Review of Carry On - Rainbow Rowell

The author's characters first appeared in her book, Fangirl and as she states in her author's note, she had to finish their story.  Simon Snow, her main character, began life as a fan fiction version of Harry Potter but then took on a life of his own. Being The Chosen One was always a burden (as Harry knew well) but for Simon, he didn't think he'd live through it. This novel is a fresh look at the burden of having too much magic and the power of friendships. It's a wonderful book and a fast read.  4 Elves - Highly Recommended for mature teens and adults

Review of Six of Crows-Leigh Bardugo

I loved the Grisha Chronicles by this author, and her new book doesn't disappoint.  She goes back to the world of the Grisha and centers the story around a small gang.  This gang, led by the mysterious Kaz, needs to break out a scientist imprisoned in a very secure jail.  The story revolves around the plan and this gang of six, but it's the character development that keeps the reader engrossed.  Eventually, you hear each character's story and the more you learn, the more you care.  Spoiler alert: the ending drove me crazy because I have to wait until the next book to find out what happened.  4 Elves - Highly recommended for teens and adults