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Secret Life of a Sorority Girl – Review
Secret Life of a Sorority Girl – Lifetime – 2 hours and 0 minutes
Math teacher Cheryl declines a date with Principal Randall to spend the evening with her daughter, Ashley. Cheryl finds Ashley with her boyfriend, Beckett, but Ashley can’t have dinner. She tells Cheryl she has to work. However, Beckett corrects her because Ashley stated her time would be for studying. Ashley flusters and says she will go to work at the library after changing clothes. Cheryl and Beckett stand in confusion.
Cheryl goes to work and sees her co-worker, Ben, recuperating from his bachelor party hangover. He apologizes and shows Cheryl an image of Ashley dancing on a pole. Cheryl immediately leaves work to confront Ashley at her sorority house. Cheryl barges past Ashley’s sorority sister, Karla, and heads to Ashley’s bedroom. She finds Ashley in a heated argument with Beckett. He demeans her for stripping, and Ashley breaks up with him. Cheryl demands an explanation. Ashley lost her scholarship after a poorly performing semester and needed money for school and sorority dues. Cheryl questions how stripping will affect Ashley’s future, and Ashley retreats to work.
Karla runs to Cheryl’s home for help. Both haven’t seen or heard from Ashley for two days. Cheryl couldn’t make the police care after finding Ashley’s purse in the club’s garbage bin. And Karla couldn’t get any information after the bartender, Jake, kicked her out of the club. So, Ashley decides to enter the belly of the beast as a rookie stripper to find Ashley. Can she do it without losing her life?
This film hints at issues strippers face, but it’s not a call to action. It’s a whodunit with pole dancing. The plot gives viewers several red herrings but nothing concrete. Cheryl challenges unruly customers, jealous dancers, and trashy boyfriends. One unforeseen alliance is the owner, Dolly. Dolly is tough but fair. She counts money first and your feelings second. Dolly’s hard-nosed attitude will make viewers laugh. The protagonist makes missteps, but mostly everyone gets a happy ending.
I give it 3 out of 5 stars
Why does she have to change clothes to work at the library – Cheryl
I can’t believe it. My girlfriend’s a slut – Beckett
I don’t need your help. I have it under control – Ashley
You look like you are holding on to the Titanic – Karla
Public relations with a very personal touch – Dolly
Good for you – Candy
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Blind Date Book Club – Review
Blind Date Book Club – Hallmark – 2 hours and 0 minutes
Meg comes to Mimi’s Book Corner in a somber mood. Her aunt, Renee, is coming to the store to talk but doesn’t give any details. Meg’s friend, employee Alice, spotlights the bright side. Meg implemented technical and cosmetic changes to the bookstore while creating a socially charged atmosphere. Meg wraps up books with twine and adds a cryptic description to the wrapping. She calls it Blind Date with a Book Club. Every Tuesday and Thursday, members meet to discuss the book and participate in book-related activities. Also, radio host Raina will interview Meg today about the store and the club. Meg sighs with accepted positivity and hears the door chime. Raina is early and wants to start the interview.
Graham meets with his manager, Terrance, to discuss Graham’s new book. Terrance thinks the historical romance is okay but wants Graham to finish the 8th book of his successful series. Graham’s young adult novels are best sellers and have ‘shelf-ability.’ Graham toys with the idea of self-publishing under a pseudonym. Terrance is against that idea because name recognition is a proven marketing strategy. Graham gets in his car and calls his sister, Lizzy, for guidance. She finished his new novel and didn’t love it. Like Terrance, she wants him to stick to his series, too. Graham politely ends the call and turns on Raina’s radio show. Graham delightfully listens to Meg conversing about books, the club, and unknown talent. He decides to travel to Nantucket and meet her.
Meg goes to the docks to pick up Renee when a French family asks her to take their photo. She requests the family stand under the sign, but a man, Graham, stands in the way. After he stands behind Meg, Meg takes the picture. The French parents assume Graham and Meg are a couple, so the mother asks them to stand under the sign so she can take a photo. They compile because they don’t speak the language.
Meg drops Renee off at the B&B, but Renee won’t discuss why she came to town. So, Meg returns to the store with the feeling of impending dread. Graham walks into the store, and they relate over books and marketing. He asks her to consider adding his book to their list because he is a semi-local author. Meg has her book selections for the next two months but offers to read it with an honest critique. Graham introduces himself by his pseudonym, Dylan Turner, and leaves with a self-assured smile.
Meg meets with Renee, and Renee wants to liquidate her half of the bookstore. She found a buyer to take over in a month if Meg didn’t desire to keep the store. Meg worked in real estate before she took over the store after her mother, Mimi, passed. Renee tells Meg to think it through. It wasn’t Meg’s passion to run the store, but now she loves the community she created. However, she isn’t sure she can take on the financial responsibility alone.
