Highlights / Lowlights: OBSIDIAN by Jennifer L. Armentrout

Title: OBSIDIAN
Author: Jennifer L. Armentrout (@JLArmentrout)
Published: November 2011
Series: Lux #1
Genre: YA Sci-fi
Publisher: Entangled Publishing POV: 1st person Pages: 294  Format: Kindle eBook Source: Bought Rating: The Great Hall

Starting over sucks. 
When we moved to West Virginia right before my senior year, I’d pretty much resigned myself to thick accents, dodgy internet access, and a whole lot of boring…. until I spotted my hot neighbor, with his looming height and eerie green eyes. Things were looking up. 
And then he opened his mouth. 
Daemon is infuriating. Arrogant. Stab-worthy. We do not get along. At all. But when a stranger attacks me and Daemon literally freezes time with a wave of his hand, well, something…unexpected happens. 
The hot alien living next door marks me. 
You heard me. Alien. Turns out Daemon and his sister have a galaxy of enemies wanting to steal their abilities, and Daemon’s touch has me lit up like the Vegas Strip. The only way I’m getting out of this alive is by sticking close to Daemon until my alien mojo fades. 
If I don’t kill him first, that is.

Highlights: New town, new school, new friends, and a few new problems – Katy is off to quite a start. Katy is an amusing narrator, not to mention a book blogger, so it was easy enough to enjoy and relate to her character. OBSIDIAN is an entertaining story to read, and I can see why so many readers love this book. I was grinning, laughing out loud, scoffing, and utterly unable to contain my wide variety of reactions once I began this novel. While I found the romance to be underwhelming, I highly enjoyed character interactions and Armentrout's type of humor. 

Lowlights: Predictable, with an overall plot that is reminiscent of other stories, and some clichés are thrown in as well. Daemon was a frustrating love interest, what with his constant need to act like a jerk. The summary states that there are aliens, but it took what felt like an eternity for Katy to figure it out¹. The alien "reveal" had too much info-dumping, too. 

Rating: The Great Hall (high 3 out of 5). OBSIDIAN was very likable, but honestly, the only reason I bought this book was because it was on sale for Kindle. While there are some flaws, I do think I would read it again, but I'm not sure if I'll ever read the rest of this series. But, anyone who is interested in OBSIDIAN should definitely check it out, because it is a humorous and fun story. 
1 Which sucks, because then you're all "Katy, they're aliens! ALIENS!!" until she finally figures it out. And then once the alien reveal happens, you're like "Duh, I've only been been telling you that they're aliens for how many pages?"² 2 Umm, I mean, there was no talking to fictional characters. I would never do that, because that would be crazy. *walks away innocently*

Review: THE BOOK OF BROKEN HEARTS by Sarah Ockler

Title: THE BOOK OF BROKEN HEARTS
Author: Sarah Ockler
Published: May 2013
Series: N/A
Genre: YA contemporary
Pages: 352
POV: 1st person
Publisher: Simon Pulse
Format: Hardcover
Source: Purchased
Rating: The Royal Library, Top Shelf

Jude has learned a lot from her older sisters, but the most important thing is this: The Vargas brothers are notorious heartbreakers. She’s seen the tears and disasters that dating a Vargas boy can cause, and she swore an oath—with candles and a contract and everything—to never have anything to do with one.

Now Jude is the only sister still living at home, and she’s spending the summer helping her ailing father restore his vintage motorcycle—which means hiring a mechanic to help out. Is it Jude’s fault he happens to be cute? And surprisingly sweet? And a Vargas?

Jude tells herself it’s strictly bike business with Emilio. Her sisters will never find out, and Jude can spot those flirty little Vargas tricks a mile away—no way would she fall for them. But Jude’s defenses are crumbling, and if history is destined to repeat itself, she’s speeding toward some serious heartbreak…unless her sisters were wrong?

Jude may have taken an oath, but she’s beginning to think that when it comes to love, some promises might be worth breaking.

Sarah Ockler is an author that could be easily missed when strolling through a bookstore or when browsing online. If you're one of those people who strolls on by her stories, I can honestly say you are making a mistake. Her books have these cute and utterly adorable covers that fit the lighter moments, but they fail to capture the intensity of emotions Ockler will put you and her characters through by the time the final page has arrived. That intensity is one aspect I have grown to love regarding Ockler's novels, because her books always prove to be more heartfelt than you may originally suspect. Jude Hernandez's story is no exception, and The Book of Broken Hearts deserves a chance to be on your to-read pile.

A girl, a boy, a vintage motorcycle, a struggling family, and a star-crossed romance. Ockler's books begin with familiarity, and she breaks it down wonderfully. The characters are authentic, the problems are down to earth, and the overall meaning is something you take with you wherever you go. The Book of Broken Hearts explores what it means to be family, the struggles of friendship, as well as the complications that come from falling in love with the "wrong" sort of person. Bittersweet, playful, and memorable, The Book of Broken Hearts captured my heart entirely.

