Haikyuu enthusiasts, rejoice! “Haikyuu!! THE MOVIE: Decisive Battle at the Garbage Dump” is officially making its way to the Philippines!
@SM_Cinema has confirmed the exciting news, announcing that the eagerly awaited screening of “Haikyuu!! THE MOVIE: Decisive Battle at the Garbage Dump” will take place somewhere in May exclusively on SM Cinemas as detailed in their post on X.
Following its debut in Hong Kong and Macau on April 11, and Taiwan on April 12, the movie will journey through various markets including Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam, and India in May.
The well-loved sports anime will delve into the much-anticipated showdown between Karasuno and Nekoma, promising fans an unforgettable experience.
Having premiered in Japan on February 16, the film has soared to incredible heights, raking in an astounding ¥81.9 billion (~US$541 million) in box office revenue, making it one of Japan’s highest-grossing films of all time.
Can hardly wait for it! All rise, my Karasuno and Nekoma moots!
“Solo Leveling” is a South Korean web novel series by Chugong that has been adapted into a popular webtoon and light novel, and eventually an anime series produced by A-1 Pictures. The narrative focuses on Sung Jin-Woo, in a world where portals connect it to a realm filled with monsters and dungeons. Initially deemed as the weakest hunter, he swiftly transforms into a figure akin to a protagonist in a video game, where strength levels up with each encounter, evoking a sense of gratifying progression reminiscent of classic RPGs.
The allure of “Solo Leveling” lies not only in its captivating storyline but also in its innovative premise. The emergence of gates, unleashing hordes of menacing creatures, sets the stage for a thrilling spectacle similar to the grandeur of “Pacific Rim.” This infusion of sci-fi elements heightens the stakes, propelling the narrative forward with an exhilarating blend of action and intrigue.
Central to the series is Sung Jin-Woo’s evolution, a character arc with both depth and nuance. His transformation evokes parallels to the enigmatic Light Yagami from “Death Note,” as he grapples with newfound power and the moral implications it entails. The last episode very much showed this as he gains the title “Shadow Monarch” and the ability to bring the dead back to life as his “shadow army.” This juxtaposition of strength and darkness adds a layer of complexity to his character, elevating him beyond the confines of a typical protagonist.
(photo via A-1 Pictures)
While I thought the animation quality falls short of the visuals by its contemporaries like “Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba” or “Mob Psycho 100,” the discrepancy is mitigated by the sheer strength of its narrative, with its exciting plot twists and compelling character dynamics.
One area of contention, though, lies in the episodic endings, which often culminate in frustrating and anticlimactic cliffhangers. While effective in maintaining suspense, these abrupt conclusions annoy the hell out of me. Nevertheless, this minor flaw does little to detract from my overall enjoyment of the series.
When it comes to the series’ supporting characters, “Solo Leveling” showcases a diverse ensemble, albeit with less impact. While some secondary characters leave an impression, others fade into the background, their potential untapped. Yet, this is forgivable since this is just the first season.
In conclusion, “Solo Leveling” emerges as a captivating addition to the anime landscape, boasting a compelling narrative and memorable characters. Despite its minor flaws, it left me eagerly anticipating its second season and beyond. As the journey continues, “Solo Leveling” stands poised to captivate audiences with its potential and immersive world-building. I highly recommend it.
You can stream and watch Solo Leveling on Crunchyroll or Netflix if you are in the Philippines.
Rainey’s grandmother makes a startling request: Take me home. To Ireland, the country she fled post–World War II. Though they’re inseparably close, Rainey knows few of her grandmother’s secrets. Until they arrive at Aisling—the majestic estate on the southern coast of Ireland where her grandmother was raised—and Rainey discovers a collection of seventy-year-old letters in a trunk.
Dublin, 1945. The Germans surrender, celebrants crowd the streets, and fourteen-year-old Evie meets her best friend, the spirited Harding McGovern. Years on, they are more like sisters when rumors begin that Harding works in the black market trade—a source of wealth that could give her a dream life in America but could also cause great danger. Evie is uncertain of the truth but will stand by Harding, whatever the cost.
