given esteemed positions of power and respect within the society. I loved the trees and Oran - Drastona's wolf companion along with her falcon. Most importantly I love the depth and realism, how the devastating effects of war are not just glossed over and how the rebels deal with that loss and cruelty. Some become weighted down in; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Devoured (The Hunger); Author: Visit Amazon's Jason Brant Page; Review: This was my second Jason Brant novel. I had previously read Gehanna - his West of Hell series book 1 and really enjoyed it. In fact I bought the West of Hell Omnibus edition and fully intended to read it but then I got to looking at the cover of this book: Devoured (The Hunger Volume 1) and it just drew me to it so I thought I'd read the sample to see what it was like and I was immediately sucked into a swirling vortex of pure awesomeness and was unable to put the book down so I ended up buying it and those two seconds waiting for it to fully load on my kindle were pure torture. Jason Brant doesn't mess around. One of the things I loved about this book is that the action starts up right out of the gate and doesn't let up until the very last harrowing page. Everything you could want from a good post-apocalyptic zombie invasion was here. A mutant zombie horde - check! Lots and lots of action - check! Just enough gore to satisfy you but not enough to make you hurl while eating your lunch - check! The one thing I generally don't like about some action heavy oriented novels is that the characters usually suffer from it but have no fear, Mr Brant has seemingly mastered the fine art of balancing action and character depth. The characters in Devoured are ones that you can not only relate to but also root for and for that this book gets a huge nod from me. Lance is the main hero of the tale. I love the fact that he's just an ordinary guy. In fact life has been very unkind to Lance York. In the real world he hasn't been able to hold down a job in years, his wife can't stand the sight of him and his marriage is crumbling faster than a zombie can eat your brains. Lance has pretty much lost what self esteem and self respect he once had and as the world begins to go to the zombies he finally starts to come into his own. He's a good guy, the kind of person you'd want on your side if you all of the sudden found yourself at the bottom of the food chain while zombies and crazy militants ran around killing everyone. Lance survives the initial destruction of mankind by hiding out in a restaurant for a while and when things quickly turn for the worse and it looks like his brains are going to be eaten after all he is saved by one of the most unlikeliest heroines to ever grace the pages of zombie fiction. Enter Cassie or Cass as she demands to be called She carries a big axe, is full of attitude, (and I mean that in the most awesome way possible) and has a whacked out sense of fashion, and ho she's the true bada** (self censored) of the tale. Her interactions with Lance are priceless and I love how his; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Consumed (The Hunger) (Volume 2); Author: Visit Amazon's Jason Brant Page; Review: Wow, after reading this book I just have one word to describe it: HolyFreakingAmazingBatmanBlast Seriously, this book rocks and I had such an amazing time reading it. It's earned Jason Brant his own folder on my Kindle because I plan to snatch up the rest of his books as fast as I can. I really try hard to make myself wait a day before posting a review that way the story has enough time to sink in but I couldn't wait for tomorrow so I've just decided to throw caution to the wind and write the review now. What I love about this book: 1. Awesome mutant zombies or Vladdies as they're called in the book. Get it Vladdies as in Vlad The Impaler! They're mean, super strong, fast and are like these giant zombie gorilla flesh eating vampire monsters. I know it sounds odd but trust me it's very cool and totally works. These things are mean. You know how you get when someone disturbs you when you're in the middle of a great book? Yeah, they're that kind of mean. 2. Awesome Characters that you can relate to: There are so many great characters. Lance is not your ordinary hero. In fact he was a bit of a loser before the mutant zombie gorilla apocalypse happened. Okay they're not really gorillas but their knuckles do drag the ground at times so they're getting called gorilla's by me. Where was I? Oh yeah Lance, he's just your average guy. He was down on his luck, couldn't hold a job, his wife hates him and he doesn't have a lot of confidence anymore. But once all heck breaks loose he's exactly the kind of person you would want on your side. He's a great guy. He's not super strong nor really fit or anything and he's not a very good fighter but he does his best and cares about people which is something I can totally relate to and once Cass entered the picture his confidence shot through the roof. He might not be the best zombie killer out there but he is the best kind of person to have as a friend during the apocalypse. Doc Brown (Gonna go back in time) is a great character too. I love how can just take charge and gain control of a situation. He thinks about everyone along with every situations from all angles. He also happens to be one of the last doctors left in the US if not the world. Eifort who is ex-military (since there is no more military, at least not around these parts) is a wonderful character too. She's small but deadly with a rifle. All of the characters have an incredible amount of depth to them especially considering how action packed these books are. They're an unlikely group of heroes who have become family to each other (and to me) in such a short amount of time. I simultaneously look forward to and dread the next books. I can't wait to read them but I don't want to; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Ash; Author: Visit Amazon's Jason Brant Page; Review: Okay, well first of all after recently reading Devoured and Consumed: the first two books in The Hunger by Jason Brant I was very much looking forward to Ash. I've only read four of Jason Bran'ts books (One of them co-authored with another author) but they were more than enough for him to become one of my new favorite authors and earned him his very own folder on my Kindle which pretty much means I will be buying every single book he has out or will one day put out. His books are just that good and Ash...Ash was something else entirely. It is in a league of it's own Aka in JamieSpeak: it was Freaking Amazing!!! While serving his country, Ash who is the main hero of the tale was wounded and while recovering at the hospital he started hearing voices in his head only he wasn't going crazy like he initially thought he was but was actually hearing other people's thoughts. Think Professor X of the X-Men only it's not quite as cool as you would think. Imagine being able to constantly hear what everyone was thinking around you. Just think about some of the things that runs through your mind at times, all of your most private thoughts, all of the bad things about other people not to mention all of the insane and crazy things that happen to go through your mind each and every day, Just imagine what it would be like to be privy to all of that. Do you really want to know that your coworkers hate you or that they think you're ugly? What about the people who think you're sexy? That wouldn't be much better honestly. I can only imagine what it would be like and I doubt it would be very pleasant especially if you couldn't tune them out or shut it off at will. Fast forward a few years and Ash is pretty much living like a bum. He found that alcohol can help dampen the echoes (that's what he calls hearing other people's thoughts) that constantly bombard him. The more exhausted he is the harder time he has shutting out other people's thoughts. When he first wakes up it's not so bad but as the day progresses he has to drink in order to literally stay sane. I don't know if I'd consider him an alcoholic at least not now, maybe back when he first started hearing the thoughts of others but an old army buddy named Drew (who also happens to be the only person who knows of his ability) has been helping him. He's been getting him back into the real world, helping him to exercise and stay in shape which seems to help hone his ability. Fortunately for us Ash is a good person. He doesn't use his powers to harm others, to make himself rich. He doesn't like intruding on other peoples private thoughts so he pretty much lives like a bum. What little money he has from his Service Disability he spends on rent and; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Dark; Author: Visit Amazon's Jason Brant Page; Review: The dark by Jason Brant is one spooky story! It ends just like it begins, with a big bang. I've said it before but I'll say it again, this author does not mess around. His books start out with so much action and it never let's up. You get all of the good stuff right from the start and it just keeps coming. Jason Brant is quickly becoming one of my favorite authors and I plan on pretty much reading anything he puts out the very moment it's released. The pacing was perfect and the characters felt so real. I had no problem identifying with any of them. I liked them, worried about them, hated a few of them and rooted for the rest. Much like Stephen King's Cell makes me not want to ever own a cell phone, The Dark makes me want to sleep with a battery powered light on or to have one on hand at all times. I never wished I had a Kindle Paperwhite with a built in light more than I do now. The book starts off with a character waking up in total darkness, saved by the light of her kindle which was such a great idea. Saved by the kindle :) I can't talk about The Dark or what it is exactly without giving anything away but I will let you know that it's freaking scary and quite unique. It's just a very different kind of story yet so eerily familiar at the same time. Here's the blurb from the book: Christy Barnett is sleeping when her aging German shepherd Molly growls into the darkness outside her bedroom. She wakes to a dim glow provided by her Kindles screen, thankful that she had fallen asleep while reading again. The power has gone out, the world outside her window is eerily dark and silent. And Molly is wary of something that waits in the hallway, hiding in the shadows. A dark cloud has fallen over the city of Aberdeen, MD. The population disappears in an instant. For the handful of survivors, those lucky enough to have a light source not connected to the power grid, it's more than terrifying. Theyre left alone, walking through a nightmare, and that is a fate that could be worse than death itself. The darkness is alive and it is the reason we fear the night. If that along with the gorgeous cover doesn't get your attention then I don't know what will. Once again Jason Brant writes a book that is both action packed and filled with great characters. The Dark is unique, scary and just an all around great horror story that pulls at one's deepest darkest fear: the night. All of his books are well written with so much attention given to the little details. It's obvious that he takes his job as a writer very seriously yet also manages to have a fun writing his characters and their stories. The cover caught my attention a long time ago and it kept pulling at me until I; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Black Arts (Jane Yellowrock); Author: Visit Amazon's Faith Hunter Page; Review: Jane Yellowrock is a shape-shifter, a Cherokee Indian, and a skinwalker who always takes care of her friends, regardless of personal sacrifice. When Molly, Jane's best friend goes missing and Molly's husband Evan Trueblood turns up at Jane's doorstep one night out of the blue, convinced that she is visiting Jane, they soon discover that she never showed up and has disappeared without a trace. With the help of her friends and allies, Jane begins the search for Molly while also attending her duties as Leo's enforcer. As old allies become enemies, past foes reemerge and Jane is once again drawn into the centuries old conflict between witches and vampires. Every step leads to danger and as she draws closer to finding her friend she draws the attention of a new enemy. One twisted with black magic and more deadly than anything she's ever encountered before. I simply love the detailed world of Jane Yellowrock. The world building is phenomenal along with the attention to detail that Faith Hunter gives her characters and story. I really enjoy reading novels with a good vampire and especially like series that have a whole history and strong society for their vampires. Faith Hunter does this extremely well and provides enough rich history on her vampires that she could write dozens of books on them alone. Jane is as bad as ever and the last battle scene just flat out rocked! Jane continues to evolve and I feel that she is truly starting to come into her own, not only as a bounty hunter who hunts vampires for a living but also as a person and a true heroine. Beast, well Beast is still Beast but there has been a significant change in her too. Black Arts really is a novel about change and after reading it I'm extremely excited to see what comes next. Now that we've got the good stuff out of the way let's discuss a few things that I didn't like as much. 1. The first 3/4 of the book was a bit slower than normal. It wasn't bad but I love the action scenes which I feel weren't plentiful enough in black Arts and I love Beast even more which brings me to: 2. We don't get too see nearly as much of Best in this one. Once upon a time Beast used to bug the every loving crap out of Jane if Jane didn't change into Beast every so often. I love those interactions. Maybe Beast didn't bother Jane as much because the stakes were so high, after all we all know how Beast gets when there are "kits" involved but I did miss seeing more of her and I hope Beast will be making more appearances in future installments. 3. Rick: Screw Rick! That's all I'm gonna say on that subject. So I wavered a bit on this one. Is it a 4 star book or a 5 star book? I could have gone either way and was really leaning towards four stars when something happened: the last fourth; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Gehenna (West of Hell #1); Author: Visit Amazon's Jason Brant Page; Review: I read Gehenna a while back and it was a great story. I've recently bought the West of Hell Omnibus and I'm nearly on book three and I'm loving every single second of it. The zombies are perfect. They're gross, shuffling, slow, bloody, gurgling perfection! Just like how I like them. I don't know why I haven't seen more books like this. The wild west is the perfect era for a zombie book or film. Heck it would probably make a darn good Dystopian or Post-Apocalyptic setting too and Jason Brant is really onto something with these books. The world is incredible, the action was fast paced but he doesn't just rely on action to drive the story. The characters have an incredible amount of depth to them. You can't help but rooting for the good guys and hoping the villains will become zombie food. Character development is really important to me so I find the fact that he was able to write such a fast paced book and still give the characters a lot of life to be nothing short of amazing. If you're a zombie fan and let's face it if you're looking at this book then you probably are then go ahead and grab it with confidence. It will satisfy the zombie cravings of even the most hard core fans out there. If you love westerns then give it a try too. The setting is brilliant, the characters larger than life and the setting as gritty as any western you'll ever come across. I truly can't say enough good things about this book or Jason Brant. The man knows how to write. Okay, well I have to get back to reading West of Hell Omnibus edition. The five minutes I took two write this have been sheer agony. Must read more cowboy's and zombies :D; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: West of Hell Omnibus Edition; Author: Visit Amazon's Jason Brant Page; Review: I just finished reading West of Hell Omnibus Edition and I've been agonizing over how I should write this review. I've had a really hard time writing this one. Not because it wasn't good or anything - in fact it was for the exact opposite reasons. It was so amazing that my mind is still reeling from it all. What makes it so hard is knowing the things that I now know after having read it. West of Hell is so ingenious that I'm at a complete loss for words. There's something that I would very much like to talk about but I can't because it would completely ruin the whole experience for you and this is definitely a book you need to experience for yourself. In fact West of Hell is so good that you're going to want to read it twice and if you don't then I'll totally eat my socks (yes all three of them - hey the dryer ate one). That's how sure I am that you're going to love this series. I will totally put my socks where my mouth is. Yeah I know that's not the right saying but it if the shoe fits (Okay I'm through with sock jokes). In Gehenna we're introduced to the notorious outlaw Mad Dog McCall and the snarky but extremely intelligent Karen. Just a few pages into the book a couple of wounded cannibalistic town folk show up and things quickly go to bad and the action doesn't let up until the very last word. Even after reading most of his books it never ceases to amaze me how much action he can put into his stories yet still have such well defined characters. I have never read a book that I felt would be more perfect for the big screen than West of Hell. It has action, gun fights, romance, a never ending horde of zombies and a train sequence that would put every other train scene in the movies to shame. Throw in a few hollywood stars and a director who wouldn't screw the book up and you have all the makings of a summer blockbuster. Plus there's the whole Wild West theme which if I have to say is the perfect setting for a zombie invasion. I don't know why more authors haven't tried this. The Wild West would brilliantly compliment a good dystopian or fantasy story. Thank goodness Jason Brant thought about it. He and this book are well ahead of the curve. Originally when I wrote my review I tried to talk more about the plot but I just found the task impossible to do without giving anything away. Even just the slightest reference would ruin things and I had to completely abandon that attempt and just tell you why this series so deserves to be on your shelf. First of all the zombies. I love the slow rotting and grotesque zombies so much more than their fast moving cousins. Don't get me wrong some of the fast zombie movies/books can be alot of fun; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Ravaged (The Hunger) (Volume 3); Author: Visit Amazon's Jason Brant Page; Review: I just now finished reading Ravaged (The Hunger #3) which is the third and final book in the The Hunger and I was simply blown away. I think I'm coming down with the flu, my throat is sore, my nose won't quit running, my heads pounding and I feel miserable but none of that mattered. I could not put this book down today. At around the 78% mark I noticed something very odd, my pulse was literally pounding, not from being sick or anything but from sheer excitement as the plot was nearing it's incredible conclusion. I could take my pulse just by touching my neck with one finger, hehe. I was on the edge of my seat through most of the book and the suspense was just killing me. I've said this on every single book review I've done of Jason Brant's books but it's always true. This author doesn't mess around. His stories don't beat around the bush, they just start out with one big bang and the explosions never stop. You just ride the shock-waves all the way until the very end. It just doesn't get any better than this. Ravaged had more than enough suspense, action and well rounded characters that you grow to love more and more with each passing book plus the pacing was beyond perfect. This series from start to finish was just a pleasure to read and one I have no doubt I'll be rereading many times in the future. After the end of Consumed our heroes barely survived their encounter with the madman militant-psycho Ralph and ended up taking over his camp and now in Ravaged they're trying to keep everyone alive and survive the best they can. So far the lights have kept the Vladdies at bay but somethings happening, things are changing in the world and once again they find themselves fighting for their very lives. Will Lance and Cass ever find a bit of peace and a safe place to bring their child into the world? Will people ever stop making fun of Doc Emmett Brown's name? Will Greg ever stop saying Bro? Well great news! All of those questions and more will be answered in Ravaged. I am so sad to see this series end. I've really grown attached to all of the characters especially Lance and Cass. I enjoyed watching Lance's evolution as he went from a depressed, self-loathing loser who couldn't hold down a job nor keep his marriage together to the hero he eventually became. All of the bad things in his life began to change the second he met Cass and he quickly became someone I liked and admired. Cass also had a very nice evolution even though it was a little more subtle than Lance's. Slowly she started becoming softer and started showing her emotions. Yeah she was still a bad but Lance helped her to see that not all men are jerks and helped to slowly peel away those layers of the shell that she had built around herself. Together the two of; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Hunger Omnibus Edition (The Hunger 1-3) eBook; Author: Visit Amazon's Jason Brant Page; Review: First of all I just want to state that I don't own the Omnibus edition but I have bought and read all three books of The Hunger by Jason Brant and you are welcome to look at my reviews under my name. With that said I sure wish I had been able to buy them in one big book, not just because you save money but because it was sheer torture waiting on each new one to come out. In Book 1 Devoured we first met Lance who's a bit of a loser. He can't hold a job, his marriage is on the rocks and things just aren't going very well for him. During the zombie outbreak he runs into Cass who's completely awesome. She's a bit standoffish, speaks her mind and knows how to take care of herself. Together they make their way towards one of the safe zones and try to survive the mutated zombie threat. In Book 2: Consumed Lance, Cass and their friends end up crossing paths with a crazed militant who's intent on destroying anyone he can't control. Not only do the heroes have to survive against countless zombies but also against their fellow humans. In Book 3: Ravaged Lance, Cass and the rest are forced to make their final stand. Things are once again changing in the world and they're caught right in the middle of it all. I love these books. I enjoy that the story just kicks right in with the action yet also has characters with a lot of depth. There is just nothing about this series that I didn't love. The tension just continually rises from the very first book all the way to the end of the last one and there were times that I had to cheat and flip ahead to make sure my favorite characters were okay and I hate cheating like that. Only the best of stories make me do that. Seriously I can't say enough good things about this series or this author. Plus this cover just rocks! Consumed starts the series out perfectly and Ravages ends it perfectly. There was literally nothing I could have wished for that would have made this series any better. The zombies or Vladdies are literally the stuff of nightmares and there were so many scenes that just had me sitting on the edge of my chair, holding my breath in dread. You're definitely going to want to sleep with a night light after reading this one.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: World's Greatest Dad eBook; Author: Visit Amazon's Edward Lorn Page; Review: I just read this one last night and wow! I'm still thinking about it. This is the second short story by Edward Lorn that I've read. The first one was No Such Thing which I really liked. I don't normally read a lot of short stories. I enjoy them every now and then but for the most part I prefer full-length novels and I can't remember the last time I've read a short story collection although I have no idea why I haven't read more of them. They're absolutely perfect for when you just don't have as much time to read as you would like. I've been super busy lately plus I'm still trying to get over this flu bug. My ear has been killing me and the antibiotics I'm taking make me so sick so I've just been having a hard time reading or doing much of anything lately which is part of why I decided to give No Such Thing a try. I couldn't sit down and read for a few hours like I normally do so it was perfect to just read it in my spare time here and there. So yesterday I went and checked out the rest of Edward Lorn's books and the second I read the blurb on World's Greatest Dad I bought it. I didn't even bother with the sample like I normally do. It just sounded really good plus I'd already enjoyed one of his books and even if I didn't like it that much it was only .99 cents so I didn't have much to lose but OMG was this book worth it! I would have paid so much more had I known how good it was going to be. I don't want to even remotely go into the plot on this one other than to discuss what's in the blurb which is about a dad who's lost his daughter in the most horrible way and he has a chance to avenge her death when messages start appearing on his World's Greatest Dad coffee cup. I was sucked into the story immediately and felt so horrible after reading about what happened to his daughter. I'm not a dad and I can only imagine how hard something like that would be for any parent. I went from feeling horrified to being awed when the messages started appearing. I was on the edge of my seat throughout the whole book. I can't even express the range of emotions it elicited out of me. I've read full length novels that didn't draw as many emotions out of me. It was a sad yet satisfying story. I want to talk about the ending so bad but once again I can't. Just trust me this is one you don't want to miss. I mentioned in my last review of his that I think it's just so much harder to write a good short story than it is to write a good full length novel. You just don't have as much to work with and it's so hard to; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Angelbound (Angelbound Origins); Author: Visit Amazon's Christina Bauer Page; Review: Angelbound, oh Angelbound. You know I've been trying to write this one for two days now. How do you put into words how a really good book makes you feel? A book that not only was a lot of fun but also helped to get me out of my reading funk I've been in since becoming so sick. After dozens of tries I finally just decided to and be as honest as I can and just write it, don't think, just do it and I can say in all honesty that this was an exceptional book. The story centers around Myla who is a Quasi-Demon living in Purgatory. There are five major realms in this universe, well six if you include the humans but the major realms we're dealing with are: Heaven which is ruled by the Angels, Hell run by the demons, Ghouls in the Darklands, the Half-Angel: demon hunting Thrax in Antrum and finally the Quasi-Demon's in Purgatory. After a revolt about 18 years ago the ghouls with the help of an invading army of demons took over Purgatory and now the Quasi's are basically slaves to their Ghoul Overlords although the Ghouls refuse to use that term and they make sure to keep their slaves super happy as Myla would put it. From the very first page it was apparent that Myla has a strong voice and I was immediately sucked into her world. She is a great heroine. She's strong, sassy, sometimes over-confident but not in a bad way but she's also kind, caring and has a conscience. She's also a lot of trouble and likes to make trouble which was quite fun at times. She enjoys three things in life: kicking rear, kicking rear and kicking rear. She's been a gladiator in the Purgatory arena for years now and it is her job to fight those souls who choose a trial by combat. When people or other creatures die they end up in Purgatory and are judged in one of two ways. They can receive a trial by jury or a trial by combat. Most of the good souls after their trial by jury go straight to heaven, moved by the immensely powerful but really old Scala who's job is to move souls from Purgatory to either Heaven or Hell. Evil souls know they will never be able to go to Heaven if they receive a trial by jury so most of them opt for a trial by combat and that's where Myla and the other warriors come in. Myla lives for fighting in the arena and is a self-taught warrior. Most of the other kids at school find her odd and thinks she's weird although none would ever dare say so to her face out of fear of getting beat up. All Myla thinks about is fighting in the arena, how to kill any given demon and the best way to beat her opponents and yes I said school. That's part of what makes this book so much fun is the fact that Myla also has; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: All I Want for Christmas; Author: Visit Amazon's Jason Brant Page; Review: All I Want for Christmas is devilishly clever and fiendishly brilliant. Who knew that Jason Brant could channel his inner teenager so well - and one who's a girl at that but he did and I think that speaks volumes for him as a writer. I've always loved his characters and he seems to be able to get into their heads so effortlessly so that when I was reading this it actually felt like I was reading the journals from a teenage girl: one full of angst, melodrama and all the things that come along with being a teenager. I was laughing through most of the story and let's face it, this wouldn't be a Jason Brant story unless it had a clever twist in it somewhere and a twist it has. I so love a good ending :D I never saw it coming, at least not like that hehe. All I Want for Christmas is a set of journal entries by a teenage girl who has a huge crush on a boy at her school. He's the most perfect boy ever and he's all she wants for Christmas. Telling you any more than that would be darn near criminal, you just have to read it for yourself. I was pretty excited about this one especially since I'd only read one other short story by him which was Lotion and that one was one crazy story which was what eventually became responsible for him writing his The Hunger series which is one of my all-time favorite zombie stories, right up there with Dawn of the Dead so if you get a chance then check those out too. If you want a fun, off the wall Christmas story then look no further. All I Want for Christmas was well worth the price of admission and still leaves a big smile on my face.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Perfect Crime: An Asher Benson Short Story - Kindle edition; Author: Visit Amazon's Jason Brant Page; Review: The Perfect Crime or as I like to call it The Perfect Asher Bensen short story is basically Asher Bensen 1.5 and a go between book which takes place right after the first one: Ash and the highly anticipated sequel Madness which is coming out very soon. Without giving too much away this is a story about a man who prey's on children and believes he's gotten away with the perfect crime. Of course he never counted on Asher Bensen much less Asher's unique gift or curse depending on how you want to look at it. It's a dark and twisted tale and it really struck that "just right" spot within me. You see I'm all about second chances, and thirds and fourths...and well you get the picture but there are some things and some people that are just beyond help and redemption. Some acts or crimes which are just too horrible for society to stand and it was fun to watch Asher deliver some much needed justice. If you're looking for a quick, fun read with a bit of a mystery and paranormal then this will be right up your alley. Some of the best parts were being inside the sick twisted man's mind and as much as I hated being in there the way Jason Brant portray's his warped thinking was spot on. I really can't say enough good things about this story. If you haen't read Ash yet then I highly recommend it. It's one of my favorite books - EVER! And Asher Bensen is right up there with my favorite heroes. Heroes such as Harry Keogh from Brian Lumley's Necroscope books or The Hunter from C.S. Friedman's Coldfire Trilogy (yeah I know The Hunter is realy a villian but he was on the good guys side out of necessity, hehe). I cannot wait for Madness to come out and hope to see many more Asher Bensen books and short stories in the future.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Madness (Asher Benson Book 2) - Kindle edition; Author: Visit Amazon's Jason Brant Page; Review: Madness Review I really enjoyed Ash: the frist book in the Asher Bensen series. In fact it's one of my favorite books ever and Asher is one of my favorite heroes of all time. I can really relate to him. He has had a really rough life which is honestly a huge understatement. He suffer's from survivor's guilt, PTSD and probably a huge bout of depression on top of it. And then there's his drinking. I think it's safe to assume that Asher is definitely an alcoholic but who can blame the poor guy. If you've read Ash then you know by now that while in the military his convoy was hit by an IED and most of his friends and comrades were killed and after waking up in the hospital he started hearing voices in his head. It didn't take him long to figure out that he could hear other people's thoughts. Being psychic sounds cool but would it really be? Especially if you couldn't control it very well. I don't think I'd want to know what everyone is thinking and I sure wouldn't want anyone knowing what was going on in my mind. As the day wears the mind grows exhausted just like the body does so has an even harder time shutting out all the echoes and alcohol seems to be the only thing that helps him do that so it's no wonder he drinks all the time. I know I would. Madness was such a good book. I really thought Ash would be next to impossible to top. It was nonstop action and the interaction between the characters was hilarious so it felt like it was an impossible feat to write an even better sequel but wow was I so wrong. Madness was sheer awesomesauce. Not only that but the title of the book was very fitting. Even the chapter titles are awesome. Take chapter 14 for instance which is titled Gigantor and Short Round Go for a Ride. How does that not grab you by the eyeballs and make you want to read it? Sheer awesomesauce. After the hectic events in the first book Asher has barely had time to recover. He's back to his old smelly, drunk self and who can blame him when Drew his detective friend shows up unannounced with the ever short and sassy Nami in tow to recruit his help against Agent Smith who is still out on the loose. Even Sammy shows up so we're reunited with the old cast once again. They barely have time for some witty banter before all heck breaks loose. Agent Smith unleashes a new weapon of terror on the locals in the town where Ash lives and once again he and his friends are stuck smack dab in the middle of the chaos. Once again the world needs a hero to stop Smith's evil. Unfortunately all we have is Asher. Fortunately though Asher is completely awesome and up to the task. The whole town has gone insane and Jason Brant effortelessly draws upon his experience; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: All The Glory; Author: Visit Amazon's Elle Casey Page; Review: I just finished All The Glory and absolutely loved it. I don't even know where to start because all of the things I really want to talk about I can't because I don't want to give anything away. It's an amazing story with an incredible message. There's the ever present Elle Casey humor and wit right alongside tough topics and yet once again Elle Casey shows that she's up to the challenge of tackling those topics and that she can do so with grace and humor. Plus she throws in so many other moral dilemma's such as friendship, loyalty, empathy and love. The book does have a dark side to it but that only makes the positive messages all the more powerful. Jason Bradely is your average or should I say above average all American high school kid. He's got it all. He's the star quarterback, he's got the looks, a Barbie cheerleading girlfriend, talent, and a nice car. Basically he's the kinda guy that all the other kids want to be. He's Banner High's golden boy at least until he's found standing over the body of his dead coach and then everything changes. All of his once so called best friends hate him now, his girlfriend is more concerned about her own image than what her boyfriend is going through. Everyone assumes he's guilty even though it's supposed to be guilty until proven innocent and the media have camped out on his doorstep. Everyone hates him and wants to see him pay except for one person: Katy. Katy has lived down the road from Jason all her life and even though they exist in totally different worlds. He's popular and she's not. She still remembers the kind kid who always stood up for everyone. A boy who protected others and thinks there's more to his story that what he's telling and sets out to find the truth. I think Katy's biggest gift is her empathy. As everyone turns their backs on Jason she's the one person who decides to stand beside him. She is able to put herself in his shoes and realize how lonely and scared it must be facing possible murder charges and prison for the rest of his life and that's if he's lucky and doesn't get death row. She does have her doubts, fears and misgivings like any rational person would but she is determined to stand by him no matter what happens. She's forced to really think about life, about loyalty, friendship, what's right and what's wrong. She along with Jason are forced to grow up and are faced with challenges that would haunt even the sturdiest of adults. Empathy is what drives her to Jason, that and the fact that I think she's always had a bit of a crush on him. Loyalty keeps her by his side and justice is what drives her to never give up. There are just so many good and of course a few bad themes running through this book and the ending is powerfully haunting. I absolutely loved Katy; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Big Bob; Author: Visit Amazon's Jason Brant Page; Review: A short story must get off the ground running to be considered a success. It's not like a novel which can take it's time and introduce the plot and characters slowly. It has to grab your attention immediately either through it's characters or plot. Big Bob does just that and even goes the extra mile with a sense of style in it's words. I was hooked from the first line. Jason Brant has a talent for telling outstanding stories with rich characters, a "expletive" plot, lots of humor and twists that can only be considered Brantinian. Yeah I made up a word but that's the only way to describe some of the mind boggling twists in his stories. Normally I see them coming but I've quit trying to guess what he'll come up with next because I'm usually way off. Big Bob has so much to offer. It has a character that you're immediately drawn to, a plot that completely skips the gas pedal and just goes for mach 10 and of course that Brantinian twist I told you about. Not only that but the words create such a clear picture in your mind that you take a trip right alongside the characters and experience everything they do. I am always surprised by how authors who I already consider to be great authors continually keep getting even better. What's better than better? Bester? Bestest? Besterest? It's a good thing I'm not a writer because I'm not sure what the word is but it applies to Jason Brant. I can't really talk about the plot even though I'm dying too but I will say it left a pretty big grin on my face and I had to immediately reread it again the second I was through. It's just one of those stories that you can't read just once. Nor do you want to read it just once. It's just that good.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Re:Zero: Starting Life in Another World, Vol. 1; Author: Visit Amazon's Tappei Nagatsuki Page; Review: As a fan of the anime series I really can't wait to see what happens after the first season so I thought I'd start reading the light novels and hopefully at some point they'll pass the series and I can see what happens next. Either that or we'll get a season 2 so either way I'm happy. Re:Zero vol. 1 is the second light novel I've ever read and I had a few misgivings. I've read that the translations can be a bit rough at times and there is quite a few "not exactly complaints" per se but I've seen quite a few reviews state how it's a bit annoying that characters aren't always giving queue's so that it's hard to tell who's speaking at times and while they are right it wasn't nearly as bad as I was expecting. I only had two spots where it got a bit confusing but after a quick reread it was apparent who was speaking. I was also worried that this would be a "exact or literal" translation with no thought given to narrative flow. Long story short I worried about nothing. The novel had a nice flow to it and read like any other good story. Not only that but it clarified a few things that the anime didn't really touch on. Basically it's just more of what you already love. The characters are great, the story is great and the telling was more than adequate. Could it have been better? Possibly but as is it was more than adequate. I had a great time reading this book and have already bought the second volume. With Kadokawa's recent purchase of Yen Press I'm hoping we'll get even more anime's translated into light novels, more manga and that the already good quality will improve even more. It's a win/win for anime fans. Rest assured. This is the Re:Zero that you all love, just with a bit more of it. If you're hesitant to buy this light novel, don't be. The story kept me at the edge of my seat and the illustrations while sparse were all excellent and the illustrator should really be commended. All in all it was a well put together book and I'm staying for the ride. I love Re:Zero and as far as I'm concerned one can never get enough of Emilia, Subaru and especially Rem/Ram. I can't wait to finally meet Rem and Ram again in the next book. :D; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Re; Author: Visit Amazon's Tappei Nagatsuki Page; Review: As a fan of the anime series I really can't wait to see what happens after the first season so I thought I'd start reading the light novels and hopefully at some point they'll pass the series and I can see what happens next. Either that or we'll get a season 2 so either way I'm happy. Re:Zero vol. 1 is the second light novel I've ever read and I had a few misgivings. I've read that the translations can be a bit rough at times and there is quite a few "not exactly complaints" per se but I've seen quite a few reviews state how it's a bit annoying that characters aren't always giving queue's so that it's hard to tell who's speaking at times and while they are right it wasn't nearly as bad as I was expecting. I only had two spots where it got a bit confusing but after a quick reread it was apparent who was speaking. I was also worried that this would be a "exact or literal" translation with no thought given to narrative flow. Long story short I worried about nothing. The novel had a nice flow to it and read like any other good story. Not only that but it clarified a few things that the anime didn't really touch on. Basically it's just more of what you already love. The characters are great, the story is great and the telling was more than adequate. Could it have been better? Possibly but as is it was more than adequate. I had a great time reading this book and have already bought the second volume. With Kadokawa's recent purchase of Yen Press I'm hoping we'll get even more anime's translated into light novels, more manga and that the already good quality will improve even more. It's a win/win for anime fans. Rest assured. This is the Re:Zero that you all love, just with a bit more of it. If you're hesitant to buy this light novel, don't be. The story kept me at the edge of my seat and the illustrations while sparse were all excellent and the illustrator should really be commended. All in all it was a well put together book and I'm staying for the ride. I love Re:Zero and as far as I'm concerned one can never get enough of Emilia, Subaru and especially Rem/Ram. I can't wait to finally meet Rem and Ram again in the next book. :D; Rating: 5.0/5.0
