In theory, this is what I'm looking for: cozy minimalism. However, the book seems to be written with a very "American hoarder with a huge house" mindset. I detest the giant pieces of art that demand that you relax or feel happy. I'm disappointed by the design, because it seems so sterile and emotionless. Also, with the focus on big houses, it seems like people who are trying to pack everything they own into a very small apartment where they live and also work are kind of out of luck. That being said, I think that the author's ideas about how to organize a room are at least helpful. I was also happy to see that she wasn't suggesting that every single surface had to have something on it.

Much better than many books of this type. While the writing isn't stellar, it told a good story and didn't feel like a prequel.

This book was three short stories mainly made up of sex and marriage proposals. I could have used a little more plot, but it was still a good read.

I remember really liking this as a teenager. This time, I can't decide. Is the translation not as good? Do I just need to think about it more? Hmmm....

Good, although not 100% thrilling. I was pleased that the female lead wasn't pissy. I hate that.

Probably this book is worth reading. However, I am really not interested in reading about the main character being abused, and I get the impression that this is what happens for a lot of the book. At some point, I may try to read this again, but for now, I'm done.

I finished The Cardinal of the Kremlin a few days ago. I generally liked it and will give it seven macho stars out of ten. My biggest complaint is that it seems a bit homophobic. I wouldn't have thought so based on just the one messed up lesbian (although her entire reason for being evil seemed to be because she was gay), but even Jack Ryan was making homophobic comments that seemed to be in his head. It was less contrived/leading than other books I have read of his, although I still liked Patriot Games better.

Not quite as good as the first book, but still quite good.

I seriously wept through the entire book. I loved "Taking Cover", and this was just as good!

Fun and quick.