Queen Anne: The Politics of Passion by Anne Somerset, 636 pages

Queen Anne, the often overlooked and negated ruler of England at the beginning of the 1700s, is best known for her passionate female friendships, especially with the tempestuous Sarah, Duchess of Marlborough. But she was a strong woman who led England through trying times, with the country emerging as the world power. The author does an outstanding job of exploring this fascinating woman, with her troubled family, the overthrow of her father, her strong and long-lasting marriage, and struggles to try to keep the throne above the bickering and power plays of political parties. Anne’s friendship with Sarah is explored, from its early roots to the fiery and ugly end. While I’ve never read about Queen Anne before, considering her a boring woman, I now look forward to finding out more about this quiet and determined history maker.

Sweet 18 by Francine Pascal, 184 pages

This was a bittersweet book because I was excited to come to the end of Jessica and Elizabeth's high school years (over 190 books in the series) but sad to see them end. I'm going to follow them through college but it was a turning point.

Stolen Charms by Adele Ashworth, 371 pages

A historical romance sent to me by Night Owl Reviews that was a little campy and unbelievable, even for a bodice ripper.

To Tempt the Devil by C.J. Archer, 291 pages

This was an advance readers copy sent to me by Night Owl Reviews. Not one I would have picked out on my own, and not my favorite historical romance.

Missouri's Wicked Route 66 by Lisa Livingston-Martin, 127 pages

I enjoyed Lisa's other two books, but this is my definite favorite out of all three. It explores the gangsters and outlaws along Missouri's home stretch of Route 66, including a little bit of Oklahoma and Kansas. One of the shocking ones was the link to Jack the Ripper. I knew there were theories to an American 'doctor' possibly being Jack the Ripper, but I didn't realize he had ties to St. Louis. I also enjoyed reading about the Lemp Family, Frank & Jesse James, and the Stefflebeck Bordello in Galena, Kansas. This was a really fascinating look at some of the crimes that have been committed along one of America's most famous highways. I look forward to Lisa's presentation at the library in July, and I even put this book on hold for my husband because I know he'll enjoy it as well.

Dead, White, and Blue by Carolyn Hart, 270 pages

This was the latest Max and Annie murder mystery, and while it was still very entertaining, the series seems to be losing its sizzle. I feel like plots are becoming a little predictable and the characters somewhat of a cliche.

Game by Barry Lyga, 520 pages

This is the sequel to "I Hunt Killers" and it's been a long wait for it to come out. This book features Jasper called to New York City to help track down a serial killer while dealing with his father's escape from prison. This book is filled with lots of action, suspense, and relatively little blood and gore for a book featuring serial killers. Barry Lyga has created an amazing teen series that has proven to be a must read for adults. Now it's another long wait until the next book comes out.