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amazon_books
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Given the interaction history of a user with products as follows:
Title: SPRI Xering Resistance Bands (2 Pack); Brand: SPRI; Review: Resistance is GOOD, first need to get used to them, they will shoot out when in a bind. They are an alternative to iron weights at home in the room.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: SPRI Xering Resistance Bands (2 Pack); Brand: SPRI; Review: Resistance is GOOD, first need to get used to them, they will shoot out when in a bind. They are an alternative to iron weights at home in the room.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: RWS Rifle Shooter's Kit, .177 Caliber; Brand: RWS; Review: Comes with everything you need to mantain a pistol or rifle. Comes with only a few cleaning pellets(25) I bought a box of 100 extra. And use Breakfree CPL to wipe down the outer metal after a shooting session.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Gamo Hunter .177 Cal, 7.56 Grains, Domed, 250ct; Brand: Gamo; Review: Ordered 2 tins recieved only 1 was charged for 2, and the 1 I recieved was loose in a too big for item box (pellet users know pellets get damaged that way) complained bout this nothing came of it..........................was credited for 1 tin, of the 250 in the other tin got maybe 100 good useable pellets with lots of lead dust form rolling around.......; Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: IZH 61 air rifle; Brand: IZH-Baikal; Review: This rifle is perfect for back yard fun. I was an avid shooter, plinker, hunter, had a stoke in 2002 and limits me now from most of that. This rifle is perfect to just shoot in the back yard (with of coarse backstops, pellet traps, etc. I used the boxes that it came in put extra catalogs I recieved laying around, in the box dose not go completly thur) No safety on this gun so if young children a shooting or around be aware when they pick up the gun. But with supervision lots of fun.....Oh it's very easy to dry fire when having too much fun, so keep count. Bought 2 extra mags should have got more....Good PRICE for this, also bought IZH53m pistol.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: IZH 53M Air pistol air pistol; Brand: IZH-Baikal; Review: Perfect for backyard fun shooting. Also bought IZH61 rifle equaly as much fun to shoot. Make sure to set up good backstops with your pellet traps, then will be hard to stop shooting..great price too, was thinking about getting the gamo compact pistol $220.00 first but tried this one glad I did.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Gamo Hunter .177 Cal, 7.56 Grains, Domed, 250ct; Brand: Gamo; Review: Ordered 2 tins recieved only 1 was charged for 2, and the 1 I recieved was loose in a too big for item box (pellet users know pellets get damaged that way) complained bout this nothing came of it..........................was credited for 1 tin, of the 250 in the other tin got maybe 100 good useable pellets with lots of lead dust form rolling around.......; Rating: 1.0/5.0
Title: Gamo Hunter .177 Cal, 7.56 Grains, Domed, 250ct; Brand: Gamo; Review: Ordered 2 tins recieved only 1 was charged for 2, and the 1 I recieved was loose in a too big for item box (pellet users know pellets get damaged that way) complained bout this nothing came of it..........................was credited for 1 tin, of the 250 in the other tin got maybe 100 good useable pellets with lots of lead dust form rolling around.......; Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: Gamo Hunter .177 Cal, 7.56 Grains, Domed, 250ct; Brand: Gamo; Review: Ordered 2 tins recieved only 1 was charged for 2, and the 1 I recieved was loose in a too big for item box (pellet users know pellets get damaged that way) complained bout this nothing came of it..........................was credited for 1 tin, of the 250 in the other tin got maybe 100 good useable pellets with lots of lead dust form rolling around.......; Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: Gamo Hunter .177 Cal, 7.56 Grains, Domed, 250ct; Brand: Gamo; Review: Ordered 2 tins recieved only 1 was charged for 2, and the 1 I recieved was loose in a too big for item box (pellet users know pellets get damaged that way) complained bout this nothing came of it..........................was credited for 1 tin, of the 250 in the other tin got maybe 100 good useable pellets with lots of lead dust form rolling around.......; Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: Gamo Hunter .177 Cal, 7.56 Grains, Domed, 250ct; Brand: Gamo; Review: Ordered 2 tins recieved only 1 was charged for 2, and the 1 I recieved was loose in a too big for item box (pellet users know pellets get damaged that way) complained bout this nothing came of it..........................was credited for 1 tin, of the 250 in the other tin got maybe 100 good useable pellets with lots of lead dust form rolling around.......; Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: Gamo Hunter .177 Cal, 7.56 Grains, Domed, 250ct; Brand: Gamo; Review: Ordered 2 tins recieved only 1 was charged for 2, and the 1 I recieved was loose in a too big for item box (pellet users know pellets get damaged that way) complained bout this nothing came of it..........................was credited for 1 tin, of the 250 in the other tin got maybe 100 good useable pellets with lots of lead dust form rolling around.......; Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: Gamo Hunter .177 Cal, 7.56 Grains, Domed, 250ct; Brand: Gamo; Review: Ordered 2 tins recieved only 1 was charged for 2, and the 1 I recieved was loose in a too big for item box (pellet users know pellets get damaged that way) complained bout this nothing came of it..........................was credited for 1 tin, of the 250 in the other tin got maybe 100 good useable pellets with lots of lead dust form rolling around.......; Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: Gamo Hunter .177 Cal, 7.56 Grains, Domed, 250ct; Brand: Gamo; Review: Ordered 2 tins recieved only 1 was charged for 2, and the 1 I recieved was loose in a too big for item box (pellet users know pellets get damaged that way) complained bout this nothing came of it..........................was credited for 1 tin, of the 250 in the other tin got maybe 100 good useable pellets with lots of lead dust form rolling around.......; Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: Gamo Hunter .177 Cal, 7.56 Grains, Domed, 250ct; Brand: Gamo; Review: Ordered 2 tins recieved only 1 was charged for 2, and the 1 I recieved was loose in a too big for item box (pellet users know pellets get damaged that way) complained bout this nothing came of it..........................was credited for 1 tin, of the 250 in the other tin got maybe 100 good useable pellets with lots of lead dust form rolling around.......; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Gamo Hunter .177 Cal, 7.56 Grains, Domed, 250ct; Brand: Gamo; Review: Ordered 2 tins recieved only 1 was charged for 2, and the 1 I recieved was loose in a too big for item box (pellet users know pellets get damaged that way) complained bout this nothing came of it..........................was credited for 1 tin, of the 250 in the other tin got maybe 100 good useable pellets with lots of lead dust form rolling around.......; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Birchwood Casey SHOOT-N-C 2" Bull's-Eye Targets - 108 Targets; Brand: Birchwood; Review: After shooting for years you need to shoot these they are the perfect target for seasoned shooters, more of a challenge.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: 5 LED Bicycle Rear Tail Red Bike Torch Laser Beam Lamp Light; Brand: ; Review: Light and laser torch work well, very bright. Just installed on trike, had it a week, but seems to be well built. Only time will tell.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Nite Ize S Biner Ahhh; Brand: Nite Ize; Review: Well built very strong and can open a bottle too. I have a few sets of keys that I have to keep together sometimes. Would recommend.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
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amazon_Sports_and_Outdoors
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Given the interaction history of a user with hotels as follows:
Title: The Queensbury Hotel; City: Brighton East Sussex England; Review: I actually lived in brighton and have moved away but wanted a cheap place to stay to visit friends with my family. The location of the hotel is PERFECT in Regency Square, if you do not know Brighton this is in short walking distance to the town, shops, bars, pubs, nightlife and just across the road from the beach.....so you cannot beat it. There is also the best seafood restaurant in town on the corner of the square the Regency....DO NOT EAT ANYWHERE ELSE!!!! this is the best for seafood and the best value. The hotel was very clean and the staff were incredibly friendly. My only bugbear was that I paid for two superior rooms and on the website I booked them was lead to believe that they both had seaviews. However, when we arrived one of the rooms was great with huge bay windows overlooking the sea and the other was tucked round the back, gloomy and not as large. So check what you are getting before you arrive. The large room was well worth the money, without a doubt you wouldn't get such a nice room with views like this in the expensive hotels in town....so don't let the above put you off booking. I would definately stay again and recommend to friends as it was such good value, clean and comfortable.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Turtle Bay; City: Kalametiya Tangalle Southern Province; Review: I have sadly just returned from the Turtle Bay I really don't know where to start as this place is truly AMAZING.... Staff - out of this world I have never had service like this anywhere else in the world. Friendly, efficient but above else personalised and genuine. The staff here really WANT to look after you...and make sure you have the best holiday ever. Food - Out of this world. Go half board its worth it you will never eat seafood as fresh as this anywhere else. Breakfast - fresh tropical fruits and eggs and toast and freshly squeezed fruit juices of your choice I recommend the papaya. Dinner tell the chef what you would like...lobster, giant prawn, mussels fresh off the rocks! its truly fantastic. Resort / location - I was very lucky as I had this beautiful place all to myself :) Right the rooms are lovely, the pool area has views to die for. The beds are the most comfortable ever. This place is very clean and has great bathrooms. The location of the resort is worldclass. I am proud to say this is the 40th country I have travelled in both backpacking, boutique and world class hotels and I can only say that this beach is up there in the top 3 i have seen in the world...alongside fiji and borneo. Its unspoilt there are no big hotels, no shops no bars just virgin beach. If you want the ultimate getaway then come to turtle beach. Do not come here however if you don't like seclusion as you will hate it. This really is the ultimate chill out away from everything and your rewarded with amazing amazing views, beach, wildlife.... Activities - the hotel has a turtle hatchery located next door we were lucky to release baby turtles into the indian ocean and also to bury some newly laid eggs. There is also a turtle beach nearby which the hotel and wildlife rangers will take you to, to see the turtles laying their eggs. Make sure you go to the elephant reserve Uda Walla its out of this world amazing we saw heards of wild elephants well worth it. Whales - I was lucky to see the blue whales on an organised cruise it is well worth it but hot so take your sun lotion! please remember also that sightings are not guarenteed and i went on a good day. Birds - Turtle bay is in a bird reserve its amazing to go for a paddle on the bird lakes. Ayuverdic treatments - ask for the lady she does THE BEST massages at the hotel I have ever had. I came here to recover from a bad back and she really did a good massage. Above all you just can't go wrong at Turtle Bay I just got back and am planning a repeat visit in November to share this beautiful place with my Mum....its truly amazing....before its spoilt (i really hope this place does not fall to the developers) go there NOW :-); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Mayflower Hotel; City: Beirut; Review: The mayflower is OK nothing special nothing too bad... The suites are good value if there are four or 5 of you and you want a cheap place to crash. The bar is also good and the staff in the bar were friendly. I would go back again if in a big group but definately not if on my own or a couple. If your into beirut make sure you head to bar louie its amazing in gamazhe or however you spell it! anyway it made our stay....8 club too and also BO18. Beirut is fab enjoy; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Beit Rose Hotel; City: Damascus; Review: The Rose Beit is just great. What a joy to stay in a traditional damascun house an oasis in the heart of the old town. The rooms were amazing and traditionally decorated with great artifacts and antiquities. Breakfast in the courtyard was joy each morning.....watching the sun go do across the city and the mountains from the roof with a chilled glass of wine even better. I cannot fault this hotel and people were knocking on the door to take a look at this traditional house....what a joy to actually stay here. The staff were very accomodating and nothing was too much trouble. I would love to stay here again one day.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Rast Hotel; City: Istanbul; Review: I stayed in the Rast hotel recently for a weekend with friends here are my comments on the rast: Location - fantastic right in the middle of everything. Nothing is a long walk away the blue Mosque etc. etc. Also the view from the top floor cafe is breathtaking it looks like something out of a movie. Rooms - Small nothing special, glass window between the bathroom and bedroom and has a blind in it but not 100 percent privacy! I would say 3 star standard. Food - breakfast is served 7 - 10 on the first day we went down at 8am and food nice and hot. On second day we went down at 9am and the breakfast was cold not impressed. Staff - helpful but there were occassions where they encouraged us to get a cab...only for us to get stuck in traffic for ages and find out the the ferry terminal would have been a 10min walk! so this was really annoying. Communal areas - very nicely decorated. All in all a good hotel but the rooms a little small and dingy and just wish the guys were more helpful with information rather than trying to sell us tours etc.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: The Chedi Muscat a GHM hotel; City: Muscat Muscat Governorate; Review: The Chedi is beautiful there is no doubt about it. I visited here with a group of friends and we all work in creative industries so were especially keen to see the architecture and this place did not dissapoint. Every view was immaculately thought out and the hotel is a great mix of clean lines, with a middle eastern and asian influence. We loved it. The infinity pool over looking the sea is very Ibiza and the sun 'beds' were perfect especially in the summer heat as there was plenty of shade. They also provided free mint and lemon water ALL day which we thought was excellent. The service was very very good and the staff were very friendly and accomodating. We booked the summer specail price on Expedia and both our groups were upgraded to deluxe rooms which were VERY nice. Lovely beds, IPOD docking stations, his and hers wardrobes, amazing showers...fantastic. Very minimal - but that is what we came here for. The breakfast buffet was wonderful the food very fresh as was the evening meal at the main restaurant. Prices pretty similar to Dubai - expensive if you live out of the GCC - but pretty standard if you are a resident in the middle east. Our only gripe...the rooms felt a little bit un-clean like the toiletries could have been used before and resealed and in the mini bar somebody had used the eye refresher before - also the comments sheet had been filled in by previuos guests that kind of thing! This let the place down a little. But would not stop us going back as it really was a great great place to really chill out. The location is not brilliant but we just wanted to sit around and do nothing all weekend so this really didn't bother us! We did a good job of this!!!!; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Casa Colvale; City: Colvale North Goa District Goa; Review: What a wonderful boutique hotel, truly stunning location, very hip decor and a fantastic chilled out vibe.......I am definately coming back to chill out, laze and eat great food again one day! James really looks after you and the river location is truly out of this world. Its not the GOA I normally get to see as I normally holiday on the beach......but this is something else very unique. Also James arranged a speed boat from the beach for us, so an hour later we arrived in style and got a great river cruise en route. Just fantastic. Loved every minute of it.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Jumeirah Zabeel Saray; City: Dubai Emirate of Dubai; Review: Having lived in Dubai for 4 years and now living in Doha i wanted to stay in a luxury hotel for a long weekend to Dubai to use as a base for visiting friends. Having been here for the AMAZING Friday brunch several times I had often wondered what it would be like to stay....so this time I decided to book a room. The hotel lived up to every thing I wanted it to be and expect from a Jumeirah property. This (apart from the Burj Al Arab!)...is my favourite of all the Jumeirah properties. It has a luxurious air that continues throughout the hotel to the pool area too. The rooms are OUT OF THIS WORLD every little luxury is catered for. The beds are guarenteed to give you the best nights sleep ever. The bath is like a swimming pool! and you get luxury Asprey products in the rooms. I also loved the little tea and coffee draw. The 3 layers of curtains also guarenteed black out and the best nights sleep ever. I would definately stay in this hotel next time I am in Dubai and wouldn't hesitate to recommend it to anyone.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Riad Linda; City: Marrakech Marrakech Tensift El Haouz Region; Review: I booked out the whole riad for my 40th birthday celebration for 15 people. From the moment I made contrast with Linda she was amazingly helpful, always responded back promptly and was a joy to deal with. On arrival we just fell in love with the place. The roof terrace especially was just a great place for us to hang out. The staff were so helpful and friendly and went out of their way. They even bought me a huge bunch of flowers for my birthday :-) The rooms were really nice especially the main suite which was huge. The breakfasts were tasty. The location is great as only a couple of mins walk to the action and probably 5 mins to the medina. But the absolute highlight was my birthday party. I ordered a traditional Moroccan feast cooked at the riad and it was delicious. I had also booked a band and they were just fantastic really made the atmosphere we were all dancing and having the best time. Also a belly dancer who was also great. I would without a doubt recommend the riad for a big group celebration it exceeded our celebrations and was just fantastic. It was one of the best holidays ever and surprisingly great value.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: La Casa del Mar; City: Essaouira Marrakech Tensift El Haouz Region; Review: I booked the entire beach house for my 40th birthday. When we arrived we couldn't believe how beautiful the communal area was in the ground floor. Open fire, vases of fresh roses, lovely chill out space ... We were so impressed. Then we saw the rooms and we truly felt like we were in a beautiful beach house. All the rooms were fabulous and full of character. Especially the family room with the mezzanine level...the boys loved sleeping in their special bunk bed! Some of the rooms had sea views too :-) The roof terrace was amazing ... The weather was very windy when we were there and watching the huge waves from the roof was breathtaking. The breakfasts were delicious .. The lady cooked fresh bread and pancakes and they were just soooo tasty. All the staff were extremely friendly and we want to come back again. The perfect place for a family holiday.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Blau Varadero Hotel; City: Varadero Matanzas Province Cuba; Review: This is a fabulous hotel. We didn't book a package tour as we were travelling around Cuba independently and after staying in Casa Particulars as wonderful as they are fancied a bit of luxury for our last 3 nights. Firstly we paid only £45 a night each for fully inclusive based on twin occupancy ... What a bargain. We just turned up and this was their standard rate. After getting through the cocktail list completely in 2 days, eating copious amounts of lovely food (served 24 hours) we defnately got our monies worth! The rooms are great very big, huge bathroom and fabulous huge balcony. Very very clean. Fab beach in the more remote part of Varadero where the beach is invariably better than town. The resort is resort like and personally I prefer smaller hotels....but it is fantastic..fab pool bars, restaurants and friendly staff. Would defo recommend a stay here :-); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Hibiscus Valley Inn; City: Marigot Saint Andrew Parish Dominica; Review: This is a lovely little gem of a guest house. 1. They have an excellent tour programme....franklin took us to the boiling lake and he was the best guide for motivating us and telling us about the plants, geography, history...... Angus took us to the river tubing and cooked us a meal of fresh crab in the rainforest he was great....atta was very knowledgeable and a very nice man and took us to the champagne pools and whale watching. 2. The place is clean and homely and the setting is amazing...wait until you hear the fog chorus as the sun goes down. 3. The food choice is limited but Nigel is great chef I especially loved his vegetarian food. 4. Atta and Nigel are very kind people I nearly missed my flight and they helped me! 5. Compared to other places to stay in dominica its great value for money...I had a bungalow and it was great sitting out on the hammock on the terrace...I used the fan and it was fine at keeping me cool at night.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Petite Anse Beachfront Hotel Restaurant Grenada; City: Saint Patrick Parish Grenada; Review: Petite Anse is a fantastic place and gives you the chance to get away from it all. The owners Go out of their way to welcome you and you feel like family. Annie and Philip have created something rather special here and something that many other resorts lack. You don't just come to petite anse to enjoy the beautiful beach, sound of the ocean, dinners with a heavenly view and wonderful cocktails....you come here to relax, have great conversation with the owners and other guests and really feel like you can put your feet up. It's the ultimate get away from it all place. The guests we have met here are mainly repeat visitors and there is a reason for this....it's because it's like a wonderful home by the beach. I would favour this over a soulless big name resort any day :-); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Gingerbread Hill; City: Montserrat; Review: I adore the views from this wonderful spot. We stayed in the villa sadly just for one night as we came to see the volcano. The family is just great and David and clover really looked after us. The villa is so well equipped and the view from the veranda is breathtaking. We did the volcano tour with their son and it was very interesting it also was quite overwhelming to see the results of such a force of nature. With the families wealth of knowledge these really are the best people to stay with and tour with. I also loved their little community cafe don't miss clovers lovely cooking. Please come to montserrat its a very special place and having now visited over 60 countries I can say I have never been somewhere like this its a unique experience and a place I will never forget.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Les Ilets de la Plage; City: St Jean St Barthelemy; Review: Love love love this place. As its down a private road it's quite and sublime and totally perfect for a relaxing holiday. I also think its at the best end of the bay as its so quiet and peaceful and away from the touristy end. The water is clear as glass and the sand soft under your toes. There is some sea grass on the beach but for the past two years this problem has been Caribbean wide so many beaches have this. It did not in anyway take away my enjoyment of this lovely place.i dream of going back. The room was well equipped the bed had crisp linen and perfect ac. The living room I loved that one side was open and you could open the patio doors on the other side to let the air through. The staff were beyond helpful and friendly. They let us check in early and leave late as it fit in with other guests arrival and departure times. The pool are had a lovely lounge area. I really wish to come back here one day and share it with someone special. St Barths is just wonderful recommend you hire a car or quad bikes to see the island as its just amazing.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Harvest Moon Guest House; City: Pokhara Gandaki Zone Western Region; Review: This place is run by a very lovely family who go out of their way to be helpful. The location is great as its away from lakeside but only a 5 minute walk in. The breakfasts are very good. Its very very very good value we couldn't fault it at all and stayed for 5 nights. What a bargain.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Karmi Farm; City: Darjeeling Darjeeling District West Bengal; Review: Staying at Karmi farm is not just a 'stay' its an experience. Andrew goes out of his way to make you feel one of the family and the hospitality is incredible. We came as part of a Dragoman Tour group and had the most fabulous time trekking, learning about the local culture, eating delicious home cooked local food and generally feeling like we had landed in an area that is not over run by tourists...in fact we didn't see any except for ourselves. I very much admire the clinic that Andrew has set up. The views from the terrace are exceptional. This is one of those places you stay and NEVER forget. Thanks Andrew for giving us this experience.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Hotel Tibet; City: Kathmandu Kathmandu Valley Bagmati Zone Central Region; Review: Nice place, clean, welcoming with great communal areas. The outdoor terrace for breakfast is especially nice. Its a great escape from the hustle and bustle however if you want to walk to Thamel you do have to cross the road which is pretty hair raising. But would stay here again for a peaceful place that is not far from the action.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Dekeling Hotel; City: Darjeeling Darjeeling District West Bengal; Review: I really liked this place. We stayed here as part of a Dragoman overland tour and as soon as we arrived it felt very friendly. I especially liked the ambience as it feels more like a lodge and fit in well with Darjeeling. The lounge on the roof has great views. I would stay here again. You do have to walk up very steep steps to get here though not a problem for us as we thought it was a good work out....but definitely not suitable for people with mobility issues. The restaurant downstairs is amazing the tibetan place and cheap...went there on our last day and wished we had gone there earlier!; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Golden Hopes Group Of Houseboats; City: Srinagar Srinagar District Kashmir Jammu and Kashmir; Review: I have just returned after spending 5 days in beautiful Kashmir. We stayed on the Golden Hopes Houseboat for 4 nights and had the most amazing time. Tariq and Ray really looked after us. We had a few concerns about heading out of Srinagar before visiting Kashmir due to the security situation. But we didn't once feel worried and Tariq guided us and took us on some wonderful day trips horse riding, trekking, seeing forests that looked like they were out of a fairy tale, glaciers and amazing scenery Kashmir did not disappoint it was everything I had dreamed it would be....we had loads of fun on the lake too visiting the fruit and vegetable market, the cruise around the lakes and also we had a go at rowing ourselves. Tariq and Ray really looked after us...it was amazing how hospitable they were - they feel like family now. The food their mum prepares for dinner is so delicious we ate onboard every night. I can't wait to come back one day and felt sad to leave. I would not hesitate to recommend this place to people who want a peaceful setting to really enjoy nature ... you see wild eagles diving for fish from your view on their veranda and just can enjoy watching all the boats go by. We also didn't get any hassle from hawkers....as we are a little further into the lake they seemed to leave us alone. If we wanted to get snacks and drinks Tariq just called up a man who delivered us what we wanted by boat....The houseboat has loads of character and is really amazing value for money......I can honestly say after visiting 70 countries i haven't stayed anywhere in the World where you are made to feel this much at home by such kind and honest people. Thanks Tariq and Ray.... from Amanda :-); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Bab Al Shams Desert Resort Spa; City: Dubai Emirate of Dubai; Review: I live in Dubai and my sister and brother in law and their 2 and 4 year old daughters came to stay for 2 nights. I mentioned it was their 40th birthday celethey very kindly upgraded me so our rooms were next to each other and did lots of special things for them over our 3 day stay. This place has always been a day trip for me from Dubai but the stay was well worth the extra money. The restaurants especially the indian are outstanding. I am vegan and they went out of their way to make a really nice meal for me. The show in the desert at Al Hadeirah was fantastic and all the staff were so kind and friendly we couldn't fault them. The kids club is fabulous the pool area is just amazing and the rooms and beds are very very clean and comfortable. I will defiantly go back and they are planning their next trip!!! thanks so much Bab Al Shams for such a special stay.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Enganzi Game Lodge; City: Queen Elizabeth National Park Western Region; Review: I have just stayed here with 8 friends, due to an issue with Kenyan Airlines we arrived late into Kigali and then drove through the night to get here. We arrived at sunrise and WHAT A VIEW it is truly spectacular. I have travelled a lot to 70+ countries but this has to be one of the most amazing views I have seen. With herds of elephants roaming int he distance it really is quite special. The staff here were amazing loved them so friendly. The food was great (I am vegan) they really made sure i had delicious food to eat. The rooms are fabulous our bath had a view across the savannah. I would definately stay here again and would love to stay longer as it really is special. Would make a great base to explore from.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Classic Street Hotel; City: Hanoi; Review: Amazingly friendly hotel central to the old town. Great little find and the staff go out of their way to be ultra friendly and helpful. Would definately recommend and stay here again. Only small thing i paid extra for a balcony but it wasn't worth it tiny and view was of the back of other hotels so don't bother. Also the spa is very hit and miss I only went for the convenience but the girls are on their phones when treating you and swapped over twice during treatments. However my review is of the hotel and that is a great place to stay.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Bunkedup Hostel Varanasi; City: Varanasi Varanasi District Uttar Pradesh; Review: We loved this place - the staff were so friendly and they went out of their way to be helpful. Their recommendations led to us having the best time in Varanasi which far exceeded our expectations. The hostel is well run and the roof top is AMAZING - the views of the Ganges are excellent and the food was superb. Would definately stay here again.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Maa Ashapura Farm Stay Hotel; City: Ranthambore National Park Sawai Madhopur District Rajast; Review: Maa Ahapura is a wonderful place I wish I could have stayed longer. The 'tent' was gorgeous really well equipped and added to the fun of being 'on safari'. This place is so gorgeous it has a lovely pool and the food was the best we had in India on our trip. The highlight was seeing the tigers in style, as Maa Ashapura provided lovely warm blankets which we noticed none of the other jeeps had. Also the management had asked if we could go to an outer zone (7) where we had the most memorable wild life spotting of a tiger for quite some time at a watering hole. I would not hesitate in recommending this place and would love to go back one day.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
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Given the interaction history of a user with books as follows:
Title: Body for Life: 12 Weeks to Mental and Physical Strength; Author: Visit Amazon's Bill Phillips Page; Review: Initially I didn't think much of this book. Not anything I didn't already know or applied in my 15 + or - years of weight training. Nothing I hadn't seen in some form in various bodybuilding and fitness magazines, including Bill Phillips MUSCLE MEDIA. I did do one of his transformation challenges, and I believe his contest and all the before and after photos are legit. (*see postscript on this issue*) I let it set for a while and then my husband picked it up, read it and actually seemed interested. He got out the cooler to take food to work and actually worked out. He hasn't worked out consistently as long as I've known him. So I decided to take a second look. On looking at this again and giving it a try for a week I love it. I'm not in that bad of shape and I dropped three pounds this week, plus I'm getting stronger rather than just staying at the same level. Though it is very simple to follow it contains many complex principles. The routines will work for anyone because they use their own perceived effort as the guideline. The progression from a 5 effort and cycling up and down towards 8/9 - 10 efforts contains its own warm-up effect. It uses the progressive resistance and pyramiding principles... and finishes off with a super set! The pushing towards a maximum effort on one set is much more realistic than trying to go to the max every set and every rep. Some people might need to do a bit more of a warm-up and a cool down but I think if you start at a 5 out of 10 effort and work your way up that is an adequate warm-up. The portion method in the nutrition program is much simpler to follow than calorie counting, as long as you're honest on the portion size and allowed foods. I don't feel as deprived as I do when I'm counting calories and weighing out foods. Getting enough fiber is possible I think, I'd tend to switch out a bran cereal for the carbs once or twice a day. Otherwise it is certainly better than the average person's diet and is quite livable. I do like Myoplex (the EAS brand meal replacement shake) but there are other products that are just as good and not as pricey. Check some of the online supplement stores, they can deliver at a price as good or better than the GNC gold card day... just watch the shipping charges when calculating your total cost and shop around. All in all, this book gives solid, effective and livable solutions to being fit. Bill Phillips always has a positive, can-do attitude and is easy to read. I will probably be getting a few copies of this to give out at Christmas to friends and relatives. I paid full retail at the local bookstore - so the Amazon price makes this a very good value. *****Postscript***** This in response to the charge that the before and after photos; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Late, Great Planet Earth; Author: Visit Amazon's Hal Lindsey Page; Review: I read this book first as a teenager in the late 70's. It was used as a textbook for our teen Sunday school class. We got lots of end times paranoia, the Cold war still going on, fear of nuclear war. Lindsey and writers like him (including the new "Left Behind" series and "Omega" movies) play on these fears. He predicted the end of the world, the 2nd coming of Christ, in the 1980's (which has been removed from the book). This sort of reading of the book of Revelation is only one of several ways to view the events being described in this book of the Bible. The belief in a rapture that will save believers from the suffering is a relatively new idea in Christianity. All cases of people trying to force world events into the scripture have been disproven by time. If you want a guide to understanding the book of Revelation the NIV Study Bible preface and study notes are very helpful to give the historical context, possible meanings of the symbols and numbers and how it relates to the rest of scripture. Check also for the Contemporary English Version (CEV) translation, it is very readable.; Rating: 1.0/5.0
