Daughter of the Forest was an outstanding read--one that kept me turning the next page in anticipation. Although it is a retelling of The Wild Swans by Hans Christian Andersen, this book was as fresh and unexpected as a totally new story.  The atmosphere is enchanting and the book is lyrical, taking flight in so many ways.

This month we are reading Rework by Jason Fried and David Heinemeier Hansson. "Rework shows you a better, easier way to succeed in business. Read it and you'll know why plans are actually harmful, why you don't need outside investors, and why you're better off ignoring the competition. The truth is you need less than you think. (from the inside front flap.)"

    Jane Austen fans, take note.  The book Keeping the castle is a fun, fresh take on a familiar Jane Austen setting. Everyone will enjoy lovely 17-year-old Althea's quick wit and quicker quips. Impoverished nobility, Althea's mother, Althea, and her little brother, the heir, cope in their crumbling faux castle with amazing creativity.

    The second book from Deborah Harkness' pen is as action-filled as the first, A Discovery of Witches. Shadow of Night adds the excitement, danger, and intrigue of a trip back to the political upheaval and superstition of 16th century Europe.

    After finishing the second Inspector Kaldis book while on vacation Memorial Day, I was really glad to write a review.  The books are short but packed with lots of color, and the colors are bright Aegean blue and blinding cloud white and dusty hillside tan. Oh, and blood red, dark as night, with occasional flashes of lurid orange.