Stardust by: Neil Gaiman

What a delightful fairy tale! Gaiman takes us on a brilliant journey in his national bestseller Stardust. In the Village of Wall there lives a lovestruck young man named Tristran Thorn who embarks on a memorable trip to the Land of Faery. He has promised to bring back a fallen star for his beautiful maiden. During Tristran's trip through the magical land he encounters many creatures, both good and evil. We are introduced to witches, fairies, kings and other fantastical creatures both big and small. I was reminded of Lord Dunsany and George MacDonald in this very enjoyable adult fairy tale. If you love being taken away to lands of enchantment this book is for you.

The Last Dickens by: Matthew Pearl

My British Literature Professor from college would be proud to hear I decided to read this National Bestseller. Mystery and intrigue kept me on the edge of my seat in this captivating novel. When the greatest author in England, Charles Dickens, dies of a hear attack in 1870 the quest for the last six installments of his latest novel send James Osgood and his clerck Rebecca on an overseas journey full of suspense. They must face the grieving family of a famed author and battle the thugs of London's opium dens. Pearl creates fabulous characters that are reminiscent of characters that Dickens created so many years ago. The historical setting allows one to visit the dark streets of London , 19th century America and ancient India. The plot twists and turns with suspense and weaves a wonderful story that keeps one curious during the entire book. I never read any of Matthew Pearl's previous works but after my enjoyment of The Last Dickens I believe I will venture into his other works The Dante Club and The Poe Shadow.
Bravo to Pearl for a wonderful read!