The Incorrigible Children of Ashton Place: Book II: The Hidden Gallery by Maryrose Wood

Summary/Cover Image from Publisher's Website:

Of especially naughty children it is sometimes said, "They must have been raised by wolves."

The Incorrigible children actually were.

Thanks to the efforts of Miss Penelope Lumley, their plucky governess, Alexander, Beowulf, and Cassiopeia are much more like children than wolf pups now. They are accustomed to wearing clothes. They hardly ever howl at the moon. And for the most part, they resist the urge to chase squirrels up trees.

Despite Penelope's civilizing influence, the Incorrigibles still managed to ruin Lady Constance's Christmas ball, nearly destroying the grand house. So while Ashton Place is being restored, Penelope, the Ashtons, and the children take up residence in London. Penelope is thrilled, as London offers so many opportunities to further the education of her unique students. But the city presents challenges, too, in the form of the palace guards' bearskin hats, which drive the children wild—not to mention the abundance of pigeons the Incorrigibles love to hunt. As they explore London, however, they discover more about themselves as clues about the children's—and Penelope's—mysterious past crop up in the most unexpected ways.

Review:

Charming, hilarious, and full of page turning fun, Maryrose Wood’s The Hidden Gallery is middle grade fiction at its finest.

The Hidden Gallery opens up just as Miss Penelope Lumley, governess to the three “wolf cubs” Alexander, Beowulf, and Cassiopeia, learns that they as well as the Ashtons will be making a trip to London. Even though this trip is due to serious repairs the house is under because of the children, Penelope is nothing short of excited. She is looking forward to not only visiting London and seeing her old governess, but getting away from the troubles that have seem to follow her and the children lately. However, after a mysterious, haunting warning, Penelope, Alexander, Beowulf, and Cassiopeia are left on a wild goose chase, which involves meeting new people, mysterious fortunetellers, and hidden galleries. Will everything turn out okay in the end? Will Penelope’s as wells as the children’s true origins ever come into play? Only time and more pages can tell in this exciting adventure!

First, the characters in The Hidden Gallery were nothing short of the funny lovable ones readers hope to find in books. Penelope was savvy, smart, and likable, and I always loved her, as well as Agatha Swanburne’s, random spurts of wisdom thrown in. On the other hand, the children were lively and chaotic little things that nearly always managed to still the spotlight with their interesting appearances. The other characters in this managed to be the same, because from the spoiled Lady Ashton to the other unique staff, I was continually chuckling due to their dialogue and actions.

The plot of this was another high point. One thing I always love about middle grade fiction is the fact that there is also a lot of action and fun, and Maryrose had ample amounts of both in The Hidden Gallery. I was repeatedly flipping the pages, dying to know what would happen next. Would Penelope and the children ever find out the truth behind the mysterious occurrences? Better yet, what about their backgrounds- did they have something to do with it? There was not a moment where I was not completely immersed in the story.

Wood’s writing was also great! I loved how she never once dumbed the story, instead presented a complex story filled with intricate yet necessary details and backstory that I am sure children, teens, and may even adults will enjoy. The only thing I would have liked more of was character development, but as there are more books to come in the series, I am sure the characters will have plenty of room to develop.

In all, if you read one middle grade book this year, let it be Maryrose Wood’s The Hidden Gallery. Full of twists and turns to keep nearly any reader happy, I am sure it will become a fan favorite. Especially for fans of Stephanie Burgis’ Kat, Incorrigible and Lemony Snicket’s A Series of Unfortunate Events series. I can only hope the next addiction will be as good…

Grade: A+

The Hidden Gallery is now out!

Source: Publicist at DLK Communcations- thanks Laura!

A World I Never Made by James LePore

Summary/Cover Image from Publisher's Website:

Pat Nolan, an American man, is summoned to Paris to claim the body of his estranged daughter Megan, who has committed suicide. The body, however, is not Megan’s and it becomes instantly clear to Pat that Megan staged this, that she is in serious trouble, and that she is calling to him for help. This sends Pat on an odyssey with Catherine Laurence, a beautiful but tormented Paris detective, that stretches across France and into the Czech Republic and that makes him the target of both the French police and a band of international terrorists.

Juxtaposed against this story is Megan’s story. A freelance journalist, Megan is in Morocco to do research when she meets Abdel Lahani, a Saudi businessman. They begin a torrid affair, a game Megan has played often and well in her adult life. But what she discovers about Lahani puts her in the center of a different kind of game, one with rules she can barely comprehend, and one that puts the lives of many—maybe even millions—at risk.

