The Ruby Notebook

Notebook #2

by Laura Resau

Sixteen-year-old Zeeta and her flighty English-teaching mom, Layla, have traveled the world together, settling in a different country every year, making a whole new set of friends and adopting new customs. This year, they’ve chosen to live in Aix-en-Provence, France, an enchanting city full of fountains, creamy yellow light, and a fascinating group of scarlet-clad street performers.
Zeeta soon begins to receive mysterious notes and gifts from someone she calls her fantôme, or ghost, admirer. But she is expecting her boyfriend, Wendell—the love of her life, as her friends call him—to arrive in Aix for a summer program very soon. Zeeta brushes off her curiosity about her fantôme, and her simmering attraction to one of the street performers, Jean-Claude, until Wendell arrives and she begins to fear that her feelings for him have truly changed. Perhaps—like Layla—she’s simply not made for long-term romance.
As Zeeta tries to draw away from Wendell, however, circumstances seem to force them together. Zeeta’s friendship with a local antiques dealer and his reclusive artist friend leads to a dangerous adventure. When Zeeta and Wendell join forces to find a secret underground spring whose water is rumored to bring immortality, they are forced to reconsider their own desires, and their beliefs about true love. Yet as soon as Zeeta decides that her mind has cleared, she’s confronted with the biggest shock of her the incredible true identity of her fantôme .
Vibrant, warmhearted, and evocative, The Ruby Notebook is a remarkable novel about learning to accept love in all of its wondrous and imperfect forms.


From the Hardcover edition.

Genres: Young Adult, Fiction, Romance, Travel, Realistic Fiction, Contemporary, France

373 pages, Library Binding

First published September 14, 2010

About the author

Laura Resau is the author of The Alchemy of Flowers, The River Muse (May 2026), and eleven acclaimed books for children and teens. Her books have garnered nineteen starred trade reviews, five Colorado Book Awards, and spots on “best-of” book lists from Oprah, School Library Journal, and the American Library Association. Trilingual, she’s lived in Provence and Oaxaca, and has a background in cultural anthropology, languages, and ESL. She teaches graduate creative writing at Western Colorado University. You might find her writing in her cozy vintage trailer in Fort Collins, Colorado, where she lives with her rock-hound husband, musician son, wild husky, and a hundred house plants.

Reviews

[Teresa · Rating 4 out of 5]

This year Layla and Zeeta are in France. Wendell has plans to join them this summer to improve his french. Things get bumpy for them when his family lines up a host family for him to stay with and not with Zeeta as previously arranged. This complicates a relationship that was born over a summer in Ecuador and seperated by thousands of miles. They end up taking a break.

Zeeta embraces herself in the Culture and lifestyle of France while tutoring students in English. Her mother teaches French students the English language. Zeeta becomes friends with Illusion, a magical, dancing, band act that plays on the streets. She also befriends an older gentleman who raises pigeons and wants to learn better english. She also becomes friends with an elderly lady who watches life through her binoculars.

Once again Resau writing brings the streets, sounds and food of France to life for her readers. She also weaves a story of love lost and found and gives us more insight into Zeeta's father.

[Bradley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sometimes a book comes into your life at just the right moment and it changes the way you look at life. That's the kind of book the Ruby Notebook is for me. It reminded me to "make everyday a song".

This book is the companion book of The Indigo Notebook. You don't really need to read the prior book to read this one. This time around Zeeta and her mom, Layla, find themselves in France. Zeeta's boyfriend is coming to France for the summer and Zeeta may have finally found balance. But things aren't always black and white. I don't really want to give away the book but I loved it and it's become a favorite.

[Anna Francesca · Rating 5 out of 5]

Laura Resau's writing is gorgeously poetic. Her word choice is spot-on, and her descriptions make me long to travel. After years of speaking French, despite my having forgotten most of what I learned, I still enjoyed this being set in France. Again, the characters were so realistic that Iwas willing to go along with the magical elements in the text that I would usually feel off-putting to me. I wonder if this series is going to be turned into films. They have a cinematic feel about them. While the end tied up a smidge more cleanly than is ideal, it was still an engaging read. I'm on the hold list for the yet-to-be-published Jade Notebook.

