Author Archives: paddylastinc

Book Review: Up In Arms – Kindle Alexander

Posted on June 8, 2014 | 2 comments

I’ve been completely engrossed in this book, unable to tear myself away until I reach its final page. It easily ranks as my second favorite among the five titles I’ve read from Kindle Alexander. Despite being shorter than the others, I find myself more deeply connected to the characters in this one.

Truly, this story is irresistibly adorable and incredibly sweet! We’re introduced to Reed Kensington, a power attorney turned international playboy seeking to settle down, and the very shy yet undeniably sexy Marine Sergeant, Trevor West. Reed exudes confidence as a self-made man who always gets what he wants, and from the moment he met Trevor at his brother’s wedding rehearsal, he knew he wanted him. Trevor, however, is reserved and insecure, feeling he doesn’t measure up to Reed’s standards and constantly doubting himself. It’s heartwarming. I think I’m completely in love with this character. (LOL, I can’t…)

The story unfolds seamlessly, becoming more captivating with every page turn. I particularly appreciated how the author introduced characters seemingly out of nowhere, yet managed to weave them into the narrative effortlessly, especially towards the latter part of the story. It’s truly amazing!

I wish I could articulate more about this book and about the author, but I find myself nearly out of adjectives to convey just how talented Kindle Alexander is. She’s undoubtedly earned a spot on my list of favorite authors!

Rating: 5 out of 5

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Book Review: The Current Between Us – Kindle Alexander

Posted on June 7, 2014 | Leave a comment

This wonderful novel invites us into the world of two very distinct and lovely characters. Gage Synclair is a retiring photo-journalist who now focuses on his art gallery, showcasing his stunning photos as he transitions from the field. Enter the sexy master electrician Trent Cooper, contracted by the gallery – oh, and the daddy of two adorable kids!

From the outset, there was already sexual tension between them, with each lusting over the other and finally realizing this could turn into something good. But, as usual, complications arise when least expected. Dang it! This magnitude of complication threatens to destroy what they have and hurt the people they care about. It’s a really fascinating story of an ultra-rich journalist falling for the too-hot-for-his-own-good electrician and father of two.

I love that Trent is responsible and has a very sensitive side. He’s perfection and just drool-worthy! LOL. Gage, on the other hand, is equally dreamy, but he’s almost too unfreakingbelievable with this billion-dollar worth of a family. Like Christian Grey-rich or something.

This is my fourth book from this author, and I’m just mesmerized by this story. It was so hard to put down that I actually skipped my movie night with my girls just to finish it quickly, and boy, was it worth it! The twist at the end was rather abrupt and kind of out of nowhere (well, that’s just for me – I figured it had something to do with the report, like someone would die or something, but I didn’t really expect that), but I still loved that it’s fast-paced!

Tying loose ends is one of Kindle Alexander’s excellent traits as an author. She knows her thing! I almost wished, though, that the story went on longer because seriously, Kindle knows how to bring characters to life. My standing ovation from Manila to wherever Kindle Alexander is!!! Bravo!!

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

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Book Review: Double Full (Nice Guys Series, #1) – Kindle Alexander

Posted on June 6, 2014 | 1 comment

The novel centers on football quarterback and up-and-coming NFL superstar Colton Michaels and the sexy cheerleader Jace Montgomery. Theirs was an unrequited love throughout their four years in college, but Colt finally gathered the nerve to approach Jace during their last spring break, leading to a super romantic getaway in Hawaii hidden from the entire world. However, their secret love fest was abruptly halted by Colton’s overbearing father, who threatened his son and Jace if they continued their relationship. About 10 years after Colton left Jace without any explanation (poor Jace), our cheerleader has grown to be a successful cheerleading master of sorts, while Colton continued to dominate the NFL while battling various personal demons, including alcoholism, his scheming and blackmailing Russian girlfriend (whose name I can’t even properly recall), and his unresolved feelings for Jace.

The author certainly knows how to weave stories and transition seamlessly from one scene to another without losing her readers. I particularly admire how Kindle always uses “HIS” (insert name) every time the other guy refers to his one true love. The writing may verge on the sappy side, but it’s so awe-worthy that it doesn’t even matter!

