Review: Engaging characters and story.
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 08 25, 2012
I think Julie Smith is a terrific writer and as I read one book of hers after another I am impressed by the growth as a writer that she demonstrates.  It's fun to read her books and watch her get better and better.  Her two main characters -- Skip Langdon and the city of New Orleans -- are equally real to me.  Her depiction of the climate of New Orleans makes me really glad I don't live there but I love reading about it.  And Skip, with her fine mind and profound insecurities, is someone I'd love to know.  But the most wonderful aspect of this particular Skip Langdon adventure is the portrayal of the mind of a sixteen year old girl, incredibly sad, incredibly talented, incredibly real to me.  I love how the girl thinks about race, music, death, and love.  I believe in her talent and her anguish.  I love Skip's landlord/best friend and can't wait to read the next book to find out what happens in their lives.  In fact, as soon as I finish this review I'm going to buy the next one.