[Ari · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m still puzzled by Rumi quotes but I’ve just accepted that I will never understand him but neither does Zeeta and her mother constantly uses them. This book was as close to utter perfection as a book can get. I freely admit that I’m biased towards books where the main character is completely immersed in another country. *shrugs* My previous complaint was that the author didn’t throw in enough Spanish/Quichua phrases but she obliges me here. I LOVE that this book not only features common French words and phrases but also French slang. It truly makes these books stand out because the reader is as close to immersion as possible without visiting or having the book be entirely in French. I’ve been on a French kick lately (reading this book, Anna and the French Kiss, watching Midnight in Paris-FABULOUS movie, and soon to read Paris Noire and This Side of the Sky) and I adore the culture, I desperately want to visit. I enjoyed this brief exchange about the French language when Zetta meets Jean Claude for the first time, “’Enchante, Zeeta.’ He says formally, shaking my hand. Enchanted to meet you. Not pleased. Not glad. Not happy. Enchanted. Magic seeps into even the most mundane interactions in this language.” (pg. 31), no wonder French is known as the language of love! Once again the setting comes alive in Laura Resau’s more-than-capable hands. We can see the street performers doing backflips and passing around a hat for coins, the quiet mime in the town’s square, envision the old houses with private houses and commiserate with Zeeta early in the book as she heads to the only Internet café in town to email and call Wendell. The cast of characters are lively, almost every facet of their being explored from the isolated Madame Chevalier to the mime Torture (French for turtle. Pronounced tor-TEW) to the nomadic members of the theater group Illusion (Jean Claude, Amadine, etc).

I could relate to Zeeta’s fear that she did not know how to be in a long-term relationship because her mother has ever been one. Not that I am in that same situation but Zeeta expresses her confused feelings on romance so well that it’s easy to sympathize with her. It’s easy to see why she is attracted to Wendell and Jean Claude. Instead of chasing Wendell’s birth parents as in the first book, here Zeeta is trying to get a better idea of her father because she suspects he might be her fantôme, even if he’s not she’s determined to make Layla remember any sort of clue. I can’t imagine having absolutely no idea who may father was or no way of tracking him down and having a mother who is utterly unconcerned. It’s easy to get caught up in Zeeta’s fantasy about her father but the actual scenario isn’t all that unrealistic. The story turns into a mystery and then takes a delightful turn into the magical involving Celtic lore and warriors and fountains. There’s definitely a quality of magical realism in this story and it flows smoothly with the narrative.

The Ruby Notebook has a whimsical quality but there’s more complexity to the story than that word allows. It’s a captivating read set in a captivating place, Aix-en-Provence. I really liked that Wendell and Zeeta didn’t do a cliché we-are-so-in-love-in-France type thing, instead their relationship is rocky. They both had some unrealistic expectations of a long-distance relationship and they have to work out the kinks or decide to break up. Not an easy decision but one that is explored realistically. The mystery unravels slowly and it’s truly difficult to figure out who the fantôme is, I did not see it coming. These stories could easily be adapted into films, they read like a screen-play (not that I’ve ever read one). Again, it is not necessary to read the first book in the Notebooks series but I highly recommend you do. You will finish this book feeling utterly enchanted with the setting, characters and author. Do not read these books hoping to be cured of wanderlust, I now have an insatiable desire to travel.

[Jennifer Wardrip · Rating 4 out of 5]

Reviewed by Monica Sheffo for TeensReadToo.com

Laura Resau shines again with this stunning sequel to the captivating novel THE INDIGO NOTEBOOK.

Zeeta's back and on another exciting adventure, this time in France! Aix-en-Provence is just like a fairy tale, and with her boyfriend, Wendell, coming to visit for the summer, life seems just about perfect.

But when a mysterious CD from a secret admirer ends up in her bag at a marketplace, she is determined to find out his identity. Unfortunately, the fantome and his gifts are the least of her problems, as Zeeta finds herself falling for fellow wanderer, Jean-Claude.