Title: Faith of the Early Fathers, Vol. 1; Author: William A. Jurgens; Review: A very nice reference work on early Christian writings. The translation is more readable (modern) than what I've seen of an older work that is online. There is a great doctrinal index which makes finding information on specific subjects much easier. An essential for any religious library.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The 3-Hour Diet: How Low-Carb Diets Make You Fat and Timing Makes You Thin; Author: Visit Amazon's Jorge Cruise Page; Review: I found this book while browsing the shelves of a thrift store today. It lays out what most body builders were doing to preserve (or gain) muscle and lose fat at least 10 - 15 years before this was written. It spends, for me, a little too much time tearing down the atkins type diet and a few others before giving the reasoning behind eating small, balanced meals thru the day every 3 hours. Basically this is laying out a bodybuilder/athlete diet for the layman who just wants to have a successful diet that doesn't require micromanagement of portions. There was a post earlier stating the book was based on a faulty premise (the starvation protection mechanism: SPM) because we would cannabalize our body at night and that people in concentration camps should have been fat because they didn't eat every three hours. We do cannabalize our bodies slightly at night, but lesser so because a) it is only a third or less of our day and b) we are not active so our body is not burning as many calories. People in a concentration camp didn't have a chance to do rebound binge eating but they certainly lost their muscle mass - their body cannabalized itself for fuel! Which is the point of eating often, so your body has fuel ready throughout the day and won't eat away at your muscle which is your engine that burns fat and calories. This book doesn't have you eat a large meal at night, but it does have you eat a mini-snack of 50 calories to strike a balance between stopping the night time cannabilism of the body and by not eating so much just before bed you don't have too many calories that end up going to your waistline. I do think it is too low of calorie diet for active people, but it does give provisions for those who are heavier to eat a bit more until they break plateus, and to add more fruit or vegetables if you are truly hungry at the end of a meal. I used to eat like this and was thin at that time. By eating badly, a lot of cokes and eating dinner late at night has put a lot of weight on me over the past few years. I picked this up as much for inspiration and motivation as knowledge. The book does have those motivational and inspirational tidbits that we may not feel we need. You need them unless you are one of the few who have pure will-power and if you have pure will-power you don't need the book in the first place. :); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Countdown to Mecca: A Thriller; Author: Visit Amazon's Michael Savage Page; Review: I rarely read fiction novels, even rarer have I put out for the hardcover version of a book like this. Over the years I have listened to the radio program for about 2-3 weeks and then turn it off for 2-3 years (due to some off the wall thing Dr. Savage says) ... so I am familiar with him but not a regular listener. I just happened back in as he was advertising this book. I thought the basis of the plot sounded interesting and I was looking for a reward for having recently spent a lot of time on career development study. I am glad I happened in on this as the book was quite good. Perfect no, but I enjoyed it. Usually I feel like the author pads an extra 100+ pages to justify the sales price, this book I didn't feel that way. Anyone who is not at least a little right of center probably will not like the political slant and not be able to enjoy the ride. I would say anyone that would invest actually reading at least the first 6 chapters and keep in mind it is politically leaning fiction would keep going and enjoy the the book. Some of the bad reviews here apparently did not even read the jacket cover. -- I may try some of his not-fiction books as I found this quite readable.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Putin's Russia: Beyond Media Headlines: Why Knowing the Truth Will Protect Your Family; Author: Visit Amazon's Jordan Atkins Page; Review: Some might not like his conclusions reference the Presidential race but the first half of the book is too important and well documented to ignore re. US and Russian relations.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Historical Jesus: Ancient Evidence for the Life of Christ; Author: Visit Amazon's Gary R. Habermas Page; Review: Though faith shouldn't depend on proving historical facts around the life of Christ it is nice to have a source of information on the subject. The book does repeat and summarize at the end of each chapter and after the main content. Even if any one source is not strong alone together makes a convincing argument for a historical Jesus and Biblical accounts.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Killing England: The Brutal Struggle for American Independence (Bill O'Reilly's Killing Series); Author: Visit Amazon's Bill O'Reilly Page; Review: An important and exciting book on the history of the American Revolution and our Founding Fathers but readable like a fiction novel. All the information in the past that would have been too sordid for school books and today too politically incorrect for the current culture.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Them and Us: How Neanderthal Predation Created Modern Humans; Author: Visit Amazon's Danny Vendramini Page; Review: I took some Anthropologie in college many years ago. Some of the names of the facts stated in this seem to be accurate example, there was a bottleneck of early humans down to perhaps 50 or less people in the group. Are the facts mined and used purposely to prove his points, yes I think so. The first half of this could be a great science fiction horror film. And this man's background is in theater and film as I recall. The second half takes off and extrapolates about how this Neanderthal predation caused pretty much everything that we see him modern Humanity from war to our horror movies. Interesting read, a little too atheistic for my liking, I do not believe he has a deep understanding of religion or of politics. (Shallow understanding of being made in the image of God, attributes something to former Pres Bush 43 not true re. views on Muslims and terrorism) I did have to laugh on his section on walls through history, as this must have been written a year or so before the presidential election which included the furor over Trump's proposed border wall.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: The Rational Bible: Exodus; Author: Visit Amazon's Dennis Prager Page; Review: Profound yet clear and accessible analysis of the book of Exodus. Insights I had never heard before including having taken Old and New Testament at a religious university. I would suggest that you read a chapter in full of Exodus, then go back and read his analysis as he inserts his thoughts after a verse or two, or even parts of verses. Wonderful book, looking forward to seeing more on the other book of the Pentateuch.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
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amazon_books
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Given the interaction history of a user with products as follows:
Title: Game of Thrones: Season 3; Brand: Various; Review: Excellent series and this version was no exception. Dialogue was sharp and provocative. Film was in excellent condition and delivered in a reasonable time.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: ; Brand: ; Review: My wife and I fully enjoyed the series. Sent promptly as well.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Purple Rose of Cairo VHS; Brand: Mia Farrow; Review: Delivered in a timely fashion and the product was excellent as advertised; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift; Brand: Lucas Black; Review: Great condition and enjoyed the film; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Game of Thrones - Season 4 2015; Brand: ; Review: In great shape and great entertainment; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Equalizer; Brand: Denzel Washington; Review: Great movie in great condition. Sent in a flash as well.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Boardwalk Empire: Season 5; Brand: Various; Review: Great end to a great series. Very satisfied.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Magic in the Moonlight; Brand: Catherine McCormack; Review: Another great Woody Allen Flick.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Draughtsman's Contract VHS; Brand: Anthony Higgins; Review: I was disappointed in the quality of the cinematography and the film was a bit of a disappointment overall.; Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: Testament of Youth anglais; Brand: ; Review: I am a war veteran and a teacher of 38 years. I enjoy reading and knowing about WWI and the tragic losses so many endured in its aftermath. Beautiful film, quickly delivered, and in great condition.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: British Cinema Collection: 8 Acclaimed Films; Brand: Colin Firth; Review: Quality was great and arrived on time.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
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amazon_Movies_and_TV
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Given the interaction history of a user with hotels as follows:
Title: New Linden Hotel; City: London England; Review: My boyfriend and I stayed at this hotel in July 2013. Perfect location close to the tube and Kensington gardens. The rooms were small which was to be expected but they are very clean and modern. Staff were quite helpful in ordering taxis and confirming bookings etc. would definitely go back.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Timhotel Palais Royal; City: Paris Ile de France; Review: Stayed at this hotel for 4 nights and it was a perfect base in Paris. Staff were very friendly, best on our holiday of Europe so far! Short walk to all the main sites I.e. louvre, opera, galleries lafayette. About 25 minute walk to the Eiffel Tower. The rooms are a little dated but very clean and the beds were comfortable. Wifi was good but got a little slow on the weekend. Breakfast was fine and plentiful. **If you get a chance try the restaurant "L'Avant-Premiere"- 9 rue des Petit Champs. Best burgers we have ever had!!; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Hotel Angleterre; City: Berlin; Review: Just finished a 3 night stay at the Angleterre Berlin and was very impressed! The rooms were huge, including the bed! Free Minibar was fantastic. Very fast wifi. Good location for walking to the main tourist sites and/or catching the trains. Not a huge amount of restaurants nearby but it is only a 15 minute walk to Gendarmenmarkt where there are plenty. Ate at the restaurant twice for breakfast and dinner. HUGE portions of food on the dinner menu! Staff were okay. Would definitely stay again.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Villa Atas Awan; City: Payangan Gianyar Regency Bali; Review: It has only been 2 days and I already miss Abong at Villa Atas Awan soo much!! The staff were all sooo happy and helpful and went out of their way to do anything for you. We travelled in a group of 15 and there was ample amounts of space! We had a wedding there and everything was organised to perfection and the staff helped make it a truly memorable day. We ate in the villa every breakfast and dinner and some lunches and we were never disappointed. I highly recommend trying the burgers and Mie Goreng - yum!!! The rooms and bathrooms were huge, clean and well maintained with 2 services per day. The staff made sure there was plenty of water and towels. It is about a 30 minute drive from Ubud but the scenery on the drive is fantastic and if peace and quiet is what you are after Villa Atas Awan is definitely for you!! I hope to come back as soon as possible!!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Sun Island Boutique Villas Spa; City: Seminyak Kuta District Bali; Review: Staying in Kuta during my 1st visit to Bali completely turned me off going back until I had to attend a wedding this month. We stayed here for 1 night before heading up to the mountains and really wish we had stayed longer!! From the moment we arrived we were treated like royalty, we even got upgraded to a 2 bedroom villa! The villa was spotlessly clean & perfect! We have never met such helpful and friendly staff. The food was delicious, we had breakfast and dinner there! Make sure you try the egg noodles for breakfast!! Didn't get to explore much of the area but it seemed very lively on the street through you felt like you were miles away from it in the villa! Will definitely be back!!!!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Olivia Plaza Hotel; City: Barcelona Catalonia; Review: Perfectly located hotel right in the heart of Barcelona. Make sure you catch the Aerobus from the airport to the hotel- only €6 & drops you right out the front. Most of the staff were really nice and helpful however we did have to ask the bartenders to come & take our orders even though they saw us come in. Rooms were very clean and very modern! Most comfortable bed we had the whole trip! Would definitely stay again and recommend this hotel to family & friends; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: House of Waine; City: Nairobi; Review: House of Waine is definitely one of the best hotels I've ever stayed at! It's the perfect introduction to Africa as Nairobi can be quite confronting. The staff/guest ratio is huge. We travelled as a group of 6 and felt extremely safe and pampered but the staff were never too obtrusive. The rooms were beautiful and the food 5 star quality. One of the couples we were with were celebrating their wedding anniversary. We told the staff that morning and that evening they returned to a beautiful display of rose petals and complimentary champagne (with gold specks in it)! The staff also put together breakfast bags for our early departure and they were up there with the best meals of the trip!! We will definitely be back if we find ourselves in Nairobi again!!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Novotel Barossa Valley Resort; City: Rowland Flat Barossa Valley South Australia; Review: We stayed with a group of friends in January 2015 and had a great time. The rooms are lovely and well equipped. The pool area is in need of an upgrade. We really enjoyed the tennis/basketball courts and the walking trails. We ordered room service a few times and it was prompt and delicious. The wagyu beef burger was incredible and I would go back just for that!! We had a spa room which was nice but we returned one evening and filled it up only to get a call from reception to say the people beneath us had complained about the noise? Not sure what happened there as that is the only thing we can think of that made noise! Have stayed many times before and will continue to return! Such a lovely spot in SA!; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: The School of St Jude; City: Arusha Arusha Region; Review: Spending 4 days at the School of St Jude was by far the highlight of our trip and I'm sorry we didn't stay longer! It is amazing to see first hand what Gemma, and the people of Arusha, have done to enrich the community and improve the lives of many families in the area. I am a sponsor of a student and it was unbelievable to meet her family. The school bus rides in the afternoon are also a must! Our itinerary was organised by Bernadetha who is part of the visitors team and she was AMAZING- 10/10! Nothing was too hard for her and she made us feel extremely welcome and safe. I also need to say a huge THANK YOU to Irene who was a form 4 student doing work experience with the visitors team. Irene was absolutely amazing and the school is very lucky to have her. She was very professional and confident but she felt like an old friend by the end of our visit. Her tour of the senior campus was fantastic! We are at Khans one night (this is a must!!) but otherwise all our meals were at the school and they were some of the best meals of the trip! The spaghetti bolognese was delicious and I still miss the pancakes today! The rooms all have ensuites and are very small but they are extremely comfortable and clean. Best time to take a shower is early evening when hot water is plentiful. The laundry service was a great addition. There were plenty of options for activities to suit all tastes. The water hole just outside the front gate is great for soft drinks! Can't wait to return!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Serengeti Sopa Lodge; City: Serengeti National Park; Review: We stayed as a group of 8. The hotel itself is much nicer than the ngorongoro sopa lodge but contrary to that I found the staff at the ngorongoro sopa lodge a lot friendlier. The rooms have been renovated and are really nice with great views over the Serengeti and ample opportunity to see animals. The main areas of the hotel were great and I thought the gift shop was a nice touch. One of our group celebrated their birthday while we were staying there and all the staff wished him a happy birthday and baked him a personalised cake and did and song and dance for him. This was a lovely touch and the true African experience. Wifi here wasn't too great but hey you're in the middle of the Serengeti. The food was good. The lunch boxes were quite basic but filling and healthy. We would stay again.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Crown Metropol Melbourne; City: Melbourne Victoria; Review: Wow. Amazing hotel. Loved the ambience and the decor. The rooms are quite intimate with the open bathroom (sliding doors)design which I love but I was travelling with my cousin and I would have felt a bit awkward had I not known her my whole live! We ordered a few things from room service and being Friday evening we expected a little weight but we waited over an hour and most of the food was only Luke warm- disappointing. The staff however were lovely and we loved our drinks at the sky bar upstairs! We didn't use the pool itself but the sauna and spa were lovely. Beds were very comfy. Will definitely be back!!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Magic Castle Hotel; City: Los Angeles California; Review: Having previously stated at the Mondrian is West Hollywood, I was a little wary about staying here. What a fantastic surprise! Firstly, the service was amazing. I have never met a more helpful and genuinely polite hotel employee such as Katherine. We arrived at 9:30am and were immediately shown to our room for no early check-in fee after an outline about the hotel. The room was huge and very clean. It's slightly dated and the roll out queen bed I had was not comfortable but otherwise it was exactly what we needed. The complimentary breakfast and wifi were other unexpected features we were extremely pleased with. There is no room service but the hotel has many delivery menus they will order from and the food is brought straight to your door- this is much better than traditional room service in my opinion. The location was fantastic- 5 min walk to Hollywood boulevard! A young guy who even worked at the hotel gave us a complimentary lift to the Roosevelt hotel where our bus left at 6:30am. Overall, this is a fantastic hotel and I only wish we had longer than 2 nights there. I will definitely be back and recommending it to my family and friends!!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Pod 51 Hotel; City: New York City New York; Review: The Pod 51 is a great hotel for budget travellers in NYC. We had a room with 2 queen beds and private bathroom and found we had more than enough space. The rooms were extremely clean and very modern. The beds are very comfortable and the room temperature was well maintained. All the amenities of a 5 star hotel for much less money. The location is perfect- very close to the subway but only a short walk to 5th avenue and Times Square. The let down for us however was the staff. We found the reception and concierge staff to be rude and uninterested in helping guests. The bell boys however were very nice and helpful. We unfortunately both became extremely sick while staying here and called a doctor. The doctor came and arranged for some medication to be brought to us at the hotel. On arrival the pharmacist asked the front desk to call the room to let us know he was here and when she called she said "I guess you have ordered medication"... It might just be a petty observation in my part but I find that comment a little inappropriate. We also went to the reception desk at 5:30am and asked if there was anywhere in the hotel we could get bottled water (due to our illness) and she just responded with "no" and went back to her work. I guess we just felt the staff to be extremely unenthusiastic compared to the other hotels we stayed at this holiday and we felt like we were bothering them if we asked them anything. For the younger crowd that this hotel attracts, I would think the staff would be a bit more vibrant. Unfortunately we just became too sick and had to cut our trip short. The lady on check out was surprisingly lovely and didn't charge us for the 3 nights we did not stay which we were more than happy to pay. Mixed review for a mixed stay. Would probably return purely for the cost and location factors; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Grand Hyatt New York; City: New York City New York; Review: We enjoyed our stay at the Grand Hyatt. We had a room with 2 double beds which we found very comfortable and the room itself was spacious. The lady on check-in was not very friendly but we have found that throughout most of America lately. The bell boys again were lovely. The concierge we spoke to was uninterested but the lady on the limo desk was lovely and very helpful. I was a little surprised that the mini bar was not automatically stocked on arrival? We were also disappointed at the room service times. We called at 2:05pm to order some lunch but they were not serving again until 5:00pm. I would expect at a Hotel in the Hyatt chain there would be even a limited all day menu. The market in the lobby however was fantastic and a great addition to the hotel. The location is great. It is quite easy to walk to fifth avenue and Times Square but obviously being at grand central station there are plenty of other transport options. Overall a good stay and would recommend to others.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: El MaPi by Inkaterra; City: Aguas Calientes Machu Picchu Sacred Valley Cusco Region; Review: Stayed in a group of 10 for one night following Machu Picchu. The hotel decor is very nice. The rooms are small but more than adequate for one night. However, we had the misfortune of being given room 212 which was literally in front of the restaurant and we were lucky if we got 2-3 hours sleep. It was SO loud with both patrons and staff until late and then the staff started setting up for breakfast around 3:30-4am and decided to play music as well. The staff here need a serious lesson on how to be courteous to their guests as for the next 5 hours (we did not have to get up until 9am) we heard insane amounts of plate clattering and shouting etc. Avoid this room and any in this vicinity by ALL costs!!! I will make note that the dinner which was included in our price was absolutely delicious and probably one of my favourite meals of the trip. This too however was marred by the fact that the restaurant is supposed to open at 6pm but we were still standing outside the door watching them have their meeting (which seemed to include a lot of joking around) until 6:08pm. Not good enough in my opinion. I wouldn’t bother having a massage here either as there are plenty of really good places along the lane way adjacent that are about 1/4 of the price. That being said, I do not recommend this hotel.; Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: Intersur Recoleta; City: Buenos Aires Capital Federal District; Review: Stayed here for 3 nights with a group of 10 people. The rooms, while nice and large, are very old and felt very shabby and dirty. One couple in our group had a room that smelt like Lynx men’s cologne! We found the staff, in particular the female front desk staff, to be so rude and completely disinterested in their job. They never offered to help with anything and it almost felt too intimidating to ask! Room service was gross and arrived at barely a luke warm temperature. The location however was quite good- lots of good restaurants nearby! In a country where foreigners should not drink tap water, I also think it is outrageous that they do not offer 1-2 bottles of complementary water (note: they only offer still and sparkling water in the mini bar, no other drinks!). Would not stay here again and would not recommend!; Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: Mercure Iguazu Hotel Iru; City: Puerto Iguazu Province of Misiones Litoral; Review: We stayed for 2 nights in a group of 10 people. The rooms have a really nice decor and felt very fresh and clean. The pool area was nice too but the pool chairs are very awkward to sit on and the pool was way too cold to swim in! The breakfast was by far the WORST breakfast I have ever encountered in a hotel in the 31 countries I have visited. The fruit is tasteless and there was a very limited selection of hot western options. The scrambled eggs one morning looked so watery and disgusting that they were totally inedible. We also ate lunch and dinner at the restaurant one day and, while not as bad as breakfast, they left a lot to be desired. The mango daiquiri was the only highlight but be prepared to wait a long time for drinks to arrive! We also wanted another round and had to physically go inside and ask the young girl who looked incredibly shocked as to why we would want another round of drinks. We found the majority of the staff not to be very friendly at all. However, I had a lovely massage and the lady who performed it was fantastic and she should be commended very highly for her friendly and bubbly attitude! I would only recommend this hotel until the Melia fully reopens - this is the reason why we had to stay there!; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Refugio Amazonas; City: Puerto Maldonado Madre de Dios Region; Review: I am still quite unsure how to rate this lodge. It was the part of the trip I was most looking forward to but unfortunately I fell sick with the Flu and that has caused me to lower my rating. Firstly, the staff were fantastic - all of them. Always happy and eager to help. We were so lucky to have our guide, Boris. He was extremely knowledgeable (I still do not understand how he spotted some of the animals we saw) and so caring towards me when I was sick. The bus ride to and from the boat is absolutely horrible. It is SO hot and cramped in there and made for an extremely uncomfortable hour with many in our group feeling sick. They really need to look at their air conditioning again as you cannot open windows due to the dust. The boat ride is long but really enjoyable- plus we saw a jaguar! There are about 80? Steps once you get to the lodge and then a 10+ minute walk. However, be warned, these steps are extremely steep and even the fittest people in our group were stuffed at the top, especially in 39 degrees. There are bugs - cicadas and mosquitoes in particular - everywhere but we were expecting this and it didn’t bother us. The room set up with 3 walls is really cool but all the other reviews are correct - you hear EVERYTHING in your neighbours rooms and we were unlucky enough to have someone with severe sleep apnoea next to us so be prepared for this. However, it is just so hot there and while it minimally cools down at night, I really think that every room should be equipped with some sort of fan. It would have probably encouraged me to rate the lodge a 4 or 5. Ladies do not take any make up as you will be drenched in sweat the whole time you’re there. The cold showers are a saving grace but if you do want a hot shower there is a really good supply of hot water. There is plentiful complimentary water but it is not cold so if you want a cold bottle of water you will have to pay for it. I found the food to be very average. It is quite plain. I know they have limited equipment but I felt the safari camps in Africa had so much more flavour and variety in their food compared to this. The activities can be very strenuous as well and most of our group (ranging from 26-66 years of age) had to sit out at least 1 activity due to exhaustion. I really wish the travel agent had told us exactly how much physical work was required. I would not stay here again unfortunately however I am happy that I did it. I would only recommend this activity to people who are very physically fit, healthy and active, and able to cope in severely hot and humid weather!; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: El Mercado; City: Cusco Cusco Region; Review: Firstly, the staff here are absolutely FANTASTIC! In particular, Alfonso in the breakfast room and the concierge were amazing. My boyfriend and I were unfortunately really sick with the Flu and the staff were great at making us teas and bringing us soups. The hotel itself is really quirky and boutique-like. The rooms were lovely and the beds were comfy - loved the rugs on the bed! Only a 5 min walk to the main square where there are heaps of restaurants and shops. Wifi was good. The shower pressure was lacking. The rooms can get really hot and we had to sleep with the window open even after turning the thermostat off. The scrambled eggs at breakfast was way too watery. However, overall a very good stay and would highly recommend. Great value for money compared to the JW Marriott as well.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Wyndham Costa Del Sol Lima Airport; City: Lima Lima Region; Review: There are some positives to this hotel. - The security guys by the elevators are lovely - Room Service is really good - 24-hour massage service is a great idea - Cannot hear any noise from the airport However, we found the desk staff to be rude and very unenthusiastic. The breakfast is very average. Be VERY careful in the shower. I stepped into the shower and fell extremely badly. I have ended up with large and very sore bruises on my knee and elbow and I jarred he right side of my neck. When I mentioned it to the other 9 people I travelled with, 2 others said they almost had the exact same thing happen to them!; Rating: 2.0/5.0
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hotelrec
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Given the interaction history of a user with hotels as follows:
Title: Lani Kai Island Resort; City: Fort Myers Beach Florida; Review: I booked this online based on the photos and the fact all rooms are ocean view. We got there and the place looked decent enough but definitely old and in need of some updates. the room was a suite for $100 and very worth the money. great room, clean and very big. Those are the pluses. When I went to continue our stay at the front desk they charged me $383 for 2 additional nights!!!!!! They had said I would get the same rate and when I questioned it the front desk lady said "oh it's just an authorization, it'll drop off in a few days" which it might but what authorization for a $100 a night room could be an additional $183?? The food - breakfast at the rooftop restaurant was HORRIBLE but the view was great. only plastic forks and knives and food tasted like microwave reheated. We were tired after a day in the sun and decided to try the dinner which we thought couldnt be that bad. it was worse than bad. i ordered prime rib and it was literally ice cold. the mashed potatoes were from a box and very lumpy. what's crazy is they said they didn't have silver ware and we had to eat steak with plastic forks and knives!!! i returned it and we went across the street to the Beached whale and had a great dinner. The Entertainment- we hung out at the beach which was ok. it was very crowded but with some interesting characters so it was fun. the music though was horrendous! It seems every bar at this place has terrible karaoke! Every place we walked into or walked by had someone singing who had no business singing. it was brutal. All in all I would stay here again only by booking it in person and paying cash without any intention of eating anything here. My wife was in bad shape all night after her steamed clams so be warned, it's worse than you could imagine.; Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: Douglas House; City: Key West Florida Keys Florida; Review: we had always stayed at another hotel in the same area of Duval which we like because it's away from the craziness and still has some great spots for breakfast. The room was nice and big and the A/C worked great and kept the room nice and chilly. the parking was a little wierd because the spaces were way too narrow especially for a SUV but at least there is parking which is unusual for a Duval hotel. it was clean and our room had a loft bedroom and full kitchen and washer and dryer which was great. we extended our stay another night and will return again. the price was good for a place right on Duval.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Best Western Saint Martin Bastille; City: Paris Ile de France; Review: When staying in Paris you expect small rooms, which is ok. This hotel has nice rooms with stone floors which is cool and a very nice bath with tub. The windows open wide with a street view which was great for sleeping. the restaurant is in the basement and only serves continental breakfast which was adequate. the staff was friendly and spoke English which was helpful. the best part is the location. stores and bakeries and cafe's right outside the hotel which was great!; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Hotel Auteuil Manotel Geneva; City: Geneva; Review: Geneva is obscenely expensive - everything is outrageously priced so if you're going to pay you should get what you pay for. We got it with Hotel Auteuil. It's a short walk from the train station which is great and they give you a free tram and bus pass to get around which was very helpful. Everyone spoke English and was more than friendly. I read some reviews where people complained that there are stairs in the hotel that are inconvenient but that's ridiculous. They asked that we leave our bags and they brought them to our room and the bellman didn't accept an offer of a tip. Great modern hotel that is extremely comfortable. the bed was GREAT!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Pavilion Hotel; City: London England; Review: the website shows funky rooms that look cool and different which they are. someone spent a lot of time finding all the pieces to make these rooms theme based. they did a decent job for sure. HOWEVER... the room we stayed in was decent size but there was NOTHING to put your clothing in or hang anything!!! For 10 days we had everything in suitcases that were stacked due to a lack of room. When we brought it to the attention of the front desk they said there was a coat rack in the room...yeah, with 2 rusted hooks on it lol The wifi doesn't work in the room and we were on the 4th floor and there is no lift (elevator) so 4 winding flights of stairs that are very narrow and i fell twice and skinned my knee badly. when u needed a cold drink or anything for that matter it was a serious hike down those stairs, out to the street and then back up the stairs again. the Monochrome marylin room is very cool but it is smaller than my bathroom at home...not kidding! with a single bed! the location is decent as it's not far to central London but still NOT WORTH IT! the bed in the room was a mattress that was 3 inches thick and hard and lumpy. there is NO AIR CONDITIONING EITHER!!! the guys at the desk are not bad, but one asked me constantly if i was checking in and then asked if i was checking out. there is a room service menu but no room service lol the hotel is in the heart of the middle eastern neighborhood which wasnt bad but that's the only food there was. after a few days we had to take taxi just for breakfast. do yourself a favor and spend a few extra pounds for a hotel with a lift and drawers or a place to hang your clothing!; Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: Jewel Dunn s River Beach Resort Spa Ocho Rios Curio Collection by Hilton; City: Mammee Bay S; Review: I just got home from a week at the Jewel and when you read through some of the reviews it amazes me that people think some of the things that they do...like saying that someone at the front desk blacklisted them to the rest of the staff? Get real please. I have traveled all over the world, literally and can honestly say that the service here was probably the best I have ever had. From the minute we got off the bus, which you cannot judge the hotel by since it's a separate contracted tour company that provides the transfers to and from the airport - until we left it was great! The spa was awesome! Karen gave me a great deep tissue massage that was amazing! No there is not much night time entertainment other than some sing-a-longs at the piano bar which isn't my thing and the Bling nightclub had some comedy stuff that was decent but I didn't go to Jamaica to stay up all night drinking and partying. I went there to party during the day in the beautiful sun with great drinks and relax. If you want to go clubbing go to a big city or something. People go to bed at 10 for a few reasons. One you drink during the day in the sun which wears you out. Two it's a very romantic setting and being mostly couples I assume there is some intimacy happening! The walls are sound proof and I didn't hear a single sound in the other rooms which was great. Very comfortable beds and the room was big and very clean with a great bathroom! turn down service each night was great to come back to. Dinner on the pier on Friday night was truly amazing. Overall the food was really much better than I expected. I assumed it would be like cruise ship food. Buffet style and just large portions of simple stuff, but it was not at all. The menus were creative and the food was really excellent and looked as great and unique as it tasted. Platinum was awesome with white glove service by Montgomery who is a very witty and friendly guy and Ty Wong at the Japanese Steak house was great and had us rolling! If you want party time go to Negril or one of those wild resorts. If you want relaxing elegance that isn't stuffy with great people and great food go to the Jewel. Oh can't forget to shout out to Jason and the Gems at the pool during the day. They kept me laughing and entertained every day. Oh and those who say the pool is dirty are not being fair. In the morning you can go out and see how meticulous they clean that pool and skim it, but due to the many trees and plants around the pool by the end of the day there is some leaves and debris from them, but NEVER trash so don't pay attention to that nonsense. GREAT RESORT AND GREAT SERVICE!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Anfiteatro Bed Breakfast; City: Verona Province of Verona Veneto; Review: I went through many many places looking for the perfect place to stay in Verona and finally decided on this B&B rather than a hotel. I could not be more happy with my choice! The room is HUGE with amazing decor and so clean! The location could not be more perfect as it's in the heart of the Old City surrounded by shops and cafes and the best stores in the world! They offer a small buffet type breakfast which is adequate and the owner Monica is great. She gave us some suggestions for restaurants that aren't in the over-priced piazzas and tourist traps and they were perfect. I would not come to Verona again if I couldn't stay here. I would arrange my trip around their availability. Bravo!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Le Pavillon Hotel; City: New Orleans Louisiana; Review: I am here now...as I sit writing this from room 619, which has an incredible bed with awesome pillows and duvet! Beds are extremely important to me as my sleep at night and during afternoons naps while on holiday are vital to me. The room is plenty big with a nice alcove with a desk for the computer. The wifi is VERY good and it's FREE! The lobby is so beautiful and it being the holidays they have several amazing christmas trees fully decorated. the dining room has a fireplace and is very classy. The breakfast buffet is great with anything you could want and at $20 per person it's not cheap but with crawfish omelets made to order in such a beautiful setting, who cares? The staff is really nice and helpful and everyone has a smile and hello. Old world class with a doorman in a tux to greet you at the entrance and plenty of taxis ready and waiting. It's a $33 cab fare from the airport and if you use a debit card to check in be prepared for your full stay plus $75 per day to be charged which I found surprising. Bourbon street is only 4 blocks away and there are plenty of restaurants very nearby. I would stay here again without question. The price was great and again, AMAZING bed!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Staniel Cay Yacht Club; City: Staniel Cay Out Islands Bahamas; Review: I LOVED this place. I can't say it enough and express it enough to make it understood. But I am a traveler, and not a tourist so I have a different level of experience and acceptance of my vacation choices. A traveler will gladly compromise speedy service and 5 star dining for a place that is unique and so fantastic that there aren't enough hours in a day. A tourist will complain if service is slow or the steak they ordered in a place surrounded by an ocean full of fresh fish takes longer than they wanted. Tourists will budget vacation yet expect and demand 5 star services. Tourists will forget about where they are and instead focus on the money spent. Staniel Cay Yacht Club is for travelers, period. The rooms are small but very comfortable. I stayed in the Sea Glass cottage which is a brand new hillside cottage with a very nice king bed and great a/c that kept it very nice and cool. The view was of a tremendous blue ocean and yachts that were incredible. The food was good enough, nothing special but certainly good enough. We got a 17 ft boat included with our room that we used every day. It even included the gas which was nice. We did the all-inclusive package which I highly recommend because food in the Bahamas is not cheap and it's so much easier to not have to worry about it. The staff is amazing. Leera and Nettie were awesome from the minute we flew in and took great care of us right up til the day we left. We made many new friends and I am already planning my return. if you are a traveler, then by all means you must visit this amazing place. But if you're someone who will scrutinize every penny spent and expect a luxury resort then this place is NOT for you and you'll ruin it for those of us who are travelers. Stick to going to Vegas and leave the exotic destinations to us. Please!