Review of Crooked Kingdom-Leigh Bardugo

I loved her novel, Six of Crows and this sequel is even better.  The world that Bardugo creates is very complex but these two books are more accessible than her previous trilogy, and the resolution more positive.  Her characters are complicated but so very likable.  The book is thrilling, with fascinating dialogue and gorgeous descriptions.  There is a steam-punk flavor to the story, along with capers, slavery and magic.  Fabulous!  4 Elves - Highly recommended for teens and adults

Review of Because You'll Never Meet Me-Leah Thomas

Ollie and Moritz are best friends but they can never meet.  Ollie is deathly allergic to electricity and lives like a hermit in the woods of the Upper Peninsula.  Moritz must have a pacemaker and other electrical implants to be able to see and function; he lives in Germany.  Because they are both lonely, a doctor brings them together as pen pals and their friendship slowly grows.  But, Ollie and Moritz are linked by more than their handicaps as each encourages the other to stretch their boundaries.  Both teens are unusual and compelling; you find yourself rooting for them, hoping they'll manage to meet someday.  4 Elves - Highly recommended for teens and adults