Highlights: Family is emphasized, and I loved Jude's relationship with her father. It's sweet and heartbreaking as Ockler portrays the slow descent into Alzheimer's. All of the character's were realistic and easy to imagine. There's a lot of levity mixed in with the more serious situations, and Ockler balances each emotion realistically. 

Lowlights: I think it would have been nice to learn a bit more about Emilio. Just a little.

Rating: The Royal Library, Top Shelf. The Book of Broken Hearts is emotional, amusing, and worth every penny. This book is a must-read.

 

Review: CRESS by Marissa Meyer

Title: CRESS
Author: Marissa Meyer
Published: February 4th, 2014
Series: The Lunar Chronicles #3
Genre: YA Sci-fi / Fantasy
Pages: 560
POV: 3rd, multiple alternating
Publisher: Feiwel & Friends
Format: Printed ARC
Source: Publicist
Rating: The Royal Library, Top Shelf

Rapunzel’s tower is a satellite. She can’t let down her hair—or her guard.

In this third book in the bestselling Lunar Chronicles series, Cinder and Captain Thorne are fugitives on the run, with Scarlet and Wolf in tow. Together, they’re plotting to overthrow Queen Levana and her army.

Their best hope lies with Cress, who has been trapped on a satellite since childhood with only her netscreens as company. All that screen time has made Cress an excellent hacker—unfortunately, she’s just received orders from Levana to track down Cinder and her handsome accomplice.

When a daring rescue goes awry, the group is separated. Cress finally has her freedom, but it comes at a high price. Meanwhile, Queen Levana will let nothing stop her marriage to Emperor Kai. Cress, Scarlet, and Cinder may not have signed up to save the world, but they may be the only ones who can.

I liked CINDER, loved SCARLET, and adored Meyer's latest installment in the Lunar Chronicles, CRESS. With each novel, Meyer's writing grows more captivating, entertaining, and surprising as she takes each major and minor storyline in intriguing directions. CRESS picks up where SCARLET left off, and the excitement level kicks up a few notches right from the very beginning. Prepare yourself for journeys across deserts, adventures in space, fight scenes, and plenty of Carswell Thorne being as fabulous as Carswell Thorne can possibly be. I had high hopes for this novel, and Meyer succeeded in creating a wonderfully entertaining novel from start to the finish.

I'm going to keep quiet about specific plot points, since Meyer's books are better experienced without knowing too many details. With CRESS, readers gain the opportunity to see a bit more of the Lunars. We only receive glimpses into Lunar life, along with the small tidbits of knowledge Cress shares (since she is a Lunar shell, but this skilled hacker hasn't had the easiest life because of her shell status), but it's enough to make me very curious about the next novel. Fortunately, there is still plenty more to enjoy in this novel. This story is filled with action, secrets, adorable budding romances, humor, and so much more. If you are not reading this series, I'd highly recommend you start these novels soon, because you are in a for a delightful and surprising twist on some of your favorite classic fairytales.

Highlights: Meyer excels at balancing a large cast and doing each character justice when it comes to the different perspectives, not to the mention the multiple storylines. Cress is a fabulous addition to the cast since her timid strength and dreamy, hopeful nature created a nice contrast to Scarlet's toughness and Cinder's more serious nature. Even Captain Thorne managed to surprise me, because under his humorous and slightly selfish personality, there really is a guy with a heart of (mostly) gold. Also, Iko is a definite highlight¹.

Lowlights: It ended? I wanted a bit more with the Lunars. The wait for WINTER (Snow White retelling, set on the moon - yes, the moon) is going to be a nightmare, because I need that book now.

Rating: The Royal Library, Top Shelf. CRESS is a wonderful sci-fi / fantasy twist on familiar fairytales, with quite a few surprises in store for readers. If you're looking for a fun, exciting series to start reading, I'd highly suggest checking out the Lunar Chronicles.

1 No surprise there. Iko rocks. 

 

Review: THE BEGINNING OF EVERYTHING by Robyn Schneider

Title: THE BEGINNING OF EVERYTHING

Author: Robyn Schneider

Released: August 2013

Series: N/A

Genre: YA Contemporary
Pages: 335
Publisher: Katherine Tegen
Format: ARC
Source: Vine Program
Rating: The Royal Library, Middle Shelf

Golden boy Ezra Faulkner believes everyone has a tragedy waiting for them—a single encounter after which everything that really matters will happen. His particular tragedy waited until he was primed to lose it all: in one spectacular night, a reckless driver shatters Ezra’s knee, his athletic career, and his social life.

No longer a front-runner for Homecoming King, Ezra finds himself at the table of misfits, where he encounters new girl Cassidy Thorpe. Cassidy is unlike anyone Ezra’s ever met, achingly effortless, fiercely intelligent, and determined to bring Ezra along on her endless adventures.

But as Ezra dives into his new studies, new friendships, and new love, he learns that some people, like books, are easy to misread. And now he must consider: if one’s singular tragedy has already hit and everything after it has mattered quite a bit, what happens when more misfortune strikes?

