Bingo square: Pandemic
Series: Greenglass House. This is Book #2, I read and reviewed Book #1 last October.
What I remembered about this series prior to reading this book: Smugglers, Christmas, thieves, tabletop roleplaying games, and adoption issues handled with sensitivity. I enjoyed Greenglass House quite a bit.
Why I stopped reading the series: I wasn’t sure if I needed to know more about the characters–I felt good with where they were after Book 1. I might have picked up Book 2 even if I weren’t trying to revisit unfinished series this year, but I probably wouldn’t have read it so soon.
The plot: It’s Christmastime, one year after the events in Book 1. Milo is looking forward to a quiet winter break at home with his parents, who run an inn that’s often used by smugglers. Unfortunately for him, just like last year–mysterious strangers start showing up at the inn. Some stolen treasure is stolen from thieves, and someone seems to be sabotaging some of the guests’ efforts to leave. Also, Milo’s friend Meddy is back, and he’s trying to help her reconnect with her father.
The good: I enjoyed this! I didn’t figure solve the mystery before Milo did, and that always makes me happy. A few favorite characters from Book 1 return. And the new characters were interesting to me.
The bad: This is, in many ways, a retread of Book 1. Same setup, same detective work by Milo and Meddy. This didn’t bother me, but I could see how it might bother other people.
Did Ghosts of Greenglass House change my mind about this series? No! I enjoyed both Books 1 and 2.
Will I keep reading the series? Probably, although I doubt it will be anytime soon. This is enjoyable fluff–not essential reading.