From Goodreads:  Destiny brought them into this world to save mankind and malevolent forces will stop at nothing in order to annihilate them.

Born with extraordinary powers, fraternal twins Gage and Talon Thorn learn how to control their mystical abilities. Tragedy strikes the family and their ordinary father Gable is forced to raise them on his own. Pain and loss encompass the Thorns as they persevere to live a normal life in a place determined to destroy their happiness.

Soon their incredible gifts need proper nurturing and Gable recruits a special group of people to help in their upbringing. A sassy, tenacious nanny named Leia and an eccentric unorthodox warrior named Maui complete the dream team of mentors to aid in the complexity of their lives.

The brothers are determined to protect the family that has sacrificed so much for their sake. Evil, wicked forces lurk in the shadows and the boys are in danger if they don’t learn how to control their unique talents. Humanity rests in the hands of the young brothers as they embark on an epic adventure to save mankind from the dark Emperor.

______________________________________________

Fuentes has created an epic tale of adventure in her debut novel, Elements: The Beginning.  Born to a “gifted” mother and human father, Gage and Talon must learn to tailor their powers as an age old war between humanity and the underworld begins to threaten their very existence.  I found this novel very interesting and really enjoyed the many different characters Fuentes brings to the novel.  Watching Gage and Talon grow throughout the story was exceptionally interesting, especially as most novels gloss over these developmental stages, yet Fuentes follows the young boys from childhood all the way to their teens as they find new abilities and learn to overcome new challenges.  I really enjoyed this first book in the series and am interested to know what happens next for the Thorn twins, especially as this novel concludes in medias res.  Three stars.

I received a copy of this novel from the author in exchange for an honest review.

From Goodreads: Sam is horrified to find herself kidnapped by a bunch of strangers – People stranger than anyone she ever met before. She doesn’t care that they claim to have saved her from death. Or that they call themselves angels. Guardian angels. All that matters to her is that they won’t let her go but insist she stays with them. Forever.
And then it gets even worse.

As time passes, Sam is faced with decisions and choices full of hurt and anguish and she is sure of only one thing… That nothing will ever be the same again.

A story about friendship and love, about commitment and happiness, and a girl who never thought anything out of the ordinary would ever happen to her.

______________________________________

This was a very interesting novel with a completely original storyline concerning angels.  What I really like about it is that there are no references to the Bible or the downfall of angels, but rather angels that live in the human world, with extraordinary powers, such as flying, levitating objects, and conjuring food.  Their job is to guard people from harm—like a true guardian angel, and I really enjoyed learning about them. 

The novel begins right in the middle of the action and moves very quickly throughout the entirety of this story, jumping from scene to scene, which occasionally makes the timeframe of the novel hazy, but overall gives the reader a feeling that ample time has passed in order for the next element in the story to be revealed.  I liked Sam and many of the angels, though there were a few angels that rubbed me the wrong way.  Luckily, those angels were not meant to be “liked” per se, so I think Larsen did a great job with that aspect of the characterization.  I would have liked to have the relationships within the novel slowed down a touch, but overall I did enjoy the romance within the story.  For a debut novel, Larsen has created a truly unique, interesting piece that I believe many will highly enjoy.  Three stars.

I received a copy of this novel from the author in exchange for an honest review.

From Goodreads: A terrible truth has been revealed to one man: the entire human race has been drained of every emotion except one— fear. To bring life back to the world, Rom must embark on a journey that will end either in his own demise or a reawakening of humanity. But to bring love and passion back into existence will also threaten the powers of the world with the revolution and anarchy that had nearly destroyed them previously.

After happening upon a journal through strange circumstance, Rom’s world is shattered. He learns that humanity long ago ceased to “live,” that it exists today in a living death of emotions. In a terrible risk, Rom exposes himself to the vial of blood folded into the old leather of the journal. His change is fearful and fraught with mind-bending emotion. A once-pious observer of the Order’s passionless statues, he is filled with uncontrollable impulses. He is filled with love.

He is undone, terrified, and alone in the desolate world.

