By: Mindy Klasky
This was a fun and lighthearted read about a woman who finds herself suddenly broke and homeless after her boyfriend of 3 years disappears with her entire life savings, as well as 3 million dollars from the production company that they both work(ed) for. That being said, a friendly co-worker lends our protagonist a box of clothes, as well as a brass lamp, complete with a gender-bending, wish-fulfilling genie. What I didn't realize before reading this book is that the friendly co-worker's adventures with the magical genie were apparently documented in the first book in this series. However, this book stands alone just fine and I had absolutely no trouble keeping up with what was going on. Even though the two books are evidently written as a continuation of the story, one needn't necessarily read them in order. That's what I was told, anyway, and I believe it since I didn't even realize this was a continuation until I was told so. That being said......
I found this book to be the perfect brain candy. It was an effortless read, perfect for a lazy summer day. The characters were, in my opinion, very likable and well rounded. Even the Popcorn King was irritatingly well-written. The plot was well executed and the author left no loose ends when the story was over. Toss in a teaspoon of humor and a dash of romance, and you have a perfect recipe for a great book. I noticed that some reviewers didn't like this book because the plot was "unbelievable", but how believable is a genie in a lamp supposed to be? This book has very little semblance to anything believable, but that's what makes it so much fun. This book is a nice little escape from reality, and it was an escape that I truly enjoyed making.
The back of the book states that Mindy Klasky's next book (in this series) will be published in October 2010 and I look forward to reading about another 4 wishes being granted to another unsuspecting soul.
