family Archives - Page 8 of 23

My performance of the week ending 4/20/19 on TV goes to…

Lili Reinhart as Betty Cooper on Riverdale. Lili brings such a fire to Betty’s character. I love how she takes on all the adults in town and is never afraid to follow her instincts. I’ve always loved the character of Nancy Drew and Lili brings me right back to that nostalgia with her portrayal of Betty Cooper. Betty is smart, resourceful, and extremely loyal. She will do anything to protect her family and friends and she is not about to let Edgar or Evelyn Evernever get in her way.

Even though Betty may have a darkness brewing inside her, sometimes this is necessary, as long as she can channel it. It gives her the drive and passion to keep going, as she becomes so motivated and determined. One should never underestimate Betty Cooper. Just when you think you may have her all figured out, she surprises you and reminds you that there are so many layers to her character.

What’s next for Betty? We’ll have to stay tuned to find out, but she made a very difficult decision when she let her mother go. Whether it was the right decision or not, Betty proves to be selfless in this moment, as she puts Alice’s needs before her own. I am worried about her visits with her father, Hal, as this can cause her darkness to reach the surface. Betty may be her “father’s daughter,” but she is so much more than that.

I think that she has the potential to unmask the Gargoyle King and to take down the Farm. She’s not afraid to to do what is necessary to uncover the truth. However, I think that it’s important that Betty keeps her connections with her friends and family steady. Having Jughead, Toni, and Veronica in her corner can really help her and it will also keep her darkness in check. I can’t wait to see what she does next!

Stay tuned for a recognized performance on TV each week!

Best,

Amy Koto, TV Fanatic Girl

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Have a performance on TV that you think is simply outstanding? Feel free to contact me with your nomination for the week by Friday at midnight!

**I am so excited to announce that my book, The Search for Alice, is now available! If you enjoy dark fantasy, fairy-tale retellings, paranormal romance, horror, and mystery, then this might be the book for you or someone you know! Thank you for taking the time to check it out and I appreciate any feedback as well. I hope you enjoy!

**Book Two of the Dreaming of Wonderland series is scheduled to come out in June 2019 so stay tuned on that!!!!!

The Search for Alice is available here!

Free Instant Preview of The Search for Alice is available here!

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Ranking the top 5 moments from “Supernatural” season 14 episode 19: “Jack in the Box”

Happy Friday TV fans! After watching the CW’s Supernatural season 14 episode 19, I realized that innocence can be dangerous. Good intentions can easily be manipulated or distorted and trusting the people you care about the most can help or hurt you. But what happens when that trust is finally broken? Do we give in to the emptiness or do we still try to find a glimmer of humanity buried within? Please note major spoilers are ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch yet. In last night’s episode, “Jack in the Box,” Sam and Dean try to honor Mary and have a meaningful discussion with other Bobby. Meanwhile, Jack continues to be pestered by Lucifer and is tricked into doing “God’s work” by Duma. My top 5 moments from Supernatural season 14 episode 19 are:

“We’re so glad for the time that we had.”

In the beginning of the episode, Sam and Dean hold a memorial service for Mary and invite some of their hunter friends. Dean talks about how they got a second chance with her and how they really got to know Mary as a person. He explains that she was strong and stubborn as hell and also mentions that she really couldn’t cook worth a damn, but this moment was truly touching, as we see how many lives Mary influenced over the years. However, the moment when Dean goes off by himself and is just seen crying was very powerful for me and caused me to shed a few tears of my own. Dean always tries to be so strong for his friends and family, but when he is by himself, he finally allows himself a moment to truly mourn the loss of his mother.

“If his human side is gone, you know what’s left…Lucifer.”

Other Bobby makes an appearance at Mary’s memorial and takes out a monster who was lurking in the crowd, but please make sure he gets his hatchet back! Bobby actually provides Sam, Dean, and Castiel with some great advice, as he reminds them about what they need to do. Even other Bobby explains that he has a soft spot for Jack, but he understands that sometimes you need to do what is necessary for the greater good. Dean seems all for this, but can Castiel and Sam follow along? We know that they both have a strong connection to Jack and it may be more difficult for them to try and eliminate him, as they understand that he doesn’t fully comprehend his actions.

“It doesn’t have to be a dream.”

After Castiel fills Duma in about what’s going on with Jack, she takes this opportunity to use him to her advantage. Duma is trying to secure her place as the leader of heaven and she manipulates Jack by telling him that Sam and Dean would want him to do God’s work. However, Jack starts to take some passages from the bible too literally when he actually begins to make them come true. I even had to turn away from the screen when the worms started eating that pastor from the inside. Gross! Jack still has so much naivete, but this is now dangerous because he doesn’t have a soul to truly think about the consequences of his actions. Jack begins to make going to heaven a reality and he’s even making angels out of humans, which could become a very dangerous threat.

“They never loved you…”

Lucifer continues to exist within Jack’s mind and it doesn’t look like he is going anywhere. Jack tries to tell him that he doesn’t want to listen to him, but Lucifer can be very convincing and he plays on Jack’s weaknesses. He repeatedly tells Jack that he cannot trust the Winchesters and tries to get Jack to unleash the power within him. Is Jack a greater threat than Lucifer? I’m not sure, but it doesn’t help that he has him cheering in his mind’s corner at all times.

“I don’t know if I can do it.”

