I wanted something fun and happy to read so I picked up a copy of The Two Princesses of Bamarre and was not disappointed.  Some of the language seems a bit overly formal, but that's just stylistic.  I really like Gail Carson Levine's books.  She really does have a knack for making magic on paper happen for her reader.  I read her blog often and I'm still working through Writing Magic and I really respect her.  The story is cute, the characters are heroic and it makes you feel warm and fuzzy to read it.  I liked it.  I really liked the ending because I like creative and not quite happily ever after's.  If you like YA fiction, are in need of an afternoon read and want something that makes you laugh and really shows some good feminine heroics and character development - I suggest this book!