So much fun and lovable, fun characters to follow.

This book was OUTRAGEOUS. I read the first two and then watched the new Netflix series. There’s something a little more human and realistic about the first two and the new series that was BLOWN out of the water in this story. Instead of a story about the residents, this is a weird crime novel!? What!? I’m scared to read the fourth. This wasn’t bad, just OUTRAGEOUS. I would love it if the historical fiction aspect was completely cut and just focused on maybe something a little more realistic? Idk. I am such a Michael, who’s to say.

Increasingly ridiculous, bordering on absurd, and impossible to put down. Maupin’s Tales of the City books have become one of my favorite yearly reads; I simply adore returning to 28 Barbary Lane and these characters. As silly as the plot can be, one of the things I have enjoyed the most, now three books into the series, is how much more space Maupin has given his characters to come across as real, deeply flawed, but still compelling, individuals. Perhaps I’m feeling this more strongly coming out of this book because I know what’s coming - it’s the 1980s, and the looming reality of what awaits so many of these characters was lingering in the back of my mind as the story came to a close. Once again, if you’re looking for high literature, these are not those books, but if you are looking for an increasingly addictive story and cast of characters, capturing a very specific time and place, I cannot recommend this series enough.

all of the characters were absolutely loveable and surprisingly layered, as was the plot btw. i really did not expect to enjoy this as much as i did but here we are. since this was the first book of the series i read i’ll definitely be catching up on the other volumes very soon

This one was a trip

Ok, I have seriously not been this addicted to a series since the girl with the dragon tattoo series! This series just gets more and more ridiculous, like a good soap opera. It actually reminds me quite a bit of my favorite day time soap, Passions. Like Passions, the plots are incredibly ridiculous and far fetched but the characters are so endearing and relatable that you are willing to overlook all of that.
This one was my least favorite so far. Michael and Mrs. Madrigal had less of a role in this one and they are my two favorites. I'm also not sure how I feel about prue. I have a feeling she will get on my nerves real quick. Still, this is a quick and great read and I look forward to reading the rest of the books in the series!

A tale of madcap adventures, true family, and the last pure good moments before everything goes to hell.