Ezra Faulkner used to be the guy who had everything going for him until a car accident shattered his knee, and subsequently, his future career as a stellar tennis player. On his first of day back to school after the accident, Ezra finds himself reconnecting with an old friend, Toby, along with a few new ones, disrupting his usual social hierarchy by taking a few steps (or leaps) down in social status. But his new friends make life interesting - especially the enigmatic Cassidy Thorpe. Cassidy is undeniably the one who fascinates him the most, with her unique, worldly, intelligent, witty, and magnetic personality that is as entrancing as it is mysterious. A coming of age story about discovering who you are going to be once your original plans fade away, THE BEGINNING OF EVERYTHING excels with healthy doses of humor and realism.

I could tell within the first few chapters that THE BEGINNING OF EVERYTHING was going to be a delightful story. It is humorous, but also features a few serious moments. Yet, it was the characters who won me over so quickly. Ezra's new crowd is full of oddballs who make each page worth reading (They host late night movie screenings in unexpected places - how cool is that?). While budding romance is a large part of the story, I found the budding friendships to be more captivating. If you're looking for a fun book to curl up with, I'd recommend this novel. THE BEGINNING OF EVERYTHING is funny, smart, and the cast of characters are utterly charming.

Highlights: Ezra, while a bit too concerned with what other's think of him (oh, the joys of high school insecurities), is endearing and realistic. His personality jumps off the page and his voice demands your attention. The supporting cast also shines, especially Toby (how do you not love that guy?). I love how the ending was not quite what you would expect. The ending is not a perfect, happily ever after, and I appreciate that it is a more messy, realistic conclusion.

Lowlights: I wish the parents had been in the story more. Also, that poor dog. That was the only moment where I felt a genuine pull at my emotions. Otherwise, while I enjoyed the story and adored the characters, I did not feel an emotional connection to any of the characters or to the writing.

Rating: The Royal Library, Middle Shelf. THE BEGINNING OF EVERYTHING is a great story that will make you laugh and will keep you hooked until the end. There are a few small issues, but nothing that disrupted my overall enjoyment of this story. All in all, I'd recommend checking this book out! 

Review: TORCHED by Andrea Lynn Colt

Title: TORCHED
Author: Andrea Lynn Colt
Published: September 2012
Series: None
Genre: YA Contemporary
Publisher: self-published
Pages: 370
POV: 1st person
Format: Kindle
Source: Purchased
Rating: The Royal Library, Middle Shelf

"Cheerleader Rose Whitfield's senior year goes up in smoke when she's framed for arson.

Sure that the culprit is her neighbor Paxton, with whom she's been feuding since middle school, she sets out to clear her name and take Paxton down hard--not necessarily in that order."

Rose Whitfield has it all: the perfect boyfriend, a popular BFF, the captain spot on the cheerleading squad and the top GPA at her high school. But, with a little fuel for the fire and the strike of a match, Rose's perfect life goes up in (actual) flames. Framed for arson, Rose quickly learns who her allies are when the people who should stand behind her – her boyfriend, best friend, and even her parents – don't seem to believe she's innocent. With only one person to rely on, and the absolute last person she ever expected to believe her, Rose digs for the truth. But thanks to her history of pranks that sometimes go awry, Rose discovers that she might have made more enemies during the last few years than she could have ever guessed.

A humorous and surprise-filled debut novel, TORCHED is an enjoyable mystery that will keep you glued to the pages from start to finish. Colt writes with plenty of humor, giving Rose an amusing voice that feels fresh and authentic. While the romantic aspect of the story is easy to see coming, it's an endearing inclusion that rounds out this mystery novel very nicely. Speaking of mystery, Colt keeps the suspense alive and burning throughout most of the novel – giving small hints here and there, but saving the reveal until much closer to the conclusion. Even when I originally guessed the culprit, Colt made me doubt my choice left me changing my mind repeatedly. If you're looking for a fun story with a dash of romance and plenty of mystery, I would highly suggest checking out TORCHED. 

Highlights: Colt's writing is fun, fresh, and very easy to enjoy. Rose's transformation and effort to be a better person was gradual and realistic. The romance was sweet and genuine. Each character was authentic in their own right. Honestly, as a whole, this book went above and beyond my admittedly low expectations. I usually equate low novel prices to low quality writing, but TORCHED is the exception. Also, I love that Rose named her car Cloudmonster. 

Lowlights: Rose spends a lot of time focusing on the (obviously) wrong person for a little more than a 100 pages, which I found a bit frustrating. OH! And Rose's parents. My gosh. What is wrong with them?!

Rating: The Royal Library, Middle Shelf. TORCHED is a fantastic story worth owning, and it has earned a spot in the royal library. I enjoyed this story very much, despite a few small issues, and would recommend TORCHED to other readers, especially if you're a fan of mystery, humor, and romance. 

Highlights / Lowlights: Review of LET THE SKY FALL by Shannon Messenger

Title: LET THE SKY FALL
Author: Shannon Messenger
Published: March 5th, 2013
Series: Sky Fall #1
Genre: YA paranormal
Publisher: Simon Pulse
POV: 1st person, present tense, alternating
Pages: 416
Format: Hardcover
Source: Purchased
Rating: 4 out of 5

"Seventeen-year-old Vane Weston has no idea how he survived the category five tornado that killed his parents. And he has no idea if the beautiful, dark-haired girl who’s swept through his dreams every night since the storm is real. But he hopes she is.