Will her relationship with Wendell last, or is she destined to be with Jean-Claude? Her fantome isn't the only mystery on her mind, though. She soon finds herself on a hunt for the legendary Fountain of Youth. Can Zeeta find an answer to all of her questions? Only time will tell.

Laura Resau has created another captivating tale with heart and insight! You'll fall back in love with Zeeta and find yourself cheering her on as she struggles to adjust to a new country, new friends, and possibly a new love.

For both fans of THE INDIGO NOTEBOOK and newcomers alike, THE RUBY NOTEBOOK won't disappoint.

[Holly · Rating 4 out of 5]

I adored Indigo Notebook and loved Ruby NOtebook just as much. I love the intergenerational aspect of this book....Zeeta made friends with teens but also had a great relationship with two 70 years olds. The details of France made me want to run right out and get a plane ticket and just go. Plus, the pronounciation guide for french words used in the books was a major a bonus. I wonder what color the next notebook will be....

[Melody · Rating 3 out of 5]

The middle book of a trilogy seems more often than not to be the weakest book. I was not in love with this one. I figured out the mystery in pretty short order, and found the whole father subplot more than a little silly. Once again, Resau's characters were a delight- and I'm willing to forgive much when this is the case. One cares about these people. A lot. Resau writes well enough that even the pigeons become strong, memorable characters. 3.5

[Stephanie · Rating 3 out of 5]

As always Laura Resau takes me to another world with her writing. The details and the time she takes to accurately write her books just amazes me. I can clearly picture the fountains, the cafes, the buildings, the street performers. But I didn't feel the same way as I did when i read the Indigo Notebook. I don't know why. I was mainly annoyed with Zeeta in the whole book. sigh.

[Lauren Cook · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Ruby Notebook by Laura Resau is the second in its series, but it is easy to follow regardless of whether or not its reader has finished the previous book. When the first book is taken into account, the ending of the second is slightly easier to predict. This is no huge issue, however, and does not affect the quality of the book itself.

The story follows sixteen-year-old Zeeta and her mother Layla, who have just moved to a beautiful city in France, driven by Layla's restlessness and tendency to switch her home country each year. The move has been particularly hard for Zeeta, as she no longer lives in the same country as her boyfriend Wendell. Fortunately, he is flying in soon as part of a foreign exchange program, and will be able to see Zeeta on a daily basis.

While she waits for Wendell to arrive, Zeeta meets a very interesting cast of characters. She is entranced by the unique musical group Illusion, and even more so by Jean-Claude, the group's handsome young accordionist. She is puzzled when mysterious presents begin to turn up in her bag, and enlists the help of an observant, elderly painter called Madame Chevalier and an old pigeon enthusiast named Vincent to discover the identity of her fantôme gift-giver. As a result, Zeeta is sucked into Vincent and Madame Chevalier's passionate search for mystical, healing spring waters rumored to exist in the area. Then, as if her secret admirer and search for magic water are not enough to keep her occupied, Zeeta must also deal with her conflicting feelings toward Jean-Claude and Wendell upon Wendell's arrival in France.

Resau's writing style is pleasant and descriptive, and her characters are unique. Though it is eventually possible to predict certain plot developments once background information is established, the story is not what it may have initially appeared. Overall, it is a fairly enjoyable read. While this novel is not exceptionally profound or outstandingly thought-provoking, it is well-written and capable of entertaining anyone who chooses to read it.

[Rachel Taylor · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really good YA book about Zeeta, a girl with a flighty, flower-child mother who drags her around the world making her live in a different country every year. Zeeta has deep inner fears about good-byes, permanence in life, and the existence of her father (a one-night stand by her Mother).

Their newest home is in Aix-en-Provence, France. Zeeta’s American boyfriend is going to spend the summer with them, but already she is having fears. She also has a talent for making friends with odd-balls, including a band of gypsy-like musicians (one of which she has a crush on), an older man obsessed with pigeons, and a world-famous reclusive artist. Her mom bonds with the local pagan priest who may or may not be protecting the Fountain of Immortality.

