I feel so terrible for ranking a Laura Resau book so low, but I'm several chapters in, and I just can't get hooked. It's too predictable and redundant, and I just don't like the characters much anymore. Le sigh. ( )

I adore Meche. I find the characters strong and compelling. But the plot? Not so much. The sense of place is excellent, the flavor of the people and the the food and the environs very distinct. The people themselves are very compelling, original and so totally believable that the tortured plot shows up in bas relief. ( )

For those of us who have followed the adventures of Zeeta and Wendell to this point, we know we can expect exotic settings, mysterious happenings, internal struggles, and profound insights from their stories. The Jade Notebook brings our intrepid heroes to Mexico, where they may have finally found a home and an end to Zeeta’s 17 years of wandering. But the jaguars, poachers, and strangers lurking in the jungle might have something to say about that. This book transcends travel or mystery to instead be a book about growing up, learning to trust and let go, and finding belonging within a family and a community. A fitting end to this unique trilogy.

http://tatalonline.blogspot.com/2012/01/friday-lit-spotlight-new-trilogies.html