Graham and Terrance talk on the phone. Terrance reminds Graham that his 8th book is due in three weeks. When Terrance hears background noise, he asks for Graham’s location. Terrance assumes Graham is on a writer’s trip to finish the book. Terrance reiterates that Graham needs to finish this book because he owes the publishing company two more in the series. And Graham must return his advance if he doesn’t finish it. Graham returns to the store and receives less-than-stellar feedback. But Meg admits she knows his actual name is Graham, and he is a famous author. She will help him find his passion for writing to help him finish his 8th book while adding his new book to the club. However, he must accept their criticism. Will helping Graham spark her desire for the store and him, too?
This movie pairs two bibliophiles looking for a direction, similar to Meg’s book club. This concept of a blind date for books is intriguing for Generation Z because they lost their third space. Also, it shines a light on the joy a local bookstore can bring to a community. While Meg and Graham find each other, they are on different paths. Graham wants to carve a new legacy for himself. He is famous for his young adult novels but desires to expand. Meg must learn which legacy is for her. She had success in the real estate business. But she loves the community she created and reading. The Hallmarkies will delight in them growing together while having an open and honest discussion. This film is a charming addition to the 2024 Spring Into Love Season.
I give it 4 out of 5 stars
You mean surviving – Meg
I consider that a selling point – Graham
You got this, G. You always have – Lizzy
I love a good robe and slippers moment any time I can get it – Renee
Let’s go for 20 – Terrance
It’s not as catchy – Alice
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One Bad Apple: A Hannah Swensen Mystery – Review
One Bad Apple: A Hannah Swensen Mystery – Hallmark Mystery – 2 hours and 0 minutes
Hannah teaches Beginners Baking at the local college when English Literature Professor Bradford enters. He slyly asks Hannah for a date. But before she says no, Bradford notices some of his students are in her class. He thinks they could join forces because authors use food for imagery. Hannah loves the idea, and Bradford plans for them to meet later. After class, Hannah talks to her students, Willa and Pam, studying. Kyle, sitting at another table, shushes them. Willa introduces Hannah to her brother, Perry. Pam and Willa rave about Hannah’s class because the work is tasty, and they never have homework. Then, Bradford’s teaching assistant, Tim, approaches and asks them to attend his party. Hannah says no, but her students accept.
Later, Hannah’s mother, Delores, cancels their dinner plans but tricks Norman into escorting Hannah. Hannah arrives at the restaurant and runs into Willa, crying. Willa says she’s ok and exits. During her dinner, Hannah notices Bradford talking to his ex-wife, Stacey. She wonders if they will get back together. Hannah finishes her night out with Norman and thinks they will be good friends. But her family wonders if Norman wants more.
Hannah meets with the new district attorney, Chad, to discuss Ken’s embezzlement case. Chad preps her because Ken wants to go to trial. Hannah enters Bradford’s office to discuss the first collaborative assignment. She snoops and finds failing papers, a note to meet Stacey and photos of Bradford’s dog. Bradford saunters in and understands why Hannah is snooping. They choose To Kill A Mockingbird’s Charlotte Russe Cake (FTC Affiliate Disclaimer). Bradford lies to end his meeting early, but Hannah is wise to his deceit.
Hannah and Bradford introduce the assignment to Hannah’s class, but Tim calls Bradford away. Hannah watches them argue but focuses on her class. Bradford returns and explains that Tim thinks he grades too harshly. But Bradford controls the grading system in his class. Hannah offers to teach Bradford how to make the cake, and Bradford turns on the portable stove. Hannah smells gas, pulls Bradford away, and watches fire shoot out. Hannah puts out the fire while Kyle records it. Newly minted Detective Lonnie arrives and alerts Hannah that the fire marshall believes the fire was intentional. Hannah has no idea who would set this fire or why.
After conversing with her co-worker, Lisa, Hannah decides to end Bradford’s flirting. She knows Bradford is playing the field and doesn’t want to be another conquest. She wants to do it face-to-face and goes to Bradford’s office. Stunned, Hannah finds Bradford dead with the knife in his side. She finds a hand-crafted greeting card beside his body. Lonnie and Chad investigate the scene, and Tim identifies the body. Hannah tells Lonnie she doesn’t know anyone with a grudge against Bradford but will turn over any information she gains. Later, Lonnie discovers the knife is from Hannah’s set, and the students, who are suspects, will leave campus in a week for their break. With evidence pointing at her, Hannah must solve the crime before the culprit or culprits leave.
