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Season 2 of The Diplomat  picks up precisely where the explosive banger (literally) of a season 1 finale left off, plunging viewers into the immediate, chaotic aftermath of the terrorist attack. Amid the flashing ambulance lights and frantic rescue efforts, we find U.S. Ambassador Kate Wyler (Keri Russell) and the U.K.'s Foreign Secretary, Austin Dennison (David Gyasi), urgently trying to get a handle on the crisis with their respective teams. This tension, heightened by a constant demand for information, sets the tone for a season steeped in geopolitical intrigue. At the heart of this season is the mystery surrounding spy mistress Margaret Roylin, played by the inimitable Celia Imrie. After Kate sought intel from Roylin in the Season 1 finale, an attack ensued, killing two and injuring others, including Stuart and Hal. As each episode unfolds, Kate and her team grapple with a web of bad calls and mistaken conclusions, challenging their understanding of trust and power in the shadowy realm of global diplomacy. One thing this show gets right is that nothing is ever as it seems in the game of geopolitical gamesmanship. This season, viewers are asked to reexamine our assumptions, which makes for an engaging watch from start to finish. Nowhere is this complexity more evident than in our evolving view of bellicose Prime Minister Nicol Trowbridge (Rory Kinnear). Initially, I dismissed him as a buffoonish caricature—undeniably reminiscent of Boris Johnson minus the perennially scruffy hair—Trowbridge reveals surprising depth this season. From the codependent but surprisingly endearing political partnership he has with his wife Lydia to the shifting dynamic between him and Dennison from that of a bitter, toxic rivalry to a grudgingly effective alliance.  Meanwhile, the Wyler dynamic remains a fascinating anchor for the show, providing one of the most nuanced portrayals of a marriage on television. Kate and Hal’s complex relationship, marked by equal parts love, lust, exasperation and hatred, serves as a kind of foil to the Trowbridges. The tension between the Wylers—moments of intense frustration and fury countered by their mutual understanding, innate ability to work as a team and the ease with which they slip into intimacy and routine—elevates their relationship into something both relatable and compelling. These two just get each other more often than not. And, really, is there anything sexier than that? As a close friend, Carol, aptly points out to Kate, “You want him to behave. But when he does, you don’t see it. You can’t even detect it. I worry sometimes that you don’t like it. You don’t like him when he’s good.” Kate’s lack of self awareness can be frustrating. But her character arc is one of the show’s most compelling aspects. And the reason why she works is simple: there is no dearth of people to deliver some hard truths to her face. Her constant evolution, spurred by challenges from the people around her, is this season’s strongest thread as she tries to balance personal ambition with political responsibilities and ever-shadier morality. From Stuart and Austin calling out her tendency to blunder through diplomatic procedure often at the expense of people around her, to Hal criticizing her habit of making him the villain of every story when making hard decisions comes with the job. And she’s forced to make plenty of tough calls this season.  Her transformation is further catalyzed by the addition of Grace Penn (Allison Janney), whose commanding presence shakes up the show’s dynamics the moment she arrives. Penn’s polished exterior and sharp instincts create an electric tension with Kate. The rivalry between them is hilariously underscored by an implicit joke I kept hearing in my head— Kate: who are you? Grace: I’m you, but more stylish and capable of brushing my damn hair . Of course, the bombastic season closer upends everything by way of a phone call (thanks, Hal). The unexpected demise of the president positions Grace as the most powerful woman in the world. That final scene of all the secret service agents descending upon Kate and Grace is instantly iconic. The stakes have never been higher ahead of season 3 as the show (hopefully) shifts to a new setting—the belly of the beast i.e. Washington D.C. I can’t wait to see how that new locale opens avenues for diplomacy-driven intrigue for all our characters. Other Observations Eidra and Stuart’s Rocky Relationship : These two are on the outs for most of the season.  I enjoy their dynamic but who knows if they can ever mend the rift given all their questionable choices and their incompatible worldviews.  Roylin’s betrayal of Trowbridge : I enjoyed every second of Celia Imrie on my screen. The spy games and hijinks were especially entertaining. Her betrayal of Trowbridge, and his explosive reaction was well done.   Stuart’s Subtle Arc : Though less prominent this season, Stuart’s storyline is impactful, exploring his PTSD, his survivor’s guilt and his justifiable but increasingly troubling resentment of Kate and the Wyler way of doing things .  Realpolitik and Geostrategy : The show nails some of the real-world complexities of geopolitics despite plenty of dramatic license. I enjoyed all of it, including Penn’s funny scene, complete with a giant map, in which she schools Kate on the difficult choices a Vice President is forced to make to protect American interests abroad.  Give me More Billie : Nana Mensah’s Billie Appiah leaves a strong impression but I’m going to need more of her next season, and I think I’ll get it given the new state-of-play with the president dead. With its sharp insights into diplomacy, complex character arcs, and pulse-pounding cliffhanger, The Diplomat Season 2 is pretty thrilling and thought-provoking and just like last season, leaves the audience hungry for more.