As if that isn’t enough crazy for Zeeta, a phantom starts leaving her presents and clues. Is it one of her gypsies or maybe even her long lost father?

This is a slow, pondering book, but Zeeta is wonderful and all her crazy friends are just as fun. There is not a single clichéd or cardboard person in the story. The writing is well done. Aix-en-Provence comes alive (the description is really well done) and the little drops of French are perfect.

I only have two complaints and they are small. First, the themes of this book are not subtle. It’s all pretty much laid out on the table and I think the book would have been stronger if the themes had been a bit quieter (I got a bit tired of hearing about them). Second, I knew from almost page one the answer to the big looming question of the story. I kept hoping I was wrong (because in every other way the author did such a fantastic job), but I wasn’t, and I would have preferred some kind of big twist at the end. Even with that, I’d recommend taking a look at this. I enjoyed it.

[Stephanie A. · Rating 4 out of 5]

I took so many French classes in school that I ended up minoring in it, yet never had the slightest interest in visiting France. This book might have changed that, for never has the country been described with such mystique.

At first I was disappointed to be transplanted somewhere so seemingly ordinary and modern after the lush world of Ecuador in the last book, but before I knew it was surrounded by enchanting cafes, ancient sculptures, antique markets and rumors of an underground Fountain of Youth. Rounding out that were Z's usual assortment of newfound friends and confidantes of all ages, all deeply enjoyable.

The rudimentary bits of knowledge about French culture and geography left behind after graduating married beautifully with the details provided in this book, while the language center of my brain got a contact high off of how easy it is to recognize the vocabulary, pronunciation gliding smoothly through my head in a way I didn't even try with the last book. I didn't even have time to be annoyed by the stumbling block in her relationship with Wendell, because every time I tried, there would be some beautiful new description of her surroundings and I'd get distracted by drinking it in. Besides, not only was Wendell a well of patience and loyalty, Jean-Claude was an excellent distraction in his own right, with his Tragic Backstory and all.

All said and done, I think I liked it even more than the last book. I love how this series mixes slightly mystical aspects into a realistic setting. My only slight disappointment was that I was keeping my eyes open so hard for clues as to who her father was that I was sure I'd figured it out, only to be caught by surprise when he turned out to be the one whose character I had found dull and mostly skipped over. He is a fantome! Well done.

[Chelsea · Rating 5 out of 5]

Leeta and her mom Layla travel to a new place every year. That's sixteen different homes in sixteen years. As an English teacher obsessed with water rituals, it's simply what her mom does. This year, it's Aix-en-Provence, France. At first, the only thing that excites Leeta is the thought of her boyfriend Wendall coming to stay with her for two months. But then she meets a traveling theater group who call themselves Illusion, and her priorities change. She finds herself spending more time with the troupe than with Wendall. Especially the charming Jean-Claude and the whimsical Amandine. She also meets an old man and woman who entice her with talk of legendary sacred healing waters, somewhere nearby. To top it all off, someone- a fantome- is leaving her baffling gifts... or perhaps clues. With so many strange pieces to Zeeta's life, she hurries to find meaning in them all.

I was totally caught off guard by how much this book sucked me in. The rich, vivid images of the French lifestyle pulled me into the world effortlessly. I admit I have not read The Indigo Notebook, but there was no trouble catching up to the story. And now I definitely want to go back and learn about Zeeta and Wendall some more! Other characters, like VIncent and his lovely pigeon Maude, were so much fun! I felt the troubles and personal struggles Zeeta went through were very rewarding in the end. Zeeta and her mother have a unique relationship with each other and life style that is sure to interest even the pickiest reader. Laura Resau has a sensual, moving style to her writing. The whole experience will leave readers enchantee. And if you liked this one, be sure to check out Revolution by Jennifer Donnelly!

