Curse of the Spellmans by Lisa Lutz

This is the second Spellman book. Because I just wrote the review on the first one, I don't have much to add.

"Curse" starts a bit after the first one left off, and again Izzy is embroiled in some madcap capers. This time she's following several suspicious people - including her dad, mom, brother, and neighbor, who ends up getting a restraining order on her.

This book does have a non-traditional timeline as did the first. It goes back and forth, but it isn't hard to follow. Lutz does a good job through fonts and chapter titles of making sure you know where in the chronology. This is still more of a "popcorn" or "potato chip" read, but it isn't low brow or idiotic. Lutz does a good job of weaving in comedy and stays true to all those lovely family issues that pop up (even though these are a little more out there than most of us have experienced most likely).

So, all in all: easy read, fun, light, and yet will still hold your attention.

The Spellman Files by Lisa Lutz

This book had been hanging around in my collection for quite a while. Last week, a friend told me that it was hilarious and that another friend loved this series (this is the first; by some miracle - meaning the B&N bargain table - I have the second one, too). So, I needed a quick, brainless read again, so I picked it up.

I'm so glad I did. It's a lot like the Stephanie Plum series started off as. It's funny and quirky. The book revolves around a dysfunctional family (the Spellmans) who run a PI firm out of their house. The story centers around Isabelle who wants out of the business because it is messing with her personal life too much. Her parents force her to take on one last case - a cold one from 10 years ago.

While not hard hitting, it's still a good read. There's some Lucille Ballesque moments, and it kinda makes you think about how nutty your own family really is. This book really filled my need for some "stupid funny."

Counted high enough?

A few years ago, I started reading Janet Evanovich's Stephanie Plum series. All of these books have a number in them (One for the Money, Sizzlin' Sixteen, etc.). She's up to No. 17 now (Smokin' Seventeen), and all I can say is meh.

Honestly, these books have been kinda meh for a while now. They're very formulaic, and the hilarity that used to keep me entertained for a few hours has diminished greatly. I read these for pure entertainment value and for a brain break (and after Game of Thrones, that was desperately needed).

I'm beginning to wonder if they're worth it anymore. Number 18 comes out in 6 months instead of a year, so I'm wondering if she's wrapping it up. I think it may be time for Lulu (the fat lady of the series) to sing.