A World I Never Made is an atmospheric novel of suspense with brilliantly drawn characters and back-stories as compelling as the plot itself—a novel that resonates deeply and leaves its traces long after you turn the final page.

Reveiw:

A World I Never Made is based on an interesting premise- dad finds out daughter is dead but not only does it turn out she's not but she's in some big trouble. Sadly enough, while I enjoyed James LePore’s newest thriller in some ways, it ended up not being the book for me for several reasons in the end.

Pat Nolan and his daughter Megan never had a close relationship, due to his lack of parenting during her childhood, her whirlwind travel and behavior as well as a few other factors. However, when he learns that Megan has committed suicide in France, he is simply flabbergasted. Sure, Megan had her flaws, but she never seemed like the type to make such a big leap. As it turns out, Megan is not dead. It’s not Megan's body the police shows him but someone else's. Pat does not tell them that though. Instead, he goes along with it, and that is where everything begins. Involving one rouge cop, terrorists, and a fight for life, Pat knows he will not be safe until he finds his daughter, but will he find her? Only time and more pages can tell in this fast-paced thriller!

Starting this book, I was immediately flung into the complicated lives of Megan and Pat Nolan. Told in alternating perspectives, the book truly allows the reader to receive the best of both worlds when it comes down to all the action, twists and turns. However, while I did find Megan and Pat’s stories to be absorbing at times, at others I felt that characterization was lacking, because I just could not connect. I do not know if was due to be the big age difference between the main characters and I or something else, but I just could not relate. As any reader knows, that trait sometimes makes it very difficult to enjoy- yet alone love - a book.

Nonetheless, I did find the plot to be interesting. I enjoyed the dose of politics and seeing the occurrences that happen in the daily world news up close, and because of that, the novel went by quickly for me. Yet, I would have loved some more development to the book. I felt that the ending was a bit rushed, leaving me with little closure.

Lastly, I will add that James’s writing is decent, and I am pretty sure I will be trying his future novels someday…

In all, while A World I Never Made wasn’t the book for me for a myriad of reasons, I still suggest it to fans of thrillers (namely James Patterson’s books), as I feel they will find a new favorite author in it- James LePore.

Grade: C

A World I Never Made is now out!

Source: Tracee at Pump Up Your Book

Summer and the City: A Carrie Diaries Novel by Candace Bushnell

Summary/Cover Image from Publisher's Website:

Summer is a magical time in New York City and Carrie is in love with all of it—the crazy characters in her neighborhood, the vintage-clothing boutiques, the wild parties, and the glamorous man who has swept her off her feet. Best of all, she's finally in a real writing class, taking her first steps toward fulfilling her dream.

This sequel to The Carrie Diaries brings surprising revelations as Carrie learns to navigate her way around the Big Apple, going from being a country "sparrow"—as Samantha Jones dubs her— to the person she always wanted to be. But as it becomes increasingly difficult to reconcile her past with her future, Carrie realizes that making it in New York is much more complicated than she ever imagined.

With her signature wit and sparkling humor, Candace Bushnell reveals the irresistible story of how Carrie met Samantha and Miranda, and what turned a small-town girl into one of New York City's most unforgettable icons, Carrie Bradshaw.

Review:

After the scandalous and juicy The Carrie Diaries, I was eager to re-enter Carrie's life as she made her way in New York. Therefore, when Summer and the City appeared in my mailbox, I was excited beyond words. Thankfully, Summer and the City was even better than The Carrie Diaries.

Summer and the City begins just a day after The Carrie Diaries ended. Even though Carrie's welcome into the city was everything but warm, she's excited to start her summer there in style, and as it begins, everything is simply fantastic. She's meeting real, live writers she can't help but admire and love; she's making the friends she always wished she had; and she's accomplshing great progress in her writing class. Better yet, this summer has also turned out to be one full of possible romance. Carrie is quite possibly having the time of her life. However, after a visit from a past friend and reunion with her family, she's beginning to wonder if she can ever go back to being plain old, prior- New York City Carrie. Faced with plenty of questions, Carrie wonders if she will ever figure them all out. More importantly, when given the chance to stay in New York, will she leave or go? Only more time and pages can tell!

