Monday, April 28, 2014

Review~Annie Cosby~Learning to Swim

****4 Stars****


While Learning to Swim is not my usual genre of books I found that it was a great distraction to my usual fare.  Ms. Cosby’s characters are engaging, interesting, and well developed. The story line was intriguing and kept me reading, wondering how things would resolve themselves.  I can honestly say that I don’t think I have ever read anything about the Celtic folk lore of Selkies.  This in and of itself is extremely interesting and I hope that the author doesn’t abandon that story line, I find myself curious to know more about them.  All in all this is a great first novel. I look forward to the next installment and watching this author grow.  
****4 Stars****

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Review~M.L. Gardner~1929 Jonathan's Cross

*****5 STARS*****

Have you ever read a book that you just wanted to devour? That you just could not wait for the turn of the page to find out what happens next? You simply must marathon read so you can get to the next installment? Yeah, that was me, reading this book.

The 1920's-1930's is probably my most favorite period of time.  I have studied the era intently for many years and am glad the author felt no need to take on the onerous task of rewriting history. Instead choosing to follow where the characters lead her. Yes, there were some details that weren't specific to the era, but this is a work of fiction and the few liberties taken by Mrs. Gardner worked for the story and were by no means unforgivable.

The characters are well developed, very personable and extremely human.  I found myself laughing with them, sympathizing with them, and more than once crying with them.  Several times I caught myself arguing with a couple of the characters about choices that were being made, I couldn't help myself.  I am very glad that I came into this series late because now I don't have to wait for the next one to come out, I can start it tonight! 

I don't say this lightly, ML Gardner has written a story that has captured my imagination and my heart.  Her book reminds  me of one of my favorite series, The Clifton Chronicles.  Mrs Gardner, you are my new Jeffrey Archer. 


Highly recommend this series- 5 Stars

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