I was also totally hooked on Mitch, whom the author introduced in the latter part of the book (I suppose he will be the main character for the second book of the series – yay!), without deviating too much from Colt and Jace’s storyline. What an impressive transitioning ability! “Double Full” is a total sap-fest of a book, but it’s the good kind, so make sure to add this one to your to-read list. It’s so worth it!

 Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

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Review: Texas Pride – Kindle Alexander

Posted on June 5, 2014 | 2 comments

This is another novel from Kindle Alexander that I thoroughly enjoyed. While it doesn’t carry the same emotional intensity as Always, Texas Pride still has all the right ingredients to make it a compelling and memorable read.

The story follows Austin Grainger, a two-time Academy Award-winning actor who turns his back on the glitz and chaos of Hollywood in search of a quieter, more meaningful life. He returns to his Texas hometown, buys a ranch, and hopes to find the peace he’s been longing for. But his plans take an unexpected turn when he meets Kitt Kelly — the young, closeted rancher who sold him the land and lives next door. As the two men grow closer, their relationship blossoms into love, though it soon faces challenges that test both their emotions and their reputations.

What I love most about Kindle Alexander’s writing is her consistency. She has a gift for crafting smooth, well-paced stories with emotionally grounded characters. In Texas Pride, both Austin and Kitt are refreshingly straightforward — there’s less unnecessary drama and more genuine depth, which allows the story to unfold naturally and authentically.

While the plot touches on some familiar tropes, it succeeds in delivering a heartwarming romance with strong emotional beats. It’s a celebration of love — not just romantic, but also the love between friends, family, and community. I especially appreciate how the book highlights positive aspects of LGBTQIA+ life, something that’s often overlooked in mainstream media.

So far, I’ve read two of Kindle Alexander’s books, and I’m already on my third — all within three days! That should tell you how impressed I am. Her storytelling is engaging, her characters are lovable, and her books are absolutely worth the read. I can’t wait to dive into more of her work.

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

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Book Review: Fifty Shades Of Grey – E. L. James

Posted on June 4, 2014 | Leave a comment

Published May 25th 2011 by Vintage

via goodreads

via goodreads

I wasn’t keen on reading the highly popular erotic novel (and its subsequent sequels) Fifty Shades of Grey but with my friends non-stop gushing about “Christian Grey” and “Anastasia Steel,” (mostly it was Christian) I finally decided to give in and ride on the bandwagon (esp now that the film’s version is slated for release February of next year)

 Penned by E L James, Fifty Shades of Grey centers on the naïve college girl Anastasia Steel who met the “elusive, supersexy, BDSM*-loving, demigod looking billionaire” Christian Grey through an interview she did for a friend. Grey immediately took interest on her and eventually offered her something that would deliver the young Anastasia into the dark, sensual world and shattering past of the powerful Christian Grey.

The book obviously has more than its share of erotic scenes – like way too many! It also carries as a whole the irresistible charm of Christian Grey. At times, I find Anna’s character annoying because of her uber-innocence but hey, that just me putting myself in her shoe..uh, LOL. And is it disturbing to mention how the character of Christian Grey reminds me so much of Edward Cullen from Twilight minus the pangs, vampirism and all? LOL

After reading the book, I realized that I liked both characters – Christian Grey, Anastasia and her inner goddess! She was awesome! Fifty Shades of Grey simply has its own appeal that lures you to the erotic, dark and troubled world of Christian Grey and tags you along Anastasia’s journey into it. It’s worth reading after all…

Rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars

*BDSM (Bondage, Discipline, Sadism, Masochism) is a variety of erotic practices involving dominance and submission, role-playing, restraint, and other interpersonal dynamics. (source)

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Review: The Fault In Our Stars (2014)

Posted on June 4, 2014 | 2 comments

via impawards

via impawards

After raving so much about the book, it made me anxious and uber-excited anticipating the release of the film and I thank my lucky stars that I was able to score an invite for its advanced screening. Seriously, the wait was just about to kill me! The story is centered on sixteen-year-old cancer patient Hazel, who is forced by her parents to attend a support group, where she meets Augustus Waters, an ex-basketball player and amputee. From there, they were inseparable that even led to Augustus granting Hazel’s wish to meet the author of her favorite book, flying them both to Amsterdam.