Dean recognizes that they cannot defeat Jack because he is so powerful, but he can be contained. He circles back to the Ma’lak box, which he was going to use to trap him and Michael once upon a time. Dean tells Sam that he needs to be the one to lie to Jack, but Sam is not sure that he can do this. Jack trusts Sam so completely and Dean knows that he will do what he says, promising that they are working on some sort of spell to restore Jack’s soul even though this is not true. Sam does what he has to and locks Jack inside, but his guilt is overwhelming him.

Castiel eliminates Duma and tries to tell the Winchesters that Jack was tricked, but it’s too late. The trust has been broken and Jack is actually able to tap into enough of his power to break free from the box with Lucifer’s support. Jack stares at Sam, Dean, and Castiel with glowing eyes, suggesting that he has become something even more powerful. Is there any way to stop Jack? Stay tuned for the season finale next week!

I hope you enjoyed the list and feel free to post your own thoughts and theories on Supernatural in the comments section below. Thanks so much for reading and happy viewing!

**Book Two of the Dreaming of Wonderland series is scheduled to come out in June 2019 so stay tuned on that!!!!!

The Search for Alice is available here!

Free Instant Preview of The Search for Alice is available here!

**If you enjoyed this blog, I would love it if you would click the follow button on your way out to subscribe. Thanks for your support!

Do you love horror series? Of course you do! Please also check out 12 Nights of Horror Series Coming Soon. It’s your home for everything you need to know about new and returning horror television series including new trailers, premiere dates, reviews, recaps, and renewals!

Ranking the top 5 moments from “Riverdale” season 3 episode 18: “She’s her Father’s Daughter”

Happy Thursday TV fans! After watching the CW’s Riverdale season 3 episode 18, the Invasion of the Body Snatchers drama continued, as some of our favorite characters dove deeper into trouble. Whether they were looking for answers or comfort, darkness is never too far away in Riverdale. Please note spoilers are ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch yet. In last night’s episode, “Chapter Fifty-Three: Jawbreaker,” Jughead works with FP to investigate the town’s latest murder. Meanwhile, Betty tries to get through to Alice, Toni worries about Cheryl’s involvement in the Farm, and Archie is up for a rematch with Veronica’s full support. My top 5 moments from Riverdale season 3 episode 18 are:

“I felt reborn.”

In the beginning of the episode, Betty continues her conversation with Edgar Evernever, who begins to reveal more about himself. Edgar explains that he previously felt lost and found himself on a farm, which made him want to recreate that feeling of being reborn with his own farm. Betty recognizes that it sounds like a nice story and all, but she is not buying it whatsoever. Edgar does not reveal anything about how Cheryl and Alice are seeing their dead relatives, as he vaguely explains that they are discovering the best versions of themselves. Betty refuses to let Edgar turn everything around on her and decides to get through to her mother once and for all.

“I’m always in your corner…”

Archie feels very passionate about honoring Baby Teeth’s death and Veronica works with him to get their gym, the El Royale, in the spotlight. Elio agrees to let Archie have a rematch against Randy, but decides to dose him with “G,” which is some kind of bad batch of fizzle rocks that apparently turns people into zombies. Not really, but the foaming at the mouth and the extreme behavior sort of had me thinking along those lines. I mean, they are only a town away from Sabrina and Greendale so anything is possible.

Archie is able to knock Randy out, but the drugs may have actually done a lot of damage, as Randy is not waking up yet. Even though the fight was entertaining, I was more interested in the lingering stare between Archie and Veronica. Is there hope for Varchie? It looks that way and even Josie notices that Veronica certainly didn’t hold back when she purchased Archie some new attire for the fight.

“You’re a daughter who wants her mother back just like I want my girlfriend back.”

Finally someone else notices what is going on with the Farm! After Cheryl trades in her signature red for a white ensemble, Toni is beyond concerned about her. Toni approaches Betty, who fills her in on what she knows so far. Toni continues to try and get through to Cheryl, but Evelyn has other plans. Evelyn confronts Toni and Toni tells her, “Bitch I love her and she loves me.” Seriously Evelyn, you better watch out. Evelyn proves to be manipulative and conniving, as she tells Cheryl that she needs to choose between Toni and Jason. Toni says that there has to be another way and begins her own runway walk down the halls sporting some white attire.

I was a little worried that we had lost our girl Toni to the Farm as well, but she is undercover, still working with Betty. I have to say that I really enjoyed the interactions between Betty and Toni in this episode. We don’t typically see too much between these two, but they both have a common goal now and I’m interested to see them continue to work together to bring down the Farm for good.

“I will kill you…”

After crossing Toni, Evelyn makes the mistake of confronting Betty. Betty has had enough and slams Evelyn against a locker and threatens her. Go Betty! She tells her that she sees right through her and wants her to stop messing with her and her family. Betty doesn’t want to give up on her mother and even resorts to kidnapping her and keeping her in Dilton’s bunker. It seems a bit extreme, but Betty will do anything for her mother. Betty tells Alice, “The past is part of who you are,” but Alice doesn’t seem to want to remember the pain. Alice even begins burning the old photos that Betty shows her and Betty comes to the realization that she may need to let her mother go after all.

After listening to one of the tapes, Betty hears her mother’s thoughts on her, recognizing the same darkness in Betty that she saw in Hal. Betty continues to confide in her father about everything, but now he wants a favor in return. He’s ready to return home, but I’m not really sure how that would work. I mean, you don’t just get to leave prison and all. Betty is continuously pushed again and again, but will this release the darkness within her or will she channel her love for her friends and family?

“Save the little princess.”

