Sometimes when you read a series of books the quality of them seems to diminish as you read further into the series. The first book mesmerizes you, but subsequent books are just not as good. The characters become, well, boring and predictable and even annoying after a while, you don't really care about their antics anymore, and may even decide to quit while you're ahead--and stop reading. It's a bit sad. But Linda Weaver Clarke has done it again. I am charmed by her new book, Montezuma Intrigue: The Adventures of John and Julia Evans, which will be officially released on June 1, 2011, and is part of a larger series which includes Anasazi Intrigue (2010), Mayan Intrigue (2010), and Desert Intrigue (coming soon)."Machiavelli chuckled under his breath. They were adorable girls, but they weren't saying a word about where they were going. He needed to know their plans. He needed to get his hands on the map." ~Montezuma Intrigue, Linda Weaver Clarke
In the latest book by Linda Weaver Clarke, Montezuma Intrigue, the mysteries continue as this author entrances us with life-like characters and electrifying adventures. The search for Montezuma's treasure is both exciting and memorable. This time, the story took me on a rugged, outdoor adventure with the Evans family in search of Montezuma's treasure, through canyons and ravines and caves, aided by an antique parchment map found in an old wooden chest in the attic. There are also a few romances, and some surprises as well, which kept my reading pleasurable and lively.
This story focuses mostly on the daughters of John and Julia Evans, 19-year-old twins Sharlene and Faith, and 21-year-old April. I think Linda Weaver Clarke's experience raising her own six daughters (truly an amazing feat in this day and age!) has been very beneficial to her in creating strong and lovely female characters who are a pleasure to read about. Additionally, I enjoyed the adventure and suspense in her latest novel, which kept me reading well into the night. The author's writing flows smoothly, and is natural-sounding rather than hoighty-toighty. I also relished the story-telling which takes place inside of this story, which further emphasizes the importance of telling our stories (and hopefully also recording them), keeping them alive for future generations (isn't that why we write?).
In celebration of her new book, the author is graciously hosting a special book giveaway from May 23 - May 31, so be sure to stop by Linda Weaver Clarke's blog for details and to enter.
Special thanks to Linda Weaver Clarke for sending me her book to review. Your comments are appreciated.
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I know exactly what you mean about a series going downhill, and it seems that so many of them suffer from this. I am glad to hear this was not the case with these books, and have to admit that they sound fascinating! Great review, Suko! I am glad that you enjoyed this latest installment!
ReplyDeleteI so agree with you on the on-going quality of books in a series. It seems to me that the author is sometimes under such pressure to turn out the next installment that all quality goes out the window and it becomes all about quantity. Some authors seem to make a comeback after a 'bad' book but so often the series is spoilt for me that I find myself having lost all interest. I'm so glad that you are still enjoying these books.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Susan, for a wonderful review. I appreciate it beyond words. One of the things I love about your reviews is that you always add a quote from the book and that makes it fun and exciting to everyone. Your review has touched my heart, as always. Thanks once again.
ReplyDeleteLinda Weaver Clarke
I'm glad you're enjoying this series and that it continues to live up to your expectations.
ReplyDeleteZibilee, thank you! I admire your writing, and often learn from your reviews.
ReplyDeletePetty, thanks!
Linda, it has been a pleasure to read your books, and I look forward to the next installment. Thanks for taking time from your super busy schedule to stop by!
Anna, that is a good way of putting it--thanks for your comment.
The real treasure is the time the family spends together, and any other treasure is icing on the cake :-)
ReplyDeleteGreat review, Suko! Isn't this a great series?
ReplyDeleteI forgot about how you like this series. I should really check it out. Wonder if my library has them.
ReplyDeleteAwesome review.. I need to grab this book soon..
ReplyDeleteI saw this on Goodreads! It looks so good! Thank you for sharing. :-)
ReplyDeleteXOXO~ Renee
Sounds like an amazing series.
ReplyDeleteGlad you are enjoying this series, it does sound good!
ReplyDeletep.s. Suko, if you want me to make a button for you...let me know ;)
ReplyDeleteI found this to be true with James Patterson, as stopped reading his books as a result.
ReplyDeleteHope u r having a nice weekend; this book does sound really good!