Inspired by Frederick Forsyth’s acclaimed 1971 novel of the same name, “The Day of the Jackal, " is Peacock’s newest adaptation of a classic thriller, masterfully reimagined for a modern age. Through complex and compelling characters and provocative storytelling, the thoughtful narrative weaves symbiotically around suspense and intrigue at every turn. The well-crafted 10-episode series, set in exquisite locations around the world, follows a cunning, yet elusive assassin-for-hire, known only as “The Jackal,” played to exacting detail by Eddie Redmayne. The series opens with a meticulously orchestrated plot to take out a known political figure, showcasing The Jackal’s genius calculations and unmatched skills in the planning and execution of his work. When a key element of the hit alerts British Intelligence, enter MI6 Weapons Specialist Bianca Pullman, portrayed by Lashana Lynch (Bob Marley: One Love), to take the reins on the hunt to bring him in. Agent Pullman’s own tenacious nature and determined clarity of purpose sets off a vicious, high stakes game of cat-and-mouse played out in stunning effect across the globe. The plot thickens, just as the Jackal accepts another high-profile hit job from an anonymous group, accelerating the race to uncover who he is and how he can be stopped. But, where? And, when? Nevertheless, with a quiet confidence, the titular character remains in the wind as he continues to evade authorities, moving in and out of life’s frame like a ghost.  Redmayne, best known for his Academy Award-winning performance in the Stephen Hawking biopic, “The Theory of Everything,” delivers one of his most chilling performances, to date, as he navigates seamlessly between the calm precision of a gifted mastermind and the cruel and calculating heartlessness of a cold-blooded killer. The duality of this on-screen persona, depicted with such care and deference, is both enigmatic and relentless. The eerie presence Redmayne brings to the screen looms large, even in the most quietest of scenes, punctuated all the more without so much as a single word spoken. Much of the unfolding of the character is found in the physical. The striking, expressive eyes and stoic facial expressions encased in Redmayne’s deceptively boyish facade, belie the brutal tension later to come when watching a master work his morbid craft. Turning the tables on this sophisticated chess match, Lynch, herself, shines as she brings an equally commanding portrayal to Agent Pullman. Lynch’s stellar performance delivers a multifaceted character who proves to be the grounding force on her side of the narrative. A highly competent professional, Agent Pullman exudes both a learned and inherent intelligence as she uncovers pieces of the Jackal’s profile. Authentic and engaging, she finds strength in the face of her own vulnerability and deep introspection. The captivating blend of the character’s sharp wit and clever dialogue leaves you longing, with much anticipation, for the dynamic showdown sure to come when the worthy adversaries ultimately meet face-to-face. A beautifully layered in subplot that runs like a river through the story, yet almost overlooked amid the central theme of intense action and menacing drama, is the locked in, singular focus on the task at hand that drives and defines the formidable foes and their reason to be — at times, an all-consuming reality, the consequences of which present their own unique challenges of identity, trust, and the complicated relationships in their other lives that come at great personal cost for the two leads.  With its Jason Bourne meets James Bond sensibility, “The Day of the Jackal,” informs as much as it entertains, offering another nuanced look into the world of espionage and the wealth and power that drives it all, regardless if it is viewed through the lens of politics or corporate greed. Underscored with sophisticated styling, scenery, and a blues-infused soundtrack within each episode, the series unfolds like a Condé Nast travel log, complete with a beautiful wardrobe, beautiful cars, and beautiful people doing decidedly dirty work.  Created for television by writer/producer Ronan Bennett, “The Day of the Jackal” comes to Peacock on November 14. In addition to their collaboration on screen, Eddie Redmayne and Lashana Lynch share co-executive producer duties this season for the production.

