Overall, the finale in the Simon Snow trilogy was worth the read and I still love the series. However, it was missing a few things that knocked it down for me compared to the other two books. The ending really could have used another 100 pages or so to wrap things up without just shoving the loose plotlines in as quickly as possible, in addition to the problematic handling of a character who is described as asexual in every way except using the actual term. I really did expect better, but I still count this series among my favorites in the YA fantasy genre.

A really unique story told with no shortage of comedy, wit and sarcasm! I loved how this story undercut the patriarchy and misogyny of the Victorian era while still allowing its characters to be unapologetically feminine. (Of course there's a little romance in there as well!) I had no clue what I was getting myself into with this book, but I'm so very glad I picked it up!

(4.5 stars rounded up) Beautifully written and full of suspense. Kept me on my toes with every chapter, I couldn't put it down! The elite setting of Gossip Girl paired with the chilling atmosphere of Get Out made for a book that had my heart pounding well into the night.

The third book in the Colter Shaw series. Best read in order because there are some surprises in this book that go back to the 2 prior books. I'm sure, though, it would be just as good as a 1st read of Colter Shaw. There are many twists in this like only Deaver can create. Fast paced and ultimately satisfying.

Holly raises Bees. She talks to them, telling the bees her troubles and they seem to understand and empathize with her. Holly and her family have some interesting dilemmas! If you enjoy quick reads and would like to learn a bit about bee habits, then read this book.

While Jane Green started off as one of the more popular British chick lit authors, her more recent books have focused on her adopted home of the greater Westport, Connecticut area. The Friends We Keep takes us back to England and tells us the story of college friends Maggie, Evvie and Topher, from their first days at university through their early 50s. The three take different paths after graduation, with Evvie and Topher heading back to the U.S. for careers in modeling and acting while Maggie stays in England for a career in public relations. Something happens that causes Evvie to distance herself from Maggie and Topher, a secret she keeps for years until the three reunite many years later, when the arrival of a young man forces the truth to come out. Drama ensues, forcing all three to evaluate what's truly important. The book's conclusion shows how forgiveness can help people regain peace in their lives.

This was a cute and mostly funny book, pure chick lit and a good read if you're sitting on the beach or by the pool. Kristen meets Josh and, after an initial clash, there's an obvious connection between the two. He's the best man in an upcoming wedding in which she is the maid of honor, which means they'll be spending a lot of time together. Once she learns of Josh's dreams for the future, she puts up roadblock after roadblock to ensure the relationship doesn't go beyond the superficial. She underestimates Josh, who winds up compassionate and understanding. Close to the end, the book takes a dramatic and sad turn that leave both Josh and Kristen evaluating what's really important in life, which leads to a happier conclusion.

I am so excited to have discovered a new author that I love so much. This historical novel is a wonderful and moving fictional account of Shakepeare's relationship with his wife and the fate of his children. O'Farrell writes with such beautiful conviction. After finishing this gem, I plan to check out her other works.

I listened to the audiobook of this novel, and it was a fantastic performance - one of the best I've heard. These well developed characters are completely brought to life and I literally laughed out loud many times during a recent road trip.

If you had asked me to rate this book before reading the last ~50 pages, I would have given it 5 stars, easy. After finishing it, I think giving it 4 stars was generous. It was a really great and well-written cold case murder mystery, but the ending was too far-fetched for me to enjoy. Also, why do YA authors always have to kill the pet/animal?! Not cool.