After Jughead and FP catch Kurtz, Kurtz continues to be overly creepy and tells Jughead that “Baby Teeth was only the warm up to the ultimate quest.” He further explains that there is still one final game for Jughead and his family and we cut to Jellybean being brought to the Gargoyle King. I have so many questions here. Now that we have been focusing on the Farm so much, the Gargoyle King has taken a back seat, but it looks like he or she is done hiding in the shadows. However, why is the Gargoyle King so interested in the Jones family? Is there a connection between the Gargoyle King and Gladys? We know that she is controlling the drug trade, but is she somehow pulling the Gargoyle King’s strings as well. I previously thought that Hermione could be the woman behind the mask, but I’m not really sure what she would get out of hurting the Jones family.

There are a lot more players now and it’s difficult to determine who is the true Gargoyle King. Jughead also previously thought that perhaps Baby Teeth was murdered by a copy cat killer. Baby Teeth clearly struggled and he had a matchbook stuck in his throat from the Maple Club, which also potentially incriminates Penelope Blossom. We know that there is a connection between the Gargoyle King and the Midnight club from so many years ago, but what is the real motive here? If the Jones family is at the center of it, we need to carefully look at all of their potential allies and enemies. It looks like no one can really be cleared as innocent, but what is their end goal? Stay tuned!

I hope you enjoyed the list and feel free to post your own thoughts and theories on Riverdale in the comments section below. Thanks so much for reading and happy viewing!

**Book Two of the Dreaming of Wonderland series is scheduled to come out in June 2019 so stay tuned on that!!!!!

The Search for Alice is available here!

Free Instant Preview of The Search for Alice is available here!

**If you enjoyed this blog, I would love it if you would click the follow button on your way out to subscribe. Thanks for your support!

My Ship of the week ending 4/6/19 on TV goes to…

Joel and Sheila Hammond on Santa Clarita Diet. So I recently binge-watched the first two seasons of this show on Netflix and I’m about to finish up the third season and I fell in love with Joel and Sheila. They may be the cutest couple I have seen on television in a while. Their chemistry is amazing and they are absolutely hilarious together. I almost feel like they could be married in real life because they are so in sync with one another. Their marriage is far from perfect, but it becomes so much more complicated when Sheila becomes undead. You would think that Joel would take his daughter and run for the hills, but he is there for Sheila every step of the way. They are the perfect partners in crime and they keep the laughs and passion going.

I constantly root for these two and I think that they represent what a true marriage or partnership is all about. They are willing to take the fall for one another and they even take their vows to the next level. I mean, until death do us part could get Joel out of this contract, but he’s not going anywhere. His love for Sheila is beautiful and unconditional and I absolutely love watching these two go on crazy adventures together. They balance each other out perfectly and they further their friendship as well. Their relationship continues to be tested over and over, but they stay strong and keep their family together.

What’s next for Joel and Sheila? We’ll have to stay tuned to find out, but it looks like Joel has a very important decision to make about his future. Even though it seems like new threats are being thrown their way constantly, I know that Joel and Sheila’s love will never burn out, as they truly represent an epic ship for me, proving that anything is possible when you have the person you love beside you.

Stay tuned for a recognized Ship on TV each week!

Best,

Amy Koto, TV Fanatic Girl

[twitter-follow screen_name=’TV_Fanatic_Girl’]

Have a Ship that you think is absolutely swoon-worthy? Feel free to contact me with your nomination for the week by Friday at midnight!

The Search for Alice is available here!

Free Instant Preview of The Search for Alice is available here!

**If you enjoyed this blog, I would love it if you would click the follow button on your way out to subscribe. Thanks for your support!

Ranking the top 5 moments from “Supernatural” season 14 episode 17: “Game Night”

Happy Friday TV fans! After watching the CW’s Supernatural season 14 episode 17, Jo reminded us that “we’re all lonely because we’re all alone.” But does that mean we stop trying to make connections? Castiel later pointed out that we’re not alone because we have each other, but what happens when the people we count on the most slip away from us? Please note major spoilers are ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch yet. In last night’s episode, “Game Night,” Dean gets a disturbing phone call from Donatello that interrupts Game Night with the family. Meanwhile, Castiel tracks down Jo and asks for her help. My top 5 moments from Supernatural season 14 episode 17 are:

“I thought this was supposed to relax him.”

Dean is ready for a fun night with the family, but he gets a little bit too frustrated trying to put together the Mouse Trap game, which was absolutely hilarious. I definitely shared his frustration, as I remember spending countless hours trying to do the very same thing. However, this fun moment is interrupted when Dean gets a call from Donatello. It’s clear that Donatello is in trouble and he needs to go check it out with Sam, so it looks like Game Night will be put on hold for now.

“I’m grateful for every day I get to spend with you and Sam.”

Mary is back in this episode and starts talking to Dean about being closed off, but that she’s here for them now. Dean is very much like his mother so he understands, but I started to notice that Mary was really talking a lot about her feelings for her sons. She has a brief heart-to-heart talk with both Sam and Dean, which made me wonder if this meant that something big was about to happen to her…

“I need your help to contact God.”

Castiel tracks down Jo, played by the wonderful Danneel Ackles, and asks for her help. Castiel starts off by giving her a lovely set of earrings, but Jo realizes that something is up. Castiel knows that Jo spent quite a bit of time with Joshua and that he had a connection to God. Only God can restore Jack’s soul, but why didn’t Castiel inform Sam and Dean about this? Jo hilariously comments on Castiel’s “lone wolf desperation,” but begrudgingly agrees to help him. After tracking down the item they need, Castiel places a long distance call to God, but I’m not sure if he got the message. Let’s hope so!

