Megan

When the 3rd season of Bridgerton came out on Netflix a while ago, it reminded me that I hadn't yet finished reading the series. So I put in a hold for the book I was on, saw the waiting list was long, and then forgot about it for a bit. When it showed up (on Saturday), I contemplated waiting to download it as I had just started another book. Then I thought, “I mean, it's not going to take me THAT long to read, is it?” ......and I was finished before lunch on Sunday.

If you're not familiar with Bridgeton at all, it is a series of romance novels taking place in Regency England. (Think Jane Austen but much, much spicier.) Each book follows one of the 8 Bridgerton children, and in book 7 it is Hyacinth's turn. I enjoyed seeing Hyacinth in adulthood and there is no doubt Julia Quinn knows how to write. There was a fun added twist of mysterious lost jewels and otherwise it was good, but nothing really earth-shattering.

If you are only familiar with the show, the books are very worth reading - but be aware that the show adds A LOT of extra stuff. Extra characters, extra plots, extra everything. It is a rare series where I am able to enjoy both even though they are different from each other. They are fun, quick reads and I'm going to have to get #8 so I can be done!

Continuing my re-read of The Dark Tower series, which still stands as my favorite series of all time. I guess the re-read is partially to check and see if that is still the case. Anyway, The Drawing of the Three is the second book, in which Roland gathers his group for his adventure. Whereas the Gunslinger (book one) is slightly more poetic/mystical/meditative, this book is action from the very first chapter. (The first chapter of this book is one of the scenes that has stuck with me for years after reading this the first time.)

It's Stephen King, so it is dark, but it is not horror. It combines elements of fantasy with the feeling of a Western. And it has its funny moments as well. This book begins the sense of connectedness among/between the characters and the different worlds they come from.

If you tried The Gunslinger and just couldn't make it through, there is an argument that you can start the series with this book as well. So, if that is you, maybe give this one a try!