Seventeen-year-old Audra is a sylph, an air elemental. She walks on the wind, can translate its alluring songs, and can even coax it into a weapon with a simple string of commands. She’s also a guardian—Vane’s guardian—and has sworn an oath to protect Vane at all costs. Even if it means sacrificing her own life.

When a hasty mistake reveals their location to the enemy who murdered both of their families, Audra’s forced to help Vane remember who he is. He has a power to claim—the secret language of the West Wind, which only he can understand. But unlocking his heritage will also unlock the memory Audra needs him to forget. And their greatest danger is not the warriors coming to destroy them—but the forbidden romance that’s grown between them."

Highlights: The world building regarding sylphs is top notch, detailed, and very fascinating. The dual points-of-view are similarly well done, as Messenger gives both Vane and Audra their own distinct personalities / voices. Audra was especially an incredible, badass, easy-to-love character, but I did equally enjoy Vane's sarcastic nature (and his concern for his family). Messenger's writing has a nice flow to it, making her novel an easy story to breeze through in a matter of hours. The romance, despite being a bit quick, is surprisingly believable and sweet. All in all, LET THE SKY FALL is a highly enjoyable and gripping story. 

Lowlights: Despite Messenger's creativity with the slyph lore, she lets the actual story fall into the structure of your typical, clichéd young adult novel. The plot is familiar to those who read a lot of YA, so it's easy to see where everything is going (but there are a few twists that I'm sure many readers will find very surprising). I wish the secondary characters had been included in the story a bit more.

I would give this novel a 4 out of 5 rating. Packed with plenty of action, humor, and imagination, LET THE SKY FALL is a lively start to what could be a terrific trilogy. I have high hopes for the sequel, LET THE STORMS BREAK!

My review of KEEPER OF THE LOST CITIES

Highlights / Lowlights: Keeper of the Lost Cities by Shannon Messenger

Title: KEEPER OF THE LOST CITIES
Author: Shannon Messenger
Published: October 2nd, 2012
Series: Keeper of the Lost Cities #1
Genre: MG fantasy
Publisher: Aladdin
POV: 3rd person
Pages: 496
Format: Hardcover
Source: Purchased
Rating: 4 out of 5

"Twelve-year-old Sophie Foster has a secret. She’s a Telepath—someone who hears the thoughts of everyone around her. It’s a talent she’s never known how to explain.

Everything changes the day she meets Fitz, a mysterious boy who appears out of nowhere and also reads minds. She discovers there’s a place she does belong, and that staying with her family will place her in grave danger. In the blink of an eye, Sophie is forced to leave behind everything and start a new life in a place that is vastly different from anything she has ever known.

Sophie has new rules to learn and new skills to master, and not everyone is thrilled that she has come “home.” There are secrets buried deep in Sophie’s memory—secrets about who she really is and why she was hidden among humans—that other people desperately want. Would even kill for."

Highlights: The characters are the strongest aspect of this story, as they are utterly charming and memorable (Keefe, I adore you). The settings in KEEPER OF THE LOST CITIES are vivid and enchanting. Plus, there's even a bit of mystery, a dash of thrilling adventures, some fun pranks, a fantastical boarding school that I wish I could attend, and a healthy dose of magical awesomeness. Messenger gives her debut some tiny fresh and creative twists, so nothing is quite what we readers (or even Sophie) would initially expect. KEEPER OF THE LOST CITIES gives readers a glimpse into a fun world and an incredible set of characters that will leave you eager for more.

Lowlights: The title seems a bit misleading. While other characters do mention Keeper's, it's a very small part of this story (and likely a much larger part of future books). I also had a little Harry Potter déjà vu regarding some aspects of the story. That isn't necessarily good because Messenger's writing, while very fun and pleasing to read, is nowhere near JK Rowling status.

Review: SOMETHING LIKE NORMAL by Trish Doller

Title: SOMETHING LIKE NORMAL
Author: Trish Doller
Published: June 19th, 2012
Genre: YA/NA contemporary
Publisher: Bloomsbury
POV: 1st person
Pages: 214
Format: Hardcover
Source: Won

"When Travis returns home from a stint in Afghanistan, his parents are splitting up, his brother’s stolen his girlfriend and his car, and he’s haunted by nightmares of his best friend’s death. It’s not until Travis runs into Harper, a girl he’s had a rocky relationship with since middle school, that life actually starts looking up. And as he and Harper see more of each other, he begins to pick his way through the minefield of family problems and post-traumatic stress to the possibility of a life that might resemble normal again. Travis’s dry sense of humor, and incredible sense of honor, make him an irresistible and eminently lovable hero."

One free month, and then Travis is headed back to Afghanistan to complete his final three years of active duty in the Marines. But upon arriving home for his short break, he finds that nothing is the same. He has no girlfriend (because she's dating his brother), no car (brother, yet again), a father he can't please, an overenthusiastic mother, a girl that isn't interested in him after he ruined her life, and the most disturbing change of all: haunting nightmares and visions of a friend that died in Afghanistan that won't leave him alone. Travis is trying to keep everything together, especially himself, before it's time for him to leave. But sometimes, you just can't escape your demons.  