[Wendy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I put off reading this for ages, even though I was dying to and had been waiting for it, for two reasons: one, I wanted Resau to come out with another book so I wouldn't have to wait too long for more of her work; two, I was afraid it would make me dissatisfied with my comparatively-staid Midwestern life. Reason one, justified, and I'll be downloading The Queen of Water soon, while hoping the time goes by quickly until The Jade Notebook comes out. Reason two: it's all right, and that's one of the great things about this book. Sure, it made me feel pretty wistful, but for a book with plenty of magical realism about it, it's so freaking realistic. The book is honest about how Layla's jobs teaching English are really pretty ordinary and non-exciting and non-exotic, and you really feel the significant drawbacks and necessary sacrifices of living in a different country every year, as well as the awesomeness. So I'm not spending the day trying to figure out how I can chuck my good job and go back to being a dirty backpacker after all.

I didn't love this book as much as I've loved some of the others, mostly because one of the things I really liked before was how realistic things were about Zeeta's father; in real life these things happen, and you'd just have to go on not knowing. But I'm willing to keep an open mind about what's going to happen in the last book. I'm also not sold on the idea of finding true love at fifteen, so I liked where things went for a while in this book--again, startlingly realistic--but again, open mind, plus I get that it's probably more satisfying for the intended readership this way.

[Ellen · Rating 4 out of 5]

They Ruby Notebook is the sequal to the Indigo Notebook. This year Zeeta and Layla are in France. Wendell will come later for his art internship.
Ok to start I liked this book's setting. Ive always loved europe and I liked feeling like I was in France. I loved all the characters, Especially Vincent and Madam. I did enjoy the story
But there were several problems with this book. One being the "Love Triangle" between Wendell, Zeeta, and Jean-Claude. I was really annoyed with Zeeta early on when this was happening (thankfully it was resolved well) It made me think she was gonna pull a "Bella" thankfully she didn't.
The other problem I had was near the end of the book so spoilers Near the end theres this Handfasting Ceremony (for those who don't know this is where couples are "engaged/married but with out the marriage" they are then free to have sex even though they aren't technically married. This was done so that the mans family could see if the woman was fertile before the couple was married.) Wendell and Zeeta do participate in this ceremony. Now the reader isn't quite sure if they do have sex but the clues are there. Fine for older readers but for young ones, yeah parents maybe you should read this to them and omit that part it doesn't bring anything to the story ok spoilers done
I would recomend this book to teens up. Anything younger I think a parent would need to read this with them.

[Books and Literature for Teens · Rating 5 out of 5]

Zeeta and her world-traveling mom are back with a whole new adventure. After saying goodbye to her friends in the tropical mountains of Ecuador and her new boyfriend, the trio head to the mystical city of Aix-en-Provence in France, famous for its ancient-old fountains that litter the cobble-stone streets.
Once again Resua has created whimsical characters (both familiar and new), a thrilling plot with adventure and mystery, and a setting that is just as exciting. Teens who have fallen in love with The Indigo Notebook will be sure to get swept away once more in Zeeta’s narrative as she rekindles her romance with Wendell and sets out on yet another journey with a group of charmingly lovable characters.
The best thing about this book is, in my personal opinion, the setting–France! Reading Resau’s books are like stepping over into a far-away land and experiencing every little detail of it through a carefully crafted story. I absolutely loved reading the first book and The Ruby Notebook is just as good, if not better. Overall, wonderfully written sequel.

(*Complete with a glossary of French words!)



Read the rest of the review at booksandliteratureforteens.blogspot.com

[Adrienne · Rating 3 out of 5]

Sixteen-year-old Zeeta is living in France, the 16th country she and her flighty mother have lived in, which is something Zeeta deals with but also can't help resenting sometimes, as she's forced to leave behind friends, and she feels, even pieces of herself . This time should be different, though, because Zeeta's boyfriend Wendell is supposed to come to study art for two months, and Zeeta can't wait to be with him. However, before he gets there, she meets Jean-Claude, who sparks her interest even though she doesn't want him to, someone from her past begins slipping notes and gifts into her bag, and an elderly couple wants her to find a fountain of youth they believe is hidden in their town. Soon, Zeeta is on a quest not to find the water and the mysterious gift-giver but also to find herself.