As Rainey uses the letters to reunite her grandmother with the past, what unfolds is a never-forgotten story of family, friendship, and love, and the healing that comes from letting go of secrets.
***
“The Lost Letters of Aisling” is a masterfully crafted historical fiction that delves into the intricacies of relationships—be it friendships, family dynamics, or romantic entanglements—layered with elements of mystery and misunderstanding.
One of the highlights of the book for me is the author’s vivid portrayal of Ireland, which immerses readers in the setting and time period, making them feel as though they’re truly experiencing it firsthand.
The seamless blending of past and present narratives, with the povs, adds depth and richness to the storytelling. The parallels drawn between different time periods enhance the overall narrative cohesion.
However, readers should be prepared for an emotional rollercoaster, as the novel is replete with beautifully tragic moments and haunting scenes that will linger long after reading the book.
While the narrative is compelling throughout, I find the ending a bit abrupt. An epilogue tying up loose ends would have provided a more satisfying conclusion to the story, allowing closure and further insight into the characters’ lives / future.
Rating: 4 out of 5 stars Published on April 1, 2024 by Lake Union Publishing
About the Author Cynthia Ellingsen is the Amazon Charts bestselling author of the Starlight Cove series. The Lost Letters of Aisling is her tenth novel. A Michigan native, Cynthia has lived in Los Angeles and Chicago. Currently, she lives in Lexington, KY with her family and two sassy but charming Siamese cats.
If he had been with me, everything would have been different…
Autumn and Finn used to be inseparable. But then something changed. Or they changed. Now, they do their best to ignore each other.
Autumn has her boyfriend Jamie, and her close-knit group of friends. And Finn has become that boy at school, the one everyone wants to be around.
That still doesn’t stop the way Autumn feels every time she and Finn cross paths, and the growing, nagging thought that maybe things could have been different. Maybe they should be together.
But come August, things will change forever. And as time passes, Autumn will be forced to confront how else life might have been different if they had never parted ways…
***
The book follows a single point of view, which I generally appreciate in stories. It shares a similar sentimental quality to “The Fault in Our Stars,” albeit set in a high school environment. Autumn, like Hazel Grace Lancaster, is a character with whom it’s easy to empathize.
However, the narrative’s occasional jumps in time can be disorienting. The author transitions abruptly from one topic to another without clear indication, which can confuse readers.
Autumn and Finny’s love for each other is evident, but their inability to communicate effectively leads to numerous misunderstandings. This theme of miscommunication permeates the story, adding layers of complexity to their relationship.
The predictability of the tragic ending somewhat dampens the climax for me. From early on, it’s apparent that the story will conclude tragically, leaving readers to ponder not if, but rather who, will meet their demise.
Despite the disjointed writing style, I found myself enjoying the book. Its simplicity belies the intricate emotions and themes it explores. Autumn and Finny serve as poignant reminders that time is fleeting and uncertain, urging us to seize opportunities and embrace courage when faced with life’s challenges.
Rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars Published on November 1, 2019 by Sourcebooks Fire
About the Author Laura Nowlin holds a B.A. in English with an emphasis in Creative Writing from Missouri State University. . In addition to being ambitious writer Laura is also an avid reader who believes that books allow her to live many lives in one lifetime. When she isn’t at home agonizing over her own novels Laura works at the public library where the patrons give her plenty of inspiration for her writing. She lives in St. Louis with her musician husband, neurotic dog, and psychotic cat.
Ignorant of civilization and cautioned against its evils, nineteen-year-old Wren and her two sisters, Sage and Evie, were raised in off-the-grid isolation in a primitive cabin in upstate New York. When the youngest grows gravely ill, their mother leaves with the child to get help from a nearby town. And they never return.
As months pass, hope vanishes. Supplies are low. Livestock are dying. A brutal winter is bearing down. Then comes the stranger. He claims to be looking for the girls’ mother, and he’s not leaving without them.
To escape, Wren and her sister must break the rule they’ve grown up with: never go beyond the forest.
Past the thicket of dread, they come upon a house on the other side of the pines. This is where Wren and Sage must confront something more chilling than the unknowable. They’ll discover what’s been hidden from them, what they’re running from, and the secrets that have left them in the dark their entire lives.