In this addition, Carrie truly steps up her game, becoming not only an empowering and headstrong young woman, but someone I also could not help but relate to and root for as she makes her dreams come true. What I love most about her character, though, is that she is real. She has the same worries and questions about life and love and friendship just like any person has, and more importantly, she accumulates her own fair share of problems as this novel continues. Better yet, I adored the friendships she made in this one with hilarious and scandals Samantha as well as feminist, mouthy, yet lovable Miranda. Both friendships played an important role in not only Carrie's coming to age but also making this novel the great and enjoyable thing it was.

The plot in this was also a high point. Full of twists, turns, and swoon-worthy male characters, there was not a moment where I wasn't dying to know what would happen next to Carrie and her friends. Romance also played an important part- a part I enjoyed and loved, because it also caused suspense, as I wondered whom Carrie would end up with. Better yet, Candace Bushnell's also stepped it up a bit with her writing, as she truly brought the characters and the setting off the page and to life with this one.

Full of secrets, romance, and characters you cannot help but love, Summer and the City will leave nearly any fan of Carrie's begging for yet another addition to this series.

Highly recommended to say the least…

Grade: A

Summer and the City is now out!

Source: Publicist at DLK Communications- thanks Laura!

Waiting on Wednesday (108)

Waiting on Wednesday was started by Jill at Breaking the Spine.

Recently, I've stumbled upon two books- one adult and one YA- that sounded so great, I couldn't help but feature both of them this week!

Audition by Stasia Ward Kehoe

When high school junior Sara wins a coveted scholarship to study ballet, she must sacrifice everything for her new life as a professional dancer-in-training. Living in a strange city with a host family, she's deeply lonely-until she falls into the arms of Remington, a choreographer in his early twenties. At first, she loves being Rem's muse, but as she discovers a surprising passion for writing, she begins to question whether she's chosen the right path. Is Rem using her, or is it the other way around? And is dancing still her dream, or does she need something more? This debut novel in verse is as intense and romantic as it is eloquent.

Ooh, this one sounds so good, and I love, love, love the cover! The words in backgroud are just perfect! Best of all, not only does Stasia have her own fun blog, but she is also hosting a "Year of Audtions."

Audition will be released October 13, 2011!

The Art of Forgetting by Camille Noe Pagan

A moving and insightful debut novel of great friendship interrupted. Can the relationship survive when the memories are gone?

Marissa Rogers never wanted to be an alpha; beta suited her just fine. Taking charge without taking credit had always paid off: vaulting her to senior editor at a glossy magazine; keeping the peace with her critical, weight-obsessed mother; and enjoying the benefits of being best friends with gorgeous, charismatic, absolutely alpha Julia Ferrar.

And then Julia gets hit by a cab. She survives with minor obvious injuries, but brain damage steals her memory and alters her personality, possibly forever. Suddenly, Marissa is thrown into the role of alpha friend. As Julia struggles to regain her memory- dredging up issues Marissa would rather forget, including the fact that Julia asked her to abandon the love of her life ten years ago- Marissa's own equilibrium is shaken.

With the help of a dozen girls, she reluctantly agrees to coach in an after-school running program. There, Marissa uncovers her inner confidence and finds the courage to reexamine her past and take control of her future.

The Art of Forgetting is a story about the power of friendship, the memories and myths that hold us back, and the delicate balance between forgiving and forgetting.

Dosen't this one sound great as well? The premise sounds great- I feel like there will be lots of secrets and drama from the sound of it- and the cover is also awesome! One of my favorite authors, Sarah Pekkanen has a great blurb for it as well:

“The Art of Forgetting is a lively, thoughtful examination of a woman's tangled relationship with her closest friend. After a traumatic accident re-shapes her oldest friend's personality as well as her memory of pivotal moments in their shared history, Marissa Rogers is forced to take a second look at her own life choices. This book captivated me from the first page, and I couldn't bear to put it down until I finished."

—Sarah Pekkanen, bestselling author of The Opposite of Me and Skipping a Beat

The Art of Forgetting will be released June 9, 2011! You can read an excerpt here.

The Last Little Blue Envelope by Maureen Johnson

Summary/Cover Image from Publisher's Website:

Ginny Blackstone thought that the biggest adventure of her life was behind her. She spent last summer traveling around Europe, following the tasks her aunt Peg laid out in a series of letters before she died. When someone stole Ginny's backpack—and the last little blue envelope inside—she resigned herself to never knowing how it was supposed to end.