_______________________________________________________

Hachette Book Group has been extremely gracious in allowing me to read a copy of this novel, via Netgalley, prior to its publication today, so it pains me to say that this novel wasn’t my forte. This is my first Dekker novel, and while I’ve heard many glorious things about his writing, this particular story just didn’t reach out and grab me. Although the underlying concept of the novel is quite superb, I never personally connected with the characters, which is a must for me. I understood the character’s plights, and I disliked the bad guys and cheered on the good guys, but that was the extent of my connection with them. Now, I was quite upset with the ending and what Dekker and Lee decided to do with some of the characters, but that aside, the novel didn’t really peak my interest like I had hoped, and I will probably not be continuing this series. Some books just aren’t for everyone, and this dystopian novel wasn’t for me. Two stars.

From Goodreads: Tony Johnson is a studious young man planning to soon graduate from much more than high school. Although his zip code places him in a Bronx tenement pre “rise of Obama,” his sights are set far beyond the trappings of his humble upbringing. Collegiate dreams combined with falling in love with a white classmate put him strongly at odds with his father. Although his brother C.J.’s rebellious ways place him directly in the path of danger on gang ruled streets, and the virginal innocence of their sister Tanya is clearly approaching its demise, it is Tony who incurs the majority of Lionel Johnson’s wrath for the sins of ambition, daring to be with Janet Mitchell, and refusing to bend to his father’s will. Seeing unrealized goals reincarnated in the eyes of his eldest son harshly remind Lionel of what once could have been, and of what went wrong. His own childhood in a segregated southern town established a bitter, prejudiced outlook that is the only legacy he has to pass down to his children. When his job and role as primary breadwinner are lost, Lionel’s authority quickly erodes and he drowns his disappointment one drink at a time. This affords Tony, who lacks the seemingly servile patience of his mother, an opportunity to assert independence rather than allowing his fate to be set by chance and circumstance. But throughout the course of a tumultuous year, Tony comes to learn that the world is not as black and white as he and his father’s opposing mindsets would suggest.

_________________________________

Pickering has created a phenomenal book concerning life and relationships.  Focusing on a family in the Bronx, Pickering’s characters and relationships paint a vivid portrait of the struggles many young men and women currently face in the United States, be it racism, gang violence, family disagreements, or poverty.  Tony, the main character, struggles throughout the entire novel trying to make a place for himself in the world, all the while his father berates him for attempting to pull himself up by his bootstraps.  Tony’s father is a man scorned, harboring a grudge against the White man and all others who have money, including his brother, a doctor.  C.J. is a lost young man finding solace in his hatred of others through his gang violence, and Tanya is experience love/infatuation for the first time.  Together, this family lives a rocky existence and they struggle to make ends meet and deal with disappointment after disappointment.

I was blown away by the vivid depictions within this novel.  Pickering’s writing is beautiful and poignant, causing the reader to become one with the characters, feeling their pain, their anger, and their hurt.  I loved the set up of the novel; even though the main focus is on Tony, the novel follows each family member throughout the course of the year, creating in-depth characterization.  This is a touching novel of relationships and realizations as a family must ultimately band together, or completely fall apart, in these hard times.  I am extremely impressed by this novel and highly recommend it to all YA and above—the overall message rings true to everyone, regardless of race or economic station in life, and I think it’s a wonderful read.  Four and a half stars.

I received a copy of this novel from the author in exchange for an honest review.

From Goodreads: When Lucy Leary turned 18, her life fell apart.  She crashed her car, her best friend abandoned her, her parents divorced, and her grandfather passed away, leaving her a single possession: A vampire slaying kit with a note that said, “THEY’RE REAL.  FIGHT THEM.”

Now Lucy must stop the oldest, most dangerous vampire in history, before it can kill her family.

______________________________________

Patterson doesn’t disappoint with his latest novel, Blood Calling, a new take on vampires and vampire hunters, one that is so unique and different that it had my attention from the very beginning.  Lucy’s life is spiraling out of control and the last thing she needs is to find out vampires really exist, or to meet one in “the flesh.”  Yet, these vampires aren’t exactly what she expected, and Lucy finds herself  in over her head, in more than one way.

I really enjoyed this novel.  Not only does the reader get to step into the world of vampires, but Patterson also gives the reader insight into their past lives, in small increments, spurring the reader on until the end.  Ranging as far back as Jesus’ times to those of slavery, the back stories for both Wash and Emma are extremely well thought out and written in such a way that the reader can’t help but feel sorry for them.  It causes the reader to connect with these vampires on a much deeper level once s/he realizes their “turning” wasn’t a glorious event, that they didn’t choose this lifestyle, but that their turning was one full of pain.  I also loved that Patterson takes history and intertwines it with vampire folklore in order to create these back stories, creating an interesting “historical” aspect for the novel that will make the reader want to go back to their history books and reread certain sections.  Of course, as the story unfolds and both Lucy and the reader learn more about the world of vampires, both good and bad, the characters begin to come alive right off the page, further making this a must read novel.