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Old Bahama Bay; City: West End Grand Bahama Island Bahamas; Review: I just returned from 4 days here and have been anxious to write this review. I am torn between wanting to let everyone know it's there and keeping it a secret. As you can see I have chosen to let everyone know that this incredible place is only 55 miles of the coast of Florida and so easily accessible! There is a ferry that takes 3 hours that isn't too bad as well as flights that are literally 15 - 20 minutes from Ft Lauderdale or West Palm Beach airports! The resort is immaculately maintained and the rooms are fantastic. I am a bit picky with rooms as I don't are for outdated designs or cheap linens, but this place delivers on all accounts. The people were amazing from the front desk to the restaurants I didn't have a single bad experience. At times the islands can get frustrating with their slow pace with service but I didn't run into that here at all. They offer everything you could want from diving and fishing to kayaks paddle boards and catamarans. Its secluded so don't expect much night life, but there are many other places to go if you want to party. Well done everyone at Old Bahama Bay! You have earned this reviewers pledge to return for a longer stay next time!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Le Roberval; City: Montreal Quebec; Review: Yes this is a budget hotel but its in a great location. Near the metro station and centrally located for a very fair price. However.... how hard is it in 2015 to provide a good Wi Fi signal? I just do NOT get it! It is good for 5 minutes then it drops. Then it's back then it drops. It is infuriating and annoying to the point I wouldn't come back here again. When I checked in I asked about the Wi Fi and the girl at the desk said it is very good. She obviously hasn't been to the 6th floor and tried to check her emails because it cannot be done on half the attempts you make!! Why even offer it if it sucks? Seriously. Just don't offer it at all because it's annoying and frustrating and will stick out in the mind of someone like myself who was happy with everything else about the hotel!; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: White Gate Court; City: Islamorada Florida Keys Florida; Review: The Florida Keys are special to me, and a lot of other people too. The spirit of the Keys is something that many are dedicated to destroying with commercialization and development, but the heart of the Keys is still beating strong in places like the White Gate Court. A beautiful little piece of land right on the turquoise waters filled with every kind of amazing sea life imaginable. The dock has a reef underneath it with lobsters and stone crabs and schools of parrot fish. Spend a few minutes watching the water and you're likely to see a tarpon or a shark of some kind go by. I saw both as well as eagle rays and dolphins and a manatee. The room is comfortable and has great A/C There are covers for the couches so the dogs can relax with you without worry of ruining anything. The kitchens in every cottage are fully-equipped and I cooked several meals and needed nothing that they didn't provide. As well as the kitchens, every cottage has it's own gas grill and table and chairs right outside the door with tiki torches! The staff was busy all day keeping the grounds immaculate and couldn't have been more friendly. My biggest concern prior to my stay was how clean the rooms would be with their open arms pet policy, but once I walked in the door my concerns were over. The places was spotless and smelled clean. There wasn't a dog hair to be found and everything was VERY VERY clean. The Wifi was GREAT! I often complain about hotels offering WiFi only for it to be frustrating and horribly slow, but the connection here was very fast and best of all, it was free! They have kayaks and rafts for guests to use as well as fishing poles. I almost hate to tell too many people about White Gate because I'm afraid it will become too popular and will be too hard to get a reservation! The true spirit of the upper Keys is still very much alive at White Gate Court. I couldn't recommend a place to stay more than this one, and the entire family is welcome, including the pets!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Bell Channel Inn; City: Freeport Grand Bahama Island Bahamas; Review: This hotel is very inexpensive, especially for the Bahamas so I was weary of what to expect. The reviews all said that the rooms weren't anything special but were very clean. I was prepared and that's exactly what they are. Nothing fancy at all but very clean and good size. The bed was ok, not great but the linens were fresh and crisp white. The A/C blows VERY cold and the shower has good pressure with plenty of hot water. The best part of this hotel though is the restaurant. Its incredible! Farm-fresh organic eggs, Wagyu steaks, certified angus beef, and fresh fish which believe it or not is not that common on many menus in the Bahamas unless you're at a very high end touristy restaurant. All of this at very reasonable prices. I brought a friend who lives on the island for dinner and she was blown away. Homemade mac n cheese with lobster, the seafood platter is incredible with a HUGE fresh lobster tail. Mutton Snapper. Their cheeseburger is incredible too! Breakfast was awesome every day. I cannot say it enough. This is a truly hidden gem on the other side of the bay from the Lucuyan Marketplace which is a $8 cab ride. The Free Wifi was excellent! Steady signal! The service was great! Everyone was so nice from the beginning and was always there to make things better if you needed.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Hotel Gabriel Paris; City: Paris Ile de France; Review: The first impression is the most important, and walking into the lobby is very impressive. A very stylish boutique hotel lobby with a small dining area and interesting honor bar with single glasses of wine which I liked! Ophélie the receptionist was great and spoke good english and explained everything perfectly! The bed was incredible with great pillows. The bath was awesome with a huge tub and very large with plenty of space! The breakfast was good and the location is excellent with many restaurants and stores within a block or 2 in every direction. I left my diamond ring and panicked thinking it wouldn't be found or turned in, but when I called they had it for me and are mailing it to my house! Honestly, in the world today who does something like that? Again, Ophélie took care of it and made sure it was mailed with proper insurance and gave me tracking info. Awesome Experience!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Days Inn by Wyndham Fort Lauderdale Airport Cruise Port; City: Fort Lauderdale Broward County Fl; Review: After a 10 hour flight we got our luggage and called for the shuttle. It took 4 tries as whoever answered was just hanging up rather than asking us to hold. We were told 15 minutes and to look for a white van with the word "Welcome" on it. After 30 minutes we were calling and again being hung up on. Not even common courtesy or professionalism to ask us to hold. 90 minutes later, no van, no answer on the phone and we got in a taxi and paid $35 to go to a different hotel where we paid double for a room. We continued to call the hotel to cancel our reservation and finally spoke to someone who said our reservation was cancelled and we would not be charged. 2 days later they charged us $107. I called and spoke to someone who said the manager had to refund and they would call me back which they never have. I have called more than 10 times at all different times and am told the manager is not there. I have stayed at this hotel several times in the past for overnights before and after flights and never had an issue. I don't know what has happened but I won't stay there again. I have given them every chance to fix this before I wrote a bad review and again, not even the courtesy of a call back.; Rating: 1.0/5.0
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hotelrec
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Given the interaction history of a user with books as follows:
Title: The Panther (A John Corey Novel); Author: Visit Amazon's Nelson DeMille Page; Review: DeMille is always enjoyable, however, he's going the way of all the writers these ays they're cheating on the ending.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: The Last Man (Mitch Rapp); Author: Visit Amazon's Vince Flynn Page; Review: I always like Vince Flynn. Felt a little let down, each new book is a little more cookie cutter.............. You can take the new characters, drop them into an older book. Voila! Next book. I'm afraid it's happening with all the popular writers when you're grinding out a book a year.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Bury Your Dead (Chief Inspector Gamache, Book 6); Author: Visit Amazon's Louise Penny Page; Review: No empathy built for the leading characters or anyone else, for that matter. Rambling, uninteresting story. Almost quite 3 times.; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: The Leopard Hunts in Darkness; Author: Visit Amazon's Wilbur Smith Page; Review: Older readers might like this. I found it a little dated (this doesn't make too much sense does it, I'm 76) but male/female relationship reads like an old black & white movie & "the totally competent" female pilot seems to dissolve into helplessness easily. This is the first I've read by the author and I don't think I'll do it again.; Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: Executive Power; Author: Visit Amazon's Vince Flynn Page; Review: Love Vince Flynn. However later books are getting predictable.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
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amazon_books
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Given the interaction history of a user with books as follows:
Title: All Aboard! National Parks: A Wildlife Primer; Author: Haily Meyers; Review: Made a great gift for a Wyoming friend with a baby boy.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Itsy Bitsy Snowman; Author: Visit Amazon's Jeffrey Burton Page; Review: Cute board book for winter, expanding on the itsy bitsy spider song. It was cheaper on Amazon than in my daughter's school book order. Would make a good stocking stuffer for a toddler.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Elephant's Story: A Picture Book; Author: Visit Amazon's Tracey Campbell Pearson Page; Review: Checked this out from the library. Great way to introduce the concept of putting individual letters together to form words. My daughter liked naming the individual jumbled letters too.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Peppa Pig and the Perfect Day; Author: Visit Amazon's Candlewick Press Page; Review: Checked this out from the library, it was missing several pieces and likely wouldn't hold up in a normal household. Save yourself some money and buy some stickers instead.; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: The Stupids Have a Ball; Author: Visit Amazon's Harry Allard Page; Review: We checked this out at the library. I get the irony but... referring to yourself or others as stupid is just not okay. I don't want my child learning to call others or herself stupid. PASS! Now if there was an adult version, I would be all for it.; Rating: 1.0/5.0
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amazon_books
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Given the interaction history of a user with products as follows:
Title: Stamina 36-Inch Folding Trampoline | Quiet and Safe Bounce | Access To Free Online Workouts Included; Brand: Stamina; Review: Would give this zero stars if I could! The first one broke in less than a month after very light use (once a day for about forty five minutes total). Thankfully that was still in the return period, so Amazon sent me a new replacement. That one too just broke. Both times one of the tension straps came apart at the seams. Unfortunately the second one broke 3.5 months after it was replaced, so it is too late for a refund. I've never posted a review before but I am so disappointed in this product. Save your money!! You're better off paying a little more for a quality product than going through the hassel of trying to replace this one.; Rating: 1.0/5.0
Title: Victorinox Swiss Army Pocket Knife; Brand: Victorinox; Review: Love my swiss army knife. This is my third. I lost one and one the plastic fell apart. This one is a darker red than pictured. It's also a matte finish, which I kind of like. The corkscrew and bottle opener have helped in numerous social/picnic situations. I love how the knife blades stay sharp. I haven't really ever needed to use the saw feature, but who knows. It makes this knife a little bulkier than the other ones I've had, but not noticeably heavier in any way.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Hot Yoga Mat Towel and Hand Towel Set of 2 YogaAddict (10 Colours) - 100% Microfiber, Non Slip,; Brand: YogaAddict; Review: When I first got these towels I loved them, but now I would not buy them again. PROS: -Nice and thick towels. -The mat towel is large enough to cover my mat and has a handy corner pocket to help keep it in place. -Doesn't slide around too much. -Reasonable price for a set of towels. CONS: -Takes a bit longer to dry than other microfiber towels. -The color is kinda blah. I like blue, but this is more the type of blue you would see in used in an institution. -NOT durable! I do hot yoga 4-5 times a week and use this set about 2-3 times a week. They are line dried. I've had this set less than two months and the hand towel is already torn around the seams! The seams aren't coming apart, the towel has literally torn apart from the seams at the end (see the picture). I primarily use the hand towel for wiping off sweat (and I don't sweat that much), so it's not like the towel is being abused. So far the mat towel seems to be holding up alright, but I've already bought another yoga towel because I'm not sure when that will start to tear apart too!; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: 12-in-1 Headwear - UPF 30 Versatile Outdoors & Daily Headwear - 12 Ways to Wear including Headband, Neck Gaiter,; Brand: Tough Headband; Review: I loved these so much I went and bought 3 more! So far I've only used them as a headband. I gave one to my brother who uses it like a doo-rag. I have straight Asian hair so even elastic headbands don't tend to stay in my hair. These stay in place though! My brother has thick, wavy hair and it fits his much larger head/hair without any trouble. The seams are unfinished, but they don't fray or anything. They also dry quickly. The weather never changes where we live, but I'm excited to see how this works my next trip to the Mainland in the winter!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: CamelBak Products Women's Day Star Hydration Pack; Brand: CamelBak; Review: I've been saying for the last 15 years I needed to get a camelbak, so when this was a lightning deal I decided to finally take the plunge. I like the color and the storage options. It's padded in the back so I can put ice in my water without it feeling icy on my back. I drink a LOT of water and this is big enough to tide me over on most hikes (in the 2-4 hour range), plus there is room for another water bottle if I really wanted. I like that this is a smaller size and I'm short (5'4") and the straps fit very comfortably. It's a little bit bigger than I was expecting, but it's actually a really good size for hiking as you can carry your phone, camera, snacks, without having to squish everything to make it fit.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
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amazon_Sports_and_Outdoors
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Given the interaction history of a user with products as follows:
Title: Joovy Room2 Fitted Mattress Sheet, White; Brand: Joovy; Review: This is a great SQUARE playpen. (Unlike the teeny newer ones.) It's spacious and super sturdy. It's also super heavy, but that's what good quality consists of, I guess. It does smell funny when you first open it. But after a few days the smell goes away. I invested in an extra sheet for it, which was smart. It's clunky to carry around and big. But it's great! And safe! And very large.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: BIA White Divided TV Tray; Brand: BIA Cordon Bleu; Review: I like this tray. Very, very sturdy. The add is misleading. It only ships one tray. But Amazon made things right. I would recommend it.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Master Craft Gift Wrap Storage Bag, Green; Brand: Master Craft; Review: I bought one 10 years ago for my mom. She/we use it faithfully every year. I just ordered another one for myself. This is a great way to store the gift wrap.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Thermos K32002006 Batman Movie Dual Soft Lunch Box; Brand: Thermos; Review: I wish this was big enough to hold the easylunchboxes containers... but it does not. But my son really likes Batman so this will do! Great price!; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Sodynee Acrylic Makeup organizer Cosmetic organizer Jewelry and Cosmetic Storage Display Boxes Two Pieces Set(3 Drawer makeup storage; Brand: Sodynee; Review: Great product for the price. It has made my vanity look so neat and organized!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
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amazon_Home_and_Kitchen
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Given the interaction history of a user with books as follows:
Title: Chicken Soup for the Cat Lover's Soul: Stories of Feline Affection, Mystery and Charm (Chicken Soup for the Soul); Author: Mark Victor Hansen; Review: As a devoted cat lover, I really liked this collection of stories. These are written by people like me, all focused on the most amazing creatures we love. Funny, touching,heart warming , they show us that complex creature called cat: naughty, wise, playful, adorable, fidele, brave. And the message they leave. It is said that the cats leave their pawprints in our hearts.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: [(Chicken Soup for the Cat Lover's Soul: Stories of Feline Affection, Mystery and Charm)] [Author: Jack Canfield] published on; Author: Jack Canfield; Review: As a devoted cat lover, I really liked this collection of stories. These are written by people like me, all focused on the most amazing creatures we love. Funny, touching,heart warming , they show us that complex creature called cat: naughty, wise, playful, adorable, fidele, brave. And the message they leave. It is said that the cats leave their pawprints in our hearts.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Stargate Atlantis: Dead End: SGA-12; Author: Visit Amazon's Chris Wraight Page; Review: I am not a native speaker of English but I want to tell you that I really liked this book! The story itself is not utterly original but it is written very well. I could not stop reading. The SGA team have all their own roles and their typical way of thinking and acting in a dire situation I liked very much. Simply, I enjoyed the book, I will re-read it again.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Stargate Atlantis: Exogenesis; Author: Visit Amazon's Sonny Whitelaw Page; Review: With the Ancients always at the backgournd, Atlantis faces its end...and all isn't as it seems to be. Rodney becomes a victim of a lethal sandstorm...; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Silver Pigs (Marcus Didius Falco Mysteries); Author: Visit Amazon's Lindsey Davis Page; Review: Falco never disappoints...Great reading!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Iron Hand of Mars; Author: Visit Amazon's Lindsey Davis Page; Review: In short, exciting, interesting, amusing, intelligent, witty and very topical.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Last Act in Palmyra: A Marcus Didius Falco Novel; Author: Visit Amazon's Lindsey Davis Page; Review: I enjoyed reading about Nabateans and other rather mystical cultures, about old theatre and of course Falco and Helena. I think we all know Petra from Indiana Jones but not about a real historical background:-); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Sharpe's Havoc; Author: Visit Amazon's Bernard Cornwell Page; Review: As soon as you start reading Sharpe, you just can't stop. Excellent, clever, intelligent, as always - nothing more because I would repeat myself. Just try. Sharpe books are among the best historical novels!!!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
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amazon_books
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Given the interaction history of a user with books as follows:
Title: My T-Rex Has A Toothache; Author: Visit Amazon's Elwyn Tate Page; Review: Catherine and grandson loved this colorful end easy to read book, good sight words for pre k and kindergarten, first grade.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Nail Fungus Treatment: Cure Nail Fungus Naturally With This Fast Toenail Fungus Treatment and Toenail Fungus Cures; Author: Visit Amazon's Thomas Nallings Page; Review: I love this book, thank you for the great tips. I am ready to begin; toes out in the Bahamas baby.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: You Get What You Get; Author: Visit Amazon's Julie Gassman Page; Review: I saw this book and felt that my grandson needed a funny, easy to understand lesson to the lessons he already gets from Grandma. I highly recommend this book.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Bearded; Author: Visit Amazon's Jeremy Billups Page; Review: Very very very, cute book. So enjoyable. My grandson and I thought it was neat and an easy ,fun read.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: The Berenstain Bears' Nursery Tales; Author: Visit Amazon's Stan Berenstain Page; Review: I really liked the Berenstain's take on favorite nursery rhymes ; easy to read with familiar looks and very entertaining.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Yellow Crocus: A Novel; Author: Visit Amazon's Laila Ibrahim Page; Review: Read this book straight through, thoroughly enjoyed it. Your first book is definitely a winner, can't wait for the next book.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
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amazon_books
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Given the interaction history of a user with businesses as follows:
Title: Nevada Humane Society; City: Reno, NV; Review: Got my black cat there a lil over a year ago and I cannot wait to go back & rescue another kitten! The staff are awesome and taking home a new baby is never a bad thing :) 5 stars! You guys deserve it!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Yosh's Unique Deli; City: Reno, NV; Review: Best, most fresh sandwich place in town!! So happy I live down the street from here:) I recommend their pulled pork or my boyfriends favorite-the trip tip.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Del Taco; City: Reno, NV; Review: Not the best service but I love Del taco. Whenever I ask for extra cheese, it seems they give me none. :( still addicted to their food tho!; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Smith's; City: Reno, NV; Review: Love this store! I get awesome prices on groceries, & prescriptions and those points help me save money on my gas! I couldn't ask for more :) Clean, organized, the staff is always freindly & willing to help.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Courtesy Dental & Orthodontics; City: Reno, NV; Review: Just got 2 cavities done this morning there! :( I was there an hour & a half for this which I thought was kind of excessive. The dentist kept seeing other patients that had gotten there after me to "do their anisthetic (sP)" or "i'll be rigth back" I actually had to tell him that I had to go to work right after it and finally he picked up speed but had I not, I think I would have been there another hour! I wanna be in & out when it comes to dr appts! Other than that, clean office, friendly girls working the front desk & an overall really sweet dentist! I'm always treated like family there :); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: The Human Bean; City: Reno, NV; Review: These ladies always make my day :) Sometimes their drive thru gets backed up but thats because they are so stellar here! Their granitas are delicious and their hot coffee is to die for! Also they have a point card, and a sticker on your car on wednesdays gets you a discount. I will never go to Starbucks again! HB 4 LYFE :); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Vintage at South Meadows Condominium Rentals; City: Reno, NV; Review: Overall one of the nicest apartments I've lived in. The gates are finally working but they don't have a surrounding wall so anyone can walk in. I live right off the main street of south meadows, next to the bus stop & i hope one day they decide to be smart and build a wall because of all the lower income housing around us. I haven't had my car broken into, but I see it and i feel bad for those people! The pool is always having problems, they finally got the jacuzzi working and the gym equipment (like most complexes) is not the best. Took them over a month to fix one of the treadmills. The lake is awesome! Wish they maintained it a little more and didnt let the bums sleep there or let the gangsters grafitti but I dont think they own it. The rental staff are pretty cool. A couple of them live in the complex so its nice to know that they're living the same way I am. Maintenance guys are quick and friendly-always giving you tips on how to avoid the issue in the future. Props to having a tanning bed and a movie theatre too :) I would only move out of the Vintage to move into a house or to the Tanameras across the street.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Dollar Tree; City: Reno, NV; Review: Not the biggest or the best but its my favorite. In a nice area & have nice folks that work there. Organized, clean, good availability. wish they had the 99 cent store out here but Dollar Tree gets the job done :); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Gandolfo's New York Delicatessen; City: Reno, NV; Review: BEST SANDWICH PLACE EVER!!!!! I would die for their french dip.....just saying. GANDOLFOS 4 LYFE; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Total Wine & More; City: Reno, NV; Review: I'm a huge WINE-O &prob always will be, so this store is prob my favorite for wine. I get expert advice and pretty good prices. I love the coupons they send out because I'm worse at this place than target-i could spend my whole paycheck and not even realize. I love their tastings, sometimes just go for fun after eating gandolfo's (across the parking lot from them). love you guys!; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Charming Charlie - Reno; City: Reno, NV; Review: cutest store ever. my niece loves this place as do I, but there is so much to look at so make sure you have time to spend here.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: McDonald's; City: Reno, NV; Review: Just a regular Mickey Dee's. Someetimes its fast, sometimes its slow: welcome to the fast food world! still cheap & decent food for on the go. Toatlly addicted to their fries since I was like 3.; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: 775 Gastropub; City: Reno, NV; Review: love this place. This is my happy hour choice even though its not the best. They just happen to make my favorite drink: pomegranate lemon drop martini :) I've read reviews that the staff is not very good but i DISAGREE!! I love them. The chef & john always come up to us to see how everything is tasting & the bartenders are super cool. My boyfriend is on his way to becoming a jedi which is super fun. always take my friends & family here :); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Vino 100; City: Reno, NV; Review: So I was quite excited about going here until I actually went! :( I don't know if this guy was new or something but he had the worst service ever! I went with my boyfriend and another couple for some wine tasting, and buying a few wine bottles as well, but in the middle of the wine tasting the guy disappears! He was gone for 15 min the first time after he poured our FIRST wine taste. Then he was gone for another 15 minutes after the SECOND tasting. We were supposed to taste 2 more wines but we just up and left... the wine they were serving us wasn't that great either. Only had merlot, chardonnay and cabernet savignon available for tasting that day. I'm very sad that this happened but unfortunately I will NEVER visit here again. You'll catch me at Whispering Vine though!; Rating: 1.0/5.0
Title: Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen; City: Reno, NV; Review: Typical popeye's but these guys are the nicest :) Always give me extra dipping sauce which by the way is awesome. Quick & easy-best fast food fried chicken you can get!; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Tresimage Salon; City: Reno, NV; Review: Cecilia P. is the BEST!! she is hands down the best nail artist I've ever had. Not the cheapest-but in Reno....ehh you get what you pay for. My nails last for the full month, somtimes even up tp 5 weeks! She will do almost anything you want done to your nails and then when she's done, she'll give you a heavenly hand massge and you'll never want to leave her! Love, love, LOVELOVELOVELOVE this place!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Legacy Vacation Resort Reno; City: Reno, NV; Review: Ehhhh its not a "legacy" of awesomenes thats for sure. little hotel rooms-microwave, refridgerator, large dresser & closet-not bad at all in the inside-just run down. As far as the hallways go....I have seen cleaner alleys than these hallways! The room across from my room didn't even have a doorknob on it which was quite freaky and the hallways smelled of urine and smoke even though we chose a "smoke-free" room. There might as well not be walls because they are so paper thin that I could hear every word my neighbor was saying to his wife. It actually woke me up in the morning. The parking situation is not very convenient-pretty small spaces and tight corners to take. When we first got there, they gave us our keys but they didn't even work. Since we had dragged our suitcases up the stairwell (the elevator is worthless & terrifying), I chose to stay behind to watch our luggage while my boyfriend went and retrieved a working key. I was quite nervous just waiting there in the hallway all by myself-I even took my pepper spray out just in case! I give it one star because I have to and a 2nd star for the price and location. I recommend paying the extra $15-20 and staying somewhere else!; Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: FabuLASHby Michelle; City: Reno, NV; Review: I dunno who that Cassie girl is but I have a feeling its Wendy (the owner) from Eyelash Connection. Shows you how they do business!!! Just saw Michele for the first time this last friday and she worked wonders on my eyelashes! I have very little eyelashes to begin with so I knew it would a very difficult task for her but she pulled through with flying colors. I don't have to wear mascara and my eyelashes look so HOT! went to santa crawl and got tons of compliments on them :) A little over a year ago, I went to Eyelash connection and they scarred me for LIFE!! I was scared to go get my eyelashes done again because they had F***ed mine up so bad. I blame them for half my eyelashes not growing back properly. Overall, Michele is not here to swindle you-she actually will give you an awesome price because its FAIR! You don't need any groupon/living social/yelp deal to get you a good price with her. She is committed, tedious and just plain very good at doing what she does. So far she does 4 lady's eyelashes that I work with-does that not tell you how good she is???!?!??! Can't wait to continue business with you michele! Stay amazing!!! xoxo; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Steak House at Western Village; City: Sparks, NV; Review: Wow. A casual atmosphere but you're treated like royalty! I love this place! I especially love their $25 off $50 coupon! Steak Diane is amazing, their seafood is deliscious and their wine selection is tasty :) Not too many beers and not too fond of thei martinis or cocktails. Service is always awesome! I recommend making reservations though or else you will be waiting for sometimes over an hour. If I were you, I'd go! Thanks Western Village for being the best!!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Everlasting Health Center; City: Reno, NV; Review: Love this place! Rebecah is amazing at massages and making you feel special. They always have natural remedies for any ailments you may have as well which at least in my case, have always worked better than modern medicine. Prices aren't the cheapest but aren't expensive either! Thanks for being the best Everlasting Health Center!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Brewer's Cabinet; City: Reno, NV; Review: I would have given them a 5 star but they charge a fee for to go orders, even though the majority of my order was eaten inside the diner. There was not one thing wrong with our drinks, our appetizer or our dessert though! Cute very homely place! They have an outside patio, bar and plenty of booths. I had their amazing raspberry lemonade martini & my date had their home brewed phantasm IPA which he said was hoppy but well balanced. I would totally recommend their house made tater tots- never had Tater tots like that before! Also must try their piggly wiggly burger-very very fresh and tons of bacon! Overall perfect 5 star restaurant if they would remove their Togo order fee! Can't wait to go back :); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Casa Grande Mexican Restaurant & Cantina; City: Reno, NV; Review: Wow! I honestly am not a fan of Mexican food and I should be ashamed since I was born & raised in SoCal but...THIS IS THE BEST MEXICAN FOOD EVER! Seriously! The queso is so thick! The margaritas are HUGE! And the flautas are delicious! & they serve warm beans with your chips! I cannot wait to come back here again!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Trader Joe's; City: Reno, NV; Review: I love Trader Joe's. This one is especially nice! Wish it was bigger, but the staff here are amazing. Not only do they help you find something you're looking for, but they also help you with how to prepare it and what sides would go great with it. Always neat and clean, usually very busy but it's the only Trader Joe's in ALL of Reno so what do you expect? Would recommend this place to anyone :); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Joseph E Johnson, MD - Sierra Nevada Wellness Center; City: Sparks, NV; Review: I am getting a tattoo removed- so far I have had 6 sessions- & Brooke is amazing! She is very informative, upbeat, and a great coach in the whole process! The lasers get cleaned twice a year and are pretty top of the line. They do not have the best laser out there unfortunately but it's pretty close to it. My appointments literally take 10 min or less as well as they are located in a great area! Very happy so far with my experience here. I will have to update this once I complete my last session.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Petco; City: Reno, NV; Review: One of the best Petco's I've visited service wise! Always making sure you're finding everything you need and always recommending coupons and reminding you of sales at the checkout. Always clean and organized as well! :); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Standard Parking Inc Parking Gallery; City: Reno, NV; Review: Safe & clean parking but make sure you get several stamps on your ticket! Each stamp covers 2 hours and they won't let you use receipts anymore :(. Very close to all the great bars downtown too.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Einstein Bros. Bagels; City: Reno, NV; Review: Great bagels, fantastic smears & happy people :). The coffee here isn't my favorite but still yummy! Wish they had another location in Reno!; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Vino 100; City: Reno, NV; Review: Owner contacted me and apologized about the service I received. The employee I mentioned in my review has since been let go. I boost my rating up one star because it was a very clean location and I bump it up another star since the management took accountability and reached out to me regarding it.; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Del Taco; City: Reno, NV; Review: Great del taco! Always nice and in a very convenient area outside the mall.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: DEATH & TAXES Provisions and Spirits; City: Reno, NV; Review: This bar rocks! As close to a speak easy as you can get in Reno. The bartenders pay special attention to each drink and their drinks contain the freshest ingredients! Their menu is intimidating at first, but feel free to ask the bartenders any questions- they are super nice! Very hard to go here for just one drink....always seem to have to order 1 or 2 more!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Lucky Beaver Bar & Burger; City: Reno, NV; Review: For one, Ed is the best server here. He makes sure to greet us and always make sure we leave happy. Just found out that they brew their own beer and it is quite delicious! Glad that Lucky Beaver has a location here in Reno!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Summit Ridge Park; City: Reno, NV; Review: My puppy is in love with this park! We have to go and play fetch every time I take him for a walk near it. Big, open fields that are great for playing with your dogs or kids!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Niche; City: Sparks, NV; Review: Love this place! The staff is wonderful and act as your personal shopper there. Make sure you sign up for their newsletter because every month they will send you a coupon for a weekend during the month. They come in handy when buying jeans!; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Klaich Animal Hospital; City: Reno, NV; Review: This is such a great vet office. I take my cat & dog here to see Dr. Music and their backup vet is Dr. Likes. Couldn't ask for better vets! Fairly priced and they are always willing to work with you.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: M3 Restaurant; City: Reno, NV; Review: What a cute little place! Kyle, our waiter, is great! Had the calamari-the sweet chili dipping sauce was bomb! The chef even prepared a special marinara sauce just for me which was super fresh. And had a glass of my favorite Pinot noir, la crema. Can't wait to go back; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Sushi Pier Midtown; City: Reno, NV; Review: Wow. Haven't visited a sushi place in a while and damn, this place is amazing! Had the California roll which was so fresh! Next was the midtown roll...omg I have been missing out! Hands down the best sushi I have ever had! Can't wait to visit this place again!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Ocean Spa And Nails; City: Reno, NV; Review: Jimmy is wonderful! I came as a walk in and they got me sit down immediately with a glass of wine which immediately made this my new favorite place. I love the massage chairs and the quality of service in addition to the attention to detail is amazing. Can't wait to come back :); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Smith's; City: Sparks, NV; Review: Love this grocery store. Great coupons, great sales, & love the gas rewards! Wish I lived closer to one.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Ryan's Saloon & Broiler; City: Reno, NV; Review: I was pleasantly surprised by this place! Not only was Becca our bartender, but she was also the cook! My boyfriend and I shared the Bacon cheeseburger because it is MASSIVE! The bacon is delicious and all the ingredients are so fresh. We also split the cheese curds which I am now addicted to. On top of all this amazing food and service, I got to play my favorite game, Keno. Love finding gems like this one in Reno! Thank you Becca!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Temple Yoga Reno; City: Reno, NV; Review: Temple Yoga is always a blast when I come. Have only been there a few times and I look forward to practicing here long term!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Redwood Rotisserie + Grill; City: Reno, NV; Review: Love what they have done to the place! One of their waiters even hand crafted their coasters from a redwood tree! The service is friendly and fast, the beer is cold, and the meats are delicious! Definitely coming back here.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Lake Appliance Repair; City: Reno, NV; Review: We had Richard visit our house to fix our clogged dishwasher (a nice housewarming gift from the previous owners)- he was able to find the problem, had the part on his truck and fixed it in less than 3 hours! Richard definitely worked for his money- he did a lot of work!! My dishwasher works great and they insured my repair for a year. Will definitely be using these guys again!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
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yelp
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Given the interaction history of a user with movies/shows as follows:
Title: The Wedding Planner (2001); Rating: 1.0/5.0
Title: Independence Day: Bonus Material (1996); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Independence Day (1996); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Top Gun (1986); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Men in Black II (2002); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Edward Scissorhands (1990); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Sister Act (1992); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Entrapment (1999); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Men of Honor (2000); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Wyatt Earp: Special Edition (1994); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: The Rock (1996); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Twister (1996); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Air Force One (1997); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Patriot (2000); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Waterboy (1998); Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: Con Air (1997); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Hidalgo (2004); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: The Day After Tomorrow (2004); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Van Helsing (2004); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: The Italian Job (2003); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Ocean's Eleven (2001); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Life as a House (2001); Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: Shrek 2 (2004); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Space Cowboys (2000); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: The Bridges of Madison County (1995); Rating: 1.0/5.0