As viewers eagerly await season two of Ryan Murphy’s Grotesquerie, the finale of season one left many questions unanswered, including a major one: is Lois still in a coma?  Episode 10 began with the determined detective coming home to a candlelight dinner and an insane throuple proposition from Marshall and Redd. Without hesitation, Lois says no and stands firm on her decision. Later, Redd confronts Marshall, telling him that she knows about his infidelity and that she’s leaving him.  Marshall’s misery would continue when Megan and Gale arrived in his class to inform him that one of his students had accused him of sexual assault. He denied it and insisted that the relationship was consensual and ended on good terms. Marshall was still arrested, and Megan dragged him, telling him to get help for his obvious sex addiction.  This moment prompts Marshall to attempt to end his life, but he finds an unexpected guardian angel in his daughter’s husband, Ed. Fast Eddie brings Marshall to a men’s group that questions him on his thoughts about pronouns. Charlie, Sergeant Jack, and Lois’ therapists were all in attendance.  During one session with Dr. Witticomb, things become heated when she suggests he might be the copycat killer, since he was the only one with access to her coma dream files, but then she begins to wonder if she’s still dreaming or not.  Things take a turn for the worse between Lois and Charlie when she accuses him of hosting orgies in her hospital room and impregnating a patient while they were unconscious. The doctor responds to Lois’ allegations with a tirade, telling her that he now understands why Marshall wanted her to die.  Lois then arrives at her hotel room where she finds everything from Justin’s murder erased, as if it never happened. When Lois spots Glorious McKall and Megan together, she starts to put the pieces together. Lois accuses Megan of asking Glorious to clean up the mess, which Megan denies. However, she couldn’t keep the secret any longer and admitted to conspiring with Glorious to clean up the scene.  This confession comes on the heels of Megan needing Lois’ help because a murder, bigger than they could’ve ever imagined, is looming, involving someone important they know, Charlie, who is nailed to a cross surrounded by blood.  The crazy finale ends on a cliffhanger, with Lois declaring that she knows who the killer is and instructing everyone to meet her in her old office in one hour. Niecy Nash, the leading lady, and viewers alike still have no idea who Grotesquerie is, as she confirmed in a Deadline  article. According to the Emmy winner, she is hoping for a second season to find out who it is.  Season one of the roller-coaster series was filled with outrageous twists and turns, and incredible acting from beloved Hollywood vets and fresh rising stars. Will there be a second season? You’ll have to wait and find out.

Grab a box of Kleenex and have your support buddy nearby. Tonight’s episode is filled with family, hope, heartbreak, reunions and I don’t mean between Gabi and Sir. [SPOILERS] The family ties that binds continues to unravel as we swing back into case of the week.  The tether between Gabi and Sir continues to stretch and hover as Gabi tries to make amends with Trent and her team. The level of disarray spreads wider as each person drifts into their daily silos. Lacey is found (she took a midnight stroll) and continues to be the peacekeeper of the group. Margaret goes rogue and takes lead on a cold case of a missing young woman - Adela. A young boy was found and he has similar features to Adela. We learn this is her son, which gives Margaret and the family hope she is still alive.  It is still quite evident nothing has repaired between Margaret and Gabi and she has become more distant with her colleagues. Luckily, Margaret’s instincts are flowing and what Gabi mistakes as ambition is quickly stifled when Margaret makes her intentions clear, “You are going away soon and I want to know I can do this work without you,” she says. Ouch. We also have Christian returning to town with Sir waiting in his hotel room. Even though etiquette is a must, Sir does not have a gift basket waiting for his estranged brother. But he does have a request sweetened with a warning, “...she is not for you…Gabrielle and I are soul mates, she will come to me”. Sir gives Christian a recorded message to deliver to Gabi and reminds him “you’re only safe because I want you to be”. I think Christian should leave town again. Especially if he doesn’t appreciate all the sacrifice Sir made by shielding him (and Lena?) from their “belligerent” mother. In hopes of finding Adela, we finally meet Trent’s dad who was the training officer on this case. I admit this was a lackluster introduction. I assumed he would be a force of nature but there may be more to unravel in future episodes. What we do know is that he wants the best for his son, and he knows Gabi has a strong hold over him. Back at M&A, Gabi receives the recording from Christian. Should she listen to it? Margaret says no, but once again – Lacey is the voice of reason. To save Adela and bring her home, they should do everything they can to solve the case. As everyone leaves the room, Gabi prepares herself and listens to the recording. She not only hears Sir, but she sees him. She is engrossed in what he says to her. Watching her through the glass, Dhan and Lacey can see Gabi in this moment. Interacting as if someone is there. This dance she and Sir do is being displayed, giving them concern and yet insight into their connection.  