Our summer reading program is over and we have survived! Instead of extended book reviews, I bring you annotations of a selection of my summer reads.
The Bear: A Novel by Claire Cameron
Claire Cameron's tightly-written tale of a little girl, her family and a bear is exciting, horrifying and and emotionally wrought. 4 Stars
Help For the Haunted by John Searles
A tortured girl tells a tortured tale that strives for suspense but only achieves mediocrity. 2 Stars
Midnight Crossroad by Charlaine Harris
In her new fun and fast-paced urban fantasy, Harris's vibrant characters more than make up for a slightly predictable plot. 4 Stars
Here We Are Now: The Lasting Impact of Kurt Cobain by Charles R. Cross
A weak attempt by an obsessed fan to remain relevant despite the passage of time.
1 Star
Dorothy Must Die by Danielle Paige
A wildly imaginative and highly entertaining re-imagining of The Wizard of Oz that is slightly marred by a disappointingly predictable romantic subplot.
4 Stars
The Severed Streets by Paul Cornell
In the second book in his
Shadow Police series, Paul Cornell continues to create a unique world filled with brilliantly drawn characters and a flawless and fast-paced plot.
5 Stars
Shattered by Kevin Hearne
In the seventh book in his
Iron Druid Chronicles series, Hearne stumbles slightly while developing a female character but rights himself with an exciting plot and a new witty character in the form of Atticus's ancient teacher.
4 Stars