This book started out a little slow for me, but once it got going, I really enjoyed Zeeta's quest, as well as her relationship struggles, and the symbolism woven into the book. It's more literary than a lot of teen literature but also still very accessible to readers. It's partially an introduction to a foreign culture, partially an invitation to be moved by characters and their journey, and completely lovely.

[Marina · Rating 4 out of 5]

A wonderful continuation of Zeeta and Layla's nomadic life this time in Aix-en-Provence in France. Based on a vision by her boyfriend, Wendell, Zeeta and her mother come to this lovely little town that is overflowing with fountains (pun intended) and may also be the home to ancient magical waters. After a rocky start to being reunited Zeeta and Wendell again find a mystery to solve that takes them all over Aix (above ground and underground).

Even though I read this book (and had to rely upon the extensive glossary/pronunciation guide the author so kindly put at the back of the book) I didn't feel I missed out on any of the language of Zeeta and Layla living in France. It was so beautifully written and the descriptions of the locations, the food and the people made the story come alive for me. You can definitely tell that Resau is intimately acquainted with the locations she writes about from the detail of the settings, food and experiences. Of any of the books that I've read where travel to a foreign locale is predominant I think this series makes me most want to visit places I've never heard of or considered visiting.

[Melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Ruby Notebook is a more enjoyable read than the previous one, and I guess better as a novel. I felt like The Indigo Notebook has heavier story-line (intercultural adoption) so it's harder to just sit back and let the story carry you away, which the Ruby Notebook does.
I've ready many of Resau's books, but this is the first one I've read where I've not already actually visited the place where it's set. So I was curious to see how the descriptions held up. It was really good, but in today's internet-instant gratification world, I will admit, I looked up photos of Aix-en-Provence, The Castle of If and Entremont.
I also don't speak French. In the past, I've been annoyed by books that sprinkle so much French in that it makes it hard to follow if you don't understand. Resau did a good job of making sure the French here has textual clues, and does include a glossary so that wasn't a problem. There were about 3 things I didn't find in the glossary when I checked, but luckily we are in the google era, any way they weren't such a big deal that I couldn't follow the story.
I really enjoyed the love stories in this book and the theme of sacred waters.

[Just a person · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Ruby Notebook is a quick and light read. It has many themes- true love, fantome- secret admirer, and family.
The characters are easy to like and I got engrossed in their story. We watch as the main character Z discovers her path to new love, finding friends and routine in a new country. She makes friends with some elderly folks and help them to realize that they are both quietly in love with the other.
She journeys to find the father that she never knew, and goes on a quest to help the couple find the sacred waters- the fountain of youth.
The plot is well paced, and the themes of the story are sufficiently explored. The ending gives good conclusion, but leaves a lot for the reader to think about and make their own endings.

[Ofilia · Rating 3 out of 5]

I adored Resau's first novel featuring Zeeta and her mother in Ecuador. Now they are in Aix-en-Provence and while the storytelling is more predictable, it is still enchanting. Resau's talent lies in her ability to describe these exotic locations without making it sound like a boring travelogue. Zeeta is an excellent narrator and filter for these enticing settings. As an atypical teen, she sees things with fresh eyes, but many of her problems are universal especially when dealing with love. Perhaps not so common is Zeeta's absence of a father--a mystery that begins to be unraveled in this volume. Luckily, there is still plenty to investigate so a third installment, which is hinted at in the end, will be greatly anticipated.