Told through the snarky voice of Lucy as she relates her story, the reader is sure to fall in love with everything about his novel, and  I highly recommend it to all ages, especially for any vampire lovers out there. Four stars.

I received a copy of this novel from the author in exchange for an honest review.

From Goodreads: The best way to get even is to get Odd.

Thirteen-year-old Ander Cartwright is an expert on two subjects: fortune cookies and payback.

Especially payback.

When he’s not struggling with algebra, Ander is the leader of an anonymous revenge club that operates within the walls of Marina Middle School. Got a beef with a classmate? Email Ander’s crew and, if your case if legit, they’ll get even on your behalf.

It’s not easy to right wrongs and stay under the radar at the same time. That’s why Ander developed three simple rules designed to help him and his friends from blowing their cover.

But when Ander spots the opportunity to settle an old score of his own, he ignores his own rules, setting off a chain of events that threatens to blow his cover, and it’ll take all the butt-kicking, detention-dodging skill the guys can muster to keep a lid on their secret.

___________________________________

I love this novel!  Fields has created a wonderful book for all ages, both young and old, which will captivate the reader from the very beginning.  Ander, the leader of The Odd Job Squad, specializes in payback, and his ingenious plans are both witty and fascinating.  I love to see the underdog succeed and get back at those who treated them badly, and that is exactly what Ander does for those unable to do it for themselves.  However, one of Ander’s antics goes terribly wrong, and Ander must ultimately decide between right and wrong.  This is a true coming-of-age story and I loved every moment of it!  Ander and his friends are hilarious, as are their antics and dialogue throughout the entire novel.  I must commend Fields on his ability to capture the dialogue perfectly in the MG novel—it sounds just like my students, and I know they’ll love this novel just as much as I did.  Although this novel is technically for younger students, it reads on an adult level and the moral of the story is one for all.  At no point was I reminded that this is a novel for kids, although it technically is, and I highly recommend everyone read it!  Four and a half stars. 

I received a copy of this novel from the author in exchange for an honest review.

From Goodreads: A girl lies by the canal, her face turned upwards like a stargazer. But she will never see the stars again. Her eyes have been torn out. The rain fills the empty sockets until they brim over, spilling bloody tears down her cold, white cheeks. Once every century, the boundary between the demon Netherworld and the human world weakens. Legions of creatures gather, preparing to cross over, to bring death and destruction. This time is called The Shadowing. Callum has always known that there is something beyond the mortal world – he can see ghosts. Lately, he’s started to have horrific visions of children murdered by some terrible, unseen creature. And then the visions start to come true – and Callum realises he is being hunted too. But Callum must stay alive. He is bound by a dark destiny, and must stand against the demon forces that threaten our world forever. For it is nearly time. The Shadowing is coming…

_________________________________________

Egmont USA has been extremely gracious to allow me to read an ARC on this novel, via Netgalley, prior to its US release on September 13, 2011, and I am ecstatic to say I love this book!

I decided to start reading this book the night before school started.  That, dear readers, was a big mistake!  Not only could I not put the book down because it was so fascinating, but I was also scared out of my mind!  I have not been this creeped out in a long time, and while I absolutely LOVE this novel, I do not recommend reading it right before bed.  I ended up “sleeping” with the lights on, but didn’t find much sleep at all, which, of course, made for an interesting school day the next morning…

But aside from choosing the wrong time of day to read this novel, it is a fantastic piece!  I was captivated from page one.  It’s a very creepy tale, and it definitely made my skin crawl on more than one occasion.  I haven’t read such a great ghost story in such a long time, and it was both refreshing and shocking.  While there is a little bit of blood and gore, I personally think it’s minimal and adds to the overall creep factor of the novel.  I might not give this novel to any MG readers, but I think it is suitable for YA and above. 

I especially love that the chapters switched back and forth, showing the hunter at work, and then moving back to Callum as he tries to figure out what is happening around him.  And, while this novel does take place in the present, it has a very archaic feel to it.  Callum lives in the UK in a small town that, through the descriptions, sounds like a very small picturesque town set in its ways.  I loved the imagery and archaic feel of it all and think Slater has done a beautiful job creating the setting to go along perfectly with the story.