***
I just finished this book last night, and it’s easily one of the most fulfilling reads I’ve had this year. The ending caught me off guard, yet it left me feeling thoroughly satisfied! The Stillwater Girls is a compelling mystery that delves into the anguish and turmoil of a mother coping with the loss of her child.
The book begins by introducing us to Wren and her sisters, Sage and Evie, depicting the difficult circumstances they endure. In the following chapters, we meet Nicolette, a socialite whose marriage is on the verge of collapse. The narrative alternates between Wren’s and Nicolette’s experiences, eventually weaving their lives together in an unforeseen manner.
It’s an excellent story with unexpected twists and turns that keep you engaged and on the edge of your seat. However, some of the foreshadowing made certain revelations feel predictable instead of surprising. Nevertheless, it’s a quick read, albeit with a few moments that may seem way over the top. Overall, it’s a thoroughly enjoyable book.
As I’ve said at the beginning, the ending took me by surprise, and I wholeheartedly recommend it. If you’re a fan of mysteries with satisfying conclusions, this is the book for you.
Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars Published on April 9, 2019 by Thomas & Mercer
About the Author Washington Post and Wall Street Journal bestselling author Minka Kent is a graduate of Iowa State University and the author of The Memory Watcher, The Perfect Roommate, The Thinnest Air, The Stillwater Girls, When I Was You, Unmissing, The Silent Woman, and Gone Again (2023). Her debut psychological suspense, The Memory Watcher, hit #9 in the Kindle store and landed on the Amazon Most Sold chart. Her follow-up, The Thinnest Air, was a Washington Post bestseller five weeks in a row and reached #1 in the Kindle store. Her work has been featured in People Magazine and The New York Post.
Minka also writes contemporary romance as Wall Street Journal and #1 Amazon bestselling author Winter Renshaw.
She is represented by Jill Marsal of Marsal Lyon Literary Agency.
“Eva Traube Abrams, a semi-retired librarian in Florida, is shelving books when her eyes lock on a photograph in the New York Times. She freezes; it’s an image of a book she hasn’t seen in more than sixty years—a book she recognizes as The Book of Lost Names.
The accompanying article discusses the looting of libraries by the Nazis across Europe during World War II—an experience Eva remembers well—and the search to reunite people with the texts taken from them so long ago. The book in the photograph, an eighteenth-century religious text thought to have been taken from France in the waning days of the war, is one of the most fascinating cases. Now housed in Berlin’s Zentral- und Landesbibliothek library, it appears to contain some sort of code, but researchers don’t know where it came from—or what the code means. Only Eva holds the answer, but does she have the strength to revisit old memories?“
***
I knew WWII stories could be emotional, but I didn’t expect this one to hit me here and there. The way the story jumps between past and present really grabs you and makes you think. This book examines the people who fought back and helped each other during the tumultuous and tragic war in Europe.
It is, in a way, a very romanticized depiction of WWII; it feels contrived, even. I found the main character, Eva, to be very polarizing. The romantic aspect felt out of place, and at times, I found myself rolling my eyes because of it. Also, Eva’s mother was just impossible; Oh, I was livid! The villain in the story was quite predictable, but the author was able to place the reveal at the right moment.
Yes, it has a few loopholes, but surprisingly, it was a very quick read for me. I loved that even though the chapters were short, the story was still very engaging. I found the author’s spin on the sensitive topic of the Holocaust interesting and quite curious. While I didn’t connect with it as much, I truly appreciate this perspective.
Rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars Published on July 21, 2020 by Gallery Books
About the Author Kristin Harmel is the New York Times bestselling, USA Today bestselling, and #1 international bestselling author of The Paris Daughter, The Forest of Vanishing Stars, The Book of Lost Names, and a dozen other novels that have been translated into more than 30 languages and are sold all over the world.
A former reporter for PEOPLE magazine, Kristin has been writing professionally since the age of 16, when she began her career as a sportswriter, covering Major League Baseball and NHL hockey for a local magazine in Tampa Bay, Florida in the late 1990s. In addition to a long magazine writing career, Kristin was also a frequent contributor to the national television morning show The Daily Buzz.