As they watch, Sir is excited to have a case worthy of their attention. He begins to walk Gabi through possible scenarios. The kidnapper is not family or friend. Maybe an outsider looking in. Focusing on proximity, someone who is a Voyeur took Adela. Where was she taken? Where was her son found? Who would benefit from their pain. Why allow her to give birth? And keep the child? The kidnapper likes to watch the pain of the family. These were great moments to keep the audience engaged and a part of the search. It had me going through my mental rolodex as to who it could possibly be. Margaret finds Maddie’s jacket in the lobby with a note in it from Adela. The team continues their search, looking for a common thread which leads them to a local restaurant owner. They race to his home where Adela is found in a basement. We see how her son escaped which led to her rescue. Reuniting Adela with her parents and son was the most tender moments of TV I’ve seen in a long time. Casting was spot on for the Diaz family and it hit all the right emotional love notes about faith and family.  As the episode closes with a press conference, the police department announces a new task force to connect with the community, solve crimes and stop vigilantes. The gloves are off towards M&A and Gabi received the message loud and clear.  Sir is still on the run, but will he continue to send Gabi recordings? Does he have a partner out there helping him? Could it be Lena? And why was Margaret arrested? I hope she got to change her shirt and wash her hair before that happened. Share your thoughts below. Found is on NBC Thursday and streaming on Peacock.

Megan Thee Stallion’s documentary is one of the most emotional portrayals of mental health awareness and self-prioritization. It offers a raw, unfiltered look not only into Megan Thee Stallion but into Megan Pete as a person. Throughout the documentary, we see the range of emotions Megan experiences as she shares her struggles, trials, and triumphs. Megan built a strong support system inspired by her late mother and grandmother. When her father returned to her life, they developed a strong bond, and he helped shape her rapping style. The loss of her father was one of the hardest moments in her life. She didn’t allow herself to feel the full weight of the grief, focusing on being strong for her mother instead. Megan speaks about her mother’s central role in her life, both as a guiding force in her career and as a source of unwavering love. Losing her mother so suddenly devastated Megan, even as her career continued to rise. She buried herself in work without processing her grief, which eventually brought people into her life who didn’t have her best interests at heart. The documentary also reveals the traumatic night when she was shot by Tory Lanez, an event that changed her life. Megan discusses her former closeness with Kelsey, showing clips of Kelsey speaking about how much Megan’s mother meant to her. It was clear that Kelsey wanted to support Megan, so it deeply hurt Megan to learn that Kelsey continued associating with the man who shot her and wasn’t willing to speak up about that night. This betrayal affected her deeply. Once again, Megan tried to avoid processing her grief and trauma, instead pouring herself into work until she could no longer ignore the toll it took. She eventually took a month-long mental break, allowing her to rebuild herself and set healthier priorities. She emerged from her sabbatical stronger, even as she faced the stress of testifying against Tory Lanez. The lack of support from other rap stars, especially men, combined with online harassment, only made the situation more difficult. It was distressing to see how many people blamed her or refused to acknowledge her pain. Megan ultimately lost nearly all of her core support system, relying mostly on her cousin, who remains a strong source of support. Despite the success she’s achieved, she has faced continuous backlash and challenges from people who seem intent on undermining her. This is one of the best documentaries I have ever seen. Megan Thee Stallion—Megan Pete—allows viewers to see her raw, unfiltered, and unapologetically herself. You witness her struggles, her success, her pain, and her process of rebuilding. I highly recommend this documentary to gain insight into the woman behind the name Megan Thee Stallion and to see the person that is Megan Pete. What did you think? Drop a comment and vote in our poll.

