1-27-08 Jenna Starborn by Sharon Shinn - Fiction

2 - I can't believe it, but I did not like this book. I found it dull and slow with characters I just couldn't get invested in. The story of Jenna, a manufactured human who was neglected by her commissioner, Jenna Starborn follows this incredibly normal and well adjusted young woman on her journey through life. Perhaps if you liked Jane Eyre you would like this book as it is a re-imagining of that tale, but for me it is a true disappointment from Shinn.

1-18-08 Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows by J.K. Rowling - Fiction

5 - A satisfying end to a wonderful series. Harry embraces his fate and moves toward the destruction of Voldemort with his friends by his side. I couldn't really ask for more out of a final book.

1-14-08 Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince by J.K. Rowling - Fiction

5 - 'The Half Blood Prince' leads the reader to the cliffhanger before the ending you knew would come. Harry learns more about his enemies and his friends as he finishes his sixth year at Hogwarts. He has matured somewhat, carrying a heavy burden: his knowledge of the prophecy. There are deaths and near misses in this, the lead up to the final battle.

1-10-08 Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix by J.K. Rowling - Fiction

5 - The fifth book in the series begins to show the darkness that pervades the final books. These are no longer little kid stories where everyone lives happily ever after. A significant death punctuates that fact. And Harry becomes a typical teen, roaring through mood swings while attempting to deal with very adult problems.

1-3-08 Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire by J.K. Rowling - Fiction

5 - Faced with many challenges this year, Harry struggles to survive not only physically, but also socially. His friendship with Ron is tested and his relationships with the other Weasleys continues to deepen. Just as he thinks he has made it to the end, he will face a very real and solid Voldemort in a duel to the death.

12-31-07 Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban byt J.K. Rowling - Fiction

5 - One of my favorite books in the series. Harry begins to learn about his family and his friendships with Ron and Hermione begin to truly grow. Also, Remus Lupin is introduced and is one of the best Defense Against the Dark Arts teachers in the series.

12-28-07 Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets by J.K. Rowling - Fiction

5 - OK, the more I read this one, the more I like it. Plus, the references in this one are so numerous and point to things that happen in the final two books. One of the best things about this series is, as Harry gets older and the years pass, the reader sees Rowling's writing improve with each book. The writing ages with Harry making each book a joy to read.