Title: The Good (1966); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Bobby Jones (2004); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: The Man in the Iron Mask (1998); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Fahrenheit 9/11 (2004); Rating: 1.0/5.0
Title: Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World (2003); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Troy (2004); Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: Around the World in 80 Days (2004); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: I (2004); Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: Rush Hour (1998); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Armageddon (1998); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Batman (1989); Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: Clear and Present Danger (1994); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: House of Sand and Fog (2003); Rating: 1.0/5.0
Title: Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl (2003); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: My Big Fat Greek Wedding (2002); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Monty Python and the Holy Grail (1975); Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: National Treasure (2004); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Coach Carter (2005); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Starsky & Hutch (2004); Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: Million Dollar Baby (2004); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Poltergeist (1982); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Saints and Soldiers (2004); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Napoleon Dynamite (2004); Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: Dodgeball: A True Underdog Story (2004); Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: Apollo 13 (1995); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Shawshank Redemption: Special Edition (1994); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Remember the Titans (2000); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: A Few Good Men (1992); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Secondhand Lions (2003); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: The Silence of the Lambs (1991); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: An Officer and a Gentleman (1982); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Road to Perdition (2002); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Rain Man (1988); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Runaway Jury (2003); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Shark Tale (2004); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: The Hunt for Red October (1990); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Good Morning (1987); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Ladder 49 (2004); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Poltergeist II / Poltergeist III: Double Feature (1986); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: The Incredibles (2004); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Forrest Gump (1994); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Godfather (1972); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Men in Black (1997); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Toy Story (1995); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Gladiator (2000); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Cast Away (2000); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Shrek (Full-screen) (2001); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Firm (1993); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Saving Private Ryan (1998); Rating: 5.0/5.0
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netflix
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Given the interaction history of a user with hotels as follows:
Title: Darroch View B B; City: Invermoriston Loch Ness Scottish Highlands Scotland; Review: My second stay and would stay again and again. Hayley and Neil were very welcoming when we arrived in lovely sunshine. The whole place is spotless, the decor is fresh and the bedrooms comfortable, though the twin rooms are a touch small. SKY+ in the double bedroom delighted my husband, who wanted to watch the football after dinner. Breakfast was good and the packed lunch by far the best we had in the week. Wonderful sandwich and the cheapest by far.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Gowan Brae House; City: Fort William Lochaber Scottish Highlands Scotland; Review: After a long day travelling from Manchester, Ann welcomed us (3 couples) with a vacuum flask of fresh milk for each room - a nice touch. The house is fascinating with lots to look at - old record player, type writer, phone etc and old photos in the breakfast room. Breakfast of fishcake with a perfectly cooked poached egg was amazing. We would stay again if in Fort William and highly recommend Gowan Brae.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Moyness House; City: Inverness Scottish Highlands Scotland; Review: After completing walking the Great Glen Way, Moyness House was the perfect place to relax in luxury. Jenny and Richard are great hosts and were very welcoming to 6 footsore, scruffy (after 6 days walking) walkers. The Neil Gunn Suite (our bedroom) is spacious and elegant with a lovely bathroom, though running the water caused pump-whirring noises. The 'mood' lighting in the bathroom is a lovely touch. Will definitely recommend this guest house and hope to be able to stay again some time. Dinner at Rocpool (5 minutes walk away) was amazing. Excellent food, good atmosphere, great food and wine and attentive staff.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Craigbank Guest House; City: Crianlarich Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park Scotland; Review: In May we (4 couples) stayed at Craigbank for one night and we all agreed that it was the best of the 10 places we stayed. Charlie and his staff made us feel very welcome. Our rooms were spotless and comfortable with great showers which was so appreciated after a strenuous walk. Breakfast was delicious and served in a lovely conservatory. The only issue we had was that the pub next door, though very convenient, was a disappointment and I would suggest trying one of the other options for eating/drinking. I would definitely recommend Craigbank.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Westham B B; City: Warwick Warwickshire England; Review: Had a lovely stay at the Westham B and B. The guy who owned it couldn't be more helpful! Would definitely go again! Breakfast choice was very good in the morning, delicious bacon and proper sausages.Very highly recommend the stay, very much good value for money.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
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hotelrec
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Given the interaction history of a user with products as follows:
Title: Disney Moana Adventure Collection; Brand: Disney Princess; Review: wonderful toy; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Just Play Doc McStuffins Beans Chilly Plush; Brand: Just Play; Review: daughter loves it; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Just Play Doc McStuffins Beans Lambie Plush; Brand: Just Play; Review: daughter loves it; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Just Play Doc McStuffins Beans Stuffy Plush; Brand: Just Play; Review: ok; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Doc McStuffins Book of BooBoo's; Brand: Doc McStuffins; Review: daughter loves it; Rating: 5.0/5.0
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amazon_Toys_and_Games
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Given the interaction history of a user with hotels as follows:
Title: Holiday Inn Express Boone; City: Boone North Carolina; Review: We found the hotel to be in a good location to visit all the attractions nearby like Grandfather Mountain, Linville Caverns, Falls and Gourge. Also it is very close to Tweetsie Railroad and Blowing Rock. There are alot of nice resturants nearby as well. The hotel is new so everything is updated from some other expresses I have stayed in in other states. The rooms are nice and the bathrooms are larger with a cool new shower head. I cannot remember the company who made them but it is a nice touch. They have a continental breakfast if you want to grab something fast. The coffee was good. The staff was very friendly and the maid service was very good. There is a clean outdoor pool. The only compaint that I have is that we had a 3rd floor room with a balcony and the view could have been better we were looking straight at two trailer looking homes but if you looked to the far right and left you could see some mountains. Also they need to go to Lowes next door and get chairs and tables for all the balconies so people can sit outside and enjoy the fresh mountain air. My parents came down as well and they found the pillows to be uncomfortable so you may want to bring your own with you. We enjoyed our stay and would recommend this hotel to anyone coming to the Boone area.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Disney s Caribbean Beach Resort; City: Orlando Florida; Review: It was our first stay in a Disney property resort. Check in was very smooth. We arrived from the airport two hrs. before check-in and our room was ready so we had an early start on the parks. We had a standard room in the Jamica section. The beds were not real comfortable and the pillows were flat. If they replaced these it would be much nicer. The room we stayed in was a non smoking room and it was clean. The water in the shower was hot so if you have small children check the water before putting them in. We were just two bridges from the food courts and shop. I do recommend the food plan because the food is very pricey at Disney. Do read all the information about the food plan before going because it can get a little confusing as I saw many not understanding what a snack meant in the food plan at the food courts on the grounds of the Caribbean resort. This plan provides you with a breakfast, a little snack, and a sit down meal each day per person. You do need to research the places on the internet that the parks provide and write down the numbers or make reservations for the sit down meals before you come. You need to make sure you are in those parks at the time of your meals. We wanted to eat at the Japanise Steak house and could not get in when we called from the hotel. Others were saying they had tried for weeks. Book this one way in advance. I highly recommend the German resturant in the German section of Epcot. It gives you the whole experience with entertainment and great food. The parks were very crowded at the time of year that we went. The buses at the resort are very good at getting to and from all the parks. Each village has a wait station. WE also rented a car to drive from the airport and we each brought carry on bags to prevent the wait for our bags and a quicker arrival to the hotel. This also made it possible to venture off the grounds to Universal Studios one day and any stores you may need to go to get water and such to stock up your refrigerators with. If you do not rent a car you will still have transportation to all the Disney places and not have to worry about parking. The grounds at the resort were very nice with a lake and sandy beaches to enjoy. They have plenty of chairs and hammocks to rest in. Near Port Royal we rented a speed boat twice to ride around in the water. These were 24 dollars for 30 mintutes in a two seater. My teenage son enjoyed this. They also have bikes and other boats to rent. The main pool was very busy but the more private pools in each of the villages looked more peaceful depending on your needs. They also have a laundry place for those; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: The Inn on Biltmore Estate; City: Asheville North Carolina; Review: If you want to have a royal fantasy romantic getaway book a romantic get-away package at the Inn on Biltmore. My husband and I went for a Valentine's get-away. This is the way to experience the Biltmore Estate. The other packages are wonderful as well. After touring the Biltmore castle we were swept away to the Inn feeling like we were personal guest of the Vanderbilts. The Inn is very elegant and the staff give cheerful attention to every detail. It was wonderful to cozy up next to your loved one by a fire with soothing classical music playing in the background. To walk down a wide staircase and make an entrance into the lovely Dining Room for a elegant meal and be handed a rose by the waiter for a classy touch to the end of a elegant Valentine dinner. We were given the grand king room on the 7th floor with a beautiful view at night of the lights flicking on the mountains. We gazed at these while sippiing our Biltmore champagne which clearly set the mood for a romantic evening in my own fairytale. I can imagine that it is breathtaking to be here in the spring or fall with all the wonderful places to sit and enjoy the fresh air and views on the veranda or sit inside at one of the library window seats or enjoy all the wonderful outdoor activities they have to offer. Bravo to the Inn on Biltmore. We hope to return again soon.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Victorian Villa Bed and Breakfast Inn; City: Charlotte North Carolina; Review: My Husband and I rented out the entire Villa for two nights for our Daughter's Wedding. The Villa is on Lake Wylie and is on a private corner of the lake. A beautiful venue for an outdoor wedding with a gazebo beside the lake to have the ceremony, a grand stairway for the bride to make her entrance and plenty of outdoor space to have the reception afterwards. You can view their website if you need more info about this. My husband and I along with two other couples stayed the night of the wedding. The Villa is beautifully decorated with victorian furnIture throughout, also antiques. We admired the many stainglassed windows throughout the Villa. My husband and I chose to stay in The Lincoln Suite. It was located on the top floor of the Villa. The room came with a king sized sleigh bed that was very comfortable. The room was large with a sitting area and a fireplace. A balcony comes with this room with a view of the lake and two chairs to sit in and a small table. There is a private bath that is large with a garden tub and a separate shower. There is a beautiful artwork above the bath on the ceiling that makes this bathroom unique. The only negative I had about the bathroom was the sink was in need of the drain being cleaning because it drained very slow and would fill up while washing your face. I am sure this can be easily corrected. Since this is a bed and breakfast we had a wonderful breakfast waiting for us at 9:00a.m. the next morining prepared by their lovely cook. The cook was very frendly and shared wonderful stories with us. She had coffee and juice, fresh fruit, along with paincakes and sausage that she made that morning fresh. If you love the view of a lake and all that is victorian you will love this villa for a wedding or just an overnight stay. Just be prepared if you stay on a weekend they have weddings amost every weekend there booked in advance for up to two years. Many couples who are married here come back and stay there to visit the Villa they were married at. We did not use the lake but you are allowed to do this as well and they have a swimming pool on the property to use .; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Melange Bed and Breakfast; City: Hendersonville North Carolina; Review: Celebrated my Birthday with my Husband in this beautiful Bed and Breakfast. After a lovely Sat. spent shopping and eating lunch in an Irish pub we checked into the Inn after the 4 o' clock check in. We were greeted upon entering the door by Keith. He is the owner's Inn Keeper. He offered to help with luggage and showed us up the stairway to the second floor where our room,The Pearl room was located. The room was true to the website's description. The bathroom was large and it also had a refrigerator in there with complimentary water and sodas. The room and bath was very clean. The room was very quiet and the bed was comfortable. Keith also gave us a wonderful choice of restaurants he recommended for our dinner. The owners also give the option of preparing you a 4 course meal for 200 dollars that you can set up ahead of time. We ate at the Square Root downtown and it was great. Do make reservations ahead. They offered us each a glass of complimentary wine and dessert for that evening when we returned . They turn off all the lights downstairs at 10:00 p.m. in the common areas. We had our wine in the living room and looked at the interesting large coffee table books. We chose to eat breakfast at 9:00 am the next morning in their pretty breakfast room. Keith served each dish to you and poured your beverages. The coffee was strong but very good. This being my Birthday they all surprised me with a slice of delicious cake with a candle and had everyone sing Happy Birthday to me. That was a very thoughtful thing for them to do. The breakfast was good, a fruit pastry , then an omelette type dish with mushrooms on the top that can easily be removed. They do ask you the night before if there are allergies to foods or any special needs you may have. We walked the grounds before we left, being early March there was nothing in bloom and the plants in the water around the fountains were dead. I can imagine this looks much better in the spring and summer months . I also looked at the areas where wedding venues or celebrations would take place and it looks very well arranged for this. We also noticed above the front door and all other entrances and in the walkway way was, The Evil Eye. This is very custom for people such as , the owners. They are from Turkey. This is suppose to keep negative things away from the Inn. I have stayed in old historic Inns like this one and have sensed hauntings. Not here, it was very peaceful. If you want to feel like you are in Europe inside this beautiful Inn , stay at The Melange and in the pearl room. I do suggest you check each room's photos and description on the website before coming because each room is very different . The pearl room had the theme of Greek; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Cuthbert House Inn; City: Beaufort South Carolina; Review: A very charming B&B. the two hundred year old mansion, the staff, and the owners made our stay most pleasant . The views of the water and the boats sailing are the best compared to other B&Bs available. We stayed in the federal room upstairs and the king bed was very comfortable. The windows have blinds that can be closed and large curtains can be closed over them which really helped me to rest better in a non lit up room. The room was very large and the closet provides room for items you need to hang up. The bath had a claw tub which was so neat to soak in and they give you a pack of bath salts? The shower was ok but might could use a better shower head but it worked well. Plenty of hot water. The sink has a little bit of a leaking problem around the seal of the sink but easy to take care of with the hand towel they provide. No need to pack wash cloths they have them . The bath has uneven tiles on the floor and cracks in the wall but I did not mind because this is a 200 year old mansion and you can expect some of that. You can tell that repairs are made to the home while trying to keep it's character. It was very clean and the cleaning staff did a great job each day while we were away making our beds and giving us fresh towels. Just outside the door is another door that leads out to the top floor veranda . We loved it out there. Plenty of places to sit and look a the water view and feel the breezes. Watching the Spanish moss swaying on the tree branches was so lovely. I really enjoyed taking many photos. The wine hour is at 5:00 and is a wonderful opportunity to meet the other guests as well as the owners. We even went to dinner a couple of nights with new friends we made there. The breakfast was very good every morning and you are waited hand and foot on . We loved sitting at the bay window with the view. It is first come, first serve. Everything is a short walk away, riverfront park with the swings, shops, and great restaurants with outdoor dining and great views. Returning every night with our own set of keys to enter the inn made it feel like we were stepping back in time. The inn keepers do not stay on site but are there early in the morning to prepare breakfast and the owners live 5 minutes away. The place was booked when we were there so you really aren't alone. They also give you a pass if you ask that gets you into Hunting Island for free. It is just 25 minutes away and the beach is pristine. They also leave a a bottle per person of bottled water in your in room refrigerator. Awesome Inn and friendly staff, we can hardly wait to return; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Tides Folly Beach; City: Folly Beach South Carolina; Review: We usually stay at Isle of Palms but wanted to give Folly Beach a try for my Birthday. We stayed a couple of nights and if I had known I would have drove in earlier and parked at one of the parking areas near the pier and got a whole day at the beach before check in because check in was at 4:00 pm and that would have given me a full day at the beach. There are rest rooms right there near the pier gift shop and access to the beach there. We went to Historic Charleston instead . We wanted to do as much as possible only staying two nights. First making reservations here were easy but always keep a copy to bring with you at check in. They give you a referral link if you give them your email. Join it and send to several people you know and you will have free champagne in a bucket of ice the day of your arrival. We were in room 317 on the third floor. There were two queen beds and the view was of the beach and ocean right in front of the hotel as well as the Folly Beach Pier. There are beautiful sunrises to be seen, worth getting up for. The room was clean and the beds were comfortable. The balcony you can only stand on. To the right there is a wall to the left the view is not obstructed. Down below are a few tables from the restaurant Blue at the Hotel. You cannot sit at any of their tables unless you are a customer. The staff at this hotel stood out to me in their customer service and how super friendly they were to everyone. Even the parking attendant when you first arrive. Note they do give you beach towel so you don't have to pack yours, but you do have to ask for those. It has live music at certain times there and a restaurant in the Hotel that is rather pricey. We had breakfast there outside so we could enjoy the views of the sea. They have buffet style or you can order from menu. This is a dog friendly hotel so you see lots of dogs. If you like to look for shells go to the left toward the pier and go past there for a while and you can find shells and an opportunity to take a photo of the FB water tower. There is a heated pool there if you go in March like we did. Many were using it. There is a snack and coffee shop as well on first floor. The restaurants and shops are an easy walk across the street so the location is perfect. If you want a lot of action , the ocean, the Pier, and fun is there. Just crack open the door and enjoy listening to the waves crashing . It is worth giving this place a try. Have fun and make sure you go all the way to the end of Ashley; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Meadowbrook Inn; City: Blowing Rock North Carolina; Review: My Husband and I wanted a one night escape to Blowing Rock NC to enjoy the cooler temps and mountain beauty. This trip was very last minute and every place we wanted to stay was booked. One place referred us to Meadowbrook Inn. They had one room left and it was a suite. We went early to enjoy a whole day before checking in and they were kind enough to let us park our car there in the parking lot and walk to the downtown area which was very close. We really liked the idea of being able to walk to everything downtown during our stay. The Inn is also a short drive from The Blowing rock which we love to visit. The inn itself is clean but very dated. The suites were located in a separate building near a duck pond and had it's own parking. Our room was clean with a large living room, bathroom, and bedroom. It had a gas log in the room as well. There was a little outdoor covered area that looked out to another hotel and a small mountain in the distance. You could feel the fresh cool mountain air . It had two chairs and a table out there to enjoy beverages. We were lucky enough to have a full moon that night and we could see it from our outdoor area. We enjoyed walking to the downtown area for supper and sitting in the big rockers at the park eating ice cream for dessert. The bed was comfortable. We did not use the shower but it looked like it worked well. The bathtub is a large jacuzzi. Breakfast was included with this room so you had to walk to the main building up a pretty walkway where the duck pond is to go to the room that had all the food set up for self serve. Large selection of a hot or cold breakfast. We did not know they had instant grits and toast till we were done because it was set up on the far left side and middle where coffee was located.Take a look at all that is there on all the tables before you fix your meal I recommend. Everything tasted good. Again the breakfast room is in bad need of some repair to the walls and updated. This place looks like it is used for large family get togethers, weddings, and business. It is in a great location, friendly employees, good price. Just really needs some updating and remodeling. When they make the updates this place will get a higher rating.; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Beaufort House Inn; City: Asheville North Carolina; Review: My Husband and I chose to celebrate our 38th Wedding Anniversary in this lovely Victorian House. We stayed on the 3rd floor which had a king size sleigh bed, and a sofa with a charming free standing glass wood stove which added to the romantic setting. The windows open if you want mountain fresh air. The Windows face out to the back area that has a double adult swing and hammock under a tree. I could see that the landscape would have something to offer any season. There is a sitting area as you exit the bedroom to go across to two other rooms. One having double beds and the other was the large bathroom with jacuzzi and tiled shower. They have a thermosstat located next to the bed. It is a a walk if you have to visit the toilet in the middle of the night but it was fine for us. The third floor and throughout the house was clean. They had a 100 percent rating which was a plus for me. The inn keepers do not live on the property but they were there during the wine hour and to prepare breakfast in the morning. They have two other ladies who help them and the customers with anything they need including reservations or directions. It was one of them that showed us to our room upon arrival. The social hour is a nice time to meet the other customers who are staying in the Inn with you. They have a wonderful outdoor porch area to sit or inside in the living room by the fireplace. We met people from Canada, Florida, and Connecticut. All very nice couples. I got a peep at a few of the other rooms on the other floors and they all looked very nice. Their website is very true to what you get. If you stay on the third floor, you get the best parking spot, right up in front next to the house. Others park in a parking lot down behind the Inn. If you cannot handle stairs well you would not like the third floor as you have to walk up and down many stairs. I loved the main stairway , it was beautiful and creaky . This made you feel like you were going back in time and were a guest in this Victorian Historic home. The breakfast each morning was also very good. They even fixed my husband scrambled eggs when he did not like what was been served. You do need to tell them your restrictions to the diet at check in. They were very accomidating and we really appreciated that.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
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Given the interaction history of a user with movies/shows as follows:
Title: Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade (1989); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Catwoman (2004); Rating: 1.0/5.0
Title: The Perfect Score (2004); Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: Code 46 (2004); Rating: 1.0/5.0
Title: Wicker Park (2004); Rating: 1.0/5.0
Title: Dogtown and Z-Boys (2002); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Ray (2004); Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy (2004); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: O Brother (2000); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Kid Stays in the Picture (2002); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Hidalgo (2004); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Napoleon Dynamite (2004); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Reservoir Dogs (1992); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Harold and Kumar Go to White Castle (2004); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Kill Bill: Vol. 2 (2004); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl (2003); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (2001); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Elf (2003); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Garden State (2004); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Finding Nemo (Widescreen) (2003); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Rushmore (1998); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: GoodFellas: Special Edition (1990); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Fight Club (1999); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Usual Suspects (1995); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers (2002); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Godfather (1972); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Boondock Saints (1999); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King (2003); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Kill Bill: Vol. 1 (2003); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Shawshank Redemption: Special Edition (1994); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Big Lebowski (1998); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Old School (2003); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Meet the Parents (2000); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Lock (1998); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Best in Show (2000); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: There's Something About Mary: Special Edition (1998); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Below (2002); Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: After the Sunset (2004); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Chariots of Fire (1981); Rating: 1.0/5.0
Title: American Flyers (1985); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Dr. Strangelove (1964); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Princess Bride (1987); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Elektra (2005); Rating: 1.0/5.0
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Given the interaction history of a user with news articles as follows:
Title: With Linz Open semis win, Coco Gauff becomes youngest WTA finalist in 15 years; Abstract: Coco Gauff won the Linz Open semifinals, becoming the youngest woman since Nicole Vaidisova in 2004 to be a WTA finalist.; Category: sports
Title: 'Ghost kitchens' are taking over fast-food chains from Chick-fil-A to Wendy's; Abstract: Wendy's became the latest fast-food chain to name-check ghost kitchens on Friday at the company's investor day.; Category: foodanddrink
Title: This Percentage of Americans Have Never Left the State They Were Born; Abstract: For some, home really is the best place in the universe. The post This Percentage of Americans Have Never Left the State They Were Born appeared first on Reader's Digest.; Category: lifestyle
Title: Miguel Cervantes' Wife Reveals Daughter, 3, 'Died in My Arms' After Entering Hospice Care; Abstract: Miguel Cervantes' Wife Reveals Daughter 'Died in My Arms' After Hospice Care; Category: tv
Title: Michael Douglas Weighs In on College Admissions Scandal: It's 'Egregious'; Abstract: Michael Douglas Weighs In on College Admissions Scandal: It's 'Egregious'; Category: movies
Title: Burning questions for Lions vs Packers on 'Monday Night Football'; Abstract: The Green Bay Packers host the Detroit Lions for an NFC North special edition of Monday Night Football to cap off a lively NFL Week 6 slate.; Category: sports
Title: Miguel Cervantes' Wife Reveals Daughter, 3, 'Died in My Arms' After Entering Hospice Care; Abstract: Miguel Cervantes' Wife Reveals Daughter 'Died in My Arms' After Hospice Care; Category: tv
Title: Pope's bodyguard resigns over leak in financial probe; Abstract: The Vatican's security chief who served as Pope Francis' main bodyguard resigned Monday over leaks related to a financial investigation into alleged wrongdoing in the holy city.; Category: news
Title: Jeff Bezos: This is the 'smartest thing we ever did' at Amazon; Abstract: Jeff Bezos has a nontraditional management style at Amazon. And according to Bezos, Amazon's twist on meeting structure is the "smartest thing we ever did."; Category: finance
Title: NFL world reacts to officials handing Packers win over Lions; Abstract: It's a regular occurrence for NFL officiating to cause controversy, with the Packers seeming to benefit from a questionable call against Lions defensive end Trey Flowers.; Category: sports
Title: 'Wheel Of Fortune' Guest Delivers Hilarious, Off The Rails Introduction; Abstract: We'd like to solve the puzzle, Pat: Blair Davis' loveless marriage? On Monday, "Wheel of Fortune" welcomed as a new contestant trucking business owner Blair Davis, who offered a biting introduction for himself. When host Pat Sajak asked the man from Cardiff, California, about his family, Davis plunged into one of the darkest personal summaries the show has likely ever heard. "I've been trapped in a loveless marriage for the last 12 years to an...; Category: tv
Title: High school soccer: Chloe DeLyser sets record for most goals scored; Abstract: Chloe DeLyser, an Ohio State commit, scored her 317th goal Tuesday night, setting a new national record for a high school girls soccer player.; Category: sports
Title: Mexico convulsed by second mass shooting in two days; Abstract: Fifteen people were killed in a gunfight in the southwestern Mexican state of Guerrero; Category: news
Title: Little Dog Comes Up With Clever Way To Get More Attention; Abstract: Rikki Perez Chewie was rescued after spending the first six years of her life locked in a cage at a puppy mill.; Category: lifestyle
Title: An airline pilot reveals the meanings of 23 code words passengers don't understand; Abstract: Here's how to speak "airline" according to airline pilot Patrick Smith, who explains terms such as all-call, direct flight, and ground stop.; Category: travel
Title: Egypt uncovers 'huge cache' of ancient sealed coffins; Abstract: Archaeologists have discovered more than 20 wooden coffins at a necropolis in Luxor, according to Egypt's Ministry of Antiquities.; Category: news
Title: Bobby Flay Reveals He's 'Very Single' on Beat Bobby Flay; Abstract: Bobby Flay Reveals He's Single on Beat Bobby Flay; Category: tv
Title: Food Network star Carl Ruiz died of clogged arteries; Abstract: Food Network's Carl Ruiz's cause of death was "atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease," The Maryland Department of Health confirmed.; Category: tv
Title: 'A passionate guy': Ex-NASCAR team owner found dead in Ohio River near Louisville; Abstract: Lonnie Troxell, of a racing team from 2000-2005 that competed in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series, was found floating in the Ohio River Tuesday.; Category: sports
Title: Bob Kingsley, Country Radio Legend, Dead at 80; Abstract: Country radio legend Bob Kingley, the longtime host of the nationally syndicated program Bob Kingsley's Country Top 40, died early Thursday in Weatherford, Texas, following a lengthy battle with bladder cancer. He was 80 years old. A member of the Country Radio Broadcasters Hall of Fame, inducted in 1998, he later became only the format's fifth representative in the National Radio Hall of Fame in 2016. Kingsley was 18 and serving in the Air...; Category: music
Title: James Mattis mocks Trump's bone spurs; Abstract: Former Defense Secretary James Mattis makes light of President Trump calling him "the world's most overrated general" during his keynote address at the annual Al Smith dinner, a philanthropic event where roasts are tradition.; Category: video
Title: A former Nazi bunker in Germany is being turned into a luxury hotel with a 5-storey roof garden; Abstract: The garden, which will sit atop what was once one of the Nazis' biggest fortresses, will feature a memorial centre for victims of the Third Reich.; Category: travel
Title: This 190-pound dog had to be carried down a mountain after refusing to continue hike; Abstract: Floyd, a mastiff, decided he was absolutely done while hiking the Grandeur Peak Trail near Salt Lake City.; Category: lifestyle
Title: Hours before passing, Elijah Cummings signed subpoenas directed to two US immigration agencies; Abstract: In one of his last official acts before his death, the late House Oversight and Reform Committee Chairman Elijah Cummings signed two subpoenas for documents related to a temporary end to a policy change that allowed some immigrants with severe health issues to remain in the US.; Category: news
Title: Why Professional Chefs Refuse to Cook with Truffle Oil; Abstract: Truffles are some of the priciest ingredients you can buy so how is it that they're so common on restaurant menus these days?; Category: foodanddrink
Title: 23 Foods That Help Lower High Blood Pressure; Abstract: Consuming less sodium may be important to help slash blood pressure levels, but eating more of these foods is good for your heart and arteries too. The post 23 Foods That Help Lower High Blood Pressure appeared first on The Healthy.; Category: health
Title: New Jersey Couple Sues Taco Bell Over Chalupa Prices; Abstract: When is a $5 deal not a $5 deal?; Category: foodanddrink
Title: Missing West Point cadet found dead, officials say; Abstract: A U.S. Military Academy cadet who vanished last week has been found dead, officials said Wednesday.; Category: news
Title: This Is What Happens When You Take Ibuprofen Too Often, According to a Doctor; Abstract: ; Category: health
Title: Check out the complete Berkshire Hathaway portfolio; Abstract: Berkshire Hathaway publishes its portfolio every quarter. Here's how Warren Buffett is investing.; Category: finance
Title: 3 Foods You Should Eat at Breakfast If You Want to Lose Belly Fat, According to a Dietitian; Abstract: If you're trying to lose belly fat, you're probably paying more attention to your diet, working to get more exercise, and cutting down on sugar.; Category: health
Title: Here's how much house flippers actually make; Abstract: The reality shows make it seem like a surefire way to rake in some dough, but is flipping a house truly a royal road to riches?; Category: finance
Title: Deer fatally attacks hunter who shot him; Abstract: In what officials are calling a bizarre incident, an Arkansas hunter was killed by a deer that he thought he had killed.; Category: news
Title: Jeff Bezos is set to lose his crown as world's richest person; Abstract: Jeff Bezos is about to relinquish the title of world's richest person to Bill Gates, as Amazon.com Inc. stock tumbled in late trading Thursday.; Category: finance
Title: Strange Dog Shows Up On Woman's Lawn And Seems To Recognize Her; Abstract: Kate Howard was sitting outside her home one afternoon after a memorial service when something amazing happened.; Category: lifestyle
Title: Ex-SS guard on trial: I saw people led into gas chamber; Abstract: A 93-year-old former guard at the Nazis' Stutthof concentration camp testified at his trial Friday that he once saw people being led into the gas chamber, followed by screaming and banging sounds behind the locked door.; Category: news
Title: Celebrity beach cruising for 2019; Abstract: See all the stars who hit the beach this year!; Category: entertainment
Title: Offensive lineman Kelechi Osemele reportedly considering action against Jets' team doctor; Abstract: Osemele has been in a bizarre standoff with the Jets that looks poised to escalate now that he's undergone shoulder surgery.; Category: sports
Title: Police Arrest Motorcyclist Who Led High-Speed Chase And Went Home Thinking He Escaped; Abstract: A motorcyclist was arrested after leading California Highway Patrol units on a high-speed chase in Placerville on Saturday.; Category: news
