Bests & Worsts Reviews from Amazon

I'm not a young adult... more like middle aged. "Haven" came up as a recommendation after reading a young adult title which was recommended by a friend. "Haven" had good reviews so, for a buck, I gave it a whirl. I'm very glad I did! In her afterward, Ms. Ivanovich asked for reviews. I'm not well versed in critical review and have hesitated to leave comments (this is my first for a novel) but, in the interest of encouraging a new author, I'll try to give you the highlights of my reading experience: I could picture the world Ivanovich built quite vividly - right down to form, color, and texture. That hasn't happened for me in a while. I cared about characters - I found their reactions genuine. Nice pacing and well written action sequences. Not only did I find myself anticipating each break in my schedule so I could return to Katelyn's adventure, I downright grinned when the ending indicated there would likely be a sequel. What struck me about halfway through the novel was the fact I hadn't once muttered, "Oh, really?" "I don't think so!" or "Puhleeze!" I enjoy fantasy, urban fantasy and paranormal (among other genres) but often find myself chortling over plot holes and inconsistencies. Evidently the plot and writing here were strong enough for me to skim over any that might be present. Why 4 stars instead of 5? Honestly, I'm not always sure what ratings mean to folks after having read some mediocre books with predominately 5 star reviews. Since this is my first rating of a novel, I gave some thought to the scale I'd use. Most of the books I read are popular fiction or general interest titles, not "great literature." With that in mind: 5 - Outstanding read. Enriched my world by being especially thought provoking, moving, useful, etc. 4 - Excellent read. Thoroughly enjoyable or worthwhile. If fiction, will probably snatch up the author's next book. Would read this title again. 3 - Solidly good read. Some quibbles on plot, characterization, writing style, usefulness, etc. but not enough to detract from overall enjoyment (or practical application, if non-fiction). Will look to this author again. 2 - Not particularly recommended. Writing, subject treatment, plot or character defects that seriously detracted from enjoyment or usefulness. 1 - Avoid this book. Fatal flaws.