Another aspect that I really enjoyed, though I struggled with on occasion, was the slang used within the novel.  As it’s a British novel, some words and phrases were unfamiliar to me and I had to use context clues to figure out what the characters were talking about.  I thought this was really cool and I not only got to read a fantastic horror novel, but I also learned some interesting slang (not any bad words or anything like that).  Overall, I highly recommend this novel!  Five stars!

From Goodreads: Margaret Anne and Maxwell Sinclair have lost their only son and one another.“I shall love you forever.” Her prophetic last words to Maxwell haunt him for what seems like an eternity. Reunited by a miracle, they have little time for bliss as their idyllic existence is once again threatened. When an assortment of criminals and hunters come calling, the Sinclairs learn that home isn’t always a safe haven — even for a couple of vampires! Gone are the coffins that contain a handful of dirt from the homeland. Gone too are the crosses, wreathes of garlic flowers and all the things you thought would keep you safe. Night after night the Sinclairs prowl neighboring cities ridding them of their criminal element with style, humor and marital devotion reminiscent of Nick and Nora Charles. Amid plots and subplots, Margaret Anne leads Maxwell into a world of computers and cars, he recounts tales from an earlier era and they both lead an intrepid vampire hunter on a merry chase. What Luck! is a about greed, violence, unconditional loyalty and a love that refused to die. Not today’s typical vampire fare – these characters are seasoned with a pinch of humor and a dash of class.

___________________________________

I’m sorry to say that this novel just isn’t for me.  I love vampires, but I honestly had a hard time following the storyline in What Luck!  For me, it seemed to jump around a lot, and while many readers are easily able to follow, and love, stories like this, I tend to struggle a bit comprehending everything that is happening.  I thought the novel started out very strong and I was pulled into the story almost immediately, but became confused around the time Margaret Anne transitioned.  From there, the story became a little too fast paced for me as the Sinclair’s worked to build their new lives together, ridding the world of evil.  While I do love the premise of this novel, and enjoyed having “grown-up” vampires as opposed to the young, angsty teenage vampires that make up so many books today, I can personally only give this novel one star.

From Goodreads: Rylie survived becoming a werewolf at great cost. She moves to her aunt’s ranch in the hopes she can enroll in a new high school and quietly continue her life… with a few distinct changes. She transforms into a beast every new and full moon and struggles to control her murderous urges.

Without many werewolves left, it’s hard to stay in hiding. A family of hunters — Eleanor, Abel, and Seth — recognize the signs and follow Rylie to her new home. They want to stop her before she murders someone, and the only way to do it is with a silver bullet. Seth soon realizes the werewolf is Rylie, the one monster he failed to kill. Worse yet, he’s still in love with her.

Torn between family and love, Rylie struggles to reconcile her feelings and control the wolf within while Seth fights to do what’s right. But what is right– obeying desire or duty?

_________________________________________________

Wow!  And I do mean WOW!  This is a phenomenal sequel to Six Moon Summer, and while I enjoyed Six Moon Summer, I have to say that this sequel takes the cake.  Reine has created a truly amazing book that had me glued to the pages from the very beginning, and I’m still reeling after the conclusion. 

Rylie and Seth have both changed in this novel, endearing them further to my heart—especially Seth; I think I’m in love, and I’m so glad that he’s more of a part of the story in this sequel.  Reine’s characterization is superb and real, and I enjoyed every minute of this novel, especially as the constant suspense kept my heart beating through  my chest.  It’s rare that I find a novel that keeps me on my toes so much, but All Hallows Moon did just that.  I couldn’t put the book down; it is such an amazing story!  Reine is a beautiful writer and her writing just keeps getting better as she publishes more novels.

While All Hallows Moon has a very clear cut ending, giving the reader a respite without any cliffhangers, I do hope for another book in the series!  I LOVE this series so much!  Reine has definitely created a reader/fan for life out of me.  Five stars.

I received a copy of this novel from the author in exchange for an honest review.

From Goodreads: When the original purchaser no longer needs their airline ticket, Cliff buys it for a bargain price. Upon boarding, he realizes he has nothing in common with the passengers. When his flying companions reveal a variety of destinations and arrival times, it means little. That is, until he discovers the flight is a Special Charter.