Title: Photographer Crosses Paths With A Black Cat Unlike Any He's Seen Before; Abstract: Some people might think crossing paths with a black cat is a bad omen but for wildlife photographer George Turner, his encounter with one such feline was actually a sign of really, really good fortune.; Category: lifestyle
Title: Jessica Biel dresses up as husband Justin Timberlake for Halloween; Abstract: The couple have a history of elaborate Halloween costumes, but this one might be a winner.; Category: lifestyle
Title: North Korea says it's running out of patience with US; Abstract: North Korea on Sunday said it's running out of patience with the United States over what it described as hostile policies and unilateral disarmament demands, and warned that a close personal relationship between the leaders alone wouldn't be enough to prevent nuclear diplomacy from derailing.; Category: news
Title: Divers Find Giant Mysterious 'Egg' Floating In Ocean; Abstract: A team of divers set off to explore a sunken World War II ship off the Norwegian coast, but what they found was something far more mysterious. While making their way back to shore, Ronald Raasch, Nils Baadness and Brynjar Aarnseth came face-to-face with a giant floating orb. The bubble hovered 17 meters (56 feet) below the surface and appeared to be see-through. The divers turned their flashlights on it and realized that the sphere was filled...; Category: lifestyle
Title: Sacré bleu, France defeated at World Cheese Awards by American contender; Abstract: For the first time ever, America has come out on top at the World Cheese Awards.; Category: foodanddrink
Title: Halloween storm to dump 1st snow of season in parts of Midwest; Abstract: After a brief clip of wintry weather races through the central Plains and western Great Lakes to start the week, a much larger and more impactful winterlike storm will close out October.; Category: weather
Title: A heartbreaking photo of a dog riding a bus alone went viral, and now people want to adopt her; Abstract: A kennel is seeking the dog's owner. If no one comes forward, she will be put up for adoption.; Category: lifestyle
Title: In manufacturing Midwest, signs of trouble amid good times; Abstract: A Wisconsin town shows the disparate fortunes of global and U.S. consumer markets as the economy starts slowing.; Category: finance
Title: Peter Luger's says its steaks are still 'the best you can eat' after zero-star review from the New York Times; Abstract: Pete Wells wrote that his fries were "mealy and bland" and that the Caesar salad's croutons were "straight out of the bag."; Category: foodanddrink
Title: 18th-century shipwreck discovered after 40-year search; Abstract: The Dutch merchant ship eluded searchers for decades, after sinking 'under dubious circumstances.'; Category: video
Title: A Chef Shares the Secret Ingredient Your Mac and Cheese Is Missing; Abstract: Want to know exactly how to make the best, homemade mac and cheese recipe? An executive chef gave us his recipe so you won't need the boxed stuff again.; Category: foodanddrink
Title: When I moved from China to the US, eating out became so much more expensive I had to break the habit. Here's how I did it.; Abstract: Instead of feeling like I was depriving myself, I set out to manage my restaurant addiction by figuring out how to recreate what I loved about them.; Category: foodanddrink
Title: Bill Murray Applied To Work At An Airport P.F. Chang's And They're Totally Down To Hire Him; Abstract: Dude loves a lettuce wrap.; Category: foodanddrink
Title: Hong Kong crashes into recession as protests hit economy; Abstract: Hong Kong's economy contracted sharply in the third quarter as it entered a recession, exceeding economists' worst estimates of the damage from nearly five months of protests.; Category: finance
Title: A Michelin-starred chef is crafting $3 lunches for thousands of public school kids; Abstract: Dan Giusti was chef at the world's "best restaurant" where people spend over $350 to dine. Now, he feeds kids beef enchiladas and jelly sandwiches.; Category: foodanddrink
Title: Boy Scouts of America membership fees to increase by 80 percent amid wave of sex-abuse lawsuits; Abstract: The Boy Scouts of America, faced with a wave of sex-abuse lawsuits, will increase its annual membership fee next year by more than 80 percent to relieve some financial pressure, the organization said last week.; Category: news
Title: Man who advocated caning for adultery gets caned for adultery; Abstract: An Indonesian man has been publicly flogged for adultery, under a draconian law he helped create.; Category: news
Title: 15 reasons we should get rid of daylight saving time; Abstract: 15 reasons we should get rid of daylight saving time; Category: weather
Title: Why President Trump's kids are probably celebrating his move to Florida; Abstract: The No. 1 reason billionaires decide to move.; Category: finance
Title: 82-year-old priest killed in flash floods after Halloween storm, police say; Abstract: Father Tom Connery, who served as a priest for 56 years, was killed after his vehicle became trapped in Herkimer County during the storm, police said.; Category: news
Title: Ask the Captain: Do pilots like it when passengers clap after landing?; Abstract: Does working a redeye flight hurt the flight crew as much it does passengers? And what do pilots think when they hear passengers clap after landing?; Category: travel
Title: 200 Shocking Home Photos You Have to See; Abstract: We know a good DIY project when we see it, but these aren't them. Some of these are goofy, some are head scratchers and some are downright dangerous. Check these photos out, you'll definitely learn a thing or two!; Category: lifestyle
Title: Drones Used in Crime Fly Under the Law's Radar; Abstract: An otherwise peaceful suburban neighborhood in Washington Township, Pa., began experiencing a series of explosions this past spring and summer. Homemade bombs were blowing up in front yards. Nails were raining down from the sky. Windows were left riddled with marks, as if they had been shot at. For a while, the police were mystified. They could find no clues to the identity of the bomber, and they were confused about how the perpetrator could...; Category: news
Title: 40 Etiquette Mistakes You Need to Stop Making by Age 40; Abstract: From errors you make on the phone to rude things you do with your significant other, clean up your act by ditching these etiquette mistake in your 40s.; Category: lifestyle
Title: Hidden Camera Captures Cat And Baby Having The Cutest Conversation; Abstract: From the moment Lindsey Needham brought her son Brody home, she could tell that he and her cat Zora were going to be friends.; Category: lifestyle
Title: Schools in meat-loving rural Brazil went vegan. The community revolted.; Abstract: The world's No. 1 exporter of beef is home to a large and growing vegan movement. Sometimes, the cultures clash.; Category: news
Title: Woman Finds A Giant Wild Snake Just Chilling In Her Bed; Abstract: A 7-foot-long carpet python was slithering over her bed.; Category: lifestyle
Title: This Foster Kitten Smiling for a Photo Will Make Your Friday; Abstract: Blossom the cat clearly loves her new foster family. Photos of the kitten smiling for the camera have gone viral and melted hearts everywhere.; Category: lifestyle
Title: What Tom Brady, Lamar Jackson Told Each Other After Patriots-Ravens; Abstract: Tom Brady offered credit where it was due Sunday night in Baltimore. The Ravens handed Brady and the Patriots their first loss of the season in Week at M amp T Bank Stadium. The primetime; Category: sports
Title: SR-71 Blackbird: The Cold War spy plane that's still the world's fastest aircraft; Abstract: During the Cold War, the SR-71 Blackbird spy plane could fly higher and faster than any other -- and 55 years after its first flight, it still does.; Category: news
Title: Cracker Barrel Has Two Thanksgiving Options This Year, and They Both Sound Delicious; Abstract: Don't feel like cooking a turkey this year? You can order a Cracker Barrel Thanksgiving dinner to bring home, or eat at the restaurant on T-Day.; Category: foodanddrink
Title: Tampa Bay's last Kmart will close in January; Abstract: KENNETH CITY The Tampa Bay region's last remaining Kmart will close its doors after this holiday shopping season, the chain confirmed to the Tampa Bay Times on Monday. The store had been open since 1970. The Kmart on 66th Street N is among dozens of other Kmart and affiliated Sears stores expected to close, as a new parent company struggles to turn the retailers around. In late August, Sears ...; Category: finance
Title: Being homeless in Las Vegas could soon be illegal with the city debating a possible public sleeping ban that would result in $1,000 fines or even jail time; Abstract: Las Vegas City Council is scheduled to vote on Wednesday on an ordinance that would make it illegal for homeless people to sleep on the streets in certain parts of the city.; Category: news
Title: Jameis Winston still having trouble with his vision?; Abstract: Jameis Winston has thrown so many interceptions during his NFL career that it is fair to wonder if he is seeing the field correctly, and we don't mean that in the sense of reading a defense.; Category: sports
Title: New Mexico DE Nahje Flowers dies at 21; Abstract: ; Category: sports
Title: Supt. Johnson Announces Retirement: 'Time for Someone Else'; Abstract: Chicago Police Supt. Eddie Johnson on Thursday announced plans to retire from his post as the city's top cop after less than four years leading the department. "It's time for someone else to pin these four stars to their shoulders," an emotional Johnson said in a press conference. "These stars can sometimes feel like carrying the weight of the world, but I'm confident that I leave CPD in a better place than when I became superintendent." Read...; Category: news
Title: A streak worth celebrating … but just don't talk about it; Abstract: Joey Logano, Kevin Harvick and Chris Buescher have all done something that no other full-time Cup driver has done this year.; Category: sports
Title: Millennials, Gen Xers to baby boomers: Can you retire so I can get a job promotion?; Abstract: Baby boomers are putting off retirement and that may be making it harder for millennials and Gen Xers to get promoted: USA TODAY/LinkedIn survey.; Category: finance
Title: LA firefighter banked $360,010 in overtime pay in one year, city audit finds; Abstract: Eighteen employees of the Los Angeles Fire Department earned more than $200,000 in overtime pay last fiscal year, with one firefighter making $360,010 in overtime alone, according to an audit released Wednesday by City Controller Ron Galperin.; Category: news
Title: I went to Peter Luger after it received zero stars from New York Times; Abstract: The burger was so juicy I had to wipe my fingers after every bite. And everyone from regulars to tourists couldn't stop singing Peter Luger's praises.; Category: foodanddrink
Title: Three killed, 20 injured in Iran earthquake: state television; Abstract: An earthquake in northwestern Iran on Friday killed three people and injured 20, according to the first official reports on state television. In 1990, a 7.4-magnitude quake in northern Iran killed 40,000 people, injured 300,000 and left half a million homeless, reducing dozens of towns and nearly 2,000 villages to rubble.; Category: news
Title: Insiders predict: NFL week 10 winners; Abstract: We've entered the portion of the season where peeking at the playoff picture following each game wouldn't be considered too premature. The Patriots suffering their first loss makes things a bit more interesting in the AFC, while the still-undefeated 49ers face a major test this week against a division rival. We take a look at the Week 10 NFL slate, and the betting lines accompanying it.; Category: sports
Title: Snow crab sells for record price in Japan; Abstract: A "five shining star" snow crab was auctioned off in Tottori, Japan for a record-breaking 5 million yen ($46,000). wide.; Category: foodanddrink
Title: Next week's Arctic blast will be so cold, forecasters expect it to break 170 records across US; Abstract: Get ready for a taste of January. The incoming Arctic blast will bring cold temperatures to the Midwest, Plains, East Coast and Deep South.; Category: weather
Title: Dog Throws A Total Tantrum When She Realizes Mom Wants To Take The Stairs; Abstract: Aurora Angel Beste Nala has always been the friendliest dog, and loves going out on adventures and meeting new people.; Category: lifestyle
Title: Wisconsin bus driver saves children wandering in snow, as deadly Arctic air mass grips US; Abstract: As bitter cold took hold across the Midwest earlier this week, a sharp-eyed bus driver in Wisconsin was credited with helping rescue two children who were very underdressed for the weather conditions.; Category: news
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mind
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Given the interaction history of a user with books as follows:
Title: BabyFirst: My Feelings: A Look at Me Book (Mirror Book); Author: BabyFirstTM; Review: Very cute book; purchased for my 9 month old grandson. Love the sturdiness of the pages, and he is amazed at his reflection!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Who's Your Mama, Are You Catholic, and Can You Make A Roux? (Book 1): A Cajun; Author: Visit Amazon's Marcelle Bienvenu Page; Review: Delightfully surprised at how much I adore this book!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Talk About Good Cookbook; Author: Louisiana Lafayette Junior League; Review: Fabulous recipes from South Louisiana. A must-have staple for any kitchen!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: River Roads II; Author: Junior League of Baton Rouge; Review: This is a recipe book handed down to me by my Grandmother, so I just had to purchase one for my daughter as I'm certainly not giving up mine! The best recipe book I've ever used, hands-down!!! Love, love, love!! A staple for any household, and the best part about this cookbook is the ease of following the recipes!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Electric Pressure Cooker Recipes: A Simple Cookbook Guide for Busy People - Quick and Easy Recipes, Delicious Meals,; Author: Susan Meyer; Review: Very nice cookbook!; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Electric Pressure Cooker Recipes: Over 100 Delicious Quick And Easy Recipes For Fast Meals; Author: Ronnie Israel; Review: The abundance of recipes in this cookbook are fantastic!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Storm: A Time of Mercy, Choices and Hope; Author: Visit Amazon's James A. Toups Page; Review: What a beautiful story of a man who has chronicalled his life from his early childhood to now an adult husband with grandchildren of his own! I thoroughly have enjoyed reading this book; very well-written and an inspirational reminder to all of us to trust God and His will at all times!!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
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amazon_books
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Given the interaction history of a user with hotels as follows:
Title: The Raj Palace; City: Jaipur Jaipur District Rajasthan; Review: We went there to have a light lunch...and the place is beatiful quite expensive but for a simple salade a lime soda and a coffe 1000 indian rupies is a lot...but all around is so elegant than i beleve same time you need to ne spoilted ...in a pardise...; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Jaypee Delcourt; City: Greater Noida Uttar Pradesh; Review: I was supposed to go to the Fair so i got the reservation by the organisation and they gave to me a special rate 4.500 rupies, i want to tell if the rate wasn t that i will run away it s a place in a no where...rooms are emormous ..but not specially food so so in the 2 resaturants in the aera, you are far away from everithings except the Fair..so for my work was ok but i don t suggest to anyone to selecte it, is a big ghetto !!!!; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Ajit Bhawan; City: Jodhpur Jodhpur District Rajasthan; Review: jodhpur...it s time and after 5 hr train we arrived In the evenig at the station...lots street children ..so sade , a car came to recive us i have no idea about the place because i am going to met same friends...but a great surprice! An amaizing garden in the dark and a beatiful swiming pool..impossible to see the park but the feeling was a big park... Then my room was the golden room facing a terrace on the pool, my freinds in the pink one..evereywhere picture of the Family ..Rajput warrior or Mahàraja...a great athmosphere...every thinghs was so perfect..fabulouse...i think a very enlight person saved this Palace and preserved the memory of the past! Is nt a 3 stars"!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Jai Niwas; City: Jaipur Jaipur District Rajasthan; Review: I was regular guest in a nice haveli...but for my work i need to spend so long time in Jaipur then i need to look for a nice cleen and less expensive place I have a lovely room in the garden , new done, very cleen , a big flat television cattle in the room...nice breakfest home made bread, staff very nice,,the only thing is when you go out from the gate you are in the deep India...but if you don t love India there is no point to spend so long time like i do I am in love with the rural India!; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Hotel Suncity Apollo Mumbai; City: Mumbai Maharashtra; Review: I booked the hotel , then i understood i make a big mistake!! But i dont want to loose the money so i decided it will be only for 2 nights, the first night i will arrive from Eu so at list is one night and half!! The staff is very nice, but the only new is a big televison whic is not enough is the room is not cleen the tables are fulls of marks of previuose meals and drinks, yhe tapisserie has done the ' oil war'...the noice from the air condition from the next room is like it is in yours...; Rating: 1.0/5.0
Title: ITC Maurya a Luxury Collection Hotel New Delhi; City: New Delhi National Capital Territory of ; Review: Amaizing hotel.., rooms are not so big, but very confortble, the window is fix, you can t open to get fraish air...the restorants are very good, the best of the best is the Panswar, nice ambience, great food Too many restrictions for the smokers, i don t smoke, but my friends where always out side,not nice at all in a so big hotel 5 stars, the rooms for smokers like a box! Pay attention don t live your money on the table...because it was taken thinking is a tips, i complain for that, the duty manager was nice and gave to me back the amount, but i beleve that s not must arrived any where , amd at the list the excuse for the money taken let me to loose my temper...; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Ca dei Fre; City: Genoa Italian Riviera Liguria; Review: I booked this place after reading the commentary ...it was far from the center and quite, what i need, but no charme, no decor...is just a building done by self all arond in the ground stuff used to built a pound like pool, in few words a desastrer! Horrible experience...; Rating: 1.0/5.0
Title: Hotel Magellan; City: Paris Ile de France; Review: I booked this hotel trought internt ..so the cost of the single room was 97 euros but the price if you book by yourself or what else is much more then that Clean , nice breakfast but 97 euros is the right price....197....is really creazy!! So i will come back only trought the web!!; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Parco Statella; City: Randazzo Province of Catania Sicily; Review: The location is nice it s sicilan 'borgo' restored all arond beatiful trees...my room was big furnished with a mix of so rustic pieces of wood like consol or table..then old furniture...any think nice or in harmonie!!! Brekfast so poor!!!!! At list the price is also a small price , i really don t understand why 5 stars!!!!!; Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: Hotel Garden; City: Isola Vulcano Aeolian Islands Islands of Sicily Sicily; Review: The location is quite good near to the beach...near to the center, but they run the hotel with no passion , no attention...everithing done but no care...also the garden is sad half garden is green the other is abandoned Nice roof terrace No restaurant, the quality of breakfast very low....this hotel has 4 stars....why??????; Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: Phyllis Court Club; City: Henley on Thames Oxfordshire England; Review: I went to Henley to visit my good friends and i selected this place because on the river, quite and old style Not deceving for the old style...clients and member of club very old, very nice place, my room was small but a lovely terrace, food ok, very nice the breakfast , All these area is very is so green and i was lucky it was a sunny day; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Temple Tree Retreat; City: Auroville Viluppuram District Tamil Nadu; Review: I was there few years ago when it was just opend. I m so glad to find now this location on trip advaisor The room is it was so big ...very confortable , great taste, great breakfast in the terrace not last the very nice conversation with owner !! I suggest to rent a motobike then the beach is at ten minuts ..Pondy halph hour ..and close to Auroville I will be back soon; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Relais del Borgo Hotel SPA; City: Staffolo Province of Ancona Marche; Review: The small village is quite nice, the vue is amazing in all yhe aerea..belvedere or walking ...marche is really a great place very clean and wonderful We spent two days in the suite, vue is from one window on the valley, form the other the old roof charming I don t like the modern bathroom in glace..no privacy at all ,a big jacuzzi ....also , fakes flowers every where...it s like i would like...but i can t, any alcolic in the room fridge... Better nothing The breakfast quite poor..any salt food, in my opinion 4 stars are too much because you need to spoilt your clients.... It s needs a soul!; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Golfhotel Kaiserin Elisabeth; City: Starnberg Upper Bavaria Bavaria; Review: The location is quite nice, old building charming till you don t rich the room , single room is very small the bathroom also, no frigobar in the room any fan or similar..a balcony with old and plastic chair and table!! Is not for international travelers...tv only in german , newspapers also....the staff spesks a little english in the dinner room no menu in english...the director very nice take in the rooms wter..pilow and what else, beatiful garden...but the history of this place is not a reason to give 4 stars!!!!!!!! Lake in this aere does not offer any thing, it could be ok for golf people becuse is in front of it....i don t suggest to come; Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: Gastehaus Englischer Garten; City: Munich Upper Bavaria Bavaria; Review: A friend of mine who lives in the same aerea suggested this small guest house, it s a lovely house border to the river and the parck, in the night you can ear the swam and duck plaing...the breakfast is very nice, so clean ! It s a bit expensive...a room single no bathroom 133 euroooo! But if you need any informations about ....Munich bus, train ....or ....they replay : i don t know, and when the gave to you the info it s wrong!!! So better to know this small details..., i like the house, the location....so i will go back ask fro a room facing the park in the main bulding , the old one, they have also an attach buildin but is a modern one!!; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Boston Art Hotel; City: Turin Province of Turin Piedmont; Review: I was there last week , I booked it and I wrote I need a clean room no soap and deodorants or parfumes I called to have the confirmation and they were no nice on phone Then arriving the room was very dark but clean It's 4 stars but the attention to the client is very small I asked for some matches they said no impossible to get any fire! The night was very warm I asked for the air condition the replay no possible ! Then to stop in my room the hitter , they forgot !!!! I have friends in Torino , but I will not book a room gain on this hotel I like places where they take care of clients !; Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: Palm Grove Beach Resort; City: Ashvem Beach North Goa District Goa; Review: I was very stressed and I went to visit a friend at Palm Grove... it s a lovely place , clean, quite. Staff is very nice , Dewin so helpful always smiling! The beach is large and not so crowd , you could walk and watch at the sun set Breakfast is rich, the menu of restaurant if you stay longer is the same , quite a shame , but you get the fresh juices . Prices becoming quite expensive but is a peaceful place. I would like to come back; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Domus Mariae Benessere; City: Syracuse Province of Syracuse Sicily; Review: I spent 3 days in Syracuse nice location , all the stuff was very nice , room so clean and I used the spa where Valentina is so professional ! I would like to come back but it depends from the rate because the rate room s goes from 54 euro till 450 euros ... yes you well understood !!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Agriturismo Terrauzza sul Mare; City: Syracuse Province of Syracuse Sicily; Review: It was a nightmare... the apartment is a part of a cottage in a field ... it could be because the property is facing the ocean but every thing is just done with no care for nothing plus the rooms are perfumed may be to cover other smells . Tua lavano tabs was blocked and the water stay I asked for a rate for single use , the answer was no full tariff Believe me if you don’t want to shame your holidays better to keep far away of this place !!!; Rating: 1.0/5.0
Title: Decumani Hotel de Charme; City: Naples Province of Naples Campania; Review: It s could be a very very nice hotel because the location is great if you want vist the old town ! The stuff quite helpful and hearty but isn’t enough to supplies the shortages !!! No care in maintenance ... too spoilt the towels ... to spoilt the room which need refreshing walls!! No cover on the mattress , no cover on the duvet !!! It s seams clean so so.... The color is the gray like the curtains Breakfast is served in a decorated salon ...quite abandon at his destiny!! No fresh juices ...but cane , but we are in land of lemons ...fruits and sun!!! Nice the cakes ... honey and jan really cheap quality! It could be a very nice place but the need to take care ! I really don’t understand the standard of 4 stars ?????; Rating: 2.0/5.0
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hotelrec
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Given the interaction history of a user with movies/shows as follows:
Title: Apollo 13 (1995); Genres: Adventure, Drama, IMAX; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Pulp Fiction (1994); Genres: Comedy, Crime, Drama, Thriller; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: True Lies (1994); Genres: Action, Adventure, Comedy, Romance, Thriller; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Dances with Wolves (1990); Genres: Adventure, Drama, Western; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Batman (1989); Genres: Action, Crime, Thriller; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Batman Forever (1995); Genres: Action, Adventure, Comedy, Crime; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Die Hard: With a Vengeance (1995); Genres: Action, Crime, Thriller; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Aladdin (1992); Genres: Adventure, Animation, Children, Comedy, Musical; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Star Trek: Generations (1994); Genres: Adventure, Drama, Sci-Fi; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Beauty and the Beast (1991); Genres: Animation, Children, Fantasy, Musical, Romance, IMAX; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Crimson Tide (1995); Genres: Drama, Thriller, War; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Cliffhanger (1993); Genres: Action, Adventure, Thriller; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Waterworld (1995); Genres: Action, Adventure, Sci-Fi; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Interview with the Vampire: The Vampire Chronicles (1994); Genres: Drama, Horror; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Outbreak (1995); Genres: Action, Drama, Sci-Fi, Thriller; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Seven (a.k.a. Se7en) (1995); Genres: Mystery, Thriller; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Silence of the Lambs, The (1991); Genres: Crime, Horror, Thriller; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Fugitive, The (1993); Genres: Thriller; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Braveheart (1995); Genres: Action, Drama, War; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Shawshank Redemption, The (1994); Genres: Crime, Drama; Rating: 4.0/5.0
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movielens
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Given the interaction history of a user with products as follows:
Title: Carhartt Women's 4 Inch Casual Romeo Soft Toe CWS4160 Work Shoe; Brand: ; Review: Excellent quality. Nice stitching. Great features. Very comfortable.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Carhartt Women's Original Fit Crawford Pant; Brand: ; Review: The quality is excellent. I think for a taller person or a person with longer legs than torso, they might be a little short. For me it was very borderline. If you're an in-between size or can off and wear a size up or a size down, probably order a size up in Carhartt. These pants do not have any stretch to them. Otherwise excellently made and would have been thrilled to keep them.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Adult Poofy Ballet Style Tutu for Valentines, Easter, Costumes, Princess Tutu, Dance or Fun Run (Standard or Plus Size); Brand: BellaSous; Review: Top Rated Adult Tutu Skirt, ballet tutu style, by BellaSous. Perfect princess tutu, adult dance skirt, rehearsal tutu, or petticoat skirt. Plus size tutu available! Tulle fabric - Hot Pink tutu Truth be told, I made this purchase for my Great Dane. It fits wonderfully and wow, so happy with this tutu. The volume and fluff to it is absolutely amazing! I actually love it so much I am tempted to see how I can fit it into my wardrobe. Ha! Super happy with this pretty, pretty, pink purchase.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Diamante Style N039P – Plus Size, Mid Waist, Butt Lifting, Skinny Leg Jeans; Brand: ; Review: Comfy. Fun. Cute and sassy. Great with boots.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: TrailHeads Women’s Ponytail Headband | Moisture Wicking Ear Band | The Power Running Headband; Brand: TrailHeads; Review: Does not fit well at all. Either over the eyebrows or not fully over the ears. Could use some re-design.; Rating: 2.0/5.0
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amazon_Clothing_Shoes_and_Jewelry
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Given the interaction history of a user with products as follows:
Title: HERCULES; Brand: ; Review: I liked it, my wife not so much. The Rock is a good actor; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Vicious; Brand: Ian McKellen; Review: Dumb, dumb, dumb! Hate this show. Thought it would be funny - it's not! What an insult to the entire Gay Community!; Rating: 1.0/5.0
Title: I'll See You in My Dreams; Brand: Brett Haley; Review: Couldn't watch it past the point that she lost her dog. Very depressing!; Rating: 1.0/5.0
Title: Chocolat; Brand: ; Review: Bit too dragged out - rather boring; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Love's Kitchen; Brand: Claire Forlani; Review: Lots of fun, but a predictable ending; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Greener Mountains; Brand: Nick Daley; Review: Acting was forced and dialogue was stilted.; Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: Love, Rosie; Brand: Lily Collins; Review: Watched 15 minutes and removed it from the watch list.; Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: Doc Martin Bundle Package; Brand: Martin Clunes; Review: Just as much fun as watching individual episodes on PBS. Great for understanding the total Doc Martin story.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Doc Martin, Series 7; Brand: Martin Clunes; Review: Must have for the Doc Martin fan!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
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amazon_Movies_and_TV
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Given the interaction history of a user with movies/shows as follows:
Title: Racing Stripes (2005); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: My Big Fat Greek Wedding (2002); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Pacifier (2005); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Hostage (2005); Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: S.W.A.T. (2003); Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: Sleepless in Seattle (1993); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Lethal Weapon (1987); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Captain Corelli's Mandolin (2001); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: What Women Want (2000); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Collateral Damage (2002); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Finding Neverland (2004); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Sideways (2004); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Bad Boys II (2003); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Patch Adams (1998); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Dances With Wolves: Special Edition (1990); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Gone in 60 Seconds (2000); Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: Constantine (2005); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Patriot Games (1992); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Miss Congeniality (2000); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: XXX: State of the Union (2005); Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: The Mummy Returns (2001); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Pretty Woman (1990); Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: The Fast and the Furious (2001); Rating: 1.0/5.0
Title: Cheaper by the Dozen (2003); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Armageddon (1998); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Open Range (2003); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Pearl Harbor (2001); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Mr. Deeds (2002); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Broken Arrow (1996); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen (2003); Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: Ocean's Twelve (2004); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Alexander: Director's Cut (2004); Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: Forrest Gump (1994); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Manchurian Candidate (2004); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Rules of Engagement (2000); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Good Boy! (2003); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: In the Line of Fire (1993); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Lost in Translation (2003); Rating: 1.0/5.0
Title: The Rock (1996); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Twister (1996); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: After the Sunset (2004); Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: The Aviator (2004); Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: Troy (2004); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Tarzan 2 (2005); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Air Force One (1997); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Jerry Maguire (1996); Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: Enemy of the State (1998); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: The Patriot (2000); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Lethal Weapon 4 (1998); Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: Tomb Raider (2001); Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: XXX: Special Edition (2002); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Independence Day (1996); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: The Day After Tomorrow (2004); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Ransom (1996); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Lemony Snicket's A Series of Unfortunate Events (2004); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Blue Collar Comedy Tour: The Movie (2003); Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: Clear and Present Danger (1994); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Con Air (1997); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: The Green Mile (1999); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Birdcage (1996); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade (1989); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: The Negotiator (1998); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Runaway Jury (2003); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Chitty Chitty Bang Bang (1968); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Cinderfella (1960); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Birth (2004); Rating: 1.0/5.0
Title: Something to Talk About (1995); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Swordfish (2001); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: The Terminal (2004); Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: The Upside of Anger (2005); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Band of Brothers (2001); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Monster-in-Law (2005); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Chances Are (1989); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: We Were Soldiers (2002); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Pulp Fiction (1994); Rating: 1.0/5.0
Title: A.I. Artificial Intelligence (2001); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Heaven Can Wait (1978); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Somewhere in Time (1980); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Sahara (2005); Rating: 1.0/5.0
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netflix
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Given the interaction history of a user with hotels as follows:
Title: Old Penang Guesthouse; City: George Town Penang Island Penang; Review: I stayed at this hostel for 4 nights recently and loved it! It is located down Love Lane which is very central. There are mini marts nearby and also places to eat, including the famous hawker stalls. I stayed in a dorm room and it was very clean with great shared shower/toilet facilities. A breakfast is included in the price (quite rare for a hostel) and they have bread and a toaster, jams, fresh fruit. Tea and coffee is served free of charge until 5pm too. You can have water whenever you like. The best part of this hostel is the lovely old building and the friendly staff. They are so helpful. One of the nicest places I have stayed!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Patong Backpacker Hostel; City: Patong Kathu Phuket; Review: This hostel is a great place to meet other travellers as they have a communal area where everyone seems to gather. I stayed in a 10 bed dorm and it was very clean, the staff are always around cleaning the place! Great location aswell. The staff are so nice and helpful, I booked my transfer through them to the next place for a lot cheaper than quoted elsewhere!; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Treasure Hotel Laos; City: Luang Prabang Luang Prabang Province; Review: I came to this hotel on a group tour last month. The hotel itself is lovely! Huge spacious rooms and very clean. I got quite ill when I was there and had to stay longer, the staff were great! So helpful and looked after me well. It is about a 5-10 minute walk to the main night market area which is good because it is quiet at night. Highly recommended!!!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Eriksson Guesthouse; City: Patong Kathu Phuket; Review: I have just stayed at Eriksson Guest house for 5 nights and highly recommend! the actual guesthouse is lovely, very clean everywhere with a pool on the second floor. Yes, it is about a 10 minute walk to the shopping centre but that means you are away from all the noise during the night which is just what I wanted! My room was cleaned everyday and they provide 2 complimentary bottles of water for you too. Overall the accommodation is great and the place is made more special by the couple who own this guesthouse. They are very knowledgeable about the local area and are so helpful. I could of happily stayed here longer.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: River View Guest House; City: Melaka Central Melaka District Melaka State; Review: I stayed at River View for 4 nights and loved it! It is in the perfect location, easy walking distance to most places and right by the river. I stayed in the dorm room at the front and it was fine, maybe the bunk bed could do with replacing though. There is only 3 people in this room which is great too. There are 3 shower/toilet rooms but I never found that I had to wait for one. The building is lovely (see my photos I added) with a great communal area. The whole stay was made better by Raymond who will go out of his way to help his guests. When I checked in he gave me a complimentary drink and a map which he explained in detail. I haven't had that service from a guesthouse before! Also the complimentary cakes, bread and fruit is a nice touch in the morning. I looked forward to seeing what there was each day. They were delicious and Raymond said that his wife bakes them everyday. I could easily stay here again.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Central 65 Hostel; City: Singapore; Review: I have just stayed at this hostel for 6 nights and it was very good. I stayed in the 8 bed mixed dorm in the pod style beds. This meant more privacy than regular bunk beds. The free breakfast is excellent; bread to toast with jams, nutella etc and cereal. There is also free tea and coffee all day. The lobby area is a good place to meet other travellers and they have a large tv and book case with plenty of seating everywhere. The hostel itself is located in Little India, about 10 min walk to the nearest MRT line. There is also city square mall about 10 mins away too. Good points: Really helpful staff - the guy on reception was great Free earplugs Free breakfast Free wifi - strong connection in lobby Pod beds Bad points: Our room had no windows The shower room is pretty small and can get cramped quickly. Overall I would happily stay here again :); Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Raizzy s Guesthouse; City: Kuala Lumpur Wilayah Persekutuan; Review: I stayed at Raizzy's for 4 nights and loved it! The dorm room was clean as were the shower rooms. Breakfast is included in the price, which is rare for a hostel. This is bread to toast and jam etc. Hot and cold water provided aswell. The lounge area is good with loads of pre-loaded films on the tv. The best part about this hostel though are the staff. They are great! Someone is always on reception when you need them willing to help. Keep up the good work!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Beatty Lodge; City: Perth Greater Perth Western Australia; Review: I have just stayed at beatty lodge for a week and think its a great hostel. The staff are very helpful and friendly. Especially the lady on reception who always remembered my name. Very clean hostel with great kitchen and laundry facilities. The only things that would make it better are: Lockers in room Free wifi Overall thanks for a good stay :); Rating: 5.0/5.0