I initially judged this book on its cover and almost let a wonderful, touching story pass me by. SOMETHING LIKE NORMAL quickly became one of the most surprising debut novels that I read in 2012. Doller takes a story you don't see all that often in YA lit and brings it authenticity through Travis's straight-forward narration. It's almost awkward to read Travis's narration, simply because it feels so realistic that it almost seems as if you are intruding on an actual person's thoughts. Travis is struggling with the past while looking to the future, and I was thoroughly invested in his every word as his story unfolded. Doller shifts easily from the humor to the serious moments, but it's with her characters that she truly excels. Everyone is flawed in some way, and they all manage to be memorable by the end. SOMETHING LIKE NORMAL is an emotional story that makes a strong impression. 

Highlights: Once I began, I couldn't put this book down until the final page arrived. There's humor, a little bit of romance, and plenty of honest and true-to-life moments that you want out of a contemporary novel. Even better, Travis is an older young adult. He's lived life in a dangerous way, and I found his story to be compelling. 

Lowlights: It's a very, very short book. I think a few scenes and characters could have been fleshed out a bit more to help this story make an even stronger impact.

Cover: Based on the cover, I never would have bothered to read this book (I'm very grateful to have won a copy, or else I wouldn't have read it). There is a romantic subplot, but it's not the largest aspect of this story, so I'm surprised the cover features a couple making out (which is a shame, since I think boys would like this book, but the cover doesn't show that side of the novel). I like that they included dog tags. 

Review: Eve & Adam by Michael Grant and Katherine Applegate

Eve & Adam
by Michael Grant
and Katherine Applegate
October 2nd, 2012
304 pages (hardcover)
Publisher: Feiwel & Friends
Source: Publicist

Sixteen-year-old Evening Spiker lives an affluent life in San Francisco with her mother, EmmaRose, a successful geneticist and owner of Spiker Biotech. Sure, Evening misses her father who died mysteriously, but she’s never really questioned it. Much like how she’s never stopped to think how off it is that she’s never been sick. That is, until she’s struck by a car and is exposed to extensive injuries. Injuries that seem to be healing faster than physically possible.

While recuperating in Spiker Biotech’s lush facilities, she meets Solo Plissken, a very attractive, if off-putting boy her age who spent his life at Spiker Biotech. Like Evening, he’s never questioned anything... until now. Solo drops hints to Evening that something isn’t right, and Emma-Rose may be behind it. Evening puts this out of her mind and begins her summer internship project: To simulate the creation of the perfect boy. With the help of Solo, Evening uncovers secrets so big they could change the world completely.

If were asked to play God and create the perfect boy, would you? Evening (or "EV" or "Eve") Spiker is willing to try. After an accident, Evening's recuperating at an empty hospital wing at Spiker Biotech, so creating the perfect boy in a simulation program seems like a good way to alleviate her boredom. Solo Plissken, meanwhile, is somewhat stubbornly determined to uncover and reveal dark truths about Spiker Biotech that others would prefer to keep buried. Packed with action and a few surprising twists, Eve & Adam will hook you from start to finish.

Eve & Adam is a fresh and original sci-fi take on the biblical story of Adam and Eve. I'm a first-time Grant and Applegate reader, but I can see why they both have so many loyal fans. The authors expertly kept the voices distinct and the pacing quick, while also infusing the story with plenty of humor and surprises at the right possible moments. While there are some flaws here and there, Eve & Adam proves itself to be a fun and fascinating story, and one that is guaranteed to make you eager for a sequel. 

Highlights: Evening, Solo, and Adam each retained their separate personalities and voices for their chapters. The pacing and short chapters made it difficult to stop reading, and I love it when a book hooks me like that. I liked the descriptions and loved the concluding surprises. Side characters were great, especially Evening's slightly evil mother (she surprised me the most). 

Lowlights: I wasn't fond of the subplot revolving around Evening's best friend, Aislin (and Aislin's boyfriend, Maddox). I'm surprised by how long it took for Adam to show up, I thought he'd be present earlier in the story. Quick romance. Characters, as a whole, were fun but not very complex. 

Rating: 

Review: Pushing the Limits by Katie McGarry

Pushing the Limits
Katie McGarry
July 31st, 2012
384 pages (hardcover)
Harlequin Teen
Source - Netgalley

"So wrong for each other...and yet so right.

No one knows what happened the night Echo Emerson went from popular girl with jock boyfriend to gossiped-about outsider with "freaky" scars on her arms. Even Echo can't remember the whole truth of that horrible night. All she knows is that she wants everything to go back to normal. But when Noah Hutchins, the smoking-hot, girl-using loner in the black leather jacket, explodes into her life with his tough attitude and surprising understanding, Echo's world shifts in ways she could never have imagined. They should have nothing in common. And with the secrets they both keep, being together is pretty much impossible.Yet the crazy attraction between them refuses to go away. And Echo has to ask herself just how far they can push the limits and what she'll risk for the one guy who might teach her how to love again."

