Book Review: Hunting Lila by Sarah Alderson

Hunting Lila by Sarah Alderson

Published by: Simon & Schuster Australia

Publication date: 1st September, 2011

Source:  Thanks to publisher

17-year-old Lila has two secrets she's prepared to take to the grave. The first is that she can move things just by looking at them. The second is that she's been in love with her brother's best friend, Alex, since forever. Or thereabouts.After a mugging on the streets of South London goes horribly wrong and exposes her unique ability, Lila decides to run to the only people she can trust - her brother and Alex. They live in Southern California where they work for a secret organisation called The Unit, and Lila discovers that the two of them are hunting down the men who murdered her mother five years before. And that they've found them. Trying to uncover the truth of why her mother was killed, and the real remit of The Unit, Lila becomes a pawn in a dangerous game. Struggling to keep her secrets in a world where nothing and no one is quite as they seem, Lila quickly realises that she is not alone - there are others out there just like her - people with special powers -and her mother's killer is one of them.

My Review:

Favourite Quote:  He bent his head and in a voice that Jack couldn't hear, said, "When you came down the stairs and fell into me, that was the moment.'"  Then his lips pressed against mine.

Wow!  Hunting Lila is such an awesome read.  It is a fast paced, entertaining, intensely readable story that is completely addictive.

Alderson has some dazzling story telling skills.  I was completely absorbed in this tale and was unable to put it down until the last page.  It has a fantastic mix of supernatural powers, suspense, mystery, action and romance.  While the supernatural theme in Hunting Lila has an familiar yet enjoyable feel I thought the military element added an interesting element.  Hunting Lila also has an upper YA feel too which makes it great read for those of us who are no longer a young adult but still love our YA.

Lila has a genuine and strong narrative makes her instantly likeable.  Easy to relate too especially when it comes to her love life (who hasn't crushed on someone older or someone they have know for years?) and she is also a lot of fun.  Then we have Alex.  Protective, smart and caring (and it doesn't hurt that he is gorgeous too).  There is also a well rounded bunch of secondary characters that I am looking forward to getting to know better in the next installment.

The romance is Hunting Lila was perfect.  I was swooning at that dreamy and slightly sexy romance within the first couple of chapters.  Lila and Alex had believable and sizzling chemistry together with a relationship that moved at the right pace.

Oh and what an ending!  Alderson throws us an unexpected twist that leaves me craving book #2 now despite it not being a cliffhanger ending.

Overall, Hunting Lilia is an engaging and passionate read.  I suggest you run out and grab a copy of this impressive debut immediately.

Overall Rating: 5/5
Writing: 5/5
Plot: 5/5
Characters: 4.5/5
Romance: 5/5
Cover: 4/5

For more info:  Visit Sarah Alderson's website.

For more reviews:  Daisy Chain Book Reviews

Book Review: Cargo by Jessica Au

Cargo by Jessica Au
Published by: Picador (Pan Macmillan Australia)
Publication date: 1st August, 2011
Source:  Thanks to Picador (Pan Macmillan Australia)

Gillian is fifteen, crippled by a tragic accident but dreams of swimming across oceans.

Jacob is fourteen and yearns for his brother's life.

Frankie is fifteen and in love with the new deckhand on her father's boat.

As the story of these three desires intertwine over the course of one lazy summer in a small coastal town, Cargo is by turns heart-wrenching, beautiful and explosive.

In a simple time of truth and change, these are characters who do not know themselves, yet through their innocence we come to understand what it means to be young, and have all the troubles in the world.

My Review:

Favourite Quote:  He pulls back, grins, and she is just young enough to mistake this feeling - this rough, violent swell - for love or something like it.

Wow, Cargo is such a breathtaking story.  I wasn't quite expecting so much emotion from this book.   My heart is still feeling a little raw and tender after finishing it.

Cargo is a real and honest read that captures the lives of three teens Gillian, Frankie and Jacob set in an Australian beach side town, the year 1992.  It is a quick read at just 200 pages told in alternating chapters between these three characters who aren't friends but yet their lives are intertwined.  While it captures some blissful moments of life as a teen and it really focuses on those heart aching times.

Jessica Au's writing is stunning.  Her prose is gorgeous and is full of emotion.  She makes every sentence sound beautiful.

The window grates open under her hands and the breeze is a shock of cold across her cheeks.  When the horn calls for the third time, she feels the sound like the lowest note of a tuba through her ribs.  She can just make out a lone cluster of lights that might be carrier navigating the darkness.  Welded steel on great tracts of open water: she reminds herself that there have been swimmers who have crossed these same distances, some not much older than fifteen.

The characters are compelling.  They each deal with issues that we all struggle with as a teen and you can really feel their angst and pain. While each of their stories held my interest, Gillian's point of view was my favourite.  Completely absorbing and moving.  It really got under my skin and nearly brought me to tears a couple of times.

Overall, Cargo is an impressive debut that is full of heart.  Jessica Au is definitely an author I hope to read more from.

Overall Rating: 4/5
Writing: 4.5/5
Plot: 3.5/5
Characters: 4/5
Romance: 3.5/5
Cover: 4/5

For more info:  Visit Pan Macmillan Australia

***  This is an Australian author for those of you participating in Aussie YA Reading Challenge.

Book Review: Hourglass by Myra McEntire

Hourglass by Myra McEntire

Published by: Egmont

Publication Date: 14th June, 2011

Source: Bought

One hour to rewrite the past . . .
 For seventeen-year-old Emerson Cole, life is about seeing what isn’t there: swooning Southern Belles; soldiers long forgotten; a haunting jazz trio that vanishes in an instant. Plagued by phantoms since her parents’ death, she just wants the apparitions to stop so she can be normal. She’s tried everything, but the visions keep coming back.

So when her well-meaning brother brings in a consultant from a secretive organization called the Hourglass, Emerson’s willing to try one last cure. But meeting Michael Weaver may not only change her future, it may change her past.

Who is this dark, mysterious, sympathetic guy, barely older than Emerson herself, who seems to believe every crazy word she says? Why does an electric charge seem to run through the room whenever he’s around? And why is he so insistent that he needs her help to prevent a death that never should have happened?

Full of atmosphere, mystery, and romance, Hourglass merges the very best of the paranormal and science-fiction genres in a seductive, remarkable young adult debut.

My Review:

Favourite quote:  "Most of what I say is complete truth. My edit button is broken."

I was excited to read Hourglass.  I mean how could you not be with such an intriguing synopsis and gorgeous cover.  And while I ended up really enjoying Hourglass I did struggled at the beginning.

The start was a bit slow for me.  It lacked that something special that makes you get caught up in the story and care about what is happening.  But half way through things changed and there was action, plot twists and chemistry between the characters and I began to feel captivated by Hourglass.  And even though the concept of time travel is not unique this did feel like a fresh take on this supernatural element.

Emerson is an enjoyable protagonist.   She is brave, strong and quick witted character and is a stand outs in the sea of likeable YA lead females.  Then there is Michael, he is loyal, smart and gorgeous.  You know the typical leading man.  I liked him but he is kind of forgettable once you read the book.  There is nothing wrong with him I just didn't feel the swoon.

The secondary characters however are strong and distinctive.  I especially loved Kaleb (a lot more than Michael, no there is not a love triangle, well not really, okay only a little).  And the villain he would have to be one of the most surprising and fascinating characters in the story.

The romance was sweet.  Much like the rest of the book it took me a bit to warm up to it.  I got frustrated at the beginning because the characters had this instant-attraction-love thing but did this no whole we can't be together dance.  Sometimes it works and sometimes it doesn't.  And it didn't at the beginning. But as I got to know the characters better and understand the reasons behind their actions I ended up liking the romance.

Overall, despite my rocky start with Hourglass I did really enjoy it.  And will be definitely reading more of this series.

Overall Rating: 4/5 
Writing: 3.5/5
Plot: 4/5
Characters: 4/5
Romance: 3.5/5
Cover: 4.5/5 - Cover is even more gorgeous in real life.

For more info:  Visit Myra McEntire's website.

For more reviews: Steph Su Reads or Goodreads.

Book Review: Gateway by Christina Garner

Gateway by Christina Garner
Publication date: 17th May, 2011
Source: Thanks to Christina Garner

Ember has always known she doesn't belong in this world. But when she tries to correct the mistake, she wakes to find herself in a mental institution.

She's soon drawn to Taren, the mysterious boy with hazel eyes. He's not what he seems, but what is he?

When chaos erupts, they are forced to flee the institution together, and the secret that Taren has been keeping brings Ember closer to understanding her own. And leads her to... the Gateway.

My Review:

Favourite Quote:  "I felt changed, soiled by the brutality of all I'd witnessed.  Something had finally replaced teenage girls on my list of most heinous, and I didn't even know what to call it."

Gateway is good.  Really good.  I enjoyed everything about this novel - the strong writing, the believable characters, the captivating plot and the subtle but sweet romance.

Garner has written an impressive debut.  Her writing is quick and engaging and the plot has quite a few surprising twists.  Like I completely didn't see that coming twists and I mean none of them.  And that is a hard thing to find these days.  I really got caught up in this enthralling and convincing world and finished it within 24 hours.

Gateway is not all paranormal.  At the start of the book Ember wakes up in a hospital after an attempted suicide.  So it does deal with some serious issues briefly adding some more emotional depth to the story but it isn't a depressing read.  It is still more of action-packed, mysterious type of story.

The characters are well rounded and well written.   Ember, the main character, struggles with being different.  She has a genuine narrative making it easy to relate and connect with her.   While Taren is an intriguing character.  He is the type of guy that is the first one there if anybody needs anything.  Just a great guy.

There is a touch of romance between Ember and Taren.  They have plenty of tension that builds up nicely as the story goes.  It definitely has you eagerly reading to see if these two will act on their attraction.

Overall, Gateway is a exceptional dark and appealing paranormal novel.  I can't wait to read more of this world.

Overall Rating: 4/5
Writing: 4/5
Plot: 4/5
Characters: 4/5
Romance: 4/5
Cover: 4/5 - I love the simple black and grey art style cover.

For more info:  Visit Christina Garner's website.

Note: Gateway is available on Barnes & Noble, Smashwords or Amazon for only $2.99!!!

Book Review: Saving June by Hannah Harrington

Saving June by Hannah Harrington
Publication date:  May, 2011 (Australia) November, 2011 (International)
Published by: Harlequin Teen
Source:  Bought


When model student June Scott kills herself on the brink of high school graduation, no one is more shocked than her sixteen-year-old sister Harper. Things go from bad to worse after her nosy evangelical aunt moves in to take care of her mom, and when her estranged parents decide to split June’s ashes between them, it’s the last straw. Harper knows she has to take serious action— action that takes form in plotting with her best friend to spread the ashes in the one place June always wanted to live: the California coast.
Enter Jake Tolan, a boy with a classic rock obsession, a bad attitude, and nothing in common with straight-laced June. But after he crashes June’s wake, Harper is sure he knows more about her sister than he’s letting on. Her suspicions only deepen when he discovers the plan to steal the urn and decides he wants in, for reasons he’s none too forthcoming to explain.
Of course, once they’re on the road, things don’t go as smoothly as she’d hoped. First there’s a brush with the law during an anti-war protest gone bad. And if it’s not trying to avoid arrest, it’s dealing with angry threats from parents, public brawls in underground punk clubs, and more accidental detours than Harper can count.
Complicating things even more is her growing attraction to Jake; she’s drawn to his alternately charming and infuriating demeanor, and his unwavering faith in the idea that music can see you through anything. It might be exactly what she needs.
What Harper doesn’t know is that he has a secret with the power to turn her life upside-down— again.

My Review:

Favourite Quote:  "He took his pain and turned it into something beautiful. Into something that people connect to. And that's what good music does. It speaks to you. It changes you."

WOW! I am seriously blown away by how fantastic this book is. I loved Saving June.  I am going to try and write a proper review here when all I want to do is go all fan girl about it!

Harper's older sister June takes her life.  Harper is devastated and doesn't know why.  Her divorced parents decide to split the ashes but Harper isn't about to let that happen.  She steals the ashes and runs off on a road trip to California to scatter the ashes across the ocean with her best friend Laney and Jake a stranger that is somehow connected to June.

First up this book is my type of contemp.  It is real and honest.  It takes you on a journey with these incredible characters.   I am so impressed with Harrington's writing.  You would never think this is her debut novel.  It is clever, gorgeous and full of heart.

Harper, Jake and Laney are believable characters that come alive inside the pages. I adored the realistic dialogue between them. It was witty, full of emotion and often humorous.  I also like that fact the characters are flawed but still make smart decisions and are the type of people I would love to be friends with.

Harper is strong and confident in what she believes yet can be afraid to step outside her own comfort zones at times and often doubts how amazing she really is.  Laney is her best friend and is a wonderful support person for Harper no matter what.  Now Jake he caused major swooning.  He is a bit rough around the edges, is majorly obsessed with music (plays the guitar and sings a little) and throughout the story his secret slowly unravels.

There is also some delicious romance.  I had to go back and re-read those pages over (and over and over and over) again!

Another element I loved about this book is there is loads of music talk.  Also playlists at the the end of the book that were mentioned in the story.  If you are huge fan of books with music you are going to love this and will want to download all the songs mentioned.

Overall, a stunning debut.  My favourite road trip book ever.  I insist all you fans of realistic fiction give Saving June a read!


Overall Rating: 5/5     ***Another favourite read of 2011***
Writing: 5/5
Plot: 5/5
Characters: 5/5
Romance: 5/5
Cover: 5/5


## Make sure to stop back on Monday for an interview with Hannah Harrington.


For More Info:  Visit Hannah Harrington's website.  


For More reviews:  Inkcrush and Tales of Compendium


When I read I tag my favourite parts of the book.  Just to show you how much I loved the wonderful writing in Saving June I have a picture of my copy below.  As you can see I pretty much loved every page.

Book Review: Griffin Rising by Darby Karchut

Griffin Rising by Darby Karchut
Publication date:  28th June, 2011
Published by: Twilight Times Books
Source:  Thanks to Darby Karchut

For centuries, rumors have abound of a lowly caste of supernatural beings known as the Terrae Angeli or Earth Angels. Armed with the power to control Earth, Fire, Wind and Water, these warriors clandestinely serve as guardians for mortals in danger.

Yet for one young angel-in-training, Griffin, life is hell as a cruel master makes his apprenticeship a nightmare. On the verge of failing, a new mentor, Basil, enters his life and changes it forever.

Masquerading as the average teen next door, Griffin struggles to learn his trade under the tutelage of his strict, but kindly Mentor, navigate the ups and downs of modern life among humans (including falling in love with the girl next door), and prepare for the ancient trial-by-combat every apprentice must pass at sixteen or become mortal.

My Mini Review:

Griffin Rising is quick and enjoyable read that is filled with plenty of laughs, action and adventure and heart warming moments.

Darby Karchut's writing style was easy to read despite the changing narration.  It went from the present to past and also there was also journal entries from Griffin, Basil and occasionally Katie.   The pacing flowed wonderfully and it is the type of book that you can just relax into. The plot is also had a good balance of paranormal and coming of age story.  However sometimes I did lose a little interest when I put it down but I am not sure if that was was more of a case of me than the actual story.  It felt younger than what I normally read and that was what I struggled with throughout the story.

Griffin and Basil are entertaining and endearing characters.  I love their witty banter and their relationship was the highlight of the book for me.

“And what does your father do?” Man, even the dad’s good-looking, she thought.
“He’s an angel. So am I.” Griffin grinned. “Cool, huh?”
“Wh …what?”
“We’re a type of angel. My dad and I.” He straightened and flapped his arms up and down to illustrate his point.
Dropping a spring roll back into the sack, Basil reached over and pinned Griffin’s hands to his side, yanking him away from the door. “What the bloody he … heck are you doing?” he said under his breath. Smiling, he continued loudly, “my apologies. It’s only a silly family gag, miss. Please ignore him.” Basil elbowed Griffin further down the hall, trying to ignore his snickering. “Well, we’d best let you get back to work. Thank you.” He nodded good-bye and shut the door on the bewildered girl. Gathering up the bags in one hand, he turned with a scowl.
“Hey, it’s just a joke.” Still laughing, Griffin flapped his arms a few more times as he lead the way to the kitchen, the salty sweet aroma of chow mein wafting around them.
“Wave them again, and I’m duct-taping them together.”

There is also a tiny bit of young love in this story that was super sweet.

Overall, a good solid debut.  Darby Karchut is definitely an author to watch out for.

Overall Rating: 3/5
Writing: 3.5
Plot: 3/5
Characters:3.5/5
Romance: 3/5
Cover:  2.5/5

For more info:   Visit Darby Karchut's website.

For more reviews: Books with Bite, Supernatural Snark and My Love Affair With Books.

Book Review: Friendship on Fire by Danielle Weiler

Friendship on Fire by Danielle Weiler
Publication Date: March, 2011
Source: From author for a honest review

The first few days of year 12 are disastrous for school captain Daisy Brooks.

But Daisy’s life takes a sudden turn when she is dared by Skye, the leader of the Blonde Brigade, to meet the mysterious, drop-dead gorgeous stranger, Nate, from rival school Addison Grammar. Daisy’s instant attraction to him disrupts her world. But what about her best friend Roman? How will he respond to this intruder?

Daisy is a vulnerable, yet fiery girl going through the chaotic phase between teenage and adulthood. She is about to discover the complexities of relationships, the etiquette of friendship and, most of all, her development as a woman.

Is it too late for Daisy to realise that the choices she makes shapes who she is and who she will become?

My Review:

Favourite Quote:  "It was only now, alone in my moment of reminiscence, with the rain drizzling softly on the shack's roof, that I felt the full effects of falling in love with him."

I love the cover line on this book "Tempestuous and vulnerable, Daisy struggles to navigate her way towards adulthood".  I think it sums this story up perfectly.  Friendship on Fire is set over Daisy's final year in high school.  Weiler did a brilliant job of writing a real, honest and emotional tale that captures the good, bad and ugly moments of the phase between teenager and adulthood.  So many of the issues that Daisy had to deal with I did too at the same age especially in regards to romance and friendship.  And as I read along I was like that is exactly how I felt.

Despite it being 471 pages (that is huge for a contemp) it is intensely readable.   Normally I am afraid of books that large but I can say this never dragged for me. There is one point in particular in the story (which I can't talk about since I don't spoil the book) where it completely becomes unputdownable as you want to know how things are going to turn out.

Daisy is a resonant and endearing character.  She is feisty yet a sweetheart and has addiction to lollies especially Redskins (yum!).   I quickly connected with her on a more on depth level.  They are also a interesting bunch of secondary characters that again I don't want to talk about so I don't give anything away.  But let just say some I never trusted, some I loved from the moment they appeared and some completely surprised me in a good way. 

What I adored most about this novel was the outstanding family dynamics.  Daisy comes from a big family consisting of Mum, Dad, Nanna and three older brothers.  I feel in love with them especially her Dad and brothers.  They brought humour and fun but also some good solid advice.  They would have to be one of my favourite literary families ever.

There is plenty of romance which again I can't really talk about (sorry).  But I can tell you there is yummy kisses and great chemistry.

Overall Friendship on Fire is an impressive debut that you really get emotionally invested in.  I can't wait to see what Weiler writes next!

Overall Rating: 4/5
Writing: 4/5
Plot: 4/5
Characters: 4/5
Romance: 4/5
Cover: 3.5/5

For More Info:  Visit Danielle Weiler's website.

Note: This is an Aussie title.  Great for those of you participating in the Aussie YA Reading Challenge.  Also I will be GIVING AWAY a copy on Thursday (INTERNATIONAL) so keep an eye out for that!

Book Review: Winter's Shadow by M.J. Hearle

Winter's Shadow by M.J. Hearle
Publication date: 1st June, 2011
Source:  Thanks to Pan Macmillan Australia

Goodreads Description:

Blake Duchamp...

He's all that Winter Adams can think of. Ever since their fateful meeting at Pilgrim's Lament. Ever since he looked at her with those emerald eyes. Ever since he saved her life.

But Blake isn't all that he seems. There is a strangeness about him, something dark and otherworldly. Something dangerous. In his attic is a secret he would kill to defend, but Winter seems to have a special ability to make him forget his duty. And he is her only protection against the gathering darkness.

The only problem is, to protect Winter, Blake must risk exposing her to an even greater danger. Himself.

My Review:

Favourite Quote: Blake titled his head at her as if she was a particularly tricky problem to solve.  Their eyes locked, and for one delirious moment Winter had the sense again that Blake wanted to kiss her.  It was an irrational, impossible, wonderful instinct - an instinct her body reinforced through its reaction.  Flushed with heat, her pulse quickened, and everything stood out in exquisite detail.  The stars in the sky, Owl Mountain, a tooth of darkness in the distance, a stray lock of Blake's hair stirring in the breeze, the sensual curve of his lips, and  his eyes.  Most of all his eyes.

Isn't that quote gorgeous?  Winter's Shadow is a dark and appealing read that is so beautifully written.  It's pages are full of intrigue and mystery that make it hard to put it down.

Hearle writing is hypnotic.  He has a great eye for details especially when it came to describing the setting.

Through the broken pane of the stained glass window she could see the remnants of an ancient graveyard, all but hidden by the tall grass and weeds that had crept in from the surrounding woods.  Blackened tombstones rose above the grass here and there like strange fungi, weathered by the elements and the passage of time.  Standing over of the graves, dressed in a simple gray suit, was a young man.

The pace starts very slowly, maybe a little too slow in the first half but it does pick up and then you find yourself completely captivated by this tale.  The plot is refreshingly different from other paranormal reads out there. Hearle has certainly created an interesting and unique concept that is full of dark and eerie secrets that gently unravel ensuring you are kept in suspense until the end.
 
Winter's Shadow is mainly told from Winter's POV.  We do get flashbacks to 1878 and Blake's narrative briefly that allows us to understand the story better.   Both Winter and Blake are likeable and well crafted characters.  However, Blake would be the standout out character for me.  He was a complex and alluring.

The ending was satisfying but at the same time wanting more.  I am left hoping there is more to Winter's and Blake's story. 

Overall, Winter's Shadow is a strong debut novel.  It you are looking for an exceptional paranormal romance that is smart, spellbinding and original than you shouldn't miss this.

Overall Rating: 4/5
Writing: 4/5
Plot: 4/5
Characters:4/5
Romance: 4/5
Cover:4/5

For more info: Visit MJ Hearle's website.

Note: This book is an Australian title for those of you participating in the Aussie YA Reading Challenge.   No international release date yet.  But I am hoping to arrange a book tour for this in the near future with Go Aussie Book Tours.

Clarity by Kim Harrington

Clarity by Kim Harrington
Publication date: 1st March, 2011
Source: Bought


When you can see things others can't, where do you look for the truth?
This paranormal murder mystery will have teens reading on the edge of their seats.
Clarity "Clare" Fern sees things. Things no one else can see. Things like stolen kisses and long-buried secrets. All she has to do is touch a certain object, and the visions come to her. It's a gift.
And a curse.
When a teenage girl is found murdered, Clare's ex-boyfriend wants her to help solve the case--but Clare is still furious at the cheating jerk. Then Clare's brother--who has supernatural gifts of his own--becomes the prime suspect, and Clare can no longer look away. Teaming up with Gabriel, the smoldering son of the new detective, Clare must venture into the depths of fear, revenge, and lust in order to track the killer. But will her sight fail her just when she needs it most?

My Review:

Favourite Quote: "Listen, I gather you have a problem working with a psychic. Believe me, I don't like working with a jackass any better."

Loved it! Clarity is an awesome debut.   It is a hypnotic and intriguing read that I could not get enough of. 

Harrington's effortless style makes for entertaining and absorbing escape.  I love the premise of Clarity.  Clare's gift is retcocognitive psychometry - picking up imprints from objects.  She uses her gift to help solve the murder of a teenage girl working alongside her ex-boyfriend and the new sheriff's son (aka new hottie in town).   It's pages are full of mystery and suspense and I was unable to guess who the killer was.  I thought it was going to be predictable but there was a twist or two that I didn't expect.

Clare is awesome. Feisty, determined and instantly likeable.  I love a character that sticks up for herself.   She might be bullied but she doesn't take their crap laying down.  Clare doesn't mind saying what is on her mind or giving the occasionally elbow to the stomach.

There is a love triangle and it actually worked.  Probably because I couldn't pick between the two guys either, Justin and Gabriel, and also because Clare handled it the right way.   Plus I like the fact that it isn't typical bad boy vs good boy.  Both are just normal guys who make mistakes but have good hearts (and gorgeous as well which never hurts).

My only tiny little complaint with this book is the thriller part could have been a little scarier.  I was surprised but it didn't get my pulse pounding. 

Overall, Clarity had everything I was looking for in a fun reading escape - great characters, fantastic premises and left me with a craving for more.

Overall Rating: 4.5/5
Writing: 4.5/5
Plot: 4/5
Characters: 5/5
Romance: 4/5
Cover: 5/5

For More Info: Visit Kim Harrington's website.

For More Reviews:  Eating YA Books and  Dreaming of Books

Die For Me by Amy Plum

Die For Me by Amy Plum
Expected publication date: 10th May, 2011
Source: Thanks to HarperTeen (netgalley)

DIE FOR ME is the first of three books about Kate, a sixteen-year-old American who moves to Paris after the death of her parents. It introduces a new version of the undead with revenants, beings who are fated to sacrifice themselves over and over again to save others’ lives. Kate finds herself falling for Vincent, who she discovers is not the typical French teenager he appears: he is something else entirely.

DIE FOR ME presents a new supernatural mythology presented in a city where dreams are sometimes the same as reality.

My Review:

LOVE this book!  Die For Me was one of my most anticipated reads of 2011, after hearing good things from a friend who read it early in the publishing stage. So as you can imagine I had high expectations and I can happily say they were exceeded.     

Plum's writing I couldn't get enough of it.  Her prose is beautiful and magnetic.  While the concept was truly unique and intriguing.  The pace was perfect allowing the beauty of this story to soak in, like the descriptions of the Paris setting ~sighs~.   Paris is one of my favourite cities in the world, so romantic and gorgeous.  And Die For Me being set there added some extra charm to this story.  Also it was a refreshing change from the usual high school setting.  There was talk of art, museums and sitting at Cafe' on the streets of Paris reading a book that will make you want to trade places with Kate (that and the kissing scenes with Vincent).        

The characters were fantastic.  What I loved most about Kate is she thought about the consequences before making a decision.  It was nice change from your typical heroine that rushes into everything.  She was smart, strong and genuine.   Vincent ~pâmoison~ (that is swoon in French...I hope).  Gorgeous, mysterious, sweet yet sexy and has a french accent.  What else could a girl want!

And the romance ~sighs again~.  If you are like me and are a complete romantic fool you are going to love Kate's and Vincent's relationship.  It was delicious yet tender.  Lots of  playful banter and yummy kissing scenes.   I could quote so many moments but I can't since this is an ARC (I will have to wait until a book boyfriend post).

Oh and if you hate those damn cliffhangers then you are going to love this beautiful ending that gave us a little something extra.  I wish that every series could end like this one.

Overall, Die For Me is an awesome debut that I want to read all over again.  It is a passionate and engaging read that I highly recommend for fans of paranormal romance.

Overall Rating: 5/5
Writing: 5/5
Plot: 5/5
Characters: 5/5
Romance: 5/5
Cover: 5/5

For More Info: Visit Amy Plum's website

For More reviews:  Goodreads

The Goddess Test

The Goddess Test by Aimee Carter
Expected publication date: 19th April, 2011
Source: ARC provided thanks to Harlequin Teen (netgalley)

Goodreads Description: Every girl who has taken the test has died.
Now it's Kate's turn.
It's always been just Kate and her mom--and now her mother is dying. Her last wish? To move back to her childhood home. So Kate's going to start at a new school with no friends, no other family and the fear her mother won't live past the fall.
Then she meets Henry. Dark. Tortured. And mesmerizing. He claims to be Hades, god of the Underworld--and if she accepts his bargain, he'll keep her mother alive while Kate tries to pass seven tests.
Kate is sure he's crazy--until she sees him bring a girl back from the dead. Now saving her mother seems crazily possible. If she succeeds, she'll become Henry's future bride, and a goddess.

My Review:

The Goddess Test is an awesome debut.  It was a hypnotic yet comfortable read where the pages just flew by.

It is such an eloquently written story that I am surprised that this is Aimee Carter's debut novel.  It is just a seamless read and a really remarkable debut.  And the premises was incredible.  I loved the way the mythology was weaved into the plot.  It was creative, unique and easy to follow.  And for a book that is part of a series is has a completely satisfying ending. YAY!

Kate, the female protagonist is a likeable and endearing character.  She is a compassionate and caring person who will sacrifice anything for those she cares about.   And there is a wide variety of secondary characters that are well rounded and entertaining.  Okay there were also a couple I found annoying like Ava but overall it was a good bunch of a characters.  I especially like James (not a love interest, just a friend....well at least at this stage).  He is a little bit different and a mysterious character that I hope we get to see more of in the next installment.

The romance was sweet and tender but it lacked a little spark as did Henry.  He was a nice guy who I liked but he lacked that something special to make him standout at this stage from all those literary leading men.  I really hope that in second book he opens up more as a character and then I am sure I will be swooning. 

Overall, The Goddess Test has a very familiar paranormal romance feel to it but yet it is different enough to be memorable and a highly enjoyable read.   I am certainly eagerly anticipating the next instalment in the series.

Overall Rating: 4/5
Writing: 4/5
Plot: 5/5
Characters: 4/5
Romance: 3/5
Cover: 5/5

For more info:  Visit Aimee Carter's website.

For More reviews: I Swim For Oceans and Goodreads.

Darkness Becomes Her by Kelly Keaton

Darkness Becomes Her (Gods and Monsters #1)
by Kelly Keaton
Publication date: 22 February, 2011
Source: Simon Pulse (S&S Galley Grab)

Goodreads Description - Ari can’t help feeling lost and alone. With teal eyes and freakish silver hair that can’t be changed or destroyed, Ari has always stood out. And after growing up in foster care, she longs for some understanding of where she came from and who she is.
Her search for answers uncovers just one message from her long dead mother: Run. Ari can sense that someone, or something, is getting closer than they should. But it’s impossible to protect herself when she doesn’t know what she’s running from or why she is being pursued.
She knows only one thing: she must return to her birthplace of New 2, the lush rebuilt city of New Orleans. Upon arriving, she discovers that New 2 is very...different. Here, Ari is seemingly normal. But every creature she encounters, no matter how deadly or horrifying, is afraid of her.  Ari won’t stop until she knows why. But some truths are too haunting, too terrifying, to ever be revealed.

My Review:

Darkness Becomes Her is a well needed refreshingly different young adult paranormal read.   From it misfit bunch of characters to its action packed plot, it was very unique and completely intriguing.

From page one it is pretty much just go, go, go.  Fast paced with a thumping narrative.  It is dark, edgy and a little creepy.  The story is a mix of mostly mythology with touch of paranormal.   Sometimes I got a little lost with the history and everything else going on that I had to go back and re-read parts but the mysterious plot that had me hooked kept pushing me through those moments that I struggled.

My favourite element of this story is the characters.  Distinctive, well rounded and fascinating.  Ari is strong, smart, independent and doesn't take any crap for anyone.  When all hell breaks lose she doesn't stand back and worry about what to do she gets in their and kicks some butt.   There is a whole gang of misfit secondary characters in this story that I adored especially Violet.  She is a wonderfully odd little character but certainly one that gets into your heart.

Their is a touch of romance.  Ari and Sebastian act on attraction pretty quickly but they didn't pretend it to be something is wasn't.  It certainly wasn't sweet but rather some sizzling chemistry .   I am very curious to see how their feelings will grow and change in the next installment.

Overall, Darkness Becomes Her is a solid debut novel that has left me curious to see what is coming next in this original and imaginative series.

Overall Rating: A high 3.5/5 
Writing: 3/5
Plot: 4/5
Characters: 4/5
Romance: 3.5/5
Cover: 2/5

For more info:  Visit Kelly Keaton's website

For more reviews: Book'd Out

Check out the UK edition cover.  I prefer it to the US.  What do you think?    Release date June, 2011 in UK.

Haven by Kirsti Cook

Haven by Kristi Cook
Expected release date: 22nd February, 2011
Published by Simon Pulse

Goodreads Description: - One month into her junior year, sixteen-year-old Violet McKenna transfers to the Winterhaven School in New York’s Hudson Valley, inexplicably drawn to the boarding school with high hopes. Leaving Atlanta behind, she’s looking forward to a fresh start--a new school, and new classmates who will not know her deepest, darkest secret, the one she’s tried to hide all her life: strange, foreboding visions of the future.

But Winterhaven has secrets of its own, secrets that run far deeper than Violet’s. Everyone there--every student, every teacher--has psychic abilities, 'gifts and talents,' they like to call them. Once the initial shock of discovery wears off, Violet realizes that the school is a safe haven for people like her. Soon, Violet has a new circle of friends, a new life, and maybe even a boyfriend--Aidan Gray, perhaps the smartest, hottest guy at Winterhaven.

Only there’s more to Aidan than meets the eye--much, much more. And once she learns the horrible truth, there’s no turning back from her destiny. Their destiny. Together, Violet and Aidan must face a common enemy--if only they can do so without destroying each other first.

My Review:-

Hmmmmmm, I am not quite sure what to say about Haven. Have you ever read a book, while reading it enjoyed it but as soon as you finished completely forgotten about it? Well that is Haven for me. It was good but it just lack that something special to make it stand out from all the other the young adult paranormal romance reads.

The things I enjoyed :

- The mystery and all the hidden secrets.  I love trying to figure out every little secret and enjoyed being surprised when I was wrong.

- The writing is a style that reads easily and makes you want to keep turning the pages.  I couldn't believe how quickly the 400+ pages flew by.

- Haven had some unique elements to it's story.  Cook added some interesting twist to the paranormal element (which I won't say what it is, would hate to ruin the surprise).

- I love interesting chapter names and Haven had plenty with titles like 'Cue the creepy music' and 'Down the Rabbit Hole'.  It set a nice tone for what to come.

The not so good for me:

- Some scenes for me were too much like other books I have read before.  For example- being the new girl and walking into class where the mysterious guy that has ignored every other girl in school can't stop staring at you scene.  Authors I think it is time for a different meeting place.

- The character while I liked them they were forgettable.  They lacked something special.
 
- Aidan and Violet's romance was that instant, intense, deep can't live without you type of love.  It didn't work with the characters going constantly going back and forth.  One day they are together the next they are not.  I didn't understand how they could love each other so deeply yet not want to be together.

Despite it's flaws I think Haven will have a lot of fans and I think this series has potential.  I am certainly up for giving the second book in the series a go.

Overall Rating: 3/5
Writing: 3/5
Characters: 3/5
Plot: 4/5
Romance: 3/5
Cover: 3/5

Recommend for fans of:  The Pace, Twilight, Evernight

Thank you to Simon Pulse for providing me with a copy.

For More Info: Kristi Cook's website.

For More Reviews: Goodreads

The Lipstick Laws by Amy Holder

Goodreads Description:
At Penford High School, Britney Taylor is the queen bee. She dates whomever she likes, rules over her inner circle of friends like Genghis Khan, and can ruin anyone's life with a snap of perfectly manicured fingers. Just ask the unfortunate few who have crossed her.   For April Bowers, Britney is also the answer to her prayers. April is so unpopular, kids don't even know she exists. But one lunch spent at Britney's table, and April is basking in the glow of popularity.   But Britney's friendship comes with a high price tag. How much is April willing to pay?

My Review:

The first thing that grabbed me about this book was the striking cover that makes it hard to resist.  I normally avoid the whole mean girl subject as I am not a big fan but I thought I give it a try and well I was right, it isn't my thing.

The Lipstick Law is a fun and quick read that made me laugh out loud several times but as an older reader reading young adult fiction, I found this too young for me.  I couldn't relate to the characters and the choices they made.  Not that I didn't like April, the main character, she has all the factors that make her a adorable lead, but rather I couldn't understand her reasons why she let her so called friends treat her that way.  There just wasn't enough depth to the characters. 

However I do think younger teens will love this.  I am thinking of buying a copy for my 13 year old niece.  The fast moving plot and fun premise makes the pages just fly by.  Actually, I could see this book being made into a hit teen movie.

Overall, this book just wasn't my style.  Would I read something else by Amy Holder? Probably if the blurb on the book interested me.

Rating: 3/5 stars

Thank you to netgalley and Houghton Mifflin Harcourt for providing me a copy.


Read more reviews (there are lots of rave ones so maybe it was just me):  Goodreads

For more info: Amy Holder's website

Watch the trailer:

Unearthly by Cynthia Hand

Goodreads Description:

In the beginning, there's a boy standing in the trees . . . .

Clara Gardner has recently learned that she's part angel. Having angel blood run through her veins not only makes her smarter, stronger, and faster than humans (a word, she realizes, that no longer applies to her), but it means she has a purpose, something she was put on this earth to do. Figuring out what that is, though, isn't easy.

Her visions of a raging forest fire and an alluring stranger lead her to a new school in a new town. When she meets Christian, who turns out to be the boy of her dreams (literally), everything seems to fall into place—and out of place at the same time. Because there's another guy, Tucker, who appeals to Clara's less angelic side.

As Clara tries to find her way in a world she no longer understands, she encounters unseen dangers and choices she never thought she'd have to make—between honesty and deceit, love and duty, good and evil. When the fire from her vision finally ignites, will Clara be ready to face her destiny?

Unearthly is a moving tale of love and fate, and the struggle between following the rules and following your heart.

My Review:

Favourite Quote: "He seems to gaze right into me, like he's seeing me for who I truly am.  And in that moment, I want to tell him the truth. Crazy, I know. Stupid. Wrong.  I try to take a step back, but my foot slips and I almost go headfirst into the river but he catches me."

Wow! Surprisingly I loved it!  I have been having a bad run with angel books lately but this is exactly what I have been looking for.  Unearthly has an original plot, interesting characters, a swoon worthy crush and overall is a pleasure to read.

Cynthia Hand's writing was just easy to read.  Before I knew it I had read 300 pages.  The plot wasn't filled with action but rather mystery.  Never did this go down the predictable path, it seem to subtlely surprise me.  Unearthly is probably the most interesting angel concept I have read.  There was a little bit of good angel vs fallen angel but for a change it didn't have anything to do with the love interests.  The vision and purpose element is what made this so different.  Sometimes with angel concepts too the history can be far too complex and hard to understand but this was effortless to follow.

Now to my favourite part of this book, the characters and that is what drives this story.  Clara is sweet, sometimes funny, believable and made smart choices.  Tucker (~swoons~, sorry but every time he is mentioned that happens) is a crush worthy male character.  A true gentleman, witty, gorgeous, and a cowboy (which makes him extra swoon worthy).  I adored the playful banter aka flirting between Clara and Tucker, it provided plenty of awwww moments.  Christian, well he was okay.  At first I thought I knew his type - typical, popular, gorgeous, nice guy that every girl is crushing on but in the end he was more than I expected. 

I know that I have just mentioned two guys so therefore it equals love triangle but do not fear.  This love triangle was gentle (although I do think that it might be brewing for the next book).  Clara is pretty certain of her choice and doesn't go back and forth.

The ending, no cliffhanger here, yay!  There are a few questions but it ends in the right place for more but still leaving readers satisfied for now.
 
Overall, I highly recommend this book, it had all the right elements.  An outstanding debut.

Rating: 5/5

Thanks to Netgalley and HarperTeen for providing me with a copy.  I have already pre-ordered my own copy.

Some interesting info:  The above cover is our cover here in Australia.  Isn't it gorgeous!

For more info: Cynthia Hand's blog

Check out the trailer:

Across the Universe by Beth Revis

Goodreads Description: A love out of time. A spaceship built of secrets and murder.

Seventeen-year-old Amy joins her parents as frozen cargo aboard the vast spaceship Godspeed and expects to awaken on a new planet, three hundred years in the future. Never could she have known that her frozen slumber would come to an end fifty years too soon and that she would be thrust into the brave new world of a spaceship that lives by its own rules.

Amy quickly realizes that her awakening was no mere computer malfunction. Someone—one of the few thousand inhabitants of the spaceship—tried to kill her. And if Amy doesn’t do something soon, her parents will be next.

Now, Amy must race to unlock Godspeed’s hidden secrets. But out of her list of murder suspects, there’s only one who matters: Elder, the future leader of the ship and the love she could never have seen coming.

My Review

Favourite quote:- “It is like a piece of my soul had been lost, empty, and it is now filled with the light of a million stars.”

Wow! What an amazing debut. Across the Universe is a book that you will get lost in and completely forget about the rest of the world. Utterly captivating.

It is unique with it’s mix of part space travel, part thriller and part romance. If you are worried that it sounds too sci-fi with all that space travel talk, it is not at all. It will definitely appeal to fans of paranormal, fantasy and contemporary fiction.

Revis is a clever writer with her engrossing and well thought out plot. There were so many layers to it. In the last 100 pages Revis really pulled out the surprises, leaving my mouth hanging open. And I can tell you now if somebody came up to me and asked if I would liked to get frozen and travel in space, even it included the gorgeous Elder (who I will get to in a minute), I would tell them NO and then run and hide. It would be scary to be stuck on that ship with all it is secrets and there are a lot them.

I know some of you are wondering about the ending, if it is a cliffhanger. Well let just say part of the story wraps up nicely and well the other part leaves you wanting more. Satisfying for now.

Now on to the characters. This story is told from both Amy’s and Elder’s point of views and their worlds couldn’t be more different. Amy is probably my standout character. She is the kind of gal that asks questions and is determined to get to the truth and no matter what never gave up. Elder is a sweetheart and did I mention gorgeous, who also shows a lot of strength when his whole world was coming crashing down on him.

And the romance is beautiful with lines like this:

“I want to take her into my arms and hold her tight. But at the same time, I know that is the exact opposite of what she wants. She wants to be free and all I want to do is hold her tight against me.”

Overall, I loved it. A must read for 2011!

Rating: 5/5

Make sure you go check out the first chapter at Across the Universe website. 

Thank you to Between the Lines blog for sending me a copy.