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hotelrec
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Given the interaction history of a user with hotels as follows:
Title: Best Western Plus A Wayfarer s Inn and Suites; City: Kingman Arizona; Review: I stayed here on business for a week. They have a really good continental breakfast, the rooms are great, the lobby is lovely. Although it looks like a motel on the outside, the rooms are very nice.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Quality Inn Payson; City: Payson Arizona; Review: I stayed here for a week on business and the hotel was ok. The breakfast was always good, though the menu doesn't change at all. And there is plenty of flavored creamer to take to your room if you like to wake up to coffee like I do. The room was standard, but not clean...Specifically, the floors are filthy (walk around in your socks people.) And housekeeping did not do a good job on most days. Honestly, it is a bargain if you're staying in Payson only a few days, but much longer than that gets old. Here's a tip if you stay there...get a complimentary razor. I forgot mine and was pleasantly surprised to be given a brand new Schick Quatro (about $7 retail.); Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Landmark Lookout Lodge; City: Tombstone Arizona; Review: I stayed here overnight on business and was pleasantly surprised. There is a free breakfast included with your stay (you get to choose menu items), but don't forget to leave a tip because gratuity isn't included. The rooms were clean and comfortable (amazing pillows) although cable selection is limited. The wi-fi signal is strong and the staff is friendly. I would definitely recommend this place and its only about a half mile from the main attractions.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Super 8 by Wyndham Quartzsite AZ; City: Quartzsite Arizona; Review: I was here for a week on business and the check in was very friendly. But it went downhill from there. The shower was dirty and never cleaned all week long. One day housekeeping never came to my room. After I complained, they came the next day, but only made my bed and nothing else. The bed is VERY uncomfortable and the mattress has absolutely no support. The pillows were flat as pancakes. Since I was staying for a while, I got another four pillows from staff which enabled me to sleep a little better the rest of the week. This motel has a reputation in town for being terrible. I wish I would have gotten the local's recommendation before I came. I suppose that because you can see it from the I-10 and the building looks good from the outside people assume it will be a decent place and this motel stays in business. They do have a continental breakfast which is pretty sorry. No fruit, limited hours, and the cheapest options available. I guess I am so frustrated with this place because there are so many things that are expected in all hotels that they don't have and could improve upon. I mean, you expect your room to be actually cleaned, and the bare minimums are bad business practice. If you have to stay in the area, there is a Best Western in Ehrenberg that is a much better option. It isn't too far. Also, Parker has a few decent options and isn't far out of the way. That being said, I don't wish to funnel all money away from the town. There is an excellent restaurant to eat called the Palo Verde Cafe. The staff was super friendly, the food is delicious, and very reasonably priced.; Rating: 1.0/5.0
Title: Motel 6 Page; City: Page Arizona; Review: This is a great choice to stay in Page. The motel is practically brand new so it rates closer to a Holiday Inn quality. The only gripe is that we didn't get the room that was requested. We came during the busiest time of year and every room was booked in every hotel in town. So that was bad service in my opinion because they were not sympathetic or sorry at all because they knew we couldn't do anything. On a more positive note, the rooms are all inside, there is an elevator, the beds and pillows are good, and the rooms were clean. The continental breakfast is non-existent though and the tax rate is close to 11% in Page. So be prepared to pay out on your food while visiting.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
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hotelrec
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Given the interaction history of a user with products as follows:
Title: OLLIN1 Mens Lightweight Summer Colored Tee; Brand: OLLIN1; Review: The jeans are VERY soft and stretch. These jeans are good to play sports in and hug your body. So far after moderate use they have NOT ripped.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Gioberti Mens Straight Fit Stone Washed Denim Jeans; Brand: ; Review: It is relatively durable, after a month of wearing them a few times a week the lining is beginning to come out. Material is stiff so not great for being active in.; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: DADAWEN Men's Classic Modern Lace Up Leather Oxford Dress Shoes; Brand: DADAWEN; Review: It is a cheaply made shoe. BEFORE wearing it you can see how the fake leather bends. Within a few seconds of wearing it you could see the creases forming, overall this shoe will not last very long, be aware of this shoe that lacks in quality.; Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: Partiss Mens High Neck Trench Coat; Brand: Fancy Dress Store; Review: THIS JACKET IS NOT A US LARGE, i wear a large and have extra space to breath in while this jacket does not provide that at all, be aware of this BEFORE purchasing; Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: Rayon Metallic Paisley Flower Garden Two-Sided Reversible Scarf; Brand: Dahlia; Review: SO SOFT; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: ThisWear Keep Calm and Papa Will Fix It, Gift for Grandpa T-Shirt; Brand: ; Review: Great gift for my dad, gave him a good laugh and fits well..... if he will actually wear it is another question altogether; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: High Sierra Access Pack ,Navy/Ash/Black, 20x15x9.5-Inch; Brand: High Sierra; Review: It is brighter than in picture and meets everything it showed. Fits up to a 17" laptop snugly, very spacious- ideal for hiking of just going to school. I will update if anything changes.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
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amazon_Clothing_Shoes_and_Jewelry
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Given the interaction history of a user with books as follows:
Title: CHASING SHADOWS: Shadow Ops, Book #1 (Volume 1); Author: Visit Amazon's CJ Lyons Page; Review: Absolutely wonderful...great writer so happy I found her books. Have read all Spcial OP, and Lucy Guardino FBI...very good. Would recommend to all book lovers; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Fate Succumbs: Timber Wolves (Timber Wolves Trilolgy); Author: Visit Amazon's Tammy Blackwell Page; Review: Excellent...love the series. Wish they were published faster. Also loved the Grey Wolves Series. The books in this series (Timber Wolves) are well written and read too fast, before you know it you are done. waiting for next one.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: WitchCraft (Volume 2); Author: Emma Mills; Review: Witchblood series is so good. want more right now. will be watching for more by this author. writes in such a way you could recognise characters if you met them on the street.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Magicstorm (Heart of a Vampire, Book 4) (Volume 4); Author: Visit Amazon's Amber Kallyn Page; Review: grabs your heart and doesn't let go. will be looking for more by Ms Kallyn. read well into the night...end came too soon.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Briar Creek Vampires 7; Author: Visit Amazon's Jayme Morse Page; Review: I look for new additions to this series at least once every 2 weeks.. Lexi and Dan make you want to know them in person. Their other series "Howl" is just as well written, but unfortunately came to an end. A surprising end. Sad to be done, but will enjoy re-reading this series; Rating: 5.0/5.0
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amazon_books
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Given the interaction history of a user with hotels as follows:
Title: La Quinta Inn Suites Denver Southwest Lakewood; City: Lakewood Colorado; Review: This was our second stay at this motel. We chose it initially because of it's location....close to family but returned because of the quality of service. The room was clean. The bed and pillows were comfortable. The breakfast could use some improvement but it wasn't awful. The pool was clean. The staff was friendly and efficient. This was the host hotel for the Littleton Irish festival which made it a little noisy when the performers came back after their long day. The upside of that was that in the morning, they rehearsed in the gazebo which made our pool time extra enjoyable. I will stay here again.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Gulf Shores Plantation; City: Gulf Shores Alabama; Review: We had a group of 11 travelers ranging in age from 2 years to 85. We rented 3 condos through Global. The price was definitely right and for what we paid, it was a value. This is not a luxury resort but that isn't what were looking for. The staff was friendly. The condo was well stocked with the supplies and paper products that we needed. We opted to purchase the towel exchange and plastic bags and toilet paper were included. The beach was great but a little bit of a hike. We loved the pools. The only things that this resorts needs are a restaurant and a bar. Everything closes down very early. There is a coffee shop on site but a restaurant and a bar would really add to the experience. Lots of families which was great. Noise was never a problem. I would stay here again. #4312; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Crowne Plaza Houston Galleria Area; City: Houston Texas; Review: Great service. Friendly staff. Clean room. Comfy beds. The desk staff even came to our room to help us with an internet connection issue. The only negative is the road noise. The hotel feels like it is located right on top of the freeway. If you are a light sleeper, bring a sound machine. Other than that...great stay.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Gruene Outpost River Lodge; City: New Braunfels Texas; Review: We met a group of friends for a day of floating on the river. The prices are 5 star but the place is not. We rented one of the renovated duplexes with a full kitchen because we were the host room. It was clean. They are shorthanded in housekeeping and forgot enough pillowcases but brought them when asked. Plenty of towels. Renovation did not include any decorative touches but seeing the clientele, I can understand why that effort wasn't made. I wouldn't say that this is a family "resort". Lots of drinking with the 20-30 something crowd...PDA in the pool was an eye opener. But you cannot beat the location. Pick up your tube in the morning and let the tubing company bus you up to where you put in at the river. Float back to the resort and stop for lunch and to pick up more beer. Get back in the river and float the rest of the way down. The tubing company picks you up at the end and buses you back "home" There is a bbq truck that sets up in the parking lot. I wish that there was a convenience store on site to avoid trips into town. Traffic is awful! I noticed that other reviewers were complaining about the lack of a slide at the pool. It was recently removed for safety reasons. They do need to add some more picnic tables and grills but they are concentrating on renovating the rooms. Nothing fancy but it served our purposes and we had a good time.; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: All Seasons Main Street Retreat; City: Fredericksburg Texas; Review: We recently spent one night at this location. It was clean. The linens were luxurious. It's a bit pricey and don't expect a full breakfast but the fresh orange juice and coffee cake were delicious. The hot tub is a bit small for a place of this size but it was clean. Unfortunately other guests were camped out there so we were unable to use the hot tub. Walking distance to Main Street but it's a few blocks away. We stayed here under the previous owners and definitely missed their tender loving care but I would stay here again. We missed the gazebo, too.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Drury Inn Suites San Antonio Riverwalk; City: San Antonio Texas; Review: Loved our recent state at this hotel. The room and public areas were immaculate. The staff was helpful and friendly. The location was great...walking distance to attractions and right on the river walk. The complimentary breakfast and happy hour were an added bonus. I would definitely stay here again; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Homewood Suites by Hilton Denton; City: Denton Texas; Review: The complimentary breakfast was tasteless. That was my only negative element of our recent stay. Clean rooms. Maybe a little stuffy as far as AC. Comfortable bed. Roomy breakfast area and coffee bar. Good location for our event; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Holiday Inn Express Seattle City Center; City: Seattle Washington; Review: We stayed here before and after our Alaskan cruise. It's a great location...walking distance to Pike Place, Space Needle and Lake Union. The hotel is showing its age and the elevator is slower than slow but the friendly staff made up for it. They arranged our transportation to the cruise ship and to and from the airport. They do not arrange transport FROM the pier to the hotel. On both stays we were upgraded to a suite with no extra charge. Front desk staff was super friendly and went out of their way to make our stay pleasant.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Gold Inn Hot Springs; City: Hot Springs Arkansas; Review: When we decided to take a chance on this tiny inn, I admit that I was skeptical. The reviews were so positive and the price was so amazing that we decided to book our recent visit to Hot Springs here..YOLO, right? I was more than pleasantly surprised. Yes, the room was tiny. There was no dresser so no place to unpack. Eric, the owner, told us that there was no central heat but that the ceramic space heater would heat up the room to a "toasty" level. He was so right! And clean? This motel room and bath were cleaner than most homes, including mine. Because the rooms are small, there are no families with small children here. It was totally quiet and peaceful. There is a pleasant little gazebo out back just perfect for some quiet afternoon time with a good book. The beds are very comfortable and the linens so special. And I cannot say enough about Eric and Lesli, the owners. They are so nice and so helpful, even gave us their home phone number in case we needed anything while we were out and about. They gave great recommendations for activities and restaurants and even sold discounted tickets to the baths. I would definitely stay here again on a return trip to Hot Springs.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Holiday Inn Express Hotel Suites Jacksonville; City: Jacksonville Texas; Review: The staff at this hotel were all extremely friendly and went out of our way to make our stay incredible. The staff at the front desk even went to the trouble to find the exact location of one of the cement tomatoes that Jacksonville is known for. The entire facility was spotless. The beds were comfortable. The AC kept the room at the perfect temperature. Loved our stay.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
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hotelrec
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Given the interaction history of a user with books as follows:
Title: Aldo Tanners! Where Are Your Manners?!; Author: Visit Amazon's Drew Blank Page; Review: Looooooove! I love this book! Thanks, Mr. Blank! It is a great book! Oh yeah! Love it! You ... Are ... Awesome!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: No One's Bride (Escape to the West) (Volume 1); Author: Visit Amazon's Nerys Leigh Page; Review: and I loved it!! I'm so glad I gave it a chance. I laughed, got fired up, and a little teary. I can't wait for Sara's story!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Descended ~ Sebastian; Author: Visit Amazon's Dana Pratola Page; Review: True, raw, heartbreaking and real ... we all are sinners everyday but God doesn't measure them. A sin is a sin. Reading about how Haven "loves to talk about Jesus!" and sharing that love for Him with Natalie and Sebastian, which drew them to Him - LOVE!! Ready for book #3 :); Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Covering; Author: Visit Amazon's Dana Pratola Page; Review: Dana did it again! We all have our come to Jesus stories. Some are more complex like Gunnar's. Sometimes what Gunnar was going through reminded me of a Frank Perriti book. I found myself several times stopping to pray while reading what was happening with Tessa, Dom, Gunnar, and the rest of the characters. Love love love all of Dana's books!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Hometown Girl; Author: Visit Amazon's Courtney Walsh Page; Review: If you are from the Mid-west, especially Illinois, you will love and appreciate the setting of this story. It is wonderfully written! You will laugh - maybe even snort, cry, feel heartache, and thankfulness having the comfort knowing God has a plan for each of us.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Blue Moon Kisses: Georgia Moon Romance Book 3 (Volume 3); Author: Visit Amazon's Cindy Roland Anderson Page; Review: Loved the characters, the friend and family support system, the setting, "Yes ma'am, yes sir" southern ways, and the sweet love of the couple's!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
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amazon_books
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Given the interaction history of a user with products as follows:
Title: Cloud Star Buddy Wash Lavender and Mint; Brand: Cloud Star; Review: Lathers well, smells great & doesn't bother the dog. I have a Yorkie and his hair is so soft! Will definitely order again. The leave in conditioner is also great for freshening up between baths.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: She-Edison YardPup Ultimate Poop Scoop, Red; Brand: She-Edison; Review: It's cute, it's not too big and it does what it's supposed to do while keeping your hands mess free.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: EQyss Micro-Tek Pet Shampoo - Stops Scratching, iItching, Biting, or Licking Hot Spots; Brand: Eqyss Grooming Products; Review: I first used this at the groomer's and fell in love with it. My dog stopped scratching all the time.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Exo Terra Coco Husk; Brand: Exo Terra; Review: The gecko likes it and it's easy to work with. Much easier to deal with than the regular coconut husk.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Nature's Miracle Non-Stick Advanced Jaw Scoop For Pet Waste Pick Up; Brand: Nature's Miracle; Review: It does exactly what I need it to do! I also followed someone's advice and sprayed it w/PAM so stuff doesn't stick.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
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amazon_Pet_Supplies
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Given the interaction history of a user with books as follows:
Title: The Portal (A Delphi Group Thriller) (Volume 2); Author: Visit Amazon's John Sneeden Page; Review: This is the second in the series & both books are very good. In depth character development & good story line. Good editing & no bad language. Novel look at demons, Angels & aliens a wrapped up in one!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: A Chronetic Memory (The Chronography Records) (Volume 1); Author: Visit Amazon's Kim K. O'Hara Page; Review: Very good writing, action packed, good story line, good characters that have substance, no cussing, will read anything she writes!!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Downstream - Complete Season 1 (Episodes 1-7): A time travel story; Author: Mr Nick Jones; Review: I love to read time travel books....I found this set to be very enjoyable, really likable characters that you can get involved with. Very fast paced & not alot of science-like explanations. Only reason I didn't give it a 5 is because of the foul language, it was at my very limited of tolerance. That being said I'm glad I bought it & will definitely read more from this author!!; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: New York Deep; Author: Visit Amazon's Andrew J. Morgan Page; Review: A good story, with good character buildup. Didn't like the cussing, would have been better without it!! Love & sacrifice makes the world go round!! Will be reading more of his stuff.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Hopefield; Author: Visit Amazon's Tim Ferguson Page; Review: Awesome, suspenseful, full of God's love !! I cried, I laughed, I got mad & I empathized. What a wild ride!! I loved it! Great writing, editing & character development!!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Defender of the Gods (Warrior Unbound Trilogy); Author: C.M. Kane; Review: Wow, what a story!! Lots of action, suspense, drama & laughs!! I highly recommend the entire trilogy Outside some not really needed cussing & a little too much descriptive sex lives this is a wonderfully engaging story. I DIDN'T WANT IT TO END!!; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: The Delusion; Author: Visit Amazon's Laura Gallier Page; Review: What a picture of the battle between Good & Evil & our part in it!! Praise the Lord he gave us all a choice! If we can get past ourselves & what we think we want & accept his real gift of life, our world/life is never the same!! Well done Laura!!! I'd give you 10 Stars if I could!!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
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amazon_books
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Given the interaction history of a user with hotels as follows:
Title: Royal Hideaway Playacar; City: Playa del Carmen Yucatan Peninsula; Review: What can I say,this is heaven. Been to Riveria Maya 4 times the n found this paradise. We were in the middle of the resort Villa 26(the most quiet). The staff are outstanding and welcoming and after the first day or two they somehow know your name and what drinks you like and have on tap for you all day.Our friends celebrated birthday and wedding anniversaries and drank champage all day in question no problem. Food is excellant, doesnt help the weight allowance on the return flights, as so much to choose from. The grounds are well looked after and everyone says "Hola". Roll on next year when we are hoping to return to PARADISE again.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: IFA Interclub Atlantic Hotel; City: San Agustin Maspalomas Gran Canaria Canary Islands; Review: This hotel needs to improve its dining room menus. Have just returned from 1 week away,definately not3* you know in advance what is basicly on the menu.Chinese noodles every night,rice and either Chicken,Beef Pork or Fish.The buildings need some upgrading beware of the mites would bein the sofabed.View from our room overlooked the residential area and subject to road traffic from about 3-30am until late ,avoid if you are infirmed as this hotel is at the top of a hill and 197 steps down to the beach.Couldn't spend more than a week there.Drinks need to be inproved. Good hotel if you dont mind being in the MINORITY More europeans than British.; Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: Horton Grange Country House Hotel; City: Ponteland Northumberland England; Review: Have just spent a special event here for 40th Wedding Anniversary- a gift from our 2 children and their families. Entertained by Jason Issaccs a local "Crooner" and an excellent meal. Very enjoyable stay. Had room upgraded for a nights stay. Breakfast was freshly made as you requested and Staff very helpful A lovely overnight stay thanks kids.Room had a side and front window aspect views overlooking the gardens; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Royal Hideaway Playacar; City: Playa del Carmen Yucatan Peninsula; Review: Returning for 2nd time and it only got better. Bellboy remembered us from last year and this nice when you think how many people go here.Requested the same room as before and was pleased to get this . Villa26 upper floor very quiet, not far from both pools,but if you want quiet there is a secluded pool and hot Tub right outside the villa opposite the entrance but you have to take your own drinks from fridge or pool bar.Entertainment is much improved this year with two great lads who find nothing a bother to help you enjoy the break Restaurants are still good and nice to be remembered by staff that were there last time.Omar,Isis snr,and Laura at Spices for breakfast.Drinks are named brands,but you have to ask for them by name,food first class. Roll on next year; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Hotel Riu Playacar; City: Playa del Carmen Yucatan Peninsula; Review: We stayed 5th-19th August in a party of 4., in adjoining rooms after a 10hr journey.Greeted with refreshing soft drink and quick check-in,then taken to our rooms. Asked for upper floor,however didnt realise that meant floor 3 with no lift available.Food very good in Buffet,a'la carte restaurants did not live up to expectations,however staff were polite and helpful.All staff were very friendly and the enterainment staff went out of their way to involve you if you wished.Mini-bar was not restocked as stated and we had to request this to be done on more than one ocassion.Main bars ask for Branded makes or you get the local drinks.Shows were on a little too late for parents with small children,when they were shown to be on and then cancelled at the last minute not very good. Kids Club was in the words of my grand-daughter"Awesome" run by Diana who worked hard day and night to keep kids amused.Organised nightly mini-disco for kids with games and dancing, because the hotel is so small it was like having a personal babysitter and felt safe leaving her during the day.Large pools were good and pool bar staff very friendly,however the childrens pool needs attention, would recommend taking them into the bigger pool . Wi-Fi only available in lobby for 90mins in one block, every 24hrs. Very POOR connection; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Oulton Hall Spa; City: Oulton West Yorkshire England; Review: Arrived earlier than book in time, but was told we could leave car in carpark and then enjoyed a trip into Leeds City Centre in search of our friend to surprise him for his 50th birthday. He was booked into the hotel unaware that we 2 couples were also booked in.Arrived back at Hotel and had quick check-in and directed to our rooms through the maze of corridors. Good sized rooms and bathroom, free wi-fi and a bottle of wine awaited us.We booked at a special rate deal which included Evening meal,the bottle of wine in room and breakfast. Evening meal was first class and good choice and breakfast was Full English or continental if required and plenty of toast and Tea/Coffee if wanted.Staff were very good and nothing was a bother.Use of Swimming Pool was also available with use of Sauna/Steam room before evening meal. Fridge, Tea/Coffee making facilities and Safe in room . Our friends who booked for us and themselves asked staff to decorate table for Evening meal on table for 6 as arranged by phonecall with banners and 50th birthday confetti and did this no problem.Only down side was the price of the drinks, after trying 3 times to get the right bill it was very expensive. That said we would go again.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Suite Hotel Atlantis Fuerteventura Resort; City: Corralejo La Oliva Fuerteventura Canary Islan; Review: quick check-in,went on a route march to find room,in quiet area, until road traffic started early morning.terrace dark but took chair round to front for afternoon sun.main restaurant was very good choice of food and Hot.Pool snack bar was very basis and bland,preferred to walk to main restaurant for lunch.room very good,plenty of cupboard space,bathroom good,and cleaning staff very good.Asian night very good,a lot better than Spanish night.For price paid for a quick week away good value.Barman Enrique very good at lobby bar.Wi-fi could be better, although available throughout resort when given help by Connect staff; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Effie s Dreams Studios; City: Gennadi Rhodes Dodecanese South Aegean; Review: Stayed here every summer for nearly 20years with the Antonaras family with many happy and fun memories.Due to family circumstances changing in the Antonaras family as owners,it has been leased to another family to run in their own right.We were proud to be invited to the Blessing of the new venture by the new family.Accommodation is first class and food is available in the downstairs bar.It is in a quiet area but in reach of shops and beach.The family run the Cafe-Bar Phillip below the Studios named after the owners son.Food is excellent proper Greek food,mezes and super puddings,served by friendly and efficient family. CANT WAIT TO RETURN Well worth a stay or visit; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Summer Breeze; City: Gennadi Rhodes Dodecanese South Aegean; Review: Arrived very late at night,Owner was there to greet us and show us to room.Given Seaview room,but we only paid for garden view.Room clean and tidy,bathroom a little small but did the job.Continetal breakfast but adequate but this was included.The evening meal was available if required which was good value for e9euro.Good base for visiting local areas including Lindos,Rhodes Town etc. Well placed for local Resturants bars and the beach.; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Atlantica Bay Hotel; City: Limassol Limassol District; Review: Arrived late at night and after check-in which was quick we were told to go down to resturant where we found a Buffett available to us with choice of food and a drink.We have been to many AI hotels and this is the first where we have been treated like this.On checking we were told we had been upgraded and on finding our room,discovered we had a large terrace and balcony with our own Hottub.The Hotel itself is immaculate and all staff from cleaners to management are friendly and helpful.Room was cleaned daily and goods replaced if need be and towels changed daily by a very friendly and happy lady.Fridge was refreshed daily also with water,soft drinks and beer..DOWN SIDE: You need to go on Diet before you leave England because the choice and quality of the food is the best we have ever had in AI Hotels we have been to.Plenty of sun beds around both outdoor and indoor pools.Indoor pool is quieter and in summer is also outdoor with roof drawn back.Pool service is very good bottled water is brought round at 10amevery morning followed by any drinks you want throughout the day,fruit at 11.30ish and ice cream and snacks available at pool bar.At 3pm Magnums are brought round for you to have if you wish.Overall a first class hotel and will return soon; Rating: 5.0/5.0
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hotelrec
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Given the interaction history of a user with products as follows:
Title: MUXXN Women Vintage Rockabilly Bowknot Casual Dress; Brand: MUXXN; Review: to small; Rating: 1.0/5.0
Title: Vobaga Women's Short Sleeve Split Colors Loose Chiffon T Shirt Tops Blouse; Brand: Vobaga; Review: good; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Allegra K Ladies Crossover V Neck Cap Sleeve Pleated Chiffon Elegant Dress; Brand: ; Review: to short; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: FIODAY New Fashion Fit and Flare Women's Party Office Dresses; Brand: Janecrafts; Review: good; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Time Dresses Women's Chiffon One Shoulder Bridesmaids Dresses; Brand: Time Dresses; Review: i could choose M; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Chicanary Women's 1950s Vintage Cocktail Party Swing Dress Cap-Sleeve; Brand: Chicanary; Review: love with it; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: eshion Women's Fashion Jacket Suit Blazer Long Sleeve Short Coat Outerwear; Brand: eshion; Review: i love it; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: FEESHOW Baby Boy's 2Pcs Gentleman Romper Wedding Formal Tuxedo Suit Outfit Set; Brand: FEESHOW; Review: nice; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: maifeng Newborn Baby Boys Infant Gentleman Suit Bow Tie Romper Jumpsuit Outfits Clothes; Brand: maifeng; Review: nice; Rating: 4.0/5.0
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amazon_Clothing_Shoes_and_Jewelry
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Given the interaction history of a user with books as follows:
Title: Tell No One; Author: Visit Amazon's Harlan Coben Page; Review: This was my first read for this author. Very suspenseful writer who had me hooked from the very first chapter.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Along the Infinite Sea: Love, Friendship and Heartbreak, the Perfect Summer Read (The Schuyler Sister Novels); Author: Beatriz Williams (author); Review: Riveting; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Carrots (Shelby Nichols Adventures); Author: Visit Amazon's Colleen Helme Page; Review: I really enjoyed this light-hearted book; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Fast Money: A Shelby Nichols Adventure (Shelby Nichols Adventures); Author: Visit Amazon's Colleen Helme Page; Review: Light, fun book!; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Kiss River (The Keeper Trilogy); Author: Visit Amazon's Diane Chamberlain Page; Review: Nice story & characters; Rating: 4.0/5.0
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amazon_books
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Given the interaction history of a user with products as follows:
Title: LimoStudio 600W Photography Triple Photo Umbrella Light Lighting Kit, Video, and Portrait StudioLighting Kit With 3 CFL Photo; Brand: LimoStudio; Review: nice 3 piece lighting rigga-ma-roll. easy set up. fair price. fast shipping.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Kinivo 501BN 5-Port High Speed 4K 30Hz HDMI Switch With IR Wireless Remote And AC Power Adapter; Brand: Kinivo; Review: does what's advertised. it did help me get rid of extra cables and clean up behind the tv. controller is a little small for my taste, easy to loose.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Logitech HD Pro Webcam C920, Widescreen Video Calling and Recording, 1080p Camera, Desktop or Laptop Webcam; Brand: Logitech; Review: pretty good quality for the price. mic is not great; but what webcam's mic is? for some reason i always have to convert mp4 file formats into mp4 again before i can get it to any video editing software aside from that no issues.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: ViewHD 2 Port 1x2 Powered HDMI Mini Splitter for 1080P & 3D | Model: VHD-1X2MN3D; Brand: ViewHD; Review: does the trick. no problems so far; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Elgato Game Capture HD60 - Next Generation Gameplay Sharing for Playstation 4, Xbox One & Xbox; Brand: Corsair; Review: my first video capture device. pretty good for the most part. sometimes it craps out when you add a face cam. there's microphone/video sync issues. to this date i have not been able to stream on twitch with it. all and all an ok product.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
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amazon_Electronics
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Given the interaction history of a user with hotels as follows:
Title: Akti Beach Village Resort; City: Chloraka Paphos District; Review: We visited this hotel a few times for food and drinks while staying in a nearby villa.The main bonus is the wonderful swimming pool and the very friendly staff. The drinks are very reasonably prices (for Cyprus) and the food is in general good. The main rooms and bar are all air conditioned or you can sit on the balcony overlooking the pool in the evening and the pleasant staff will bring you drinks. It is true that the name of the hotel should not really include the word "Beach" as there is only a couple of pebbley coves nearby. However, the coves are good for swimming in the warm crystal clear waters and the swimming pool is excellent. The hotel is not near anything else other than some private villas and a hire car is a very good idea. Roads are safe and easy to drive on as they drive on the right like the UK. You can walk to the main road in about fifteen minutes, but it is a hot and sweaty walk in the day. Buses are frequent and cheap, both into Pafos and Coral Bay. You can also walk into Pafos along the cliff top, but this would take around an hour. There are hundreds of places to eat in Pafos and Kato Pafo, so self catering is easy.; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Premier Inn Edinburgh City Centre Princes Street Hotel; City: Edinburgh Scotland; Review: We have just returned from 6 nights at this very clean and modern Premier hotel The staff (especially Helen and Sara) were incredibly friendly and eager to please, which made us feel very welcome. The hotel has spotless rooms and public areas. Ask for a castle view room on the 5th or 6th floor as the castle is lit up at night and looks spectacular. The tram works have now finished outside the hotel, so Princes Street is quiet again and only open to buses and taxis. The No. 22 bus for Ocean Terminal and Royal Yacht Brittania stops right outside the hotel, which is a bonus. The "all you can eat" hot British breakfast is the usual excellent Premier offering, with unlimited bacon, eggs, sausages, hash browns, bean, tomatoes etc as well as a continental selection and even porridge of you wish. All in all, a very good location and good value for money. Only ten minutes stroll from Waverley station and right in the heart of the shopping areas. The friendly and helpful staff made our stay one to remember.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Premier Inn London Kensington Earl s Court Hotel; City: London England; Review: We have stayed in many Premier hotels and this one is definately not up to the usual Premier standards. However, see the good points at the end. I think that "Noisily Multicultural" best describes the staff as well as the guests. Everyone seemed to shout all of the time - not necessarily in English! The room was clean and up to the usual standard (apart from the lack of soap in the shower which took two days to arrive after we mentioned it). We were also promised Wi-Fi in the room but this did not work in our room (we were put in an annex, over the road, across a bridge away from the main hotel). When we asked about the lack of promised wi-fi we were told "What do you expect, it is a cheap hotel - try sitting in the corridor" by the receptionist. Amazing attitude and quite unlike any other Premier staff we have met in the past. We tried the buffet breakfast once. The food and presentation was first-class, but sadly this was spoilt by a screaming child whose parents just let it scream. I assume that the staff were too frightened to ask the parents to calm or remove the child. We had no chance of oversleeping due to the housekeeping staff, who were shouting loudly outside our room every morning. What with this and the very thin walls, there was not a lot of peace as we could hear other guests using their bathroom and talking to each other. A good job that we were out most of the time. All in all rather a let down after other Premier hotels we have stayed in. Good points. The hotel is literally five minutes away from Earls Court Road, where the tube station, Macdonalds, newsagents, Greggs and a few expensive pubs can be found. A number 74 bus runs from here to Hydge Park corner where you can catch a number 9 into the city. Walk a few minutes to Cromwell Road and also catch the same No 74 or shop for a picnic lunch in Sainsburys. The rooms are clean and have air conditioning. Extra milk, tea and coffee are available from reception if you ask.; Rating: 2.0/5.0
