"Perfectly Charming"
Other reviews spin this book negatively claiming that the storyline mimics Practical Magic. Well, the reviews are right - the storyline is very similar to Practical Magic, but that was perfecly fine by me. I enjoyed Practical Magic. This story is indeed very similar, but not identical. I was in the mood for a "feel good" quick story and this satisfied that craving. The characters are all very likeable and endearing. The story was predictable, but again, I didnt mind. I finished it with a smile on my face. I have no complaints. It was perfectly charming.
"Slow but sweet"
This book had a slow start for me and I found myself setting it aside a few times. Once I got through the first few chapters, I found myself enjoying the story greatly. There are a few references to the cliff hanger, and yes, the book ends with a question. Searching the title for Allen's next book, I believe that she will continue the story and answer the qestion in her next novel "The Lake House." I found myself smiling during the last few chapters, Im excited to hear what happens with Sawyer and Julia, as well as Wynn and Emily.
"~Perfectly Charming~"
Ive read the reviews which attack this narrator and I dont agree. I find her voice perfect for the characters and tone of the book. I fell in love with Sarah Addison Allen the moment I read/listened to Garden Spells and have since been working my way through all of her books. I like the way that Ms. Allen develops her characters. She creates female characters that are easy to identify with, likeable women who are in the midst of some struggle we've all been in before. I find myself rooting for these women as they break through the barrier of self and develop their source of strength. I like the soft tone of her books and find myself wishing I could go to North Carolina - the location of all her novels The books are quick reads/listens (< 10 hrs) which I like because I get through them quickly, however I find myself missing the characters when the books are through. This specific book tells a story about the bonds of female friendship as well as touching on the struggle a woman has when she leaves the nest for the first time. I thoroughly enjoyed it - both the content and the narrator.
"Charming"
I am quickly becoming a Sarah Addison Allen fan. I really enjoy the easy tone to her novels and find myself craving my commute time and breaks from work so I can spend time with her characters again. She has a talent for writing endearing, easily likeable characters - characters that just about anyone can easily identify with.
This story was darling. Josey is a sweet girl with whom you fall in love instantly. Throughout the pages, you find yourself excited for her new friendship, hoping that she finds love, and develops enough courage to branch out and begin her own life. What I liked about this read, was the slight twist centered on Della toward the end - I didnt see it coming, which is so rare anymore. Originality in fiction is difficult to master. I was completely tickled as the twist unfolded and I realized that I hadnt caught on earlier. Cheers!!
"Very blah..."
I didnt even finish this read. The narrator has a sweet, girlish voice, however narrates completely monotone - which is in sync with the tone and theme of this book. There was nothing there to grab my attention. Sorry.
"A little bit Sherlocky"
Im a big Simon Vance fan, which is why I purchased this audible. Not to mention, Im a sucker for anything set in England. Overall, the book has a Sherlock Holmes vibe. The characters, especially Silkstone, are likeable - the plot lively enough, althought not overly suspenseful. Its not outstanding, but was an enjoyable read.
"Ayn's Legacy"
This book is a legacy for Ayn Rand - an amazingly brilliant and gifted woman with a life story that makes the rest of us seems unaccomplished and dull. This book is among the top of my all time favorites. Seemingly almost prophetic, Atlas Shrugged chronicles the dangers of altruism and socialistic thinking. Although it was written many years ago, it's plot is applicable to todays struggles.
"I cried... I actually did."
Its a slow start... and the narrator is very monotoned (appropriately so for the material), but it took me a few listens to get into it and finish it. Once I got about 1/2 way through the book, I wanted to finish it - but it wasnt that "skip sleep so I can finish it" type craving. Even so, the book grabbed me and wrenched my heart in the end.
"Not bad, not great"
Ive always been intrigued by the Salem Witch Trials. Therefore, I downloaded the book based on the topic. It took a few different attempts at listening before I got past the first chapter, then I found myself continuing on. I wasnt craving the story, like I have with other books. However, this narrator was fabulous. I love her voice and will be downloading more of her books. Its not a disappointment, but it wasnt something I'd rave about either.
"Twilightesque"
This story has a very Twilightesque feel to it... The story is similar and yet different - oxymoron, I know. There are witches and daemons adding their own "spice" to the story. The characters are older than those in the Twilight saga; they are well developed and intelligent. If you are a reader who cant stand a story that has a similar plot to another literary sensation, this isnt the book for you. I found it to be an easy read (I bought the book) and was never bored. I ran out of free "sit and read" time, so I finished the story audible-style while commuting to work. Im looking forward to the next book.