Rating: 
Summary: Continuation with more surprise twists and intrigue
Review: After I finished reading the first novel at a friend's insistence, I was so hooked by the end of it that I got the Omnibus of the first three novels and one of the final three novels so I can continue reading the saga of the residents of Barbary Lane.
The first half of this novel, I thought was better than the first novel, as I simply couldn't put the book down. I had to read "just one more" chapter, and since most chapters ran no more than three pages or so, one chapter turned into several chapters. The different story lines are interspersed, and I found that my curiosity switched from one to another as I read more. Some story lines didn't interest me (regarding DeeDee Halcyon Day and her mother), while others had me hooked (Mona Ramsey's vacation to a ranch in Nevada where she has an amazing coincidence that reveals a deeper connection between her and another character). I also enjoyed reading about Mary Ann Singleton and Michael Mouse Tolliver as they grow closer in friendship and take a cruise to Mexico together. On the cruise, they meet a man whom they don't know if he'd go for Mary Ann or Michael, and some of the wit apparent in the dialogue is laugh out loud funny. The plot moves towards a strange, and a bit far fetched, conclusion built around a mystery of one man's amnesia and the bits he remembers and some odd personality quirks. I didn't find their discovery to be realistic, but its not enough to take away from my enjoyment of the novel. Overall, I still like the first one better, but I'm really glad to see a continuation of these characters. The ending hints of things to come, so of course I plan to read the rest of the series in the next month or two. Like the first novel, the dialogue is simply amazing, full of wit, and laugh out loud funny. Armistead Maupin is a conversational genius and knows how to hook a reader. My only critique would be more time spent on descriptions, offering more details and observations. These novels read like a screenplay, but that's probably a big reason why this novel is so easy to read through. I can't wait to read what will happen next!
Rating: 
Summary: Even better than the first one!
Review: After reading and enjoying Tales of the City, I rushed out to buy More Tales the next day....and it was even better! The second book in the series has more heart, more laughs, and a storyline that rivals any soap opera! I couldn't stop reading, because so many plots were unwinding at different paces. An extremely enjoyable read (I've never given a five star review before!), and I cannot wait for Further Tales, which I might go buy today. If you read Tales, you're doing yourself a great disservice if you don't read More Tales!
Rating:
Summary: Armistead Maupin meets Alfred Hitchcock
Review: Armistead Maupin's a marvel:his stories aren't only the funny and poignant tales of some significant representatives of humanity, there'also mystery and suspense, whit the strange story of Burke and his obsession whit roses and railings (how like many Hitchcock movies, like SCIARADA). An Ellery Queen -style riddle deepens the mystery (you have too many clues, says Jon to Mary Ann Singleton).
Will the Barbary Lane Irregulars solve the Adventure of The Sacred Rock ?
Meanwhile, we learn more about Mrs Madrigal's past,sympathize whit the gentle and brave Michael, bear witness to a weird affair of Brian (similar to some "Net romances" of today), watch a nasty individual do his worst and meet his comeuppance,and learn the unbelievable secrets of Pinus. Hey, how can you possibly want more?
Rating:
Summary: A solid and entertaining sequel
Review: Ever notice you read a lot faster pre-college than postgraduate school? I suspect that has to do with the kind of books being read. This book definitely falls into the category of those fast reading books. It is unlikely you will go away with the feeling of utter awe, but you will be extremely entertained. Maupin maintains the momentum he built from Tales of the City, as his character continue to grow in this story. If you liked the first book, this is a worthy sequel. The lives of the occupants of 28 Barbary Lane goes on, and it feels as if you never left them. Okay, so the way things unfold is little preposterous, but most likely you won't care and you will just go with the flow. I did, and I thoroughly enjoyed the ride. And if you ever visit San Francisco, you will probably be seized with the urge to go visit at least one place mentioned in this book.
Rating:
Summary: A solid and entertaining sequel
Review: Ever notice you read a lot faster pre-college than postgraduate school? I suspect that has to do with the kind of books being read. This book definitely falls into the category of those fast reading books. It is unlikely you will go away with the feeling of utter awe, but you will be extremely entertained. Maupin maintains the momentum he built from Tales of the City, as his character continue to grow in this story. If you liked the first book, this is a worthy sequel. The lives of the occupants of 28 Barbary Lane goes on, and it feels as if you never left them. Okay, so the way things unfold is little preposterous, but most likely you won't care and you will just go with the flow. I did, and I thoroughly enjoyed the ride. And if you ever visit San Francisco, you will probably be seized with the urge to go visit at least one place mentioned in this book.
Rating:
Summary: Almost better than the first!
Review: I liked this book. It had fewer characters and story lines than the first "Tales" book, so it was easier to care about and follow the characters. I cried about Michael, cried about him and John...well, I don't want to give too much away, in case you haven't read it. I'm telling everyone I know, READ THIS BOOK! I wish there were more people I could discuss these books with...
Rating:
Summary: This book is amazing!!!!
Review: I love the plot, the intrigue and the characters. Mary Ann Singleton is a classic character. I also like the mystery subplot and the somewhat happy ending. Armistead Maupin is the kind of writer that I aspire to be.
Rating:
Summary: I certainly enjoyed reading this book.
Review: I saw the showtime miniseries first, then I read this book. I enjoyed the adventures of all the characters. Mouse meeting that certain gynecologist in Mexico during the cruise. Mary Anne falling for Burke. Mona finding the truth about her father. Its refreshing that Mauphin can put such a great spin on all his characters. You come out feeling satisfied for them. I highly recommend this book, and also seeing the miniseries.
Rating:
Summary: Just a little bit of a sophmore slump
Review: It's not as good as the first novel in the series, but good in and of itself. Maupin has the same style - light, with a lot of dialog, and plenty of odd and interesting plot turns, as in the first novel. I would recommend not reading them in succession, though. You need to read someone else to kind of clear your palette. He has the same characters and the continuity is a good thing, but I could do without the nicknames (Babycakes and Mouse).
Rating:
Summary: Just a little bit of a sophmore slump
Review: It's not as good as the first novel in the series, but good in and of itself. Maupin has the same style - light, with a lot of dialog, and plenty of odd and interesting plot turns, as in the first novel. I would recommend not reading them in succession, though. You need to read someone else to kind of clear your palette. He has the same characters and the continuity is a good thing, but I could do without the nicknames (Babycakes and Mouse).
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