Hello everyone,

It’s been a while since I last posted a mini-review! It’s also been a while since I’ve read a book from the Daughter of Smoke and Bone series! I thought it might be meant to be that the two events coincide 😉

By the way, I was in a baby reading rut a while back in July, triggered by Bossypants (a book I thought I would love but not really) and also general busyness. Night of Cake & Puppets is what broke me out of this reading funk! Thank you Beth for recommending this book to me!

Petite though she may be, Zuzana is not known for timidity. Her best friend, Karou, calls her “rabid fairy,” her “voodoo eyes” are said to freeze blood, and even her older brother fears her wrath. But when it comes to the simple matter of talking to Mik, or “Violin Boy,” her courage deserts her. Now, enough is enough. Zuzana is determined to make the first move, and she has a fistful of magic and a plan. It’s a wonderfully elaborate treasure hunt of a plan that will take Mik all over Prague on a cold winter’s night before leading him to the treasure: herself! Violin Boy is not going to know what hit him.

New York Times bestselling author Laini Taylor brings to life a night only hinted at in the Daughter of Smoke & Bone trilogy—the magical first date of fan-favorites Zuzana and Mik. Originally published as an ebook, this new print edition will include breathtaking black and white illustrations, plus bonus content in a gorgeous package perfect for new and current fans of the series.

What I Liked

• A fun, lighthearted and effortless read. Lots of humor that will make you smile and laugh. In a reading rut? This might be just the book for you.
• Zuzana and Mik each have a unique voice. Zuzana has a one of a kind personality that is quirky and hilarious. Mik might seem normal on the outside but he is a lovable weirdo too and the two are perfect for each other.
• The art! Yes, this book is illustrated! (Which makes so much sense because Zuzana and Karou are artists!)
• The setting. Laini Taylor’s beautiful descriptions of Prague makes me want to travel there. Like, right now.

What I Didn’t Like (as much)

• Very elaborate writing. I am on the fence about this point because for the most part, I like Laini Taylor’s writing. It is so vivid and descriptive and you can visualize a place or a persons thoughts exactly as it is described. On the other hand, at times I feel it is too over the top.
• A bit predictable. No real surprises but I still enjoyed the ride.
• A tiny spoilery detail: (highlight to reveal) Just a touch of instalove. Even though Zuzana and Mik don’t instantly get together, it is a case of love at first sight. You guys know how I feel about instalove…

The Bottom Line: 3.5/5 stars

Night of Cake & Puppets is a fun and light-hearted read that will likely make you smile, laugh, and go “awwww…”

Do you get into reading slumps once in a while? What causes reading slumps for you? What helps you get out of reading slumps?