I honestly didn’t set too many expectations prior to seeing this. I mean, the book was one of the best reads I’ve had recently and I didn’t want to spoil the whole experience if the movie didn’t live up to its promise. Fortunately, the movie didn’t disappoint. From the onset of the film, I was already grinning from ear to ear and midway through it until the end – I think I was one of the viewers bawling like a 12 year-old girl whose puppy just got kicked!

via pagetopremiere.com

via pagetopremiere.com

I just really love how effective and succinct Shailene Woodley as Hazel. This girl could pull you into a corner and just be in awe of her emotional depth. It’s amazing how she’s able to make you smile and feel giddy about her and Gus (Ansel Elgort). At the latter part of the film, I was with her crying. I feel her pain and I feel her resolve. She truly connects in such a way that everyone could easily relate to. Ansel on the other hand was dreamy as Augustus Waters. He’s got a really good chemistry with Shailene and I think everyone sighed heavily (wishing they were Hazel) during the swing scene and that oh-so-well-rehearsed dinner. It was almost too much but it’s still awe-worthy. Shailene and Ansel intricately worn the characters of Hazel and Augustus to life that it’s almost difficult to let any one of them go.

via rebloggy.com

via rebloggy.com

It was also nice to note that Josh Boone who directed the film and Scott Neustadter and Michael Weber who wrote the screenplay decided to be subtle about their approach on one of the characters fate. For someone who hasn’t read this John Green novel, it was a bit surprising and heartbreaking at the same time.

Another wonderful thing about this adaptation is the fact that it goes beyond its target audience much like the book. It’ll destroy your emotion but keeps you on the ride at the same time. The Fault In Our Stars has one solid story that will probably rival Noah and Allie on a different kind of level – bittersweet yet there is acceptance. It was magnified in such a way that it does not really revolved on two cancer patients but rather the romance, the young love and that heartfelt loss and acceptance that will forever be in their hearts.

#Okay

Director: Josh Boone
Based on the novel The Fault In Our Stars by John Green
Starring: Shailene Woodley, Ansel Elgort, Nat Wolff, Laura Dern, Sam Trammell, Mike Birbiglia, Lotte Verbeek, Willem Dafoe, Emily Peachey

Rating: 9.5/10

Watch it nationwide on the big scree n on June 5, 2014.

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Book Review: Always – Kindle Alexander

Posted on June 3, 2014 | 3 comments

“Always” is a heartbreakingly beautiful story of two souls finding their perfect match. I’ve lost count of the times I’ve shed tears while reading this book that I can’t even discern which emotion was predominantly directed towards the two main characters in this book.

The poignant narrative of Avery Adams and Kane Dalton serves as a poignant testament to the boundless nature of love. Their story demonstrates that genuine love transcends all boundaries and can endure even beyond life itself. Perhaps the sentimentality is overwhelming for some, but for me, this book has rightfully earned its place among my all-time favorites.

Discovering this exceptional read has been a delight. Both men serve as sources of inspiration, leading a remarkable life despite societal norms. Kindle Alexander deserves commendation for crafting such a compelling narrative.

In a literary landscape often cluttered with overly complex interpersonal dynamics, it’s refreshing to encounter a story where love is depicted in its purest form. While Avery and Kane’s relationship may seem idealized, it nevertheless resonates as a possibility in our world. “Always” reminds us that true love, though rare, has the power to transcend any obstacle.

In the end, “Always” serves as a poignant reminder that true love has the capacity to overcome all challenges.

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
ebook, 280 pages
Published March 11th 2014 by Kindle Alexander LLC (first published March 8th 2014)

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Book Review: Aftermath – Cara Dee

Posted on June 2, 2014 | Leave a comment

via goodreads

via goodreads

I absolutely adore this book! It was written beautifully and it tugs to your heart in so many levels. Austin Huntley is a family man who lives his life in order. He’s got a nice career and a nice family and is simply content with what he’s got. Cameron Nash on the other hand is an antisocial mechanic with very little patience when it comes to dealing with – err life. Bonded by their five months traumatic captivity together, the two men formed something that they realized is more than just their will to escape their captor but something that will change their lives forever.