[Amanda · Rating 4 out of 5]

We meet Zeeta in The Ruby Notebook as she's settling in France with a goal to buy a new notebook for the new country she's living in (each country has it's own color) and make new friends. For the notebook, she settles on Ruby. As for the friends, she meets a troop of performers in the square who call themselves Illusion. Amandine and Jean-Claude quickly become friends at the same time that Zeeta begins to discover mysterious objects left in her bag, beginning with a cd of guitar music. She decides to try to find out who is leaving her gifts, the person she is calling her fantome.

more at vancie917.wordpress.com

[Kunj · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was an absolutely amazing novel! Every minuscule detail weaving itself into other details and creating an unforgettable masterpiece! Great morals - of love and friendship, combined with the exuberant theme of travel make this book a compelling read! Emphatically, the author does a phenomenal job recreating the setting of France and the reader gets to experience and learn the language and customs of the place simultaneously. :) HIGHLY RECOMMEND IT! If interested, be sure to check out the 1st book in the trilogy - The Indigo Notebook. THANK YOU LAURA RESAU FOR THIS AMAZING AMAZING AMAZING BOOK! :) definitely in my all time favourites list!

[Anne · Rating 3 out of 5]

Zeeta and her mom move to a new country every year. In her 16th year and 16th country, they settle in Aix-en-Provence, France. Zeeta meets some fascinating and eclectic new people, including a traveling musical troupe, an antique dealer, an artist, a mime, and a Celt spiritualist. All of these disparate characters are intricately tied together as Zeeta searches for her father, answers about her relationship with Wendell her boyfriend from Ecuador, and the rumored sacred, healing waters of Aix.

[Danica is Booked · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was unlike anything I have ever read before. I found the premise of a mother and daughter who live in a different country each year very intriguing. I also loved the fact that she has a notebook from each year and chooses the color based on her emotions.

I love notebooks and so I loved the idea of her constantly writing in one.

I know some people might find the immortal water a stretch, but I didn't think so.

I will definitely be following this series and this author. Like I said earlier, it was an enjoyable read.

[Kim · Rating 5 out of 5]

Zeeta and her mom are gypsies, spending each year in a new country. Zeeta is both suited to this and is starting to dislike it when they move to Aix-en-Provence. Her sweetie, Wendell, is coming to stay for a couple of months, and Z is concerned that they have lots their connection.

This feels like a very old-fashioned book, though I am not sure why I say this. It's very straightforward and sincere--no snark, no double-play (White Cat, I am looking at you). A great heroine, wonderful setting (I am sucker for any place French), an intriguing mystery. Definitely NOT my last Laura Resau.

[Courtney · Rating 4 out of 5]

The four star rating is for Vincent and Madame Chevalier and of course, Maude. I suppose I had huge expectations because I loved the Indigo Notebook so much I felt this one should be just as good. The problem was I feel like Zeeta was particularly selfish in this book. As a result of her selfishness I feel like she was slow in REALLY helping Vincent and Chevalier. Also because of her angst over her boy issues I feel she was wrapped in a Zeeta bubble and missed some VERY obvious clues as to what was going on around her. However, I really loved the others in this one.

[Melissa · Rating 4 out of 5]

I grabbed this book thinking it was the 1st of the series, I was wrong. So I had a bit of confusion at the beginning, in that I didn't know all of the characters, and some weren't as well described as others. I enjoyed the setting in France and brushed up on many French phrases. The main character, Zeeta, is very likable and keeps the plot moving. I didn't like her mother nearly as much. The quest for Zeeta to find her father is compelling and then the end was surprising and made me want to read the next book.

[Sarah · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wonderful sequel! I'm only sad Layla didn't get to bathe in the secret water! Layla loves her sacred water rituals!!

[Posie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I LOVED this book. The Indigo Notebook is one of my very favorite books, and The Ruby Notebook definitely lived up to my expectations. I especially liked how there was all that French mixed in--I picked up some great expressions. I was so glad that Laura Resau picked France as the setting for The Ruby Notebook. Wendell and Zeeta were perfect for following around the little French towns and cafe's. I really hope there is a third book!!

[Stacey · Rating 4 out of 5]

Travel, special quests, searching for the real you, new friendships, old relationships. This book handles all of these concepts really well. I enjoyed that I could not say for certain what the result of the main reveal would be. I had suspicions, but the author kept her red herrings alive to make me unsure of my suspicions. Loved that.
I enjoyed the characters and related with so many of them. It makes me want to go live abroad for a few years to see what can happen.