The reading (and reviewing) of a book is so often a result of the reader’s environment.  I’ve discussed this with a friend of mine – how so many different factors might influence how much I enjoy (or don’t enjoy) a particular book. I mention this because the first time I tried to read this book… Continue reading

It is 1621 and the widowed Duke of Bavaria is getting married again. It is an extra special event as the duke is also introducing his daughter, Sophie, to Bavaria high society. Sophie isn’t particularly excited about the event, but her tone changes when she meets Philip – a prince, heir to the throne in… Continue reading

There’s a formula for angsty YA books and it’s there because when done well, it works. That formula includes a teenage, female protagonist, without her parents (generally recently gone or taken away), responsible for a younger sibling/friend, imminent danger, and there’s usually a boy – nice and not pushy (he understands what she’s going through)… Continue reading

The “Freaks” of Quapaw City, Arkansas are high school juniors now and maybe being adults is scarier than facing monsters from other dimensions. … Nope, the monsters are still scarier. But other adults  … such as the clandestine government group known as “The Team” … are, if not scary, a definite threat to the teens… Continue reading