In Pushing the Limits, a girl with a blurry past and a boy with an uncertain future collide. From the first page, Echo's strong voice drew me in and the full truth about her past kept me curious. While I was initially a bit put off with Noah, he proves himself to be a young man with a heart of gold that shines brilliantly when he's with his brothers and when he's with Echo. The alternating point of view could have been difficult to keep consistent, yet McGarry skillfully handled each character and never lost sight of each voice and each distinct personality. Whether it's the tantalizing mystery of Echo's past, the passionate romance, or even the sweet familial moments, this is one story that makes it easy to keep turning the pages. An emotionally charged story, Pushing the Limits is a standout summer debut.

Highlights: Suspense, humor, family, secrets, romance....All nicely done. The cast of characters were all developed with faults, quirks, and everything in between. While I guessed the truth about Echo's past early on, McGarry still kept me hooked by how expertly she handled the tantalizing buildup to the truth behind Echo's mystery. Great character growth, especially with Noah. And the scenes between Echo and Noah? So much chemistry, and their relationship was much more believable than I anticipated.

Lowlights: A little predictable. Also, I can't really put my finger on it, but it felt like something was missing. The story didn't make as big of an impact on me as I hoped it would (I could just be weird, since the story seemed to make an impact on many other readers). 

Rating: 

Review: Drink, Slay, Love by Sarah Beth Durst

Drink, Slay, Love

Sarah Beth Durst
September 13th, 2011
386 pages (hardcover)
Margaret K. McElderry
Source:  Author + Purchased (gave away review copy)

"Pearl is a sixteen-year-old vampire...fond of blood, allergic to sunlight, and mostly evil...until the night a sparkly unicorn stabs her through the heart with his horn. Oops.

Her family thinks she was attacked by a vampire hunter (because, obviously, unicorns don't exist), and they're shocked she survived. They're even more shocked when Pearl discovers she can now withstand the sun. But they quickly find a way to make use of her new talent. The Vampire King of New England has chosen Pearl's family to host his feast. If Pearl enrolls in high school, she can make lots of human friends and lure them to the King's feast -- as the entrees.

The only problem? Pearl's starting to feel the twinges of a conscience. How can she serve up her new friends—especially the cute guy who makes her fangs ache—to be slaughtered? Then again, she's definitely dead if she lets down her family. What's a sunlight-loving vamp to do?"

Being stabbed by a mythical unicorn is just the beginning of Pearl's problems. After the unpleasant stabbing incident, she gains the ability to venture out into the sunlight unharmed. So, when it's up to Pearl to please her vampire Family by figuring out a way to serve up the local high school students as entrees at the Fealty Ceremony, things quickly go from easy to catastrophe as Pearl starts having a change of heart. But when it comes to the Family, you don't say "no" and get away without any consequences.

Within the first two chapters, Durst made me a fan of her tough, zero-mercy vampires. Durst's vampires are fierce and only loyal to one another to a certain extent. No matter any kindness they show, they still wear a sharp edge of cruelty wrapped firmly around their shoulders, which made for a very fascinating story as Pearl began to change and veer away from her Family's ways. For Pearl, betrayal is imminent: betraying her family or the humans she starting to relate with. All in all, Drink, Slay, Love is humorous, exciting, and full of surprises. It is so much more than your typical vampire story. 

Highlights: The lore is nicely explained. Pearl's slow transformation from a courageous, cruel vampire to a little more caring was believable and engaging. The characters¹ made this book spectacular, especially Pearl. Whether it was Pearl's first day of school or her intense interactions with her scary Family, I enjoyed it all. Sharp and witty humor, great fight scenes, fabulous description, a budding romance, excellent characters, unicorns and plenty of bloodthirsty vampires -- what's not to love? Drink, Slay, Love is simply extraordinary.

Lowlights: Jadrien (both him and his name). Evan was almost too nice and too perfect. There were a couple predictable moments, and while the ending wrapped up everything important, it did leave me with one lingering question.

Rating:  

1 Zeke and Matt - love those two! I wish they'd had more page-time

Review: Timepiece by Myra McEntire

Timepiece
Myra McEntire
June 12th 2012
336 pages (hardcover)
Egmont USA
Source - Netgalley

A threat from the past could destroy the future. And the clock is ticking...

Kaleb Ballard's relentless flirting is interrupted when Jack Landers, the man who tried to murder his father, timeslips in and attacks before disappearing just as quickly. But Kaleb has never before been able to see time travelers, unlike many of his friends associated with the mysterious Hourglass organization. Are Kaleb's powers expanding, or is something very wrong?

Then the Hourglass is issued an ultimatum. Either they find Jack and the research he's stolen on the time gene, or time will be altered with devastating results.

Now Kaleb, Emerson, Michael, and the other Hourglass recruits have no choice but to use their unusual powers to find Jack. But where do they even start? And when? And even if they succeed, it may not be enough...

