purplepenning's Reviews (1.72k)

I don't usually choose mysteries that are steeped in melancholy, but the Tana French fans aren't wrong — the writing is beautiful. 

My first Sophie Kinsella book! Other than being a bit longer than I anticipated (and probably more than a bit longer than the story needed), it was a solid pick! A funny, lighthearted, hopeful British romance with a good dose of "women's fiction" running through it and a even a smidgeon of mystery. 

This has been the unexpected hit of the summer for me! Kind, competent 40+ year olds, acting like actual adults in a hella steamy rom-com that, yes, features birding, and also gives a whole new meaning to "competence porn." 

"Gather as much knowledge as you can, because information is power. And choosing how to use it is freedom. The more you know, the freer you will be."

An incredibly relevant, entertainingly satirical story of high school rivals dueling over a small town's heart and soul through the issue of banned books and one sneaky adjustment to the contents of a little free library. In turns sweet, messy, sharp-edged, and deadly serious, it had me smirking, nodding along, and riveted till the end. If you liked "The Reading List" and fervantly believe in the power of books to change the world, get your hands on this one!