“Nobody stays dead anymore…you know that.”

After Sam and Dean try to track down Donatello, they discover that Nick is there waiting for them. Nick is surprised when he doesn’t get a “hey, how you been” response, but what is his end game here? We know that Nick is desperate for Lucifer to return to him, but how is Donatello connected? Dean comments that Nick is “freakin coco puffs” and he’s not wrong, but that doesn’t make him any less dangerous. After Jack threatens Nick, he agrees to give up Donatello’s location, but we discover that Nick wants to use Jack’s blood to communicate with a prophet to ultimately find Lucifer and bring him back.

“You need help…”

After Sam is severely injured by Nick, Dean contacts Jack and Mary for help. They track down Nick and Jack is able to stop him before Lucifer takes over, but Jack takes it too far. He burns Nick alive, killing him, despite Mary’s cries to stop. Jack tries to rationalize his actions and does heal Sam, but Mary later confronts him about everything and tells him that he needs help. Jack’s soul has clearly been damaged and he seems to be having trouble controlling his anger and powers. Jack’s eyes begin glowing, as he tries to make everything stop and we get a major cliffhanger when he simply says, “Mary” at the end before the screen goes black.

It doesn’t look good for Mary here and her loving words to her sons earlier in the episode convince me that she is gone for good. However, I can’t help thinking about how Nick reminded us that “nobody stays dead anymore” and he’s spot on. However, it seems unlikely that both Nick and Mary will be returned to life so is there some other loophole here? Jack has ultimately become even more dangerous and I’m not sure how he will face Sam and Dean now. I’m sure that he will try to spin the story some other way, but it’s only a matter of time before the Winchesters ultimately need to face off against Jack before it’s too late. Stay tuned!

I hope you enjoyed the list and feel free to post your own thoughts and theories on Supernatural in the comments section below. Thanks so much for reading and happy viewing!

The Search for Alice is available here!

Free Instant Preview of The Search for Alice is available here!

Best,

Amy Koto, TV Fanatic Girl

@TV_Fanatic_Girl

[twitter-follow screen_name=’TV_Fanatic_Girl’]

**If you enjoyed this blog, I would love it if you would click the follow button on your way out to subscribe. Thanks for your support!

Ranking the top 5 moments from “SMILF” season 2 episode 10: “Where Do You Want To Escape To?”

Greetings TV viewers! After watching Showtime’s SMILF season 2 episode 10, I realized that Tutu was absolutely right when she said that sometimes we need to leave a door open so that we can escape. Whether that means finding a new adventure, a new life, or leaving the possibility open, sometimes we just need to take that leap of faith and fly…like a bird. Please note spoilers are ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch yet. In tonight’s episode, “Single Mom Is Looking (for) Family,” Bridgette prepares for Larry’s birthday party, but has a lot on her mind. Meanwhile, Tutu is haunted by her past and Nelson reveals a secret to Bridgette. My top 5 moments from SMILF season 2 episode 10 series finale are:

“It’s gonna be me and my sister, Coll, living across the hall.”

Tutu has had a lot of trouble moving on in season 2, but her sister, Jackie, has been very supportive. In this episode, we find out that Tutu does plan on moving out of the house and will be living with Jackie, which could be a step in the right direction. Even though she may end up altering her plans to go somewhere else with Bridgette, it’s nice to see that Tutu has such strong connections in her life. However, she also starts to think about the past when she thinks she sees her former boyfriend in front of her. The image is not real, but it does bring up a lot of unresolved memories and feelings for Tutu.

“You’re like the white girl in the scary movie.”

I was excited that we got to see Eliza again in this episode. After Bridgette confides in Eliza about her mixed feelings for Rafi, Eliza hilariously tells her, “You’re like the white girl in the scary movie that goes down to the basement and is like helllllo?” She may have a point here, but Eliza always keeps the laughs coming. She is ready to discover her path as a doctor and I think that the future is definitely bright for her.

“You just stepped over the boundary.”

Bridgette and Rafi are trying to get Larry to go to sleep and Rafi ends up kissing Bridgette. So I have been shipping these two together for quite some time, but Rafi is still engaged to Nelson and I’m not sure that he has his life back on track just yet. Even though this kiss was swoon-worthy for sure, it doesn’t look like it is the right time for these two to get back together with everything else going on, but I sort of like the idea of them bumping into each other when they are 60 and overweight. Either way, I’m glad that we got to touch on this before the end of the series, as the connection between these two has always been there for me.

“I will help you.”

Nelson confides in Bridgette and tells her that she is pregnant, which is big news, but it looks like Rafi doesn’t know how to process this, as they discover that he has relapsed. In a touching moment, Bridgette tells Nelson that she will help her, which really says so much about Bridgette’s character. She may be far from perfect, but she has a big heart and always tries to do what is right. After confronting Rafi about his drug addiction, Rafi does not want to go to rehab and Nelson seems ready to support him in meetings. However, Bridgette recognizes that she has been down this very same road before. Bridgette’s main concern is for Larry, but it looks like she has just had a major epiphany about her life.

“I just want to be a f*cking person.”

Later on, we end the series with Bridgette and Tutu together, talking about their mistakes and their hopes for the future. Tutu reveals that she has another daughter that she gave up for adoption and Bridgette tells Tutu that she feels like she’s “living someone else’s life.” In a beautiful moment, the bird Bridgette tried to help flies out the window, showing them the way. Where will they escape to? New York? Ireland? I’m not sure, but the future is open for both Bridgette and Tutu and it looks like they will begin discovering it together, which was a clever way to end the show. Even though I am disappointed that we will not see a third season, I think that this show was really unique and different and the characters were so real and resonating. We don’t always have all the answers, but that doesn’t mean that we can’t take things one day at a time and figure them out together.