The second installment in the Hourglass series, Timepiece introduces Kaleb Ballard as the narrator. Things have been a little crazy since the last book, especially Kaleb's relationships with his friends and family. He's still going out, getting drunk, spiraling downhill and self-destructing. But, Kaleb has more to worry about lately. The time ripples are getting worse and more intrusive, there's a girl he just can't win over, and everything he knows may cease to exist if Kaleb doesn't find Jack Landers soon. Now, Kaleb's left with only two options: Find Jack, or deal with the consequences. 

The risks are higher and the tension is palpable in Timepiece. Initially, I was wary of having Kaleb as a narrator, but there's more to this guy than meets the eye. The story sets off with a humorous moment that turns heart-pounding and somewhat terrifying. From there, the story only continues to grow and shine with each page and plot twist. While the plot alone is intriguing enough to capture a readers attention, Kaleb's voice (and character growth) is what brings this book to life. Timepiece is a solid and standout sequel -- I can't wait to see what happens next in Infinityglass.

Highlights: Kaleb's voice was engaging, amusing, endearing, and completely unlike what I expected from him. His interactions with Lily were hilarious. The mysteries in this book captivated me from start to finish. The romance was sweet and perfectly paced. Also, I love McEntire's inclusion of some architectural terms (the flying buttress scene was particularly amusing) and the overall descriptions because it helped me envision each scene. Also, character growth!

Lowlights: (Maybe a slight spoiler - highlight to read) You can't spend an entire novel talking about the Infinityglass, looking for the Infinityglass, and then never actually find it because you're saving it for book three. Nothing important was actually resolved in this book, so that was a bit frustrating.

Note: Reading Hourglass first is somewhat necessary when it comes to this novel. Even though these books have different narrators, the story in Timepiece will make more sense if you read Hourglass first. Thankfully, both books are thoroughly enjoyable. 

Rating:  

The Truth About Forever by Sarah Dessen

The Truth About Forever 
Sarah Dessen
Released: May 2004
Pages: 374 (paperback(
Publisher: Speak
Source: Own

a long, hot summer...

That's what Macy has to look forward to while her boyfriend, Jason, is away at Brain Camp. Days will be spent at a boring job in the library, evenings will be filled with vocabulary drills for the SATs, and spare time will be passed with her mother, the two of them sharing a silent grief at the traumatic loss of Macy's father.

But sometimes unexpected things can happen—things such as the catering job at Wish, with its fun-loving, chaotic crew. Or her sister's project of renovating the neglected beach house, awakening long-buried memories. Things such as meeting Wes, a boy with a past, a taste for Truth-telling, and an amazing artistic talent, the kind of boy who could turn any girl's world upside down. As Macy ventures out of her shell, she begins to wonder, Is it really better to be safe than sorry?

"What would you do, if you could do anything?"¹

Out of all of Dessen's novels to date, my copy of The Truth about Forever is the one bearing the marks of a well-loved book that has been reread time and time again. Macy begins the story as the girl-who-tries-to-be-perfect, a coping mechanism after Macy loses her father. Yet, as the story goes on and Macy becomes closer to the Wish Catering crew, that perfect façade fades. In its place, Macy begins to shine as a lively girl with a great personality that has to come to terms with her life, who she is, and what she wants. 

Each character is alive: Delia, a chaotic, kind, pregnant mother who's in charge of the crew; artistic and modest Wes; apocalypse-obsessed Bert; fashionable and straight-forward Kristy; monotone Monica; and finally Macy as the newest addition. The more time you spend flipping through the pages, the more you grow to love them all and the subtle knowledge they impart onto Macy as she breaks through her shell. One chaotic catering crew, one broken family needing repair, one girl's chance to find happiness, one shot at love, and only one summer to figure it all out in The Truth about Forever. 

Highlights: Dessen excels when it comes to writing realistic characters and situations - there's a sense of honesty to her characters. The games "Truth" and "Gotcha" provided some of my favorite moments of the novel. And Wes² was, of course, the best. Honestly, I could go on for days about why this novel is amazing. If you haven't read it, check it out. It's worth it. 
Lowlights: There's no sequel? Glimpses of these characters in other Dessen books is not enough for me!
Allusions: Lorna the weather girl from That Summer; the lovely beach town of Colby & a reference to Last Chance café from Keeping the Moon; and likely more that I forgot to jot down. 
Rating: 

1 pg. 370 - This scene gets me every time. *sighs happily*2 The boy that originated the term "swoonworthy". *swoons*



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Artemis Fowl by Eoin Colfer

Artemis Fowl by Eoin Colfer
Release: 2009 (reissue)
Pages: 304 (paperback)
Publisher: Hyperion Book CH
Source: Netgalley
Summary:

Twelve-year-old Artemis Fowl is a millionaire, a genius—and, above all, a criminal mastermind.

But even Artemis doesn't know what he's taken on when he kidnaps a fairy, Captain Holly Short of the LEPrecon Unit. These aren't the fairies of bedtime stories—they're dangerous! Full of unexpected twists and turns, Artemis Fowl is a riveting, magical adventure.