Short Summary:  This is a short comedy about Evan Alvarez, a High School English Teacher in Austin, TX.  He is half Columbian, and surrounded by some quirky teachers, friends,  ex-boyfriend, a straight-laced principal and a potential love interest.  His students add hilarity and wisdom beyond their years to complete this oddly comedic collection of characters.  They challenge his wannabe comfortable, quiet life. Evan is also openly gay, but not overly emphasized.  It attains a level of comedic charm with its ensemble of actors. It has potential. This show is for mature audiences. NOTE:  There are only 8 episodes with this first season.  To Date, the show has not been renewed, yet.  The last epi, S1E8, aired Monday, 14 October 2024. This epi begins with one of Evan’s students asking for help in determining if he's gay.  Evan is taken by surprise, and gives him a confusing explanation of what to do that makes no sense, and brings the laughs.  His student leaves to do as advised.  Later, Evan’s ex gives him a surprise birthday party at a gay bar they used to frequent when they were together.  Evan is Really surprised to find his work friends there. There are some fun times watching his work friends in that environment. Evan clumsily tries to help ease his stressed out principal and the tough guy football coach.  The coach blended in just fine.  The laughs came from the subtle innuendos, and slightly drunken situations. Evan shocks everyone by kissing his ex while karaoking.  This epi ends with all the teachers and principal relaxing poolside at a friend's house.  Evan and his ex also get back together.  This was a cutely, entertaining episode and show.  What did you think of the show? Drop a comment an vote in our poll.

In episode 8 of Ryan Murphy’s American Sports Story, Aaron Hernandez spirals even more out of control mentally, and develops a new friendship that turns deadly.  The doomed episode began with Odin Lloyd, one of the real-life victims of Hernandez, getting breakfast made by his mom. Shayanna’s sister dated Odin, who was a fan of Aaron.  The four of them were supposed to have dinner, but Aaron was too busy getting high. Shayanna tells him to come home immediately. He finally meets Odin, who says he plays semi-pro football. The conversation actually goes well and Aaron senses that he’s a good guy.  Aaron’s world shifts when his cousin Tanya tells him she has breast cancer and has already started chemotherapy. It’s a very emotional moment, especially since viewers have seen them be each other’s rock. Tanya assures Aaron that she isn’t going anywhere.  In the locker room, Murphy calls Aaron to inform him that Sherrod has filed a lawsuit against him and advises him to settle the case. The Patriots player agrees angrily.  Shayanna returns home to comfort Aaron about Tanya and invites him to watch Odin play with her and her sister. Aaron instantly becomes Odin’s biggest cheerleader and even takes pictures with his teammates after the game is over. Aaron also gives Odin money so that he can hang out and skip work the next morning.  At the club, Odin starts to see Aaron’s ways of drinking and doing drugs. When the star tight end hallucinates and sees Sherrod, he invites his friends back to his place, where Odin gets teased about being whipped.  Aaron then shows his new friend his gun closet and explains the reasoning for needing it. The room becomes tense, filled with an unmistakable sense of discomfort, emanating from Odin. Odin leaves when Aaron falls asleep and comes home to an angry Shanea, letting it slip that Aaron has a secret home.  Shayanna and Aaron’s marriage unravels when she arrives at the apartment, revealing that she knows everything, which puts a target on Odin’s back literally. During practice, Aaron’s anger boils over, and he gets into a physical brawl with his teammates, which Bill Belichick seems to relish.  After failing to contact Shayanna and Odin, Aaron gathers his people and ambushes Odin at his house. They arrive at a dark, unknown location where Aaron forces Odin to tell him everything he knows, eventually shooting him twice. It was a grim and dreadful scene.  Shayanna asks Aaron to come home when news breaks about the murder. Not long after, Aaron asks Shayanna to get rid of something for him.  The episode ends with the police arriving at Aaron’s house to question him about Odin’s murder. Aaron turns them away, leaving Shayanna worried and distressed as she looks over her sleeping sister. Does Shayanna know about Aaron’s deplorable crime?  In episode 9, viewers will be introduced to the NFL player’s life behind bars and the consequences of his arrest. It will air November 5 on FX and will stream on Hulu the next day.

