Reviews

Breakup by Dana Stabenow

lisawreading's review

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5.0

The 7th Kate Shugak book pretty much immediately became one of my favorites. Breakup is a stand-out in the series. It's particularly funny, as a string of improbable events -- grizzly attacks, drunken joyriders, a Hatfields and McCoys type of neighborly feud, and a falling jet engine, among the most notable -- all intrude into Kate's life over the span of a few days.

The story is set at Kate's homestead and the area of Niniltna in general, and it's nice to see Kate back on her home turf after the previous several books mostly took place in other locations. Most of the series regulars are here, and it often feels like a gang of friends hanging out and shooting the breeze.

The plot is engaging and fun, but it's not only light and silly. Kate is evolving, recognizing that her self-imposed isolation is changing into something else, as she begins to take on the community leadership role and responsibilities she'd hoped to avoid.

I can't wait to read more and see where Kate's life takes her next!

sandin954's review

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3.0

Much funnier and frantically paced than I remember the previous books in the series being. From the first page Kate must deal an escalating set of calamities. Very quick, entertaining read.

abibliofob's review

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5.0

"I hate Breakup" Is a line that is kind of a red line through this book by Dana Stabenow is in my opinion the best book so far in this series. I had so much fun reading this book that I actually disturbed people around me with my laughter. Kate has a few encounters of the deadly and some unusual kind. There is so much going on in this book both serious and deadly and most of all funny. After reading 8 books back to back it's good to get some great writing just as you where feeling that the stories where getting somewhat repetitive. I still find this series entertaining and will read some more before the new one arrives next year.

randybo5's review against another edition

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3.0

One of the most enjoyable Kate Shugak mysteries I have read. This one is more about life in Alaska during the crazy early spring when the snow is melting. Well-drawn, enjoyable characters.

lemanley's review against another edition

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adventurous tense medium-paced

4.0

marilynsaul's review against another edition

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5.0

Jam-packed with excitement, so much so that it all seems improbable, until one is reminded that it is Breakup!

rclz's review against another edition

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5.0

I love these books and I think that so far this has been the best of them. Really enjoyed this one. Love Kate and the cast of characters that are her friends and family.

Marguerite Gavin does a wonderful job with the narration as always. I wish the next two would hurry up and get done on audio. Sure I could read them but for these it just wouldn't be enough.

vgillispie's review against another edition

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4.0

I love hearing about hungry, angry grizzly bears and this book did not disappoint.

caityree's review against another edition

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3.0

Not my favourite in the Shugak series.

martha_w's review

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4.0

One of those mysteries that isn't really about the mystery at all. The focus of the seventh book in the Kate Shugak series is a woman trying to balance the obligation to her family and community with her obligation to herself. It is the story of a woman who is called to leadership even though she doesn't want it. That sounds pretty heavy. Fear not! It is also pretty hilarious as everything that could go wrong, does, during Breakup season in Alaska.