Title: Premier Inn Edinburgh City Centre Princes Street Hotel; City: Edinburgh Scotland; Review: I have stayed in many Premier Hotels and this one is by far the best. The staff are incredibly friendly (especially Sara and Colum) and the hotel is in a perfect location overlooking the castle. We had a castle view room and watched in delight as dusk fell and the lights came on illuminating the castle. However, there is some noise at the front so choose a non-castle room if you want to avoid hearing the occasional drunk in the night. The hotel overlooks Princess Street Gardens, which are very well maintained. We spent hours just sitting in the sunshine. Princess Street itself is only open to buses and taxies so falls quiet at night. Edinburgh is marvellous. Turn left out of the hotel and walk up to the art gallery. Cross the bridge behind the art gallery and up some steps to the Old Town. This is the Royal Mile which is fascinating. Breakfast was very good and unhurried. Evening meals were also good. The wine is fairly expensive for what it is. The staff seem to have to do all jobs and seem to work very hard. On the two occasions that we had trouble with the broadband, the staff dealt with the problem patiently. Overall, the hotel is very good value for money and is an oasis of a calm welcome in a busy city. We shall certainly stay here again as it is in such a perfect location.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Ibis Bradford Shipley; City: Shipley Bradford West Yorkshire England; Review: We stayed here two nights while visiting relatives nearby. The hotel is a little tired and seems to care more about the environment that lighting the corridors. The staff were all excellent and very friendly. We had breakfast one morning which was very good indeed. The rooms are adequate and ours was on the ground floor overlooking the canal. We are woken by other guests just after 6am. They were shouting in the corridors and slamming the bedroom doors. Also (petty I know) the toilet paper is very hard and scratchy. However, it is a cheap hotel and obviously favoured by manual workers who do not know how to behave. This is not the fault of the hotel. Please take our advice and DO NOT eat at the dreadful Noble Comb restaurant next door. It is awful!; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: The Burn How Garden House Hotel; City: Bowness on Windermere Lake District Cumbria England; Review: Somewhat faded glory as this hotel has seen better days and sadly lives in the past. The very pleasant elderly owners are obviously very keen to please everyone and generally do a good job. Our room was upstairs in a separate block, fairly near to reception. This meant a short walk to breakfast in the rain. However, being upstairs and outside made it feel like a Council flat. The room had a small balcony (we were expecting a patio with a table and chairs as advertised) and was clean and well furnished, with a huge comfortable double bed. The bed was covered in cushions for some reason. The free Wi-Fi worked well. Housekeeping did an excellent job every day. The free biscuits were also appreciated. The noise insulation between rooms is quite poor. We could hear the other guests either side talking and even moving about in bed. The televisions are screwed to the wall which makes the noise problem worse. We were woken at 6am on the last morning as the neighbours packed to leave early. However, the sound of Jackdaws and the absence of traffic noise was very pleasant. Breakfast was amazing in various ways. There is a buffet style selection of the usual cornflakes, yogurts etc., but no croissants. There was an incredibly wide range of delicious fresh and tinned fruit. The Cumbrian Grill (a full English) followed and this was of a high quality and beautifully cooked. This consisted of bacon, sausage, mushrooms (sadly, only a few small ones), half a tomato, one or two fried eggs and beans. However, just two bacon and just one sausage is a bit mean when we paid £660 for four nights B&B. I would also have enjoyed a few more mushrooms. We were not offered any extras at any point (not even extra toast). However, I plucked up the courage to ask for an extra sausage on the last morning and got it! Despite there being a lot of staff milling about, service was generally slow, especially on the last morning, when we were kept waiting a long time. I am surprised that in this day and age, the management does not cut staffing levels and supply a buffet breakfast, as most modern hotels now offer this. This would save them money and make breakfast a better experience for the guests. Despite the few niggles, we had a lovely break and would probably stay here again if in the area. We avoided the bar as the drinks prices are ridiculous (£6.50 for a 175ml glass of wine). This meant early nights in our room so they missed out of our company and our money in the evenings. £28 for a bottle of cheap wine? How short sited!; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Premier Inn Stockton on Tees Teesside; City: Stockton on Tees England; Review: A warm welcome from reception upon our arrival. We arrived very tired and the comfortable bed was a delight. A good nights sleep as although this hotel is near a busy main road the soundproofing is excellent. A superb breakfast at the Beefeater next door, which although not buffet style as is usual with a Premier, was freshly cooked and delicious.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Premier Inn Dorchester; City: Dorchester Dorset England; Review: A Premier hotel in a good location. There is a lot of construction work going on around the hotel but no noise at night, apart from the seagulls. We arrived at 1.40pm and were rather surprised to be told that they have a STRICT 2pm check in time, so we could not even park the car. If you travel by car, be sure to ask for a space in the underground car park when you book. We ate out at the nearby Cote Brassierie in the evening and were pleased to be welcomed in the bar upon our return by Garry and Andy who were very friendly. Our only complaint was that we were given the wrong room key on arrival which took a while to sort out and also gave us access to another guests bedroom, which is a little worrying.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Tudor Lodge; City: Porthmadog Gwynedd North Wales Wales; Review: We received a very warm and friendly welcome, offering very good local knowledge of restaurants and attractions. We also received two 20% vouchers for the light railway which was a considerable saving. The buffet continental breakfast offered a wide choice of cold items. The location is excellent, being just at the end of the town, so within easy walking distance of the shops, restaurants, the harbour and the Light Railway station.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Premier Inn Bradford North Bingley Hotel; City: Keighley West Yorkshire England; Review: We stayed for two nights while visiting relatives. The welcome was warm and genuine and there was no complaint when we requested a ground floor room. The rooms are spacious and very clean and of course the famous Premier bed was very comfortable. We awoke to the sound of sheep in a nearby field whcih I loved as it took me back to my camping days. We had breakfast in the pub next door which was plated, rather than the well-known Premier buffet breakfast, which was a bit of a shame. However it was all very well cooked and piping hot. Could not fault the staff in any way.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Queensmead Hotel; City: Shanklin Isle of Wight England; Review: We went on a coach holiday with Parrys. The welcome at this family run hotel was warm and genuine. All the staff were very friendly indeed. The rooms are spotless and the towels were changed every day. There are fans provided in case the room gets too hot. Wi-Fi did not work in our room (22) but works well in all the public rooms. The hotel is in an excellent position, being just 5 minutes from both the beach and the town. The food is amazing. Large portions and a good choice everyday. The owner of the hotel (Barry) is originally from Wolverhampton and is very keen on making sure that everyone has enough to eat. Even the packed lunch for the return journey was very generous and a bargain at just £4. The bar opens at 6pm for a pre-dinner drink and the prices are very reasonable. Bottles of 'real ale' are available as well as reasonably prices wines and spirits. There is a lovely swimming pool outside which is kept warm. We sat outside on a warm September evening, by the pool.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Premier Inn Stockton on Tees Preston Farm; City: Stockton on Tees England; Review: A good stay in this modern and well run hotel. The rooms are up to the usual Premier standard and the staff were all very friendly and welcoming. The room was rather chilly (18c) and the heating did not seem to work for many minutes. I would love to see the option of decaffeinated coffee in this and all other Premier hotel bedrooms.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Premier Inn Edinburgh City Centre Princes Street Hotel; City: Edinburgh Scotland; Review: A very warm welcome and a delightful location. We have stayed here twice before and each time had a lovely holiday. Edinburgh is a wonderful place to visit and this hotel is in a very convenient location directly opposite Princess Street gardens and the castle. However, sadly this time we slept very badly. Now that Princess Street is open to trams, buses and taxis the noise levels at the front of the hotel are high. The trams start running at 5am. The staff seem well aware of the noise problems and said that the rails will be repaired in the near future. We explained that we could not sleep and were advised on the first morning to visit Boots and to buy some ear plugs which we did. These did not help a lot. I wish we had been offered a quieter room and should have demanded it in fact. The last night was the worst as a delivery lorry was parked under our window, with the engine running for about an hour. Two men were shouting and banging trollies as they unloaded. I range reception and asked them to ask them to make less noise but nothing happened. So if you choose to stay here, it is a lovely hotel with very friendly and pleasant staff, but ask for a room at the back of the hotel.; Rating: 1.0/5.0
Title: Holly House Bed Breakfast; City: Hereford Herefordshire England; Review: A very warm welcome from Gemma who showed us to our room. The hotel is convenient for a stroll into Hereford (and to Weatherspoons) but the traffic is awful with continual traffic jams. The furnishings are, to say the least, somewhat eccentric, rather dated and over ornate. Swags and tails on the curtains and masses of colour. Our room was called 'Rouge' and had red wallpaper on one wall, red sheets, red pillows and red curtains. I feel that the hotel has seen better days, as has Hereford, which is run-down and full of empty shops. We were surprised not to be offered any toast with the 'full English' on the first morning. We were also surprised that marmalade was not available and that the jams offered were in full size jars. Hard wooden chairs in the dining room with no padding. We had to go home early as my wife was ill and no refund was available. This hotel is probably best suited to couples who are staying one night only.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
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hotelrec
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Given the interaction history of a user with hotels as follows:
Title: Rivertime Resort and Ecolodge; City: Vientiane Vientiane Prefecture; Review: We loved staying at the Rivertime Resort! We stayed in a private bungalow looking over the river and the price was super reasonable. Barnaby took such good care of us and was incredibly helpful! Normally it seems to be a quite & relaxing place, but we met some other young travelers staying there so we all went out to the local bar and had a blast! Just lovely! Highly recommend!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Onederz Sihanoukville; City: Sihanoukville Sihanoukville Province; Review: Easily the cleanest & most comfortable hostel in Sihanoukville. Nice pool, pretty cool common area, (decent) breakfast for cheap, good lockers..not a party hostel but still good vibes and atmosphere. Would definitely recommend staying here.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Canggu Surf Hostel; City: Canggu North Kuta Bali; Review: Amazing vibes in a great little hostel not far from the beach! The dorms are situated around 2 pools & a nice chillout area. The staff is awesome, especially Aryo! Had such a good time here with a cool little crew. You'll need a moto as things in Canggu are a bit spread out but easy enough to get around. Surfed everyday and had good times at night..I will be back!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Coconut Hotel; City: Canoa Manabi Province; Review: The Coconut is perfectly situated right on the beach. Good surf right out in front. Beautiful sunsets from the rooftop. Weekly BBQ’s were nice and you can fully access the kitchen to cook your own stuff. We really enjoyed our stay, Highly recommend!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Stamps Backpackers; City: Chiang Mai; Review: Amazing vibes, clean rooms with private pods and super friendly staff. We had such a good time at Stamps we kept extending our stay. Super nice to have group activities every night so it was really easy to meet and socialize with other travelers. Thanks guys! Can’t wait to go back!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
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hotelrec
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Given the interaction history of a user with hotels as follows:
Title: Highfield House; City: Trim County Meath; Review: I stayed here in August as part of a bridal party for 2 nights. It was a lovely hotel but I have never received such a great service before. Breakfast was lovely (I had poached eggs on toast) one morning we were given freshly cooked scones, which was great. We had to move on to Trim Castle Hotel for the Wedding but I would have targeted stayed an extra night here. I'm hoping to come back this August purely because of Trim being a lovely place to visit and so friendly. I'll definitely be booking to stay here again. I wouldn't even think of booking anywhere else. Lovely location and such warm and friendly hospitality. x; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Auris Boutique Hotel Apartments; City: Dubai Emirate of Dubai; Review: Recently stayed at Auris Boutique Apartments with my friend for a week. We couldn't believe our luck when we arrived, a clean hotel with very attentive staff. As two young girls in a foreign country we appreciated the doorman going and getting us taxis from down the street so we didn't have to stand out on the road. Everything we wanted was provided. The pool was a decent size and is a sun trap during the day. Again the lifeguard was very attentive, brought us towels as soon as we arrived. The location was perfect as it was close to the metro and Mall of the Emirates (handy when taxi drivers had no idea where the hotel was - which is common) right in the middle of everything so taxis were extremely cheap to Jumeriah, the marina and Burj Khalifa. Raided the mini bar - probably the cheapest mini bar we've discovered, chocolate and cans of drink were cheaper than you'd pay in the UK. Gutted we didn't get a chance to eat at the hotel but it was often busy with people so must be a good sign! Very pleased with our stay overall and look forward to coming back soon. Made our first holiday to Dubai so very enjoyable and such good value for money. Wouldn't hesitate to book here again. Thanks so much for providing us with a great stay and brilliant staff who were at hand for anything and everything. Lucy and Carla; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Russell Guest House; City: Brighton East Sussex England; Review: A good, basic guest house in a perfect location for anyone wanting to visit Brighton. Only a short walk away from both the seafront and centre of Brighton. We stayed on New Year's Eve and for the cost of the one night stay, I really can't complain. The guest house itself is a little outdated and could do with being modernised slightly or just improved. The room we had was small but had a decent and comfortable double bed with it's own en-suite, which had a strange smell coming from it but we soon aired it out. We were a little concerned about the 51 steps leading up to the room but actually it really wasn't that bad at all! Breakfast the next day was served at a different guest house which wasn't far away and easy to find with the map we were given. The breakfast was quite impressive actually - you could have whatever you wanted as long as you asked. I will say that we had dirty cutlery and that is one thing I can't really stand when staying anywhere. The lady who saw us to our room and served us breakfast was pleasant enough. We chose not to park in town as it is £25 for a full day and instead parked further away and got the bus into town. Wi-Fi was available but we didn't have any connection on the third floor which was slightly annoying but there is a TV and so we played music on that. I don't think I'd pay any more for a stay here but I would stay again as it's reasonably price and ideal for being in the centre of Brighton.; Rating: 3.0/5.0
Title: Grand Excelsior Hotel Al Barsha; City: Dubai Emirate of Dubai; Review: My friend and I stayed in the Grand Excelsior from April 6-14th and were extremely satisfied with our stay. The hotel itself is easily to identify because of its structure. Inside, the hotel looks grand, clean and impressive. On arrival, we were greeted by a team of friendly staff and offered an upgrade to a King Size Suite as there were no twin rooms available. Once paying the tourist tax fee (which was stated at the time of booking) the receptionist also asked if we would like to pay a deposit? I thought this was strange as nothing about a deposit was mentioned in the paperwork or at the time of booking so I told them that we didn't want to. When we got to our room we were extremely surprised to find such a large bed and room. There was a sofa, armchair and desk - good facilities. Our bathroom consisted of a shower and a bath with a shower over head - again very impressive.The room was very nice although (and I'm probably being picky) there was a stale/damp smell throughout our stay. We were located on the 6th floor and didn't overlook too many building works (but people should know that in most areas of Dubai are going to include building works) and so noise from those wasn't an issue. For the first 3 days we kept leaving the hotel and returning to find our door keys not working - we finally managed to get this sorted by asking reception and a maintenance man was sent to change the batteries in our door lock. The swimming pool was located on the roof and whilst it is smaller than we imagined (from images) it was ideal for us. It's not big enough and there are not enough sunbeds for the size of the hotel - there are 7 floors of rooms and only about 8 sunbeds but then the pool was never flooded with people. Of an evening there are bars and a lot of loud music/parties which I overheard another couple complaining about, it didn't bother us too much but I would just be aware that this goes on late. Room service was extremely good and the staff were always helpful. As a bit of a warning, every time you leave the hotel the staff will try and get you to use a hotel taxi - whilst these are waiting outside, these are a lot more expensive compared to the RTA taxis, don't be afraid to ask staff to get you one of these instead, they literally wait around the corner and are 20dhs less! The location is ideal, it's 10 minutes walk to MoE - perfect for eating out (try the Cheesecake Factory!) and of course home to Ski Dubai. It is also roughly 15 minutes walk to the Metro which will be cheap to use - a return ticket to Dubai Mall for 2 people was 28dhs. We were really happy with our stay especially because the hotel and flight package we paid through Expedia was only; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Khalidiya Palace Rayhaan by Rotana; City: Abu Dhabi Emirate of Abu Dhabi; Review: Myself and my two friends had booked this hotel last month for the F1 Grand Prix weekend. We had booked through booking.com and originally the price stated for 3 people but when we arrived, we had to pay extra for an extra bed which was a little disappointing, as we had assumed it had been included in the original price. Apart from that, we were really overwhelmed with how lovely the hotel and the staff were. The staff couldn't do enough for us and the hotel itself is gorgeous. We were on the 10th floor and had a balcony that looked out at the residential palace - it was absolutely stunning. Again a little bit disappointed that if you wanted WiFi you had to pay extra. We have already decided that we will stay there again for next year's F1 weekend.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: JA Hatta Fort Hotel; City: Hatta Emirate of Dubai; Review: I booked a 2 night stay here for my partner's birthday, as soon as we arrived we were really excited about the location but also the chalet style accommodation and the fact that there was a happy hour in the bar from 6-8pm! The chalet is quite large with mini bar and bathroom that has a walk in shower and bath tub. We loved the style of the chalet - and felt as if we were really on holiday. (UAE residents) I paid 1,034 dhs for one night and used Entertainer voucher for the 2nd night free. A little pricey for one night without breakfast but you can always book cheaper deals online and we will aim to do this in the future. The restaurant and bar were the highlights for us - the bar hasn't been altered since it was originally put in and so there's definitely a 70s style feel the place. The barman Raul was great - he couldn't have been happier to talk to us and we thoroughly enjoyed having his presence in the bar (as it was quiet we went during low season) the cocktails were fantastic - he knew everything about them and recommended which ones to try. Thank you so much Raul for making our 2 evenings enjoyable! There was only 1 restaurant available which is different to what the information says in the folder you are provided with in the room (may need updating) all I can say is once again, the service was fantastic and if you do go - make sure you have a curry!! The curry was delicious. My partner requested a chicken kadai (after one of the waiter's mentioned it) and he said it was the best curry dish he's had in the UAE. I loved the trio of Creme Brulee. Breakfast each morning was great value - there's a wide range of choice from fruit and cheese selection to pancakes to a full fried breakfast with chefs on standby to make your very own omelette. There are two swimming pools which we loved. One is for families and the other is for adults only. Staff around this area were so attentive - umbrellas provided for shade and water given to us as we arrived. It really was so quiet and peaceful around the pool - total heaven. Just a few things that I think we would probably hope to be altered before our next stay: There were quite a few ants above our shower and I think that could have been sorted. We weren't greeted by anyone when we arrived - so there was no one to take our bags. Walls are very thing between the chalets - so noise can really be heard. But this really is nit picking - we honestly had a great weekend and would like to thank all the staff for being so attentive and so very happy. It was so nice to have such a positive attitude from everyone that worked here. We will definitely look at staying here again in the future; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Yas Hotel Abu Dhabi; City: Abu Dhabi Emirate of Abu Dhabi; Review: I've absolutely loved both my stays at Viceroy - the first being back in November and the second being New Year's Eve. Having lived in the UAE for two years, Viceroy is my favourite place to stay. I'm a huge F1 fan and love being on the track. The rooms are always to a high standard, service is always exceptional - literally everyone will do what they can and more to make your stay enjoyable, really enjoy the food and drinks service also. We were extremely lucky to be there on race weekend also - and I loved it. I couldn't recommend staying at Viceroy enough - the bars, restaurants and pool make it the perfect staycation hotel - there's really no need to leave the hotel unless you fancy going go karting or doing a bit of shopping in the mall.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Alam Bidadari Seminyak; City: Seminyak Kuta District Bali; Review: Due to unforeseen circumstances, I ended up staying here alone before joining my friend in Ubud. The place was stunning, I was completely overwhelmed with the size of the villa and the private swimming pool. It was the perfect place for a solo traveler. Breakfast was brought to me in the garden and everything was perfect. I had a visitor one morning on my sun lounger, it was a Lowak and the staff came promptly to remove it as they can be quite aggressive I believe. I had dinner in the villa one evening and it was great. I can't fault any of the service or anything apart from the noise but I think this is just because of the location of the villas and there's nothing you can really do about that as an owner.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Fairmont Fujairah Beach Resort; City: Dibba Al Fujairah Emirate of Fujairah; Review: My partner, his family and I decided to try this new Fairmont hotel in Fujairah after having got a great deal through DNATA travel and including half board. We had been told that the hotel was having a soft opening whilst the other part of the hotel was still being built. So we knew to expect construction sounds and a building site (The outline of the second part of the hotel looks as though it will be an incredible addition! We are hoping to come back when it's complete) The rooms and decor were extremely modern and we loved it. It really has been decorated to such a high standard. The hotel staff were brilliant, we had a small hiccup one morning at breakfast but the hotel staff quickly made up for this by offering us lunch for all four of us for free which was great. We were half board, so the dinner in the evening was in the same place as the breakfast and was again a buffet but this was also great. The swimming pool and bar staff there were also fab and incredibly friendly. Overall, we had a great time and loved being there. Looking forward to coming back when it's totally complete.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Waldorf Astoria Ras Al Khaimah; City: Ras Al Khaimah Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah; Review: I brought my partner here for his birthday, we only stayed a night but managed to get the Junior King Suite at a really reasonable rate through booking.com and it included breakfast. Firstly, the staff were incredible to us, we welcomed at the desk and given lots of information about the hotel, its restaurants all the details of Ramadan and what would be changed to adhere to Ramadan etc (To be honest this wasn't a problem, everywhere still served food and drink but there were a couple of restrictions) when we arrived at our room which had a balcony over looking the pools and out towards other hotels, my partner found a small birthday cake for him which was a lovely touch to our stay. The room was beautiful, we've stayed in suites before but never this big. I even had my own walk in wardrobe/dressing room - which I loved! The shower was amazing and just so beautifully decorated. We spent time mainly by the adult pool, we were a little gutted that the swim up pool bar was only in the family pool (as it meant lots of children were always around) but because of this we spent time in the adult only pool which should be an infinity pool but I'm guessing, due to safety reasons, a fence has been placed around it - a bit of a shame as the views would be incredible but totally understandable.) It was peaceful in the adult pool and the beach access was also great. Breakfast was included and our only complaint was we found pancakes and waffles (partner's favourite!) were all really cold there was also French toast - which I love but didn't have as there was no cream or chocolate or anything to go with it. Maybe being fussy here but at other hotels we have stayed at that's been the norm BUT the pork bacon was exceptionally good. We then chose to dine at Lexington Grill and had probably the best steak we've had since living in the UAE. Overall our stay was brilliant and I would definitely like for us to go back in the future but for longer, I would also definitely recommend this hotel to people. It's just stunning and I'm sure if we had had more time and explored, or dined at the other restaurants/ bar we would have been even more satisfied. Thank you to all the staff that made it so great and for the special birthday touches.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Bab Al Shams Desert Resort Spa; City: Dubai Emirate of Dubai; Review: My partner brought me here for a night to celebrate getting a new job. We had a room that had a balcony area out on to the grass/desert area. The room was beautiful, really nice but we spent most of our time around and in the swimming pool which is just stunning. This is such a peaceful hotel, the best place to unwind and relax. The staff service was good, everyone was really helpful and friendly. We had breakfast included and also had dinner at the same buffet restaurant - the food was great. We were lucky that on that night there were fireworks which just made our evening extra special. Would definitely like to come back for a day longer next time.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: The Ubud Village Resort Spa; City: Ubud Gianyar Regency Bali; Review: Finally writing my review for this hotel and I feel bad that I haven't yet done it as there is so much to say. Firstly, I had booked villa with a private pool and it was absolutely stunning - I have never stayed in such a beautiful place before. The resort was peaceful and in such stunning grounds. We actually spent quite a lot of time in the resort and loved the in room dining experience so much that we ate in our villa at least 3 nights. The staff were incredible, I was very lucky to recieve a bouquet of roses from my partner who was meant to come with me but who couldn't and he said that he had been speaking to the staff frequently and ensuring that everything was ok. The daily breakfast and the change in what was on the menu every day was really refreshing, living in Dubai, I guess I'm used to the same breakfast buffet every day. I literally couldn't fault this hotel at all, and I really hope that one day I have the chance to come back and experience it all again. Hopefully next year!; Rating: 5.0/5.0
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Given the interaction history of a user with hotels as follows:
Title: Hampton Inn and Suites North Fort Worth Alliance Airport; City: Fort Worth Texas; Review: Neat, clean, and very helpful front desk staff. Great location if you have business at Alliance Airport.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Hampton Inn Suites Tulsa Woodland Hills 71st Memorial; City: Tulsa Oklahoma; Review: Relatively new facility and the room was well laid out with great desk/work area. Free Wi-Fi was easy to access with only the last name and room number required to enable.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: SpringHill Suites Houston Baytown; City: Baytown Texas; Review: We have a son and his family in Baytown so we are here several times a year. We had stayed in a few of the others before SpringHill was built a few of years ago. We tried it and have never gone back to the others. The rooms are large and comfortable with plenty of nice furnishings and a very convenient desk area on which to spend time on my laptop. Free high speed internet is a requirement at any place I chose to stay. The fabulous shower and dressing area with a standalone private toilet area is a very nice touch. The other amenities such as the indoor pool and workout area are great even though I do not personally use them. The breakfast area and service are always great and the staff is always courteous and professional.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Comfort Inn Suites Glenpool; City: Glenpool Oklahoma; Review: My wife and I stay there frequently and have other people we are meeting in Tulsa stay there also. We have probably stayed there at least 25 nights in the past year and have always found the property to be clean and comfortable. This weekend I was trying to get some work done on my computer and was on the internet. The internet went down and I called the front desk to inquire about it's status. I was assured that it was working there. Since I still could not get on, either via Ethernet or wirelessly, I went through all appropriate actions to assure it was not my computer and I still had no connection. I waited a while and then called back to the front desk. She now said other people were also having problems and that the staff had tried resetting the router and could not. She said that each individual having problems would have to call an 800 number to get the problem fixed. I finally gave up and called the 800 contact. I spent at least 30 minutes on my phone working to convince them that my computer was not the problem and told them other people were having the same problem. They eventually agreed there was a problem and said they would write a trouble ticket. The internet came back on a couple of hours later. My complaint is that the front desk was wrong to insist that I be the one to contact their internet provider for a resolution. It was obvious that the hotel's system was the problem and the hotel staff should have taken the responsibility to get it corrected. This is very poor customer service in my opinion.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Holiday Inn Express Suites Raton; City: Raton New Mexico; Review: We enjoyed our stay here once we finally figured out how to get to it. Coming up I-25 at night, we were able to spot the hotel on the other side, but there was no convenient way to get to it, and when exiting the highway we did not see any signs to assist us with all the twists and turns necessary. Our room was clean and comfortable. The room was well furnished. The breakfast facility was excellent. A lady staff member was extremely helpful above and beyond normal expectations.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Homewood Suites Fort Smith; City: Fort Smith Arkansas; Review: We spent two night here and found it to be very clean, comfortable, and well furnished. Each morning we were totally pleased with the quality and quantity of the breakfast service. We had numerous other relatives and friends in town for a large family wedding. Everyone in our party seemed very happy to have selected Homewood for our stay.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Hampton Inn Siloam Springs; City: Siloam Springs Arkansas; Review: Our overall stay here was excellent but a couple of things detracted from the final rating. Although our room was overall very clean and comfortable the housekeeping staff fell a little short. After the first night of our two day stay, (a Friday) the staff failed to empty the waste baskets and did not clean the coffee pot. While these were not comfort items, they did not speak well of the staff and one wonders what else they might have skipped over that we did not notice. We travel a lot so we have a good feel for is good and normal regarding the breakfast service. We were disappointed with the hot food selections. Eggs were only available combined with cheese that could not be removed since it was melted in. There were no biscuits, gravy, or bacon. The sausage, mini links one morning and patties the next, were tasteless and dry. On Sunday morning the containers for these were empty and we had to go to the front desk to request that more be made available since we and others were waiting with empty plates. Food selection at this location was not what we are used to at Hampton Inns and other major chain facilities that we frequent.; Rating: 4.0/5.0
Title: Big Cypress Lodge; City: Memphis Tennessee; Review: My wife and I stayed here on a recent trip. First, this is located inside a huge pyramid shaped building. It houses the Bass Pro Shop and Ducks Unlimited. The entire first floor is Bass Pro with large fish ponds and an alligator pond. A partial second floor is built around the perimeter and is also occupied by Bass Pro. The third floor houses the lodge. The lodge has both suites and cabins. Some standalone cabins can accommodate up to 12 people. We arrived in the early afternoon and after securing our room, we spent time shopping. In the center of the store is the tallest free standing elevator in the U. S. We took it to the top of the pyramid where there is a restaurant and bar. We enjoyed some excellent snacks. Walking outside the bar you are on an outside observation deck with a glass floor, similar to the one at the Grand Canyon, from which you can look out over the city and the Mississippi River which is less that one half mile away. Later in the evening we enjoyed a good meal at Uncle Bucks restaurant on the first floor. Our room was a king size suite and, although expensive, was one of the nicest rooms I have ever stayed in. It had a furnished balcony looking out over the store and the fish ponds. When the store closed at 10 PM they left the lights on so you could still enjoy the view. There was a common area or lobby on the third floor which requires a room key to operate the elevators to get there. It also had a large open balcony complete with mounted spotting scopes for a close up view of the store and across the way where the cabins were located. The cost of the room included valet parking, Wi-Fi, and complimentary snacks and bottled water. The hotel staff and support people were courteous and helpful. Although I do not wear it for this purpose, I was wearing a cap indicating my status as a military veteran. The gentleman who checked us in at the front desk noticed the cap and extended a generous discount on the price of the room. Thank you to him and Big Cypress Lodge for that expression of support for our military. This was a most pleasant stay at what I consider a "Destination". This was on the way home after spending a few days at the Gaylord Opry Land Hotel in Nashville on a trip to celebrate our wedding anniversary. I highly recommend a visit to Big Cypress Lodge and the Bass Pro Shop even if my wife would not buy the $82,229.99 shotgun I found there.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Holiday Inn Express Suites Glenpool Tulsa South; City: Glenpool Oklahoma; Review: We have now stayed at this location about 3 times since it opened about a year ago. Since it is new it is fresh and clean. The room was well serviced and the bed was excellent. The breakfast was very good with a decent variety. It is now our preferred lodging in the Tulsa area where we visit frequently.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
Title: Holiday Inn Express Suites Baytown; City: Baytown Texas; Review: We have now stayed at this new hotel a couple of times. On this visit we really enjoyed our three day stay. Since the place is less than a year old, it is fresh and clean. The room was well serviced and the bed was wonderful. My interaction with several staff members was excellent. The breakfast was great and the gentleman working there went out of his way to ensure that I was happy and satisfied.; Rating: 5.0/5.0
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hotelrec
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Given the interaction history of a user with Wikipedia articles as follows:
Title: Hamburg; Description: city in Germany, city state and federal state
Title: Brandenburg; Description: state of Germany
Title: University of Santiago; Description: Chilean university
Title: Bajuwari; Description: Germanic people
Title: Chatti; Description: proto-historic Germanic tribe
Title: Universidad del Desarrollo; Description: Chilean private university
Title: University of Concepción; Description: traditional Chilean private university
Title: Universidad Mayor; Description: Chilean private university
Title: University of Oxford; Description: university in Oxfordshire, UK
Title: Cambridge; Description: city in Cambridgeshire, England
Title: Tübingen; Description: town in central Baden-Württemberg, Germany
Title: Brandenburg an der Havel; Description: town in Brandenburg, Germany
Title: Category:Education; Description: Wikimedia category
Title: Category:Universities; Description: Wikimedia category
Title: Category:Brandenburg; Description: Wikimedia category
Title: Category:States of Germany; Description: Wikimedia category
Title: Category:Bavaria; Description: Wikimedia category
Title: London; Description: capital and largest city of the United Kingdom
Title: University of the Andes, Chile; Description: university
Title: Bavaria; Description: state in Germany
Title: Baden-Württemberg; Description: federal state in the South-West of Germany
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