Based on Apple Turnover Murder by Joanne Fluke, this installment explains Mike’s absence, introduces new love interests, and gives Delores a new job. Delores has the detective bug and decides to become a private investigator. It’s hilarious to watch her fumble but succeed in her new role. Unlike other shows in the series, the plot takes a while to expose the victim. Experienced sleuthers will foam at the mouth for murder, but they must be patient. The script carefully explains your favorite’s growth while introducing new regulars. Lonnie got a promotion and works with a new district attorney, who doesn’t have a sweet tooth. This new pace has one downfall: the wrap-up. Hannah explains the who, what, where, and why in 2 minutes. It will make your head spin. This slip won’t happen again because the script established the new and updated characters. So have your chocolate marshmallow bars, caramel apple rose tart, edible cookie dough, and ginger molasses cookies ready for this sweet installment.
I give it 4 out of 5 stars
Yeah, it’s a piece of cake. Angel food, that is – Lisa
I was never here – Delores
Why are you looking at me like that – Hannah
No, you don’t have to do all that – Norman
Nothing more than a slice of something made by you – Bradford
Facts are facts, and my bank account speaks for itself – Stacey
Thank you, but I don’t have a sweet tooth – Chad
This is Hannah – Lonnie
And that was your plan? A ladle? – Andrea
Yes, you should come – Willa
Well, yes. We thought he was the best – Pam
I can’t believe this happened – Tim
What she means is are you ok – Michelle
I would appreciate your help – Perry
I didn’t kill him – Kyle
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Million Dollar Lethal Listing – Review
Million Dollar Lethal Listing – LMN – 2 hours and 0 minutes
After receiving her inheritance, Becca took a break from work to look for a dream home for herself and her fiancé, Tom. Becca’s friend, Annie, wants Becca to continue working because Becca loves her job. And Becca’s lawyer, Meghan, thinks Becca should have Tom sign a prenup. Becca refuses both of their ideas because she loves Tom and wants to start her marriage on a high note. Becca finds a beautiful home for a great price and ends her conversation with Annie to see it.
Realtor Samantha meets Becca at the home, and Becca falls in love but can’t believe the price. Samantha states the price is unfathomable because the owner, Ripley, has stipulations. The payment must be in cash, half paid now and the other half in a year. The home returns to the owner if they don’t pay it off in a year. Becca’s inheritance will cover the down payment, but she will have nothing left. Becca brings the offer to Tom, and he decides to see the home.
Attorney Tom and Becca meet with Riley and Samantha. Tom reads through the contracts and signs them in disbelief over the deal. They quickly move in and settle. After a few nights in the home, Tom and Becca wake up to a man entering their bedroom. They understandably become unsettled and question the man’s presence. He states that they are in his home. They call the police to report the intruder, but the man proves the house belongs to him. Becca wants to pursue charges against Samantha and Riley, but Tom doesn’t. He says falling for a scam will hurt his chances to become a partner at his law firm. He promises to meet with Detective Ross to handle the matter quietly. Becca accepts Tom’s offer but decides to investigate behind his back. This scam was the final act of a lethal plan. Can Becca find the mastermind and her money?
Take a deep breath before watching this film. Becca’s friends try to warn her about missteps in her relationship, but she won’t listen. She is a fool in love. Luckily, Becca has an intelligent cop, Detective Ross, on her side. Detective Ross quickly eliminates Becca as a suspect when the evidence implicates Becca of murder. Ross deduces that Becca would wipe down all the fingerprints except hers at the crime scene. Detective Ross can be a crossover character for any ‘Lethal’ movie. This movie opens viewers to a new scam while reminding the audience not to lose themselves in a relationship.
I give it 3.5 out of 5 stars
Where’s the ghost – Becca
Why is it your problem – Tom
Oh, I’m not speechless. I have plenty to say – Annie
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Writing a Love Song – Review
Writing a Love Song – UPtv – 2 hours and 0 minutes
Chloe brings coffee to producer Mia and their boss, Sloane. She beams with envy because Mia gets to work on a star’s new country album. Chloe asks Sloane his opinion on her demo. Sloane didn’t listen to it and doesn’t think she is ready. He hired her as a receptionist. And now she works as his assistant. He wants her to stick to that job for a while longer. Chloe sighs with frustration because she’s worked at the studio longer than Mia, but Mia is Sloane’s niece.
Dustin breezes into his manager’s office and notes his manager’s tone. Stu informs Dustin the record label doesn’t want to release a new album because his record sales are abysmal compared to his last project. Dustin admits he hasn’t written a song but thinks he can do it with help from the right producer. Stu wants to add Dustin to the American Country Music Showcase, but Dustin needs to have a song ready in one week. Later, Stu tells Dustin other studios don’t want to waste time on him, but there is one that could sway. Dustin doesn’t want to work there because of bad memories, but it’s his only option.