Kristin was born just outside Boston, Massachusetts and spent her childhood there, as well as in Columbus, Ohio, and St. Petersburg, Florida. After graduating with a degree in journalism (with a minor in Spanish) from the University of Florida, she spent time living in Paris and Los Angeles and now lives in Orlando, with her husband and son. She is also the co-founder and co-host of the popular weekly web show and podcast Friends & Fiction.
“In a country fighting for freedom, it’s hard to live a normal life. Winnie O’Leary supports the cause, but she doesn’t go looking for trouble. Then rebel Joseph Burke steps into her workplace. Winnie is furious with him about a broken window. She’s not interested in romance. But love comes when you least expect it.
Joseph’s family shelter fugitives and smuggle weapons. Joseph would never ask Winnie to join the fight; but his mother and sisters demand commitment. Will Winnie choose Joseph, and put her own loved ones in deadly danger? Or wait for a time of peace that may never come?“
***
The narrative was recounted from the viewpoint of the women in the aftermath of the Easter Rising during the Irish Civil War. A compelling narrative about one family, their interactions, their disagreements, and the impact on a single woman at the heart of Ireland’s fight for independence from England.
I thought it was interesting, even though it feels very niche to me since I’m not very knowledgeable about Irish history. I also struggled a bit keeping up with it as it was going from present-day Ireland to the events of the Easter uprising.
The story was engaging, but there are a lot of unlikable characters. I mean, we all have those in books, right? But these are unlikable characters brought about by that era, I guess, when women had no rights at all, everything was quiet, everything was all in the family, and it’ll just be your luck if they are supportive or not.
I found it a tad lengthy, but overall, it was a very intresting read, albeit tailored to a specific audience.
Rating: 3 out of 5 stars Published on April 27, 2023 by Review.
About the Author Sheila O’Flanagan is the author of over 30 bestselling books, including What Eden Did Next,Three Weddings and a Proposal, The Women Who Ran Away, Her Husband’s Mistake,The Hideaway and The Missing Wife. She lives in Dublin with her husband.
http://www.sheilaoflanagan.com TwitteItr @sheilaoflanagan Facebook.com/sheilabooks –This text refers to the paperback edition.
In this captivating tale set against the backdrop of wartime and present-day Paris, the author crafts a narrative that seamlessly weaves together the lives of Jacques, a charming bookshop owner during WWII, and Juliette, a woman embarking on a journey of self-discovery amidst her family’s past. Through Jacques’ experiences with the German occupation and Juliette’s quest to unearth her familial roots, it will take the reader on an emotional rollercoaster.
As someone deeply interested in WWII history, particularly the Holocaust, stories like these always leave me with a sense of melancholy yet a renewed appreciation for the resilience of the human spirit
The author’s portrayal of wartime Europe evokes different emotions from me from heartwarming moments to soul-crushing realities. The rapid and drastic changes brought about by the Nazi invasion shed light on the complexities of human relationships during such tumultuous times, where trust becomes a scarce commodity even among loved ones.
I’ve been to Paris twice before, yet the vivid portrayals in the book have given me a better understanding of the city’s history. I cannot wait to return to Paris once more, and visit the locations depicted in the book from a fresh perspective!
I thought the book delivered a poignant and strong story that reflected the power of literature and the resilience of the human spirit. It prompts reflection on our world’s current socio-political climate, urging us readers to confront the lingering specter of Nazism. With themes of love, friendship, loyalty, and betrayal, Daisy Wood has crafted a heartfelt tale about love, friendship, loyalty, betrayal, and the importance of family. I cannot recommend this book highly enough!
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars Published on October 27, 2022 by Avon
About the Author Daisy Wood worked in children’s publishing for some years before leaving to concentrate on her own writing. Having written several books for children and young adults under the name of Jennie Walters (including the popular ‘Swallowcliffe Hall’ series), she turned to writing fiction for adults when her children grew up and left home. Her mother was a child during the second world war, and it’s a period which has always fascinated her. ‘The Clockmaker’s Wife’, ‘The Forgotten Bookshop in Paris’ and ‘The Royal Librarian’ are all set during those tumultuous times. Happiest rootling about the London Library under the pretext of research, Daisy divides her time between London and Dorset, and can often be seen chasing a rescue pointer through various city parks with a Frenchie and sometimes her son’s Basset hound in tow.
