Now in My Bookbag: Crime and Poetry, by Amanda Flower

This story is charming, magical, and a little bit quirky. I truly enjoyed this read and feel very comfortable recommending it.

Most of the book flows well. My only complaint has to do with the depth and complexity of the characters. Many of them are one-dimensional, but it feels like they could become more complex, with a bit more time spent on them.

Otherwise, I find the book endearing. I have fallen in love with Emerson. The story has the right combination of drama and lightheartedness. The setting is perfect. It is an enchanting read, and I hope that Author Amanda Flower continues the story with her next book in A Magical Bookshop Mystery series. 4 stars

Now in My Bookbag: Reading Up a Storm, by Eva Gates

I was given an advance copy of this book by the publisher, in exchange for an honest review. Expected release date: April 5th, 2016

I really enjoyed this book. It is the third book in the Lighthouse Library Mystery Series. It is a lighthearted murder mystery that is a cross between Nancy Drew, and Murder She Wrote. I like the characters, the setting, and the idea that a library could exist within a venerable old lighthouse. I truly love Charles, the cat, who seems to be imbued with knowledge and powers beyond the scope of a normal cat. I applaud author Eva Gates for supporting the concept of a public library system, and for her emphasis on engaging younger generations in the love of reading. Despite a couple of holes in the logic process of the story, I find the book charming. 4 stars