Recent Reads

I don't know when I turned in to an avid reader . . . well, that's not true, I do remember.  I just somehow can't believe it.  I enjoy reading.  Look at me in my old age.

To commemorate this momentous occasion, I want to share the fabulous books I have read of late and my review.  Now, to clarify, I rarely read a book that wasn't highly recommended to my by someone so most of the books have a strong and favorable review.

0 stars - terrible, horrible, no good, very bad book.  Probably couldn't even make it through.
1 star - Not a good or recommended read, but there must have been something in it that made me keep reading to the end.  Something . . . not a lot.
2 stars - Enjoyable enough, but not a favorite.  Either a book that had a really good message, but kind of slow story or a book that was very easy to read, but had some major flaws.
3 stars - Great book, but has one or two flaws.  You know the books that you say, "Great book except for . . ."  Wonderful, but I might have one or two reservations.
4 stars - Fantastic.  Could go on and on and try to convince you to read this book.

The books I have read during 2011:

The Amaranth Enchantment by Julie Berry - 3 1/2 stars (4 stars for young adult).  Amazing book.  Wonderfully fun, suspenseful and romantic.  It is however a young adult book, so the story isn't highly complicated, nor does it have a life changing theme.  But so enjoyable and a very quick read.

Before the Dawn by Dean Hughes - 3 Stars.  This book was life changing.  I cried every day I read it and felt more compassion and love for the people around me. I'd absolutely recommend it.  But . . . the book doesn't always clip along and there are some parts that are not as fast and easy to read as others.

Cleopatra's Daughter by Michelle Moran  - 3 1/2 stars.  One of the best books I've read in some time.  Historical fiction that was educational, but gripping and highly entertaining.  Why not a 4?  The author touched on one subject matter that prevented a perfect score.  Read this book. 

The Forgotten Garden by Kate Morton -  3 stars.  Thoroughly enjoyed reading.  Very different flow then books I've read recently.  Some questions still remained at the end, which is why it wasn't a 4 star book.  

Princess of the Midnight Ball by Jessica Day George - 3 stars for adults and young adults.  Light, entertaining.  Easy read.