Ellie Mack, a beloved and seemingly perfect teenage daughter, vanished suddenly, leaving her mother Laurel shattered. Ten years later, Laurel’s life remains in pieces as she grapples with Ellie’s disappearance and the collapse of her marriage. A chance encounter with Floyd, a charming man, leads to a surprising romance, but it’s his daughter, Poppy, who stirs Laurel’s heartache anew with her uncanny resemblance to Ellie. As Laurel delves into unanswered questions about Ellie’s fate, doubts about Floyd and his connection to her daughter intensify, reigniting her desperate search for the truth.
***
A good friend recommended this one, saying it was a must-read. Honestly, the first half of the book was a bit of a drag for me, but the second half was full of jaw-dropping twists with an absolutely satisfying conclusion.
The central character is Laurel, but the book also features multiple POVs, which I usually do not like in a book, but it works here. I can feel Laura’s emotions—the harrowing sadness and deeply poignant events in the past and present of each character—some of whom I empathized with deeply, while others I despised. At times, the weight of the story became so heavy that I needed to take a breather.
What I loved most about the book, though, was how the author kept me guessing until the very end. As someone who grew attached to Laurel and was rooting for her, I was relieved that she got some closure (sorry, spoiler alert!).
While the storyline wasn’t entirely groundbreaking, the author was very good in developing her characters and the unexpected twists, even the obvious ones, were executed flawlessly. This being my first encounter with Lisa Jewell’s work, I’m very much eager to explore more of her writing.
Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars Published on July 27, 2027 by Atria Books
Lady Tan’s Circle of Women by Lisa See offers a mesmerizing portrayal of Tan Yunxian’s remarkable journey from a compliant spouse to a defiant healer, defying societal constraints to pursue her medical calling. The narrative artfully navigates Yunxian’s evolution, painting a poignant picture of her personal development amidst the backdrop of a male-dominated Chinese society that affords women little to no rights.
The novel provides a compelling historical perspective, delving into the intricacies of traditions such as foot binding, concubinage, and familial hierarchies, shedding light on the harsh realities faced by women. The vivid depiction of these practices, particularly the distressing details surrounding foot binding, was a bit disturbing to say the least. See’s descriptive prowess brings to life the opulent palaces and intricate attire of the era, enriching the reader’s immersion in the setting.
Central to the narrative is the exploration of women’s roles within familial and social structures, underscored by the strength of their friendships.
The characters are skilfully crafted, with Lady Tan emerging as a beacon of courage and innovation, while Meiling, the compassionate midwife, adds depth to the storyline. Despite occasional pacing issues, the novel resonates with the profound significance of relationships and the unwavering support of female camaraderie in the face of adversity.
Overall, I thought Lady Tan’s Circle of Women is a beautifully rendered testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring power of female solidarity, making it a wonderful read for fans of historical fiction.
Rating: 4 out of 5 stars Published on June 6, 2023 by Scribner
About the Author Lisa See is the New York Times bestselling author of The Island of Sea Women, The Tea Girl of Hummingbird Lane, Snow Flower and the Secret Fan, Peony in Love, Shanghai Girls, China Dolls, and Dreams of Joy, which debuted at #1. She is also the author of On Gold Mountain, which tells the story of her Chinese American family’s settlement in Los Angeles. See was the recipient of the Golden Spike Award from the Chinese Historical Association of Southern California and the Historymaker’s Award from the Chinese American Museum. She was also named National Woman of the Year by the Organization of Chinese American Women.
Hey there, I’m Arch! I’ve been exploring the digital landscape with my blog, covering everything from books to travels, politics to pop culture, and even the occasional toy tale or random rant. Consider this space your online sanctuary—read, comment, and take away whatever nuggets of wisdom or entertainment you find. Welcome to the adventure!
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