From the back of the book: What happens when Sherlock Holmes—a pompous, proper Victorian gentleman—takes an outspoken American woman as his apprentice? Edgar Award-winning author Laurie R. King reveals the answer in The Beekeeper's Apprentice, an absorbing novel steeped in exquisite understanding and charming intelligence. In 1914, a bold young American named Mary Russell … [Read more...] about The Beekeeper’s Apprentice by Laurie R. King: C-
xxxHOLiC 7 by CLAMP: A
From the back cover: Kimihiro Watanuki has a wish on layaway with Yuuko Ishikawa, the sultry time-space witch who can grant anyone's deepest desire... for a price! Still, working like a slave in Yuuko's shop hasn't dampened Kimihiro's enthusiasm for his cute classmate Himawari-chan, nor his irritation with his too-cool rival Doumeki, the guy who always seems to be around … [Read more...] about xxxHOLiC 7 by CLAMP: A
Book of the Dead by Ashley McConnell: B+
From the back cover: Wes has been a compulsive reader since childhood. It's an addiction like any other—he craves books, loves them, can't live without them. So when his former colleague Adrian O'Flaherty comes to town and invites Wes along to a highly secret auction of rare occult books, Wes can't say no. What Wes doesn't know is that Adrian is looking for more than dusty … [Read more...] about Book of the Dead by Ashley McConnell: B+
Basara 18 by Yumi Tamura: A-
From the back cover: Born under a prophecy that will liberate and unite Japan, Sarasa has had to take her brother Tatara's place as the "Boy of Destiny." Fighting for the oppressed, Sarasa journeys across Japan to gain allies and defeat her enemies—all while keeping her identity a secret! While in Kyoto, Shuri runs into his beloved sister, the Great Sister of White, as well … [Read more...] about Basara 18 by Yumi Tamura: A-
The Queen of Attolia by Megan Whalen Turner: A-
From the front flap, edited for spoilers: When Eugenides outwitted the Queen of Attolia, she lost face. To restore her reputation and reassert her power, the Queen of Attolia will go to any length and accept any help that is offered... she will risk her country to execute the perfect revenge. Eugenides can steal anything. And he taunts the Queen of Attolia, moving through … [Read more...] about The Queen of Attolia by Megan Whalen Turner: A-