The second episode of Poppa’s House  builds on the strong start, balancing humor and heartfelt moments while delving deeper into family and relationship dynamics. Damon Wayans and Damon Wayans Jr. continue to shine with their natural chemistry, setting the tone for an engaging watch. The episode kicks off with Damon paying an unannounced visit to Poppa’s house—a visit that Poppa isn’t thrilled about, despite them being neighbors. Damon arrives to celebrate Poppa finishing the remodel of his home, which should be cause for joy. However, Poppa, ever the curmudgeon, just wants to stick to his early bedtime routine. It’s the allure of Nina’s lasagna that finally convinces him to join the dinner. Meanwhile, at the radio station, Poppa and Ivy clash in a lively "battle of the sexes" segment. Things escalate when a heartbroken caller seeks advice on dealing with a breakup. Poppa dismisses him as overly emotional, and a "simp". He cuts the call short. Ivy, however, senses unresolved emotions in Poppa, especially when he dodges questions about what he misses about being married. Their exchange highlights Poppa’s old-school mindset clashing with Ivy’s modern sensibilities, hinting at deeper layers beneath their banter. Later, Ivy pushes professional boundaries by showing up at Poppa’s house unannounced, intent on prying into his personal life.  Poppa tricks her into leaving but just as Ivy back in, Nina and Damon arrive with the promised lasagna. Nina, a fan of Ivy’s work, invites her to stay for dinner, much to Poppa’s annoyance. The dinner scene is filled with both laughs and tension, as Ivy provides unsolicited couples counseling, projecting her personal struggles onto Nina and Damon’s relationship. Poppa, surprisingly, plays the voice of reason, advising the couple to stay strong through their challenges. Ivy later comes to see that Poppa is right and their dynamic takes on new tension—still adversarial, but now with a hint of intrigue. The scenes underscore how Poppa’s House  balances humor with real-life relationship issues, making the show both entertaining and relatable. This episode further cements the chemistry among the cast, with each character bringing something unique to the story. The witty banter, playful tension and occasional emotional moments keep viewers engaged, promising even more development in future episodes. With laughs and heart in equal measure, Poppa’s House  continues to evolve into a compelling family comedy. Catch new episodes of Poppa’s House  every Monday on CBS, with streaming available on Paramount+ the following day.

Alright, so let’s start off by saying this is different from the “ Down on my Luck, Back against the Winddd”, playwriting Tyler Perry that we are all used to. “Beauty In Black” is the latest Netflix hit written, produced, and directed by Tyler Perry. Those that deep dived in found themselves in a world of drama, lies, sex, and more SEX!  The 8 episode series starring Taylor Polidore, Crystle Stewart, Ricco Ross, Richard Lawson, Charles Malik Whitfield, Debbi Morgan and many other talented actors follow the complex lives of the Bellaire family and those impacted by them.  On one side of town, you have the esteemed Bellaire Family. They are noted as moguls in the Beauty Industry, yet family secrets threaten to rip everything that generations have worked for to shreds. CEO Mallory Bellaire (Crystle Stewart), although married into the family, is just as cut-throat and selfish as every other member of the family! She has no problem using people to get what she wants, when she wants. The same goes for her husband, Roy (Julian Horton). If Roy focused half as much energy into helping the family business or even his marriage as he does sex, alcohol, and drugs, maybe things would be different for them.  On the other side, Kimmie (Taylor Polidore) finds herself in some legal trouble after being kicked out at 17 years old by her mom. After avoiding jail time, she is coerced into paying off her debt at a Bi-Sexual strip club in Chicago, owned and operated underground by Jules (Charles Malik Whitfield). A chance encounter with an older man (Ricco Ross) at the club offers her a glimpse of hope in a rather dull situation. Her journey is one of many trials and tribulations as she navigates through betrayal, prostitution, and a whole lot of drama!  Whew! Dynamics and representation within the Black Community highlight different issues as stereotypical topics are noted. Such as how one views societal beauty standards, financial stressors within families and options to make it out of poverty as well as how someone shows up for the people they love. The plot skillfully shows the drive and will of the characters to survive throughout the series aid in the resilient storylines that follow. Overall, Perry’s unique and consistent way of storytelling and cinematography gives the perfect blend of emotional impact and drama that leaves the audience invested and wanting more! “Beauty In Black” is scheduled to release new episodes in Spring 2025. Until then, you can stream all 8 episodes now on Netflix.