__________________________________________________

This is a very interesting short story that ends nearly as soon as it begins, leaving the reader to piece together the truth of the tale.  If you like stories without full closure, leaving the truth up for speculation, then this is a good short story for you.  Personally, I need things spelled out for me.  And, while I thought the writing itself was good and I have a general idea in terms of what really happened on the Special Charter, I’m still a little bit in the dark and would have really liked a bit more closure.  I feel like lovers of Flannery O’Conner will really enjoy Bauer’s writing style as it is great piece for in-depth analysis and is a bit heavy for a short read.  Three and a half stars.

I received a copy of this short story from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

From Goodreads:  A humorous adventure story of an ant floating in a toilet.

What events will he see today?

_____________________________________________________________

This is not a novel…  It’s not something I would give my kids.  But, this picture book is something for us jaded people out there interested in just what a day in the life of an ant might be, if he was hanging out in the toilet… Truth be told, I didn’t know what I was getting into when I decided to read this quick short story, and, truth be told, there were lots of times when my jaw dropped while reading, but, I think that’s what adds to the fun of this short picture book.  Yes, it’s a little gross.  Yes, it’s kind of funny.  No, it’s not vulgar and there aren’t pictures of anything bad… intrigued?  I know you are.  I mean, honestly, what is an ant going to see if he’s floating around in your toilet?  Ponder that. :D  Three stars.

I received a copy of this humorous short story from the author in exchange for an honest review.

From Goodreads:  Who thought a poem would trigger World War Three?

Tristan Gunner—skateboard fanatic, junk food junkie, award-winning poet. But you’d think he just got detention instead of the school’s grand prize for poetry. And even though Chris won five Math and Science awards, the next Einstein is crying because he’s not the next Shakespeare. Astra wants them both to cut the drama, and caught between a mortified winner and a crybaby loser, she hopes Chris can get over his attitude before World War Three erupts in her kitchen.

______________________________

This is a very interesting coming-of-age short story entailing greed and selfishness.  Tristan has won an award he doesn’t want, Chris has won five awards except the one he really wants, and Astra is stuck in the middle of this war brought on by Chris, a greedy, selfish young man who can’t fathom how someone like Tristan, of all people, could have won The Next Shakespeare award. 

I thought this was a very well written short story, though I wasn’t able to connect with the characters as much as I’d have liked to.  I found them to be a little flat, but I think it’s near impossible to create round, enticing characters within twenty pages, so I commend Ernstberger on her ability to create a great story in such a short span of pages.  Ernstberger has created a wonderful tale of right and wrong for all ages, and I especially think the message would benefit both MG and YA as greed and selfishness is a problem I see in the classroom all the time.  Three stars.

From Goodreads: It could happen tomorrow…

A cataclysmic event. An army of “The Changed.”
Can one teen really survive on her own?

An electromagnetic pulse sweeps through the sky, destroying every electronic device and killing billions. For those spared, it’s a question of who can be trusted and who is no longer human…

Desperate to find out what happened and to avoid the Changed, Alex meets up with Tom—a young army veteran—and Ellie, a young girl whose grandfather was killed by the electromagnetic pulse.

This improvised family will have to use every ounce of courage they have just to survive.

__________________________________________

Egmont USA has been extremely gracious to allow me to read a copy of this novel, via Netgalley, prior to its release today, and I have to say that this novel is fantastic!  The synopsis drew me in and the novel itself didn’t disappoint.  Bick is a very talented writer, creating a unique “zombieesque” novel that keeps readers extremely engaged.  I really enjoyed that Bick was able to keep me in the dark throughout most of the novel, creating events that caused me to constantly change my mind about characters and situations as the story progressed.  Even after the ending, which leaves the reader with a huge cliffhanger , my mind isn’t completely made up about certain characters, their motivations, or their reasoning.  I love books that cause me to really think about, and analyze, the characters, and yes, though some characters are extremely annoying, such as eight year old Ellie, rest assured that they’re not all like that, and Ellie does become less annoying as time goes on (remember, she’s only eight and she’s very scared).  So, don’t let her, or other situations within the novel, bog you down.  This is definitely a novel to read through to the end.  I’m dying to read the sequel already! Four stars.

From Goodreads:  Everyone has problems, but Leigh Trinkett is starting to think she has more than her fair share. Leigh has vowed to make the soccer team, but she’s not sure if she’s got what it takes, even with intensive coaching from best friend and budding soccer star, Ashley.

Then there’s Leigh’s family life – and all is not quiet on the home front. Brother Buddy is a would-be ninja who leaves no stone unturned in his quest to annoy Leigh. Crabby old Grandpa Sam came to live with the family when his ranch went under, along with Jerry, a trained dwarf cow who has the run of the house. Leigh’s father is preoccupied with the fate of his business, a shop that specializes in trial-sized products and is suffering trials and tribulations of its own.

Oh, and there’s Leigh’s mother, who hasn’t really been herself lately. Mom’s been sneaking out of the house in the middle of the night, is on first name terms with the local butcher, and just may have something to do with the cooler of meat Leigh finds hidden in the garage.

Will Leigh make the soccer team? Will Buddy drive her nuts? Will her father’s business survive? Is her mother a werewolf?

___________________________________________________

Lengeman’s debut novel is a hilarious look into the life of a young teen trying to make sense of her world, a world in which her mother just might be a fabled lycanthrope.  My Mother the Lycanthrope follows Leigh as she tries to figure out the truth about her mother, survive the antics of her “ninja” brother, her eccentric grandpa, and the roaming of Jerry, the dwarf cow, all the while trying to remain “normal.”  The way Lengeman tells the story will have readers guffawing with laughter; this family is quite dysfunctional, in a good way, and I love it.

This is a wonderful coming of age story and I believe Lengeman really captures the essence of growing up through this charming tale—Lengeman really has a way with words and captured my attention from the very beginning.  I am excited that this novel, the first in the series, will soon have a sequel out to continue the wonderful story of the Trinkett family.  Four stars.

I received a copy of this novel from the author in exchange for an honest review.

From Goodreads: Once upon a time there was a girl who was special.

This is not her story.

Unless you count the part where I killed her.

Sixteen-year-old Alison has been sectioned in a mental institute for teens, having murdered the most perfect and popular girl at school. But the case is a mystery: no body has been found, and Alison’s condition is proving difficult to diagnose. Alison herself can’t explain what happened: one minute she was fighting with Tori — the next she disintegrated. Into nothing. But that’s impossible. Right?

_____________________________________

Learner Publishing Group has been extremely gracious in allowing me to read of copy of this novel, via Netgalley, prior to its recent USA debut, and I am so glad because I really enjoyed this book.  I wasn’t sure what to expect when I picked it up, based on the hundreds of mixed reviews already out from the UK and other countries, but this is definitely a book right up my alley, and once I started it, I was so captivated that I had trouble putting it down and completing the daily tasks of life.

Anderson has done a wonderful job researching medical facilities and conditions that result in people being put into psychiatric hospitals, and the story itself took my breath away.  It is nothing like other books I’ve read concerning psychiatric hospitals, and Anderson’s wonderful imagination and colorful characters (no pun intended) have a lot to do with it.  As I read, I kept thinking to myself that this novel is “really good,” but there came a point in the story where it switched from “good” to “awesome.”  I was reading along, and all of a sudden Anderson adds this completely shocking twist that made me bolt upright and read the text even closer.

Now, this novel is not for everyone.  Most of this novel is somewhat feasible and realistic, with scientific explanations for basically everything, but the story definitely takes a turn for the paranormal and I can see where it might ruin the story for some readers out there who really enjoyed the realistic aspect of the book.  It is quite a shocker, in my opinion, but that’s what makes me love it all the more.  Here we have a really good psychological thriller unraveling, and all of a sudden we’re thrust into a sci-fi, paranormal thriller, which, for me, is absolutely awesome!  But, like I said, not everyone is going to like this aspect, especially as it happens very late in the novel and, without some serious flexibility as a reader, it won’t sit well, especially as it’s such a shock and deviation from the rest of the novel.  However, I found it refreshing and extremely interesting and I hope there is a sequel coming out soon!  Four stars.

From Goodreads: Life can get pretty complicated for any seventeen-year-old girl, but for a home-schooled telepathic black girl trying to survive in a prestigious private school in small-town Jonesborough, Tennessee, it can be maddening – especially when her telepathic father keeps eavesdropping on her thoughts!

Jaycie Lerner’s family isn’t the usual mom-dad-kid setup. Jaycie’s mom’s MIA, but Allison, her personal live-in ‘trainer,’ is more than a mom, with her own special abilities, like being able to lift cars and run incredibly fast. And Jaycie’s godfather John is more than persuasive – he can literally convince anyone to do anything.

As far as the rest of the world’s concerned, Jaycie’s on the outside looking in. The townsfolk love Jaycie’s pediatrician father, but she doesn’t fit in with ‘normal’ kids, and she doesn’t really want to. Most of her free time is spent training to keep her telekinetic and telepathic powers under control. But there’s one thing she can’t control – and that’s her feelings, especially when her best friend Matt is nearby. If only he knew what she was truly capable of…

Everything seems to be status quo for Jaycie until she receives a cryptic message from a stranger and meets a very unusual girl new to Jonesborough. Then all hell breaks loose!

_______________________________

Larry has created a fascinating story line with many interesting characters, making this novel a quick read for those interested in the paranormal.  Jaycie, intent on being a normal teenager, struggles due to her telepathic abilities that could ultimately destroy her if she isn’t careful, making it extremely difficult to have a romantic relations, or any relationship for that matter, as her emotions can easily get the better of her and cause objects around her to begin moving.

I liked the concept of this novel a lot, especially as it’s similar to one of my favorite TV shows, Heroes.  Jaycie’s family is extraordinary and looking to find and help others like themselves.  So when Haylee arrives on the scene with a talent of her own and a dark past, the Lerner’s do everything in their power to help her.  I really enjoyed the novel up to a point, but I must admit that I think Jaycie and Haylee become a tad bit jaded as the story continues, causing them to enact revenge in a most atrocious manner—one that was hard for me to stomach.  As the main character’s disposition began to change, I personally found myself liking them less and less, though by the conclusion they were working themselves back into my good graces.  I think I just wasn’t expecting the twists and turns within the novel, including Haylee’s dark past, but the more I think about it, the more it makes sense in terms of this coming-of-age storyline.  Three stars.

I received a copy of this novel from the author in exchange for an honest review.

From Goodreads: Anyone who’s had something truly crappy happen to them will tell you: It’s all about Before and After. What I’m talking about here is the ka-pow, shake-you-to-your-core-and-turn-your-bones-to-plastic kind of crappy.

Sixteen-year-old Laurel’s world changes instantly when her parents and brother are killed in a terrible car accident. Behind the wheel is the father of her bad-boy neighbor, David Kaufman, whose mother is also killed. In the aftermath of the tragedy, Laurel navigates a new reality in which she and her best friend grow apart, boys may or may not be approaching her out of pity, overpowering memories lurk everywhere, and Mr. Kaufman is comatose but still very much alive. Through it all there is David, who swoops in and out of Laurel’s life and to whom she finds herself attracted against her better judgment. She will forever be connected to him by their mutual loss—a connection that will change them both in unexpected ways.

_________________________________________

HarperCollins has been extremely gracious in allowing me to read a copy of this novel, via Netgalley, prior to its release on September 6^th, and I must say that it was a good read.  It was essentially what I was expecting, based on the synopsis, meaning that this novel is extremely sad and gut wrenching at times.  Hence, I wouldn’t recommend it for a light summer read or anything like that, but it’s a great read for someone looking for a bit darker read that puts life in perspective.  

Laurel is struggling, and her anger is eating away at her as she attempts to cope with the death of her family and the man who survived.  Thankfully, I’ve never had an experience as devastating as Laurel’s, but I have lost loved ones before, and I can I imagine the extreme hurt and anger that fills Laurel’s heart, especially as there is a survivor for her to constantly remind her of her losses.  The raw feelings and emotions of this novel are very real, and I do suggest having tissues nearby.  Three stars. 

From Goodreads: After the virus decimates 99.9% of the world’s population, and all traces of humanity along with it, Rhiannon and Will are forced to move beyond their past fame, fortune, and personal demons to rescue a mute girl from the clutches of two warring cults.

_______________________________________

This is a very interesting zombie novel, zoning in more upon how disturbing the world has become after a virus wipes out all but 1% of the population.  While zombies are a small portion of the novel, the main spread deals with the left over humans and how they are attempting to take over what little is left of the world.  This novel is different from all the other zombie/dystopian novels I’ve read, and it was refreshing and attention-grabbing, causing me to read it all in one sitting.

I enjoyed the two main characters, Rhiannon and Will.  They are not the norm—prior to the virus, they were well known, Rhiannon having been an actress, and Will having been a sports star.  However, once the virus decimates the world, they are reduced to average citizens looking to survive in what is left of the cruel world.  I thought these were really unique character choices that made a lot of the situations more believable.  Rhiannon, an exceptionally pretty woman, is not used to her new surroundings, especially having to fend for herself.  She’s witty, demanding, headstrong, selfish—and in high demand.  Having only 1% of the world population left, there are many who would love to have Rhiannon for themselves, and one man, intend on recreating the world in his image, is willing to pay top dollar to have her in his clutches.  This makes for a very interesting story of cat and mouse, coming to a head as Rhiannon’s motherly instincts take over after meeting a young girl who is in more danger than Rhiannon herself.

Will’s story is also a great one as he battles to save the two women he cares the most about in a world where trust is a major issue.  I enjoyed that both his story, and Rhiannon’s, are set in the present, and while their past is briefly touched upon on occasion, not much detail is given, allowing the reader to fill in the gaps through their own imagination.  While I normally enjoy being told all the details, this was refreshing as Doidge tactfully presents just enough to help the reader begin piecing together the background story on their own.

I am looking forward to a sequel as I’d love to know more about the characters and their plights, especially as, though the novel ends cleanly, there is room for much more.  Four stars!

I received a copy of this novel from the author in exchange for an honest review.

From Goodreads: Caleb’s in high school now and thinks the chaos of last year is behind him. Unfortunately, a serial killer is on the loose and children are his victims. Caleb agrees to help the police apprehend the murderer…until the killer takes notice of Caleb and his paranormal friends.

Carson and Brett remain the bullies they always were and their posse continues to grow. How long can the two groups stay out of each others’ way before there’s a firestorm of retribution…

The Government Graysheets continue to keep tabs on Caleb’s every move while Jade’s family threatens their relationship. Can they still be together even when events threaten to tear them apart?

_________________________________________________________

Blodgett is an amazing writer. I have had the pleasure of reading three of her novels, and I’ve enjoyed every single one of them, but I really think Death Speaks takes the cake. Not only is the cover absolutely amazing, but the story line itself is so original and intriguing that it glues the reader to the pages from the very first line. I fell in love with the characters in Death Whispers, and Blodgett intensifies that love in this sequel, adding some spicy relationships, a chilling murder investigation, and laugh out loud situations and dialogue.

Death Speaks continues the story of Caleb, a male protagonist, and the story flows through his eyes. I really enjoy this point of view and focus on male characters, which I haven’t really seen in much of the current YA literature, especially coming from a female author. Blodgett knows how the young male mind works; her characters’ actions and dialogue are just like what I observe in the classroom on a daily basis, making this paranormal novel all the more real. That being said, curse words are used fairly regularly throughout the novel, usually just out of earshot of an adult (just like in real life), but not always, and what I truly love is that the adults are always on point when it comes to language and corrections of the young teens struggling to come into themselves.

This novel is very reader friendly and I believe both the young and old will enjoy this story. Five stars.

_________________________________________________________

This giveaway is now closed.

Winners:

Aeicha — US

Melissa Robles — International

From Goodreads: Eighteen year old Rick Thompson is a marked man. When Damien Masonite comes to his school, he knows something is up. And when his friends start falling to vampire attacks, he knows that he and his girlfriend Laura are next. The quest to understand immortality, true love and undying friendship compromise his safety even more. Can he keep his best friends, his true love and keep his mortal life?

______________________________________

Clendening has created a very interesting novel for young adult readers in love with vampires.  With an extremely captivating prologue, the reader is pulled into the story as Damien Masonite, a vicious vampire, is introduced.  From there, the story begins its focus on Rick Thompson and his friends, jumping from scene to scene between the many characters within the story.  I have to admit that these transitions were a little difficult for me to follow, especially as there were a vast array of characters to keep track of as I read. 

When reading novels, I need a lot of background information and structure to set the story up in my mind.   Without it, I struggle to make the connections I need to make.  I’ve always been like this, and that’s why, even though I’m an English teacher, I don’t always like all the classics I teach.  Some things work for me, and some things don’t, and excessive background knowledge and characterization are a must for me.  Yet, though I struggled some with character details and timeframe, I think that the story itself is an intriguing idea and that many will enjoy this fast paced read, especially as we all have different styles and tastes when it comes to books.  Unfortunately for me, this novel just isn’t my forte.  One star. 

I received a copy of this novel from the author in exchange for an honest review.