I didn’t expect this book to be so good. I mean, I loved how the author seemingly tied everything together while going back and forth from the past to the present every other chapter. I love the “love” element in it though, I find the whole kidnapping thing a bit puzzling but it’s okay. It’s no biggie to be honest since it kinda helped the story development. It’s also nice to note that both characters have their own identity that was easily dissected throughout the book. Cam’s character for one is a very interesting character. I liked the fact that his Asperger Disorder was discussed here and it didn’t become an issue at all because seriously, it’s no biggie. Cam’s so adorbs here to be honest. It’s actually surprising that the book isn’t that dark at all. Their situation was traumatic ofcourse but it sure was nice to note that the author was able to turn it into light reading – in a good way.

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

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Review: School Ties (1992)

Posted on June 1, 2014 | 1 comment
via wikipedia
By impawards, Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=10635473

With a future A-list cast packed into this 1992 drama, School Ties stands out as one of the better “school movies” of the pre-Harry Potter era. But no, it’s not some magical boarding school fantasy. This is a grounded, emotionally charged story that tackles anti-Semitism, class division, and social pressure in an elite academic setting.

Brendan Fraser plays David Green, a working-class Jewish teenager who earns a football scholarship to an exclusive prep school in Massachusetts. Once there, he’s plunged into a world of privilege and quiet prejudice. His new teammates—products of the upper crust—harbor casual (and not-so-casual) anti-Semitic attitudes, forcing David to hide his identity just to fit in.

Enter Matt Damon (in full early-career villain mode) as Charlie Dillon, the entitled golden boy whom David replaces on the football field. Bitter over being sidelined—and later, losing his girlfriend to David—Dillon’s resentment festers until it boils over. The final act revolves around a cheating scandal, where Dillon manipulates the school’s honor system to try and take David down.

The plot is well-crafted as a classic redemption arc. There are moments where you truly feel for David—moments when you just want to deck Dillon yourself. And yes, that’s Chris O’Donnell, Ben Affleck, and Anthony Rapp in supporting roles. This cast is a who’s-who of future Hollywood stars, though most are still finding their feet here.

Tonally, School Ties tries to straddle multiple genres: part Dead Poets Society, part Scent of a Woman, part With Honors, with a dash of sports drama thrown in. But the result feels a bit uneven. It’s a solid film with strong performances and a clear moral center, but doesn’t quite reach the emotional heights of the films it emulates.

Still, for what it is—and the conversations it dares to spark—School Ties earns its place. It’s a compelling reminder that courage isn’t just about winning games; it’s about standing up for who you are when it matters most.

Rating: 8.5/10
Director: Robert Mandel
Cast: Brendan Fraser, Matt Damon, Chris O’Donnell, Randall Batinkoff, Cole Hauser, Andrew Lowery, Ben Affleck, Anthony Rapp, Amy Locane, and more

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John Spainhour is Mister World Philippines 2014!

Posted on May 31, 2014 | 1 comment

pic_2Filipino-American John Spainhour, a model and a former US marine scout sniper was chosen to represent the Philippines in the upcoming Mister World 2014 that will be held in Torbay, United Kingdom. The announcement was made last May 29 at the Glorietta 5 Atrium by Ms. Cory Quirino who’s heading the so-far very successful campaigns of both Miss World and Mister World Philippines since 2011.

26 year old John was born in South Carolina, USA, growing up in Manila, Philippines. Describing himself as “Disciplined, hardworking and dedicated” John is a former Marine Corp Scout Sniper. Since finishing his service, he has worked as a fashion model, and is looking for new opportunities and adventures to pursue. In his spare time he likes to be in the outdoors, going camping, snowboarding and hiking. He is also a scuba diver and likes to play video games. via MrWorldTV

pic_1Now this is good news for pageant pundits and fans because we now have a very capable candidate to hopefully succeed the current Mister World Francisco Escobar of Colombia. If you still remember, Andrew Wolff almost bagged the crown from Escobar in 2012 placing as 1st runner-up. With John’s military training and modeling experience, it should be easy for him to do the physically tasking challenges required in the pageant and at the same time pull that charm that will hopefully win him the title. Good luck John!! Make the country proud!

During the event, it was also announced that Fil-Persian model Sam Adjani will be the country’s representative for the 2015 edition of the pageant! Why! Such good choices from Miss Cory!!
pictures via mrworldtv

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