All good things must come to an end! And, so it goes as the curtain falls on the final episode of Season 4 of “Only Murders in the Building.”  Though the season-ender proved to be light on the whirlwind breakout laughter that has come to define the mystery-comedy series, starring Steve Martin, Martin Short, and Selena Gomez, it did bring unusually quiet humor, a tinge of suspense, and surprisingly heartfelt moments throughout to tie a nice bow around the season.  The setup from episode 9’s dramatic reveal allowed the finale to weave the unexpected into a plausible narrative for the modern-day whodunit. As a matter of fact, it’s just plausible enough that the only thing that truly remains farfetched in the series is the inordinate amount of people who seem to drop dead in this one apartment building. Seriously, it’s a revelation that should be studied or, at the very least, invite a modicum of concern from the authorities. But, I digress. For those trying to keep up, this season centered on the murder of Sazz Pataki, Charles’ (Martin) long-time stunt double from his Brazzos TV show days. Sazz was found dead in Charles’ apartment at the close of Season 3, and as luck would have it, a short list of suspects pop in and out of the frame as the season progresses, until there was only but one.  When we last we saw our trio of true crime podcasters, Mabel (Gomez) had just found an original script of the fictional “Only Murders” movie, but unknowingly written by Sazz, stuffed in a case of Irish beer in her refrigerator, while rookie scriptwriter Marshall P. Pope stews over his own script’s needed re-writes in her apartment. Across town, Charles (Martin) and Oliver (Short) had a light-bulb moment figuring out Sazz’s murderer over soup, with the help of iconic movie director Ron Howard. Charles and Oliver attempted to give Mabel a heads-up on their discovery, but the message falls into the wrong hands, literally.  While much of the episode centers on the killer’s confession monologue and crime scene walk-through, the reveal is not only clever but also ties in beautifully with some of the series’ nostalgia, if you have been paying attention. The final moments bring closure to various character arcs, particularly Oliver’s search for true love, Charles fight to avenge a friend, and Mabel’s quest to be…well, just Mabel. The resolution of the murder mystery, complete with a dramatic confrontation and a sprinkle of “wait, what?,” is satisfying enough and leaves you with the best feeling that there will be more.  To also wrap up the season is the fictional show-within-a-show subplot of the “Only Murders” movie production. With it comes the return of the crime-solving trio’s movie alter egos, played by Eugene Levy, Zach Galifianakis, and Eva Longoria as themselves, and a brief appearance of fictional movie executive Bev Melon, played in more reserved fashion this go-round by Molly Shannon.  In a masterful balance of comedic moments and just enough genuine tension, the show never fails in allowing the characters to shine in their eccentricities while keeping the plot tightly woven to the bitter end. Though, admittedly, the success of this season, as with all others before, rests squarely on the on-screen dynamic and chemistry of the series’ three popular leads. Their witty banter, timing, and interactions with the support players — including their West Tower neighbors, the movie set doubles, and even confronting the one who did it — result in fun-filled experiences that keep the audience guessing even as they are slapped in the face with the a-ha moments. As the wrap up unfolds, the episode takes a turn, leading to that proverbial curveball in the denouement that reminds you that what you thought were throw-away scenes leading up to that point were decidedly potential clues — all of them. A highlight of the series not given enough attention the season is the show’s aesthetics. Visually, the episode maintains the show's signature style—meticulously curated set designs, unique background decor to match the moment, and even a whimsical score at times that enhances the humorous elements. The cinematography, something that is perhaps the most underrated, deftly captures the most stunning character in the “Only Murders” cast  — the Arconia apartment building, itself. The grand, old world architecture of the residential enclave in NYC’s upper west side, with its vintage charm and renaissance-styling, provides a beautiful canvas on which the show effectively captures the unique blend of mystery, humor, and character-driven storytelling.  Though, Only Murders wrapped its fourth season with a quiet close, of sorts, the finale not only delivers on the promise of a wedding and a mystery yet to come. It also succeeds in  reinforcing the notion that while murder may be foul, laughter remains THE best remedy. Created by Steve Martin and John Hoffman, “Only Murders in the Building” has been renewed for a fifth season. Until then, catch all 10 episodes for season 4 streaming now on Hulu.