Dustin and Stu go to the studio looking for Sloane, but Sloane isn’t there. Chloe lies and says she is Sloane’s apprentice. She looks at her empty calendar and states that she can only do the job before and after work. Stu agrees to the arrangement. When Dustin and Chloe see each other, she embarrassingly blushes. She insulted his current album in her sister’s coffee shop without knowing Dustin was behind her. Her sister, Hannah, attempted to warn Chloe, but Chloe praddled on. Chloe apologizes, and Dustin agrees to the working relationship. If Chloe can turn Dustin’s song into a hit, she will get Sloane’s respect. Otherwise, she can lose her job. And without the hit, Dustin will lose his career. Chloe thinks this will be easy, but Dustin’s writer’s block is more challenging than she suspected.
This movie flows through the natural progression of any romantic comedy. It does mention big-named artists, but viewers shouldn’t expect a cameo. The plot tries to hint that Dustin’s ex-girlfriend wants him back, but avid viewers know she will never be a threat. Although the storyline isn’t a standout, it highlights an artist’s struggle. Music doesn’t magically happen. It takes hard work, dedication, and honesty. This film adds sweet melodies to a typical symphony.
I give it 3 out of 5 stars
At least I’m cute, right – Dustin
I’m available – Chloe
Things worth doing are never easy. Have a little faith – Hannah
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Living with My Mother’s Killer – Review
Living with My Mother’s Killer – Lifetime – 2 hours and 0 minutes
Fourteen years ago, Mara was a carefree child living at her mother’s B&B, Oriana. She played in the garden while talking to a young handyman, Carson. Mara wanted to write instead of running the Oriana like her mother, Susannah. A young guest harassed and pushed Mara, and Carson struck him back. Susannah fired Carson for striking a guest. Mara begged Susannah to reconsider, but Susannah wouldn’t relent and gave Carson his last paycheck. Later that night, Mara heard a noise and walked around Oriana to uncover the source. She found Susannah and Carson at the bottom of the staircase. Susannah died, and Carson was drunk and unconscious. Police arrested Carson, and he pled guilty to involuntary manslaughter but maintained his innocence.
Today, Mara writes about her childhood in college and runs Oriana. A classmate, Zelda, questions Mara about Susannah’s murder after Mara reads her manuscript. Zelda meets Mara after class because Zelda is a criminology student and wants to cover Susannah’s killing on a podcast. Mara refuses to help. Mara meets with her ex-husband, real estate agent Peter, because she wants to sell Oriana. Peter assures Mara the sale will be profitable and ease her workload during the school year.
Mara walks to Joy’s room and finds Joy in bed with the gardener, Drew. Drew leaves, and Mara discusses the upcoming sale. Joy handles food services and the kitchen but wishes Mara had talked to her about putting the B&B on the market. Then, Mara has another dizzy spell. Doctors believe it’s stress-related, but Mara’s test results are not in. Mara works and turns to see Carson standing behind her. Mara confesses that she momentarily thought he was guilty but has changed her mind. She offers Carson a handyman job, much to Joy’s chagrin.
Mara and Carson have supper, and Zelda barges into the dining area. Mara tells Zelda to leave, but Zelda has new information. Mara walks Zelda to the lobby. Zelda found evidence that leads to a new suspect, proving Carson’s innocence. However, Zelda doesn’t feel safe discussing it further in the lobby, and they plan to meet later. Mara calls Zelda in the morning, but Zelda doesn’t answer. Mara doesn’t know, but someone killed Zelda, and they are coming for Mara next. Who can Mara trust?
This movie is a slow burn. So viewers must stay patient. Like an Agatha Christie novel, the plot introduces you to all the characters and their backstory. Then, you learn their motivations, secrets, and desires. It gives small clues about who killed Susannah. However, this film has a twist that will make you rewind 30 seconds. This film’s redeeming quality will shock the most experienced Lifetimer. You will wait an hour and a half, but it’s worth it. Give this film your time and full attention.
I give it 4 out of 5 stars
Believe it or not, I have learned to live without the truth – Mara
Yeah, I’m not buying it – Zelda
Is it me – Joy
Did you ever think I was guilty – Carson
I don’t trust you – Peter
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Categories: Alison Sweeney, Barbara Niven, Blind Date Book Club, Ciarra Carter, Connor McMahon, Erin Krakow, Greyston Holt, hallmark, Hallmark Mystery, Home is Where the Harm Is, Jackée Harry, Jessica Lynn Wallace, Jessica Morris, Jon Briddell, lifetime, lifetime movie network, Living with My Mother's Killer, lmn, Love Sundays, Made for TV, Million Dollar Lethal Listing, Morgan Bradley, movie, Nina Kiri, One Bad Apple: A Hannah Swensen Mystery, Philip Boyd, review, Rhiannon Fish, Robert Buckley, Secret Life of a Sorority Girl, Signature Mystery, Sleuthers, Spring into Love, tv review, UPtv, Victor Webster, Writing a Love Song
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