The Witches of Santa Anna (Books 1-7)

by Lauren Barnholdt and Aaron Gorvine

So, as I got into this series, I realized it's like a teen soap opera. Lots of high school drama, lots of catty girls, and lots of boys. In spite of that fact, I quite enjoyed it. I wouldn't say I loved it, but I'll probably read the next "season". It's a quick read. Light, exciting, interesting, and fun!

***

Frost Moon

by Anthony Francis

An interesting book with werewolves, vampires, other paranormal characters. The main character is not just a tattoo artist; she is a magical tattoo artist. It makes for a variety of characters and a liberal value-set. There was a lot of swearing - f-words - and sexual innuendo/tension, so I'd say it's more adult-appropriate. Not the best I've ever read, but still a fun premise. It's the first in the Skindancer series. Next book is, "Blood Rock". I might give it a go...

***

Drowning Ruth

by Christina Schwarz

Ok. This is a book from Oprah's booklist. Having said that, I personally don't put a lot of credibility in Oprah's choice in books. So. I was talking to a friend and found a great way to describe this book: Not entertaining, but worthwhile. It is written for adults (no language, but a little disturbing). I found this story to be an interesting comment on society's acceptance of mental illness years ago and the changes in treatment from the 1930's to present. If this story had taken place in more recent years, it would have been a completely different story.

I can't say I liked it, but I didn't dislike it either. I found it disturbing and emotionally draining. When I closed the book, I was...relieved. If you like a heavy storyline, with depth and emotion, this is a great book! It was complicated, but well-written.

***

Armageddon Summer

by Jane Yolen & Bruce Coville

I read a few of Yolen's books and always found them to be interesting, but borderline boring. I expected the same with this book. While it wasn't "high adventure" or full of twists and turn, it was worth finishing. The end made the book worth reading. I realized that no matter what life throws at you (or you bring upon yourself), you can endure, recover, and go on. And, be a better person for it. A great tale of two young people caught up in a religious fervor. Great for 12+

The Outsider: A Novel

by Ann H. Gabhart

I guess I needed something to make me do a little soul-searching, because that's what I got out of this book. Unintended, of course. As Sister Gabrielle enjoyed her life as a Shaker, she soon found herself questioning the very foundation of her religion. This gave me the opportunity to ponder a few things, as well. I absolutely enjoyed this book. I found it frustrating that it didn't follow my expectation in storyline, but I was enthralled, nonetheless. Great for young adults or older children, as well.

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