Title:  Billion Dollar Revenge Author: Sharon Wood Genre:  Contemporary Romance Release Date: October 25th 2024 Rating: Enjoyed Spice: Flamin Hot Cheeto Synopsis: Revenge is so much sweeter when it’s with your ex- boyfriend's billionaire boss. And it doesn’t hurt that his broody boss looks hot as sin in a three-piece suit. Thoughts: Revenge has never been so sweet. This story had me fist bumping the air in sweet sweet victory. I dislike cheaters, so watching Chelsea rile up Billy with her upgrade, was great. Chelsea’s inability to let others really get in there and help her, was relatable af. Cause #missindependent , no? Although Chelsea’s desire & drive for the HEA with the marriage & kids made her seem a bit desperate to me, understanding the drive to take control back of her life put it in perspective.  Evan Lincoln, is the man of many women's fantasies. Billionaire owner of a media empire who loves his family and has regular chats/visits & dinners with his nana. A man who loves his nana? Gets the ovaries kicking every time. Sharon Woods knew what she was doing when she brought that man to life on page and I thank her.  Though there is plenty of spice, and even some chuckles, at its center, this book reminds us to never stop following our dreams.  Quotes:  For those who dream big, find someone who will help turn that dream into reality. Don’t settle.   *Author Dedication I want her to smother me with her pussy. -Evan  I’m used to handling everything on my own, so the idea of someone actually stepping in to help feels foreign.  -Chelsea **************                                                                                       @booksteantravel Rating: LOVED= 5 Stars. A new fav. Will be talking about every chance I get.  ENJOYED= 4-3 Stars.  It wasn’t a life changer but I would recommend.  0-2 Stars/ DNF= I will not post a review about a book I didn’t enjoy or did not finish. Good vibes only. I support anyone who’s brave enough to create their own work and put it out into the world for others.  Spice:  Puffy Cheeto- No Spice.  Crunchy Cheeto- Closed Door/Fade to Black Flamin Hot Cheeto- Spicy. A few detailed scenes.  Takis- Erotica. With more mature themes. Thoughts? Drop a comment!

Title:  The Desire Variable Author: Ana D’Arcy Genre:  Contemporary Romance Release Date: October 15th, 2024 Rating: Enjoyed Spice: Flamin Hot Cheeto Synopsis: Andy starts a new job at a dream company, with a dream team. All but her surly, slightly sexist and annoyingly sexy boss, Alexander (Lex) Coleman. The tension becomes too much and soon the two begin a workplace romance that can only end in heartbreak.  Thoughts:  This was another hilariously spicy book from Ana D’Arcy. I love the women in STEM rep, the Mexican/American woman rep, and the deaf/hard of hearing rep.  Andy is ‘second- hand embarrassment’ funny, her desire to do meaningful work while also breaking glass ceilings, makes her a FMC I love to support.  Lex however, leaves a lot to be desired. He’s toxic but not in the fun “who hurt you? I’ll unalive them” kinda way. More like, “I’m controlling but will have you think it’s something you have to fix in me, and will blow up YOUR world in a misguided way of protecting you from dangers only I see in a way that uses the very fears you already expressed to me, against you”, kind of way.  Although I enjoyed the book, it did end on a cliffhanger, which I take as a personal attack, so shame on you Ms. D’Arcy.  Now to twiddle my thumbs as I wait to ride the drama llama that is sure to be the conclusion of this story.  Quotes:    To those who know that the line between love and hate can be very, very thin. Here’s to passionate arguments and even more passionate makeups. *Author Dedication Fuck me dead and bury me pregnant. The man is temptation incarnate. -Andy The man is a f*king encyclopedia, and I enjoy his display of gray matter a little too much. -Andy He has some sweet moves for a white boy. -Andy “I would ask how the sex is, but you’re practically limping.” -Kate   **************                                                                                       @booksteantravel Rating: LOVED= 5 Stars. A new fav. Will be talking about every chance I get.  ENJOYED= 4-3 Stars.  It wasn’t a life changer but I would recommend.  0-2 Stars/ DNF= I will not post a review about a book I didn’t enjoy or did not finish. Good vibes only. I support anyone who’s brave enough to create their own work and put it out into the world for others.  Spice:  Puffy Cheeto- No Spice.  Crunchy Cheeto- Closed Door/Fade to Black Flamin Hot Cheeto- Spicy. A few detailed scenes.  Takis- Erotica. With more mature themes. What did you think? Drop a comment!