I hope you enjoyed the list and feel free to post your own thoughts and comments on SMILF below. Thanks so much for reading and happy viewing!

The Search for Alice is available here!

Free Instant Preview of The Search for Alice is available here!

**If you enjoyed this blog, I would love it if you would click the follow button on your way out to subscribe. Thanks for your support!

Ranking the top 5 moments from “Riverdale” season 3 episode 17: “I Was Wondering When We’d Finally Meet”

Happy Thursday TV fans! After watching the CW’s Riverdale season 3 episode 17, Edgar Evernever reminded us that “memories are often painful, but they don’t have to be. They can be a path to revival.” But when one starts manipulating memories and playing on the weaknesses of others, toying with these memories can become extremely dangerous. Please note spoilers are ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch yet. In last night’s episode, “Chapter Fifty-Two: The Master,” Jughead continues to try and stop his mother and the drug trade in his town with the help of Archie and some friends. Meanwhile, Veronica takes a page out of her father’s manipulation playbook and Betty recruits Cheryl to help her listen in on the Farm. My top 5 moments from Riverdale season 3 episode 17 are:

“This ship has sailed.”

Hermione begins to panic when she realizes that she will lose Hiram’s protection if it is publicly known that they are getting a divorce. Hermione explains to Veronica that being a mob boss’s wife is extremely dangerous, but Veronica does remind her mother that she did try to kill her husband…twice. Veronica does not give up on her family and suggests therapy as an option, but Hiram tells her “this ship has sailed.” Meanwhile, Hermione receives some dead fish, implying a threat on her life. Veronica approaches her father for a compromise. Hiram agrees and has their marriage annulled, but keeps Hermione in the public’s eye to keep her safe. However, Hiram is no fool, as he recognizes that Veronica is the one who sent the fish to her mother. Veronica explains that she had to protect her, but no one said it would be easy to outplay the master manipulator, Hiram Lodge.

“I need your help.”

During the episode, Archie gets a phone call from Mad Dog, who lets him know that he is in danger of being transferred over to Hiram’s new private prison. Archie pulls out all the stops with Veronica’s help and approaches the Governor, asking for a pardon for his friends. The plan works successfully, as the Governor is not looking to have his reputation threatened and Archie gives Mad Dog and the others a place to stay at the gym. Whenever something is going right, Elio suddenly appears, however. Elio offers the guys a chance to fight for money for him and Mad Dog ends up deciding to take his business offer at the end of the episode. Archie warns his friend that he cannot trust Elio, but Mad Dog is determined to do whatever is necessary to help his family. Let’s just hope that he doesn’t wind up in too much trouble.

“This is between me and you.”

Jughead continues to clash with his mother, Gladys, in this episode and he tells her, “Oh I’m not gonna stop until you are out of Riverdale.” Gladys is up for the challenge and reminds Jughead not to cross her. Seriously Jughead, look out for Mommie Dearest, who doesn’t play by the rules. After Jughead tries to intervene more with the drug trade, he messes up his father’s drug bust, which angers FP, but Jughead is not ready to stop. Jughead goes after a major drug operation with the help of Archie and Mad Dog, but ends up getting thrown out a window by that nut job, Kurtz. Luckily, Jughead is all right, but is he in over his head? I’m not sure, but we know that Gladys is not one to be messed with. Will she really push her own son out of the way to further her business though? We’ll have to see how this plays out.

“I’m in, cousin.”

After taking a tour of the Farm, Betty realizes that she will not get too far. There are locked doors and Evelyn leading the interviews, which makes it difficult for Betty to get any real answers. Betty recognizes that Evelyn has some kind of interest in Cheryl and asks for Cheryl’s help. I love the tag team between Betty and Cheryl, as Cheryl goes undercover and puts her acting skills to the test. Edgar meets with Cheryl and talks about how she has already been baptized and reborn in fire based on some of her past experiences, but he takes advantage of her love and grief over her brother, Jason. Before long, Cheryl is done being Betty’s mole and even comments that Edgar is a “yummy snack,” which is absolutely hilarious, but it looks like Cheryl has just joined the Farm. Can Betty help her before it’s too late? Does Edgar have a special interest in Cheryl because of her connections?

“I was wondering when we’d finally meet.”

Betty recognizes that she is on her own and decides to break into the locked door with her trusty bobby pin while Cheryl is getting inducted into the Farm. Betty finds the tapes from her family and takes them to try and get some information, but Cheryl is the one to reveal the biggest mystery of all. Cheryl reveals to Betty that Edgar took her to a room and says that Jason was in the room with her. She explains that she talked to him in the flesh and that the Farm somehow gave her back her brother. Things start to add up for Betty, as she approaches her mother and realizes that Alice has been seeing her son, Charles, in this same way. Edgar finally agrees to meet Betty and the showdown we have all been waiting for has just begun. Betty is not afraid of Edgar; however, and is ready for the challenge. Edgar asks her what she would like to know and Betty simply says, “Everything.”