Mini-Thoughts: Unlike anything I’ve read before, Artemis Fowl is exciting, brilliant, and truly magical. Artemis Fowl is one of the more stand-out middle grade novels, filled with an evil and conniving mastermind (who is, surprising, a young boy), a tough and endearing fairy running low on her magic (that’s Captain Holly Short, to you), a bodyguard/butler named Butler who could seriously maim you (because he’s cool like that)^{1}, a very important Book, a kidnapping, a ransom, and so much more. Artemis Fowl is pure action, excitement, and is filled with surprises.

Highlights: This book is just overall enjoyable – I can see why the series is so popular. I adored Holly, and Artemis really grew on me by the end^{2}. And I love how the author changed my perspective of "leprechauns" - as well as a few other things Colfer used creatively. The tech, the lore, and everything else were all very imaginative. Plus, there are plenty of humor-filled moments.

Lowlights: A bit slow going at first, but it continues to get better and more intriguing with each page. And the POV switches bothered me at times^{3}.

Rating: 4/5




--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------{Footnotes}{1} And yes, Butler is most definitely cool. And very dangerous. Dangerously cool?
{2} Despite what a total punk he is, Artemis does get a bit more likable ;)
{3} Just a personal bias. I dislike more than one or two POV changes in the third person (I much prefer there to be no change). If that doesn't bother you, you'll probably enjoy this even more.

This Is Me From Now On by Barbara Dee

Book: This Is Me From Now On

Author: Barbara Dee

Age: Middle Grade (MG)

Release date: April 27th, 2010

Source: Author

My Summary: 

Evie's life has always been average, normal, and, well, kind of boring. But once Francesca moves in next door with her aunt, Evie's blown away by Francesca's larger than life personality. She's fun, exciting, and completely unique. Evie's two best friends aren't happy about the changes in Evie whenever she's with Francesca, and things only get worse when the the girls get stuck together for a huge project. Then Francesca pulls Evie into playing matchmaker with two of their teachers, and Evie can't help but to wonder if both of them are in over their heads...and if this is a disaster waiting to happen. 

Review: Cute and fun, This Is Me From Now On combines a great protagonist with a spiraling plot to create something amusing for readers of any age.

Evie's a sweet, and likable narrator. She stresses out over school, just like any other student. She leads a pretty average life, nothing too intriguing...until Francesca moves in next door. Francesca is bubbly, loud, and has a very unique personality. The two of them as a team was interesting to see, especially with Francesca's go-with-the-flow kind of attitude. 

The story was realistic, humorous, and very true to being a seventh grader, what with all the gossip, breakups, crushes and fights with your BFF's.

Highlights: Fun, cute, and very endearing novel to read. It's easy to get into the story, and this is the perfect book for tweens. I really loved some of the themes of this novel. I loved the relationships too, because they are very real to the way they are when you're a tween. 

Lowlights: A bit over the top at some points, but still a great novel. 

Rating *: 

* Middle grade ratings based on a different standard than YA ratings

The Extraordinary Secrets of April, May, and June by Robin Benway Review

Book: The Extraordinary Secrets of April, May, and June

Author: Robin Benway

Release date: August 3rd, 2010

Source: Publisher

Summary: 

Three sisters share a magical, unshakeable bond, in this witty high-concept novel from critically acclaimed author of Audrey, Wait!

Around the time of their parent's divorce, sisters April, May and June recover special powers from childhood -- powers that come in handy navigating the pure hell that is high school, and help them cope with the hardest year of their lives. But could they have a greater purpose?

April, the oldest, can see the future. Middle-child May can literally disappear. And the youngest sister June reads minds. When April gets a vision of disaster, the girls must come together to save the day or risk falling apart forever. Will they realize how much they need one another, before it's too late? Because if there's anything stronger than magic, it's sisterhood.

Review: The Extraordinary Secrets of April, May, and June is completely endearing and magical.

April, the oldest, is your typical older sis who is always in charge, maybe a bit bossy, a bookworm (yay!), and obviously smart. But she's completely inept at getting things right when it comes to Julian. I loved their interactions, they were always so amusing. 

May is the middle sister, and kind of the rebellious one with a past. She blends in wherever she goes. Her voice was by far my favorite, her attitude was hilarious. She's dealing with some issues regarding her father, as well as adjusting to a new school. May has her own flirtations, which were maybe even funnier, and a bit more heartbreaking at one point, than April's. 

June is the littlest, sweet, and a wannabe popular girl who just wants to be liked by everyone. She uses her abilities to help further her with who she considers the right people. She's young, so she's still learning some things about life and what's right and wrong.

If you want to read a story about the bonds of siblings along with a dash of completely wicked cool powers, then you'll enjoy The Extraordinary Secrets of April, May, and June.

Highlights: Each of the girls' voices were unique, and I never got confused about who was who or who was narrating at the moment. Benway's writing is easy to get sucked into, and she handles the storyline perfectly. There were plenty of humorous moments to keep me entertained, and I think Benway did a wonderful job of capturing what a teen is like at different ages.

Lowlights: Towards the end, things started to get a bit confusing to the point where I had to backtrack a few paragraphs and reread.

Rating: