From Goodreads: Twitch, a stubbed limbed, white eye deformed carnival freak attraction is often abused. But, he harbors a dark secret…and his retribution is certainly far worse.

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If you’re looking for a quick read with some chilling horror mixed in this Halloween, then this is the novella for you!  Scopel has written a very intriguing tale involving the carnival freak, Twitch, and the horrors that befall those who abuse him.  This story is not what I was expecting, and I have to say that I am very impressed with the story and Scopel’s writing as well. 

This novella begins much like any other, but the creep factor quickly comes into play as characters are introduced and the story slowly begins to unfold.  Some of the horror within the novel is quite gruesome, with blood spurting everywhere, burning blisters popping open, etc., but it adds nicely to this horrific tale of retribution as Twitch pays back all those who have ever muttered a degrading word his way.  I think my favorite part about it all is the fact that Scopel decided to add some history and witchcraft to the mix, creating an ingenious background story for Twitch and his existence. 

Scopel is a very talented writer, keeping the reader focused and engaged throughout the entire story.  And, the best part is, he’s strictly writes horror.  So, hop on over to Amazon or Barnes and Nobel and pick up this quick read… and if you like it, check out his other work because, hey, it’s Halloween, and we all need to be a little creeped out this hallows eve.  Four stars.

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

Happy Halloween!

From Goodreads: Jean Ryan has inherited a singular gift, the gift of magic. She must quickly learn to use her magic gift before the opposing dark magic forces destroy her world. Jean and Wayne, her friend, work together to discover why her gift has attracted the attention of an evil circle of magic users and how to combat them.

As she learns to use her magic, Jean finds revenge bites backwards, friends are not always what they seem, and that magic is not a toy. In the end she has to stand alone against an evil worse than any she has ever imagined.

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Overall, I really enjoyed this novel.  This is a true coming-of-age novel in which Jean must learn what true friendship is, as well as decide to do right by those around her.  I must admit that, in the beginning, Jean was quite obnoxious and her bad decisions made me dislike her quite a lot.  However, she does have many redeeming qualities and, as we later find out, not all of her decisions were of her own volition, which helped make me like her much more as the story progressed.

I’d like to say that I would have behaved differently had I been in Jean’s position, but truth be told, I would probably have behaved just as badly as her, especially since power can quickly consume a soul, causing one to act completely different, usually for the worst.  I think part of this revelation is why I was so disgusted with her in the beginning, but as I said previously, she does redeem herself, which is good, because the story itself is very well done.

Santore has created a very interesting tale involving magic, a world Jean didn’t know existed until her grandmother passes on, leaving her a box full of mysterious items.  I enjoyed learning about the magical realm and watching the characters thrive, learn from their mistakes, and set new courses for themselves.  There were a lot of twists within the novel and while some of the events were obvious in coming, others were much more shocking.  I enjoy a story where I feel like I know what is happening but am also blindsided by certain situations, making me second-guess myself and the characters on the whole.  I really did enjoy this novel and am hoping for a sequel to continue Jean’s fight for what is right. Four stars.

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

From Goodreads: Colt McAlister was having the summer of his life. He spent his days surfing and his nights playing guitar on the beach with friends. He even met a girl and got his first car. But everything changes when his parents are killed in a freak accident.

He’s forced to leave his old life behind and move to Arizona with his grandfather. The only person he knows at the new high school is a childhood friend named Dani. And Oz, a guy he’s sure he’s never met but who is strangely familiar.

But what if his parents’ death wasn’t an accident? His mother, an investigative reporter, was going to expose a secret mind-control program run by one of the world’s largest companies. Before she could release the story, what if agents from Trident Biotech made sure she couldn’t go public?

Vowing to uncover the truth, Colt gets drawn into a secret world of aliens, shapeshifters, flying motorcycles, and invisible gateways.

The Invasion has begun.

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This is a very interesting sci-fi novel dealing with an alien invasion.  Although the story is somewhat cliché, with Colt McAlister and his newfound friends battling evil aliens intent on destroying all humanity, it is quite original as well.  I liked the idea that Colt finds that what he’s been reading in his comic books is actually true.  I haven’t read many novels that put such an emphasis on a hero obsessed with comic books, and I think this will add in its appeal for younger readers.  And, yes, while it is a little cliché that the hero is “nerdy” in that aspect, owning memorabilia from the comics, etc., Lewis also makes Colt a strong, self-assured character.  He’s even quite attractive, according to the girls in the novel.  But, that aside, this novel’s fast pace and interesting situations make is a great read, especially for those in love with sci-fi.  Although I personally found the “love-story” portion of this novel a little bit out of place, slowing the pacing to a near standstill for me, overall, I thought this was a good read and recommend it to anyone who enjoyed I Am Number Four.  Three stars.    

 Thomas Nelson has been extremely gracious in allowing me to read a copy of this novel, via Netgalley.

From Goodreads: For fifteen-year-old Seeker, Isabelle Crowe, ridding the Houston streets of the undead is an inherited duty, passed down from her Cherokee ancestors. During her first night without her mentor, she encounters Abram, a more experienced Seeker from Chicago looking to avenge his cousin’s death. Isabelle quickly learns she must work with Abram to protect her city. With one Seeker already dead, Isabelle’s love of the hunt becomes a fight to survive.

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Browning has created a very unique, interesting vampire tale, complete with both traditional vampires, and what Isabelle refers to as the Daychildren, those that can walk in the sunlight and are stronger and faster than anything Isabelle, or her mentor, have ever come up against.  I especially enjoyed the fast-paced nature of this short prequel to Dark Seeker, as it ropes the reader in and gives some great background knowledge concerning the Daychildren and the Seekers’ never-ending job in ridding the world of such evil. 

I thought Isabelle and Abram were a very interesting juxtaposition of character, one cool and collected, one angry and looking for a fight.  Though their personal backgrounds are only briefly touched upon, Browning peaks the readers interest by alluding to the special makeup of the Seekers, one in which they continually recycle their ages, between 15-18, and must move to different cities every four years as to not be noticed.  While the reader isn’t given much more information concerning the age changes or how the Seekers originally came to be, enough is given to whet the reader’s appetite, especially through the many action scenes in which Isabelle and Abram work together to rid their city of vampires.  I am looking forward to continuing the series with the first book, Dark Seeker, which recently released on September 27th, especially as it introduces new characters, and hopefully re-introduces Isabelle and Abram.  Four stars.

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

From Goodreads: My name—my True Name—is Ashallayn’darkmyr Tallyn.

I am the last remaining son of Mab, Queen of the Unseelie Court. And I am dead to her.

My fall began, as many stories do, with a girl…

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And now for something completely different.  Kagawa does a phenomenal job shifting gears in this fourth, and final, book in the Iron Fey series, telling the story from Ash’s point of view as he struggles to come to terms with what has happened to Meghan.  By the completion of this novel, Ash had completely endeared himself to me (about time, right?) and I must say that I think this last book is the best of them all. 

Ash’s quest is an honorable one, and the many dangers he faces, along with Puck and some other friends we’ve met along the way in the series, are substantial and breathtaking.  At times I was literally scared for the characters, a feeling I haven’t known throughout the series up until this point, and I really, really enjoyed this novel.

Finally, we have answers.  What happened between Ash and Ariella?  How did they meet, fall in love, and befriend Puck?  Why is Ash always so cold to everyone?  All the questions we’ve had throughout the series, including many more, are finally answered in detail as all of Ash’s sins and mistakes are brought to the forefront.  There is, in fact, a very interesting twist in this novel that I never saw coming, and though I was a little aghast when it first hit, it makes perfect sense, and it made the novel that much more interesting.  Yes, at times I really hated Ash, especially as his past is brought to the forefront and we learn so much about him, but his ultimate quest for love and redemption washed it all away for me, and it ends exactly how it should, in my opinion.  Yes, I’ve been a Puck fan all the way up until this point, and I do love Puck, but I finally see why Ash and Meghan belong together, and I am at peace with the ending here, and so is Puck, Meghan, and Ash, our key players.  That, I believe, is the most important thing.

This is an all around beautiful book, and I highly recommend it, however, you really must read the in-between novella’s to understand everything that is happening in this novel, as it frequently references those stories and the characters within.  So, I highly recommend you pick up Winter’s Passage (book #1.5) and Summer’s Crossing (book #3.5) and read them prior to reading this final installment to a wonderful sage.  Four and a half stars.

Harlequin has been extremely gracious in allowing me to read an ARC of this novel, via Netgalley, prior to its release today. 

From Goodreads: A Midsummer’s Nightmare? Robin Goodfellow. Puck. Summer Court prankster, King Oberon’s right hand, bane of many a faery queen’s existence—and secret friend to Prince Ash of the Winter Court. Until one girl’s death came between them, and another girl stole both their hearts.

Now Ash has granted one favor too many and someone’s come to collect, forcing the prince to a place he cannot go without Puck’s help—into the heart of the Summer Court. And Puck faces the ultimate choice—betray Ash and possibly win the girl they both love, or help his former friend turned bitter enemy pull off a deception that no true faery prankster could possibly resist.

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This is a must read for all those reading the Iron Fey series.  This short novella not only adds to the series as a whole, but also extends the story, picking up right where The Iron Queen left off (and boy, that book’s ending made me mad), connecting Ash and Puck once more as they go off on a journey to find Grimalkin, for reason’s Ash is none too forthcoming about.  However, before they can get too far, Ash runs into an old acquaintance who calls in a favor… a practically impossible favor.

I enjoyed this novella.  I actually started to dislike Puck a little as I read, which was a first, and Ash began to move more into my good graces… so this was a nice change.  I will say that this novella kept my rapt attention with its awesome storyline, especially as it’s a break from Meghan’s story.  I really enjoyed every aspect of Summer’s Crossing, aside for Puck being a tool for a bit… but I was happy in the end, and completely ready for the next, and final, book in the series, The Iron Knight.  Four stars.

From Goodreads: My name is Meghan Chase.

I thought it was over. That my time with the fey, the impossible choices I had to make, the sacrifices of those I loved, was behind me. But a storm is approaching, an army of Iron fey that will drag me back, kicking and screaming. Drag me away from the banished prince who’s sworn to stand by my side. Drag me into the core of conflict so powerful, I’m not sure anyone can survive it.

This time, there will be no turning back.

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Okay, I’m not going to lie… I was less than pleased with this book’s ending.  THANK GOD Kagawa wrote a fourth book, or, seriously, I would have thrown something.  Why?  Because this ending wasn’t satisfying.  In fact, it was the opposite.  It was gut wrenching, rip your heart out, sad.  It left a hole in my heart.  I’m serious.  It really did.  But… I can’t tell you why.  Just rest assured, the fourth, and final book in the series, The Iron Knight, comes out tomorrow… and it will put some balance back into your world.  I promise.

Now… this is a very well written series.  Kagawa has a very vivid imagination, and I truly love her writing and her characters.  I found this novel to be more on par with The Iron King, meaning I liked this one better than The Iron Daughter, and I still stand by previous statements… Puck, by far, is still my favorite.  I love the correlations between him and Shakespeare that Kagawa throws in throughout the series, and I love his nonchalant, cunning ways.  He’s a great guy, and I really think Meghan would be better off with him, however, Ash has started to grow on me a bit.  Finally, I know.

Yes, I still find Ash moody and overbearing, but his other side seems to come out more in this novel, and I’m beginning to see what Meghan sees in him.  He can be nice, caring… though he still seems to be a little despondent at times, making rash decisions that caused me to keep backtracking and renouncing my feelings for him.  However, by the end of this novel it became apparent that he truly does care about Meghan, hence my ultimate hatred of the ending.  However, that’s all I’m going to say about that.  Three and a half stars. 

From Goodreads: Half Summer faery princess, half human, Meghan has never fit in anywhere. Deserted by the Winter prince she thought loved her, she is prisoner to the Winter faery queen. As war looms between Summer and Winter, Meghan knows that the real danger comes from the Iron fey—ironbound faeries that only she and her absent prince have seen. But no one believes her.

Worse, Meghan’s own fey powers have been cut off. She’s stuck in Faery with only her wits for help. Trusting anyone would be foolish. Trusting a seeming traitor could be deadly. But even as she grows a backbone of iron, Meghan can’t help but hear the whispers of longing in her all-too-human heart.

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Okay, so, I have to say it.  I’m still a Puck fan.  I know, I know… this was the book that was supposed to turn me on to Ash.  But… it didn’t.  In fact, I found him to be a real creeper in this novel.  I guess I haven’t really seen his soft genuine side yet, which might come in the next book?  Maybe?  I don’t know, but I do know that Puck still holds my favor, and I wish that Meghan would see what I see!

That aside, I think this was a pretty decent sequel to The Iron King.  I will admit that I didn’t like it as much as the first novel, but I still liked it.  For some reason, I had a harder time reading this novel, meaning it took me a lot longer than expected… I kept putting it aside to read other novels, which isn’t normal for me, especially in the middle of a series.  I can’t put my finger on what it was exactly, but I just wasn’t as captivated by this novel.  I’m going to blame Ash for that.  Lol.

In all honesty, though, Kagawa has created an awesome faery world, and I just love the idea of the iron fey.  It’s so ingenious and intriguing that I always want to know more, which is great, because there are two more books in the series!  Based on the ending of this novel, I am really interested to know where the story it going to go next, and yes, I do feel sorry for Ash (I’m not that heartless—like him), and I am hoping that everything turns out okay in the end.  We shall see.  Three stars.

From Goodreads: Meghan Chase used to be an ordinary girl…until she discovered that she is really a faery princess. After escaping from the clutches of the deadly Iron fey, Meghan must follow through on her promise to return to the equally dangerous Winter Court with her forbidden love, Prince Ash. But first, Meghan has one request: that they visit Puck–Meghan’s best friend and servant of her father, King Oberon–who was gravely injured defending Meghan from the Iron Fey.

Yet Meghan and Ash’s detour does not go unnoticed. They have caught the attention of an ancient, powerful hunter–a foe that even Ash may not be able to defeat….

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I didn’t know there were in-between novellas for The Iron Fey series, but I just found out, so of course I picked them both up for the Kindle the minute I found out.  This novella is the in-between for The Iron King and The Iron Daughter, explaining how Meghan got to Tir Na Nog, the Winter palace, and it was a good read.  If you read the series, without these in-between stories, you’ll notice that The Iron Daughter just picks up at the Winter palace… no explanation is given as to how Meghan and Ash got there, and though it’s not information a reader has to have, I was wondering about it.  Insert Winter Passage here.  Do you need to read it?  No.  Do I recommend it?  YES!

Again, Kagawa creates a riveting story as Ash and Meghan attempt to outrun a powerful hunter while on their way back to Tir Na Nog in order to fulfill Meghan’s promise to Ash.  It was quite captivating, and at times I could feel my heart rate accelerating.  My only complaint is that the novella rehashes too much of the first novel, recapping information any reader of the series would already know and, though I may be mistaken, I actually think there is a passage from this novella that is also word for word in either The Iron King or The Iron Daughter… I know I’ve read it in one of them.  But, repetitiveness aside, there is more than enough of a story to intrigue the reader and cause them to put aside the repeated information in favor for the new dilemma’s Ash and Meghan come up against. Four stars.

From Goodreads: Meghan Chase has a secret destiny; one she could never have imagined.

Something has always felt slightly off in Meghan’s life, ever since her father disappeared before her eyes when she was six. She has never quite fit in at school or at home.

When a dark stranger begins watching her from afar, and her prankster best friend becomes strangely protective of her, Meghan senses that everything she’s known is about to change.

But she could never have guessed the truth – that she is the daughter of a mythical faery king and is a pawn in a deadly war. Now Meghan will learn just how far she’ll go to save someone she cares about, to stop a mysterious evil no faery creature dare face; and to find love with a young prince who might rather see her dead than let her touch his icy heart.

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So, I’ve finally gotten around to reading this series.  I know, I know, it’s about time!  I’ve had this book on my shelf forever, but with school, grading, and review requests, I haven’t had the time to just sit down and read this series.  Now, in my defense, there are four books in the series, and knowing myself, once I start, I’ll need to read the whole series… so I had to wait until the opportune time to read this book, which happens to be now, especially as book four releases in THREE days… that’s right… three days!!!!  Who’s excited?  I AM!

I was very impressed with this novel, though, and don’t shoot me for this, I’m not enamored with Ash.  With all the hype I’ve been hearing about this series, I was positive that I would fall head over heels in love with him, especially since everyone talks about him on Twitter all the time.  But, actually, I like Puck.  I’m not sure, but a part of me thinks that maybe, just maybe, my subconscious overwrote the possibility of falling for Ash because so many people already like him so much, but… either way, I’m a Puck fan.  Now, truthfully, if I look back at all the novels I’ve read, and all the sides I’ve taken in the love triangles, it is quite obvious that I always prefer the guy that was there first.  Edward over Jacob.  Gale over Peeta.  Xander over Ky.  Daniel over Cameron… I mean, you get the picture.  So, it just makes sense here that I like Puck over Ash.  Now, that’s not to say it won’t change as I complete the series, but this is how I feel now. Especially since Ash is a brooding, angry male, and the fact that he’s only “helping” Meghan in order to get something in return rubs me the wrong way.  Yes, maybe he develops feelings for her, but I’m not yet convinced that he loves her as much as I am that he’s using her.  But, either way, I have to read all the books in the series before I make my official, and final, call, so stay tuned…

On the whole, I really enjoyed this novel. Kagawa is a very talented writer, and I am kicking myself for waiting so long to read her work.  She easily captivates her audience through her vivid imagination and wonderful descriptions.  I found myself on pins and needles throughout nearly the entire novel, especially as Meghan goes from adventure to adventure, and I do recommend this novel to all.  In fact, you might as well pick up the full series because The Iron King will leave you hanging, and you’ll need to start The Iron Daughter right away!  Four stars!

From Goodreads: Myth and imagination are confronted with historical precision in Brendan Connell’s newest collection of short fiction, bringing together a number of stories previously published in journals and anthologies as well as never before published material that includes the novella The Life of Polycrates, describing the rise to power of the ancient Greek ruler, his eccentric deeds and the fantastic personalities around him. This is a book of bizarre histories and cerebral studies that explores the darkest passages of the human heart and brightest depravities of the human mind.

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The main story in this compilation is an intriguing novella exposing the life of the great leader, Polycrates, in a manner that most histories do not; it’s interesting.  It reads very much like the aside stories in high school textbooks—you know, the ones set apart from the textbook by the boxes the editors rope it off in, the ones that further explain an event that is actually captivating, unlike the rest of the book…  I remember being in history class and, instead of listening to the lecture or following along in the textbook, I would turn the pages in my textbook and read all the “stories” about great people instead.  It always held my attention, and that is what The Life of Polycrates was like for me when I read it; an interesting history that I actually enjoyed reading.  Seriously, why can’t all textbooks be like this story instead of droning on and on?

The rest of the short stories within the compilation were interesting, though none caught my attention like the one about Polycrates.  Some of them were a little disturbing, well, I guess parts of Polycrates was disturbing as well, but overall I thought they were all well written, though I wouldn’t necessarily give this compilation to young readers… maybe college age and older.  Three stars.    

I recieve a copy of this work fromt he author in exchange for an honest review.

From Goodreads: Shelby Kitt never gets lost. Shauna, his sister, never gets sick. As far as most people are concerned, the inseparable Kitt twins are odd 13-year-olds. No one, however – not even Shelby and Shauna – can guess how extraordinary they are until the vice consul of Miriax, a planet from another dimension, asks them to take part in a dangerous mission. From that moment on, Shelby and Shauna Kitt discover that the universe is full of Klodians, cities in jungles, giant bats, and tea with mushrooms. Most of all, they discover that it will take more than special powers for them to face – and survive – the evil that threatens the galaxy.

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Marchesi is a phenomenal storyteller, roping the reader into this wonderful tale of other dimensions and species.  Though the story revolves around two thirteen-year-old protagonists, I’d have to say that this is a book for everyone.  Parents can read it to their children, MG and YA readers will eat it up, and adults will enjoy the premise, themes, and overall fun this book has to offer. 

Not only does this novel have a very interesting storyline, but Marchesi’s writing capabilities also shine throughout the entire tale.  I am always excited when I start a new novel and, three pages in, note to myself that “this book is really well written.”  It is few authors that have me singing their praises that early on in the novel, so I must say, this novel is very well done.  Although the novel is somewhat long, with the protagonists being whisked from place to place, dimension to dimension, it keeps the reader’s attention throughout, which is a feat in and of itself, as many authors lose their reader when so much is happening within the text. 

Marchesi has a truly vivid imagination, and her explanations throughout the novel were really interesting.  I am in awe of the sheer amount of imagination Marchesi brings to her story, tweaking it just so, making the reader experience it and not just read about it.  I highly recommend this novel to all readers, and am hoping for a sequel!!  Four stars!

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

From Goodreads: Saari Mitchell sees a psychologist in order to understand why-500 years later-she’s still dreaming of her dead lover. Her shrink isn’t helping, the nightmares come every time she closes her eyes, and the lack of sleep is interfering with her job at Sacred Heart Hospital. With her psychic ability to heal the human spirit on the fritz, her auric radar becomes as reliable as her spotty cell phone service.

By day, Dhelis Guidry works as a detective for the new Angeles Police Department investigating the missing or murdered women in the Full-Moon Killer case. In his spare time he hunts rogue vampires as a Tueri executioner.

Brogan Vincent is a Tueri healer. Though he could offer his miraculous talents to the rich and powerful, he has chosen anonymity and peace by only using his psychic abilities among the Tueri.

One look into Saari’s tri-colored eyes and both men realize she is Tueri. One touch tells them each she’s their soul mate. But can either of them protect her from the Full-Moon Killer?

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To be honest, I didn’t know if I was going to like this book, based on the synopsis.  I was a little concerned over the love triangle, especially as so many books seem to have them these days, and it all sounded a bit confusing.  But, I quickly found out that it’s an amazing book, and I’m really glad I picked it up!  Rearden has created a completely original piece, love triangle included, that kept me captivated throughout the entire novel.  It’s a very quick read in that it’s extremely interesting, especially with a murderer on the loose, vampires and weres working together, and the introduction of a new “species,” the Tueri.  And, it’s all tastefully done. 

I enjoyed all of the characters, even the ones I love to hate.  Rearden has created a wonderful group of characters that steal the show, allowing the reader to drift into their world rather seamlessly.  This is a very daunting task for a writer, but Rearden has no difficulty making her characters vivid and genuine, even if it does deal with the mythical more so than real-life.  I found myself melting into the story on multiple occasions, and the characters even permeated my dreams.  Now that, in my opinion, constitutes good writing!

I loved that Rearden doesn’t keep the murderer’s identity a secret.  The readers know the who and why early on in the novel, and I think this adds to the suspense because we have a leg up on the other characters.  It’s dramatic irony at its finest (if I’m allowed to use that term with novels) and I loved knowing something the rest of the characters didn’t, and watching them slowly realize… until it’s too late.  Rearden presents it in such a way that I actually enjoyed knowing the murderer’s identity more than not knowing and finding out along with the characters, if that makes sense.  Rearden is a very talented writer with a wonderful imagination, and I’m ecstatic that she is sharing it with us through her novels.  Four stars.    

From Goodreads: Emmy Rane is married at nineteen, a mother by twenty. Trapped in a life with a husband she no longer loves, Baby is her only joy. Then one sunny day in September, Emmy takes a few fateful steps away from her baby and returns to find her missing. All that is left behind is a yellow sock.

Fourteen years later, Sophie, a homeschooled, reclusive teenage girl is forced to move frequently and abruptly from place to place, perpetually running from what her mother calls the “No Good.” One afternoon, Sophie breaks the rules, ventures out, and meets Joey and his two aunts. It is this loving family that gives Sophie the courage to look into her past. What she discovers changes her world forever. . .

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This was an interesting look at the life of those dealing with a kidnapping.  I’ve never thought of what life would be like if a loved one went missing, and I think Kephart does a phenomenal job really reaching into the mind of a frantic mother.  Although Emmy was somewhat annoying on multiple occasions, her reactions, to me, seem valid.  She is almost psychotic in a way, causing her to make bad choices, which was irksome, but made my truly feel sorry for her.  Although I wasn’t able to connect with her on a deeper level, I think her character is, in fact, very real. 

I enjoyed Sophie’s story much more than Emmy’s.  Emmy’s story was completely depressing, but Sophie’s was a little bit lighter.  Sophie is now at an age where she begins to question things around her; to crave attention from others, and watching her slowly pull away from her overprotective “mother” was interesting.  However, it was a very slow process, and at times I found myself yelling at Sophie to get it done and over with.  I do understand her trepidation, especially as she was brought up to fear others, but, truth be told, I found this a little draining as Sophie took such a long time making her decisions. 

I have to admit that I wasn’t too impressed with the ending, either.  I thought it was a little abrupt and I really wanted more.  I was expecting to see the two stories intersect at some point and a reconciliation to take place, but I was disappointed to find that there was none.  All in all, I’d have to give this novel two and a half stars.

 Egmont USA has been extremely gracious in allowing me to read an ARC of this novel, via Netgalley, prior to its release on October 25, 2011.

From Goodreads: Most teenage girls have teenaged problems, like what to wear to prom and did I remember to shave my legs before gym? Seventeen year old Alina has all those problems, and a whole lot more. The list does tend to get longer when you’re an alien. An alien empress, to be exact.

Number one on Alina’s problem list is her desire to fit in and feel accepted, without having to hide any part of her true self; something she’s never quite been able to do on Earth. Also on that list are the Shadows, a race of dark and ugly monsters that attacked her home planet ten years ago, killing her parents, and still search for her now, to wipe out the last survivor of the royal family.

A moonlit walk in the forest changes everything. She is discovered, by more than one being from her galaxy, and has to run for her life with a Shadow close on her trail. Her new protector – a talking wolf – whisks her to the safety of his planet, to regroup and maybe figure out a way to destroy the shadows. Unfortunately, Alina soon finds she’s only traded one danger for another.

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Originally, I thought this book was going to be like I Am Number Four, but it’s not.  It’s better.  Hildenbrand has created a great novel for all ages, and I was captivated from the very beginning.  It is obvious that a lot of time and energy went into creating this novel, and it flows so perfectly that it’s impossible to put down.

I really liked the character of Alina; I highly enjoyed watching her come into herself, finally able to make friends and fully discover her potential as the empress of her galaxy.  She is a well-rounded character with a wonderful disposition, and I feel like I’ve made a friend through her.  Likewise, Ander is to die for.  He is a beautiful character, and the romance between Alina and Ander was fascinating to watch.  Though at times I feared the worst for the budding couple, Hildenbrand did right by me in the end, though that’s as much as I’ll say about that… 

I really enjoy novels that create separate worlds and galaxies, showing the creativity of the author, and here Hildenbrand has done just that in Across the Galaxy.  Her descriptions and explanations are vivid and entrancing; part of me wants to move to Alina’s world and leave my world far behind… all in all, this is a wonderful novel, and I highly recommend it to all readers.  Four stars.

From Goodreads: All she ever wanted was a chance to settle down in one place.

Thistle Nettlebottom knows her life isn’t exactly normal. She travels the country with her secretive mother and bestselling author grandmother in a pink RV going from book signings to crazy research trips. She’s never been to public school or had a boyfriend, but she can pick a lock and hotwire a car. One day the phone rings and they set a course to a tiny town that’s not on any maps. Suddenly, Thistle finds her whole life changing.

She’s finally found the home she’s been searching for.

Thistle soon realizes that Desire isn’t like other towns and she’s not like other girls. The family she trusted has lied to her about everything her entire life and the things she doesn’t know about herself could cost her everything. Her legacy as one of the most powerful witches the town has ever seen has made her enemies that have been waiting patiently for a chance to destroy her. Thistle needs to learn to use her powers to protect herself before they succeed.

Be careful what you wish for.

Thistle has a power unique even among the magic wielding witches of Desire. She can wish things into existence. At first she enjoys the freedom of having everything her heart desires, but she soon realizes that her power comes at a terrible price. She’s losing her grip on her sanity at a time when she can’t afford any weakness. Her enemies are closing in quickly, but she might not have the strength to save herself.

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I thought this novel and the idea of a matriarchal society of witches was extremely unique.  In the small town of Desire, things are not what they seem, and Thistle soon finds herself thrust into the middle of this backwards town, where her very name evokes hatred and spite among females, while causing males to forget their current girlfriends and fawn all over her instead.  As if finding out she’s a very powerful witch isn’t hard enough, trying to find true friendships in a town full of alliances and spite, as well as stay alive in the process, becomes her biggest challenges of all. 

I really enjoyed this novel.  I connected very well with Thistle.  She’s a great character, and her refusal to adhere to the hierarchical system of this town she is bound to further elevates her in my opinion.  Stepping into Desire is like stepping into the 18^th century, where marriages are arranged based on power and not love, and Thistle is having none of it.  I found Thistles’ determination a wonderful attribute, and I really enjoyed getting to know her throughout the novel. 

Emerson keeps her novel full of suspense, adding a little romance, making this a rollercoaster ride of a read, and I highly recommend it.  Although it ends abruptly, leaving the reader hanging, it’s a great read, and I cannot wait for the sequel!!!  Four stars.