It looks like we have a lot more to find out, but what is the rational explanation behind Cheryl and Alice seeing their dead relatives? Is Edgar using mind control or is there something else going on here? At the end of the episode, we also get a new quest card that reads, “Defang a Wolf cub.” FP finds another sacrifice in the woods, which reminds us that the Gargoyle King is not finished at all. What does this new quest mean and is there any real connection between the Gargoyle King and the Farm? Also, Hiram’s new prison is now up and running so what does that mean for the town? New episodes return April 17^th. Stay tuned!

I hope you enjoyed the list and feel free to post your own theories and thoughts on Riverdale below in the comments section. Thanks so much for reading and happy viewing!

The Search for Alice is available here!

Free Instant Preview of The Search for Alice is available here!

Best,

Amy Koto, TV Fanatic Girl

@TV_Fanatic_Girl

[twitter-follow screen_name=’TV_Fanatic_Girl’]

**If you enjoyed this blog, I would love it if you would click the follow button on your way out to subscribe. Thanks for your support!

Ranking the top 5 moments from “SMILF” season 2 episode 8: “Less Is More”

Greetings TV viewers! After watching Showtime’s SMILF season 2 episode 8, I realized that change is never easy to accept. Whether you are looking to start a new chapter in your life or saying goodbye to your past, there is always a moment where everything feels uncertain. It’s up to us to keep moving forward, but some days are easier than others. Please note spoilers are ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch yet. In tonight’s episode, “Sex Makes It Less Formal,” Bridgette throws Rafi a bachelor party. Meanwhile, Nelson’s mother comes to visit and Tutu discovers an important letter. My top 5 moments from the SMILF season 2 episode 8 are:

“I used Ally’s credit card.”

In the beginning of the episode, Bridgette is at a sex store, shopping for props for Rafi’s bachelor party. I immediately started to wonder where she got the money for all of this, but things started to make a lot more sense when she mentioned using Ally’s credit card. Bridgette realizes that she needs to return this and that perhaps this is becoming a problem. Either way, Bridgette is ready to pull out all the stops for Rafi, including ordering a stripper for him named Ember, who ends up being Bridgette’s old friend, Jill. After all, Rafi apparently loves strippers and we even learn that his mom was one. Maybe this wasn’t the best idea?

“You look just like me!”

Nelson is feeling stressed out about her mother’s visit. Nelson’s mother is played by the amazing Melanie Griffith, who puts quite a bit of pressure on Nelson. After looking at Nelson’s beautiful apartment, she comments that sometimes “less is more,” which reveals that her mother may be a lot to handle. After her mother over shares about her orgasms, Nelson decides to try on her wedding gown, but has a panic attack when she can’t get the dress off of her, causing her to soak away her troubles in the bathtub, with her wedding dress still on. Are these normal wedding day jitters or is there something else behind Nelson’s anxiety? We’ll have to wait and find out, but I’m hoping this gets resolved before the end of the series.

“Make your next chapter all for you.”

Tutu is having a tough time dealing with life after Joe, as she tells her sister that she is not moving. Tutu begins surrounding herself with depressing things and even looks up different ways that she could potentially die. Later on, her sister discovers a letter from Joe in their suitcase and Tutu gets the chance to hear some last thoughts from Joe, which gives her a sense of closure and comfort. I thought that this was a really important and touching moment for Tutu, as Joe clearly wants her to find her way, but promises that he will always be looking out for her.

“Maybe we need a warm up act.”

After finding the receipt for Nelson’s diamond ring, Bridgette is beyond upset, as she could use the money he spent on that for Larry’s preschool. Bridgette has been drinking quite a bit at the bachelor party and decides to give everyone a show before the stripper arrives. Bridgette starts out having fun, but confronts Rafi about it, revealing how hurt she is by this. Maybe it wasn’t the best idea to throw a bachelor party for your ex-boyfriend though?

“We’ve seen each other at our worst.”

The most significant moment of the episode for me was when Bridgette tells Rafi that they have seen each other at their worst and never gave up on one another. She also tells Rafi that he is a great Dad, which clearly means a lot to him. Later on, Rafi tells Bridgette that he wants to her to go to their wedding, which is a step in the right direction. However, Bridgette recognizes that this is where she needs to say goodbye to Rafi and move on, which is not easy for her to do. I am still ultimately shipping Bridgette and Rafi, but I’m not sure if we will get this wrapped up within the last two episodes. Fingers crossed! Stay tuned for more SMILF fun!

I hope you enjoyed the list and feel free to post your own thoughts and comments on SMILF below. Thanks so much for reading and happy viewing!

The Search for Alice is available here!

Free Instant Preview of The Search for Alice is available here!

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Amy Koto, TV Fanatic Girl

@TV_Fanatic_Girl

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Ranking the top 5 moments from “Riverdale” season 3 episode 15: “A Norman Rockwell Painting with Leather Jackets”

Happy Thursday TV fans! After watching the CW’s Riverdale season 3 episode 15, I thought back to Jughead’s question: What exactly is the American Dream? Does it involve being surrounded by family and friends? And if so, what happens when that dream is threatened? Do you go on pretending to protect those you love or do you shatter the picture perfect image to release the truth? Please note spoilers are ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch yet. In last night’s episode, “Chapter Fifty: American Dreams,” Gladys buys Alice Cooper’s home, which makes things a little awkward for Jughead and Betty. Meanwhile, our favorite couples all begin to clash, but is this the beginning of the end for them? My top 5 moments from Riverdale season 3 episode 15 are:

“Do you love her FP?”

After Gladys buys the Cooper home with cash, she is ready to move in and get a do-over with her family. FP recognizes the importance of keeping them all together and tells Alice that it’s over. Alice asks him if he loves Gladys and he tells her that she is the mother of his children, but when Alice asks if FP loves her, he says, “It doesn’t matter now,” which is absolutely heartbreaking. For all of you Falice fans, my heart goes out to you, but I’m not sure that FP will want to continue to rebuild his marriage once he discovers that Gladys has been lying about everything. Don’t give up hope!

“Now we don’t owe each other anything.”

It seems like love is not in the air during this episode, as Reggie begins to clash with Veronica. Reggie wants to become Veronica’s business partner and he has certainly proven his worth, but Veronica is a Lodge through and through, as she wants to be cautious about this decision, especially when she still owes Gladys and her father money. Reggie is not happy with this and tries to steal back his car, but Gladys catches him, which is not good for anyone. Veronica is able to smooth things over with Gladys, but not with Reggie, who just wants to matter. Veronica just came out of a serious relationship with Archie, but I’m not sure she is ready to surrender the guard around her heart just yet. In a selfless moment, she does buy back Reggie’s car from Gladys, but coldly explains that they don’t owe each other anything anymore, suggesting that Veggie is over for now.

“I need to focus my rage.”

In this episode, Cheryl and Toni continue to clash, as Toni is looking to find her own identity with the Pretty Poisons. Cheryl tries to be supportive, but she feels Toni slipping away from her. Cheryl pulls out all the stops in a gorgeous red gown and arrives to gamble, but Toni recognizes that she is casing the place, ultimately to get Toni’s attention. This certainly works and provides Choni fans with a hot and steamy moment for these two, but it’s not enough. Toni decides to move out of Cheryl’s house, suggesting it was maybe too soon too fast. I felt for Cheryl so much in this moment, but our girl is not about to sit around crying. While playing croquet, Cheryl summons Kevin and explains, “I need to focus my rage.” And so we get our setup for the Heathers musical, which we have been anxiously waiting for. I’m sure Cheryl will rock it as Heather Chandler, but will this distraction heal her broken heart? I’m really hoping that Choni can reconcile, but it looks like our favorite couples are all dropping like flies. Stay strong, Bughead! I seriously can’t take another breakup.

“Sacrifice no more.”

Betty, Jughead, and Archie work together to find out how to save the Red Paladin. Mr. Lodge has been supplying Archie with information and tells him that he gave out many “Kill the Red Paladin” cards, but Archie needs a way to lure them all out. Jughead comes up with the brilliant idea to create an advanced quest as an addendum, but they need to make it look like it comes straight from the Gargoyle King. The plan works, as we are welcomed to the “Iron Mountain,” better known as Mr. Lodge’s abandoned boxing gym. How convenient. Archie has no easy task in front of him, as he has to fight every opponent and win. Archie sheds some blood and things are not looking so good when the last challenger steps in the ring, but Archie pulls through to win and tells him, “That was for me.” Go Archie! While Archie may have now retrieved all of the “Kill the Red Paladin” cards, I still do not trust Mr. Lodge. Even though they have a truce now, he seems a little bit too forthcoming, but we’ll have to wait and see how this unfolds.

“I’m proud to be your son.”

Veronica comes clean with Betty and tells her all about Gladys, but Betty explains that she has to tell Jughead the truth. Jughead initially doesn’t know what to make of this and tells Betty that he has to figure it out on his own, which had my heart sinking. After discovering the truth, Jughead confronts his mother, but she reminds him that she is just trying to put her family back together again. At FP’s 50^th birthday party, Jughead is asked to give a speech and he has the opportunity to shed some light on everything, only he can’t break his father’s heart like this. Jughead loves his father and knows that this news would destroy him. In a heartwarming moment, Jughead says that FP is “someone who would do anything for his family” and further says, “We’ll always be there for you and I’m proud to be your son.” However, Jughead Jones is not about to let anyone mess with his family, as he teams up with Betty in the end to determine what to do next, as Bughead remains strong. Stay tuned!

I hope you enjoyed the list and feel free to post your own thoughts and theories on Riverdale in the comments section below. Thanks so much for reading and happy viewing!

**Goodreads Giveaway currently going on for The Search for Alice (100 copies available) from 2/21/19-3/14/19. Enter Goodreads Giveaway Here!

The Search for Alice is available here!

Free Instant Preview of The Search for Alice is available here!

Best,

Amy Koto, TV Fanatic Girl

@TV_Fanatic_Girl

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**If you enjoyed this blog, I would love it if you would click the follow button on your way out to subscribe. Thanks for your support!

Ranking the top 5 moments from “The Passage” season 1 episodes 9 and 10: “You Taught Me Everything”

Happy Tuesday TV fans! After watching Fox’s The Passage two-part season 1 finale, we learned that “one world died and another was born.” But in this new world, everyone has to live with their choices and consequences. Will they rise up and continue to fight or will they give in to the darkness? Please note spoilers are ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch yet.

In last night’s episodes, “Stay in the Light” and “Last Lesson,” we learn what happens next when the virals wake up, as the twelve are now complete. Meanwhile, Amy is faced with some impossible decisions, sacrifices are made, and a new future is upon us. My top 5 moments from The Passage season 1 episodes 9 and 10 are:

“It has to be me.”

During the episode, Dr. Sykes is still trapped and Clark and the others try to get her out and retrieve the antiviral, especially after Lila is infected. While Dr. Sykes is trying to stay calm, Shauna breaks in and these two come face to face with one another. Only Shauna doesn’t initially attack Dr. Sykes and taps into her mind to ask her why she had been nice to her. Dr. Sykes tells Shauna that “in another world we could have been friends.”

But is Shauna stalling or is there something more here? Before we can find out anything further, Brad shoots Shauna, causing her to flee and tries to help Dr. Sykes. Amy is faced with an impossible decision, as she decides to push the button that will destroy that section of Project Noah with Brad and Dr. Sykes still inside. Amy is prepared to make this sacrifice, proving to really be the bravest person in the world. They have less than two minutes to get out, but the virals show up to make things interesting.

Dr. Sykes knows what she must do and tells Brad to get the antiviral to Lila and the CDC, sacrificing herself to save as many lives as she can. Dr. Sykes has always put the needs of the many above her own and she stays true to her integrity in this heartbreaking moment.

“I have work to do.”

After the virals escape, Dr. Lear blames himself and contemplates taking his own life. However, Lacey shows up and changes his mind, reminding him that he still has work to do. Dr. Lear may have been the “author of this horror show,” but with Dr. Sykes gone, he could be the only one to stop it and potentially save the world. It’s a long shot, but Dr. Lear refuses to give up even when Fanning continues to appear to him in his mind. Even though the future looks bleak, it’s good to see Dr. Lear trying to make a difference and fix things with Lacey’s support.

“Maybe I could be that girl in the diner again.”

After the explosion, we learn that the virals are still alive, as they are finally free in the world. Clark and the others try to stop as many as possible, but Clark is severely injured and about to die. Shauna approaches him and he says, “I was wondering when you were going to show up.” Rather than rip him to shreds, Shauna taps into his mind and the two of them are lying on the hood of a car together, away from all of the chaos and noise. Shauna explains, “I thought this might be a nicer place to die.” Clark seems ready to accept his fate, but Shauna offers him a choice. Clark accepts and Shauna saves his life, but there is a price.

The two of them are now blood linked and 30 days later, Clark is bringing Shauna live bodies to consume. However, Shauna wants out of their deal, as Clark has been keeping Vegas as safe as possible, but she feels like he is starving her. All of the virals returned home when they escaped and their homes quickly became “hot spots.” Clark feels trapped in his circumstances, but he still shares a strong connection with Shauna, as he gives in and kisses her passionately, suggesting that this link is nowhere near severed.

It’s interesting to see that Shauna took a different approach, as Carter was unable to tame the beast within him. What made Shauna different and what will she do next? We’ll have to wait and see, but this dark seduction between her and Clark seems like it will continue.

“For me, this was the best time…we were a family.”

During the 30 days later portion, we learn that Amy is with Brad and Lila at a cabin. It seems like everything here is serene and untouched, as we witness Amy and Brad fishing together. Amy finally has a family, but everything is temporary. For those of us shipping Brad and Lila, they finally get the opportunity to reconcile and be together, but Lila recognizes that she has a duty to the world. Lila decides to leave and try and help others with Lacey, leaving Amy alone with Brad.

Brad teaches Amy how to use a bow and arrow and how to take care of herself. Brad recognizes that the threat is nowhere near over and he wants her to be prepared. In a heartwarming moment, we see Brad braiding Amy’s hair. Amy asks him how she looks and he says, “Like a bad-ass.” Brad reminds Amy that she is not like Fanning. He tells her that she has a good heart and that she is the bravest person he has ever met, which is truly touching. I wish I could freeze this moment in time for them, as Amy and Brad have a bond that is so real and beautiful. Only, we know that things are about to change and they change so quickly.

“Sometimes the right thing is the hardest thing in the world to do.”

Fanning continues to try and tap into Amy’s mind to manipulate her when she is at the cabin. After a neighbor is infected, Brad gets bitten and Amy is left with another impossible choice. Seriously, this poor girl has so much to deal with. The new friends they met tell Amy that they need to shoot Brad before he turns, but Amy refuses to let this happen. Amy unleashes the monster buried deep within her and kills them. She gives Brad the cure and leaves, which is beyond heartbreaking.

Amy says, “I don’t regret what I did. I only regret running away.” She recognizes that Brad taught her everything. She found a family because of him and she learned how to be ready. At the end of the season finale, we flash forward to 97 years later in the Palm Desert. Amy still has her bow and arrow and takes out a viral, explaining that the world has been taken over by them. However, humanity still exists in some places and Amy holds on to the hope that Brad is somehow still alive, which keeps her going and reminds her “not to panic.”

Overall, there was so much jam-packed into this two-part season finale, that I almost don’t know where to start. We know that Amy initially saw the future and saved Fanning from dying, but why did she do this? There are so many unanswered questions, but I appreciate how much the show tried to stay true to the book while also creating some unique differences and I really hope that the series gets picked up for another season because I am not ready to say goodbye to Amy just yet.

The performances were all incredible and I just wish we had more episodes right now. This show genuinely surprised me and it has the potential to continue to carve its way into one of my favorite series of all time. Let’s just hope we get to see what happens next!

I hope you enjoyed the list and feel free to post your own thoughts and theories on The Passage in the comments section below. Thanks so much for reading and happy viewing!

**Goodreads Giveaway currently going on for The Search for Alice (100 copies available) from 2/21/19-3/14/19. Enter Goodreads Giveaway Here!

The Search for Alice is available here!

Free Instant Preview of The Search for Alice is available here!

Best,

Amy Koto, TV Fanatic Girl

@TV_Fanatic_Girl

[twitter-follow screen_name=’TV_Fanatic_Girl’]

**If you enjoyed this blog, I would love it if you would click the follow button on your way out to subscribe. Thanks for your support!