Months later, a mysterious boy contacts Ginny from London, saying he's found her bag. Finally, Ginny can finish what she started. But instead of ending her journey, the last letter starts a new adventure—one filled with old friends, new loves, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Ginny finds she must hold on to her wits . . . and her heart. This time, there are no instructions.

Review:

Sometimes sequels do not live up to the previous book. However, sometimes they blow the first book away to the extreme. Maureen Johnson’s The Last Little Blue Envelope, the follow-up to 13 Little Blue Envelopes- a major favorite of mine- was one of those kinds of books. Containing not only a swoon-worthy setting along with fabulously funny main characters (old and new) but also a lot of heart, this book- as well as its prequel- are absolute must-reads, in my opinion.

The Last Blue Envelope picks up Ginny’s story a few months after she has returned from her whirlwind European trip. Ginny has quickly readjusted to life at home, however everything changes when she receives an email from Oliver. Oliver claims to have the thirteenth blue envelope Ginny was sure she lost forever, and he is willing to give it back to her, but under two conditions: she must return to Europe and allow him to accompany her on the trip the letter describes. Always up for an adventure as well as a chance to see her sort-of-something Keith, Ginny quickly packs her bags, though little does she know this trip will soon change everything once again. Friendships will be tested; new loves will be introduced; but will Ginny stay true to herself? In addition, what exactly does that thirteenth little blue envelope contain? Only time and more pages will tell in this addictive coming-of-age tale sure to leave readers laughing as well as rooting on Ginny every step of the way.

Honestly, the aspect that always leaves me hooked on Maureen’s books is the characters, and this book was no different. Ginny is a girl who I quite simply adore. Brave, smart, witty, and fearless, she is someone I’ve come to admire and relate to easily. Then there is Keith. Pompous, alluring, and charming, he is in most ways the definition of a swoon-worthy boy- one who I love as well as hate. I also enjoyed seeing the return of past characters in this (like Ginny’s uncle) and new ones, such as Oliver, the mysterious boy who I for the life of me could not figure out for the majority of the book, and Ellis, yet another hilarious Brit.

With this book, also came a fabulous setting: Europe. Over the course of the book, Maureen truly creates Europe yet another one of her “characters” so to say because it comes to life in the best kind of ways. The descriptions make the reader truly want to have their own Ginny inspired trip- or at least it makes me want one.

The plot of this was also fantastic. For one, it was in all ways a separate story from the prequel in the way it fully stood on its own and contained a completely new idea. Better yet, it had several twists and turns as well as funny and sad moments, that will truly win any reader over in my opinion.

Finally yet importantly, Maureen’s writing in this was fabulous. Full of spunk and liveliness, there was not a thing I did not like about it. She has created characters as well as a setting I have come to love, laugh-out-loud banter and scenes, and most importantly, every word feels like a delicious chocolate- perfect and purely delicious goodness that you can't help but want to devour.

In all, The Last Blue Envelope has reminded me once again why Maureen Johnson is one of the best YA authors out there, and I have a feeling it will do the same to others.

Highly, highly recommended.

Grade: A+

The Last Little Blue Envelope is now out!

Source: HarperTeen via Netgalley

Cover Reveal for Holly Cupala's Don't Breate a Word (+ Giveaway!)

As part of Holly Cupala's big cover reveal for her latest book Don't Breate a Word,  several other bloggers and I have different protions of the cover for you to see today.

Though, before we get to that, here's the summary for the book:

Joy Delamere is suffocating.

From asthma, which has nearly claimed her life. From her parents, who will do anything to keep that from happening. From delectably dangerous Asher, who is smothering her from the inside out.

Joy can take his words—tender words, cruel words—until the night they go too far.

Now, Joy will leave everything behind to find the one who has offered his help, a homeless boy called Creed. She will become someone else. She will learn to survive. She will breathe…if only she can get to Creed before it’s too late.

Set against the gritty backdrop of Seattle’s streets and a cast of characters with secrets of their own, Holly Cupala’s powerful new novel explores the subtleties of abuse, the meaning of love, and how far a girl will go to discover her own strength.

Don't Breathe a Word will be released October 18, 2011! To add it to your goodreads wishlist, head on over here. (You know you want to!) To find out more about Holly, you can visit her website.

Anyhow, what you've all been waiting for....

Here's your exclusive glimpse:

Cool, right? And let me tell you, the full cover is incredible! Just wait until you see it! :)

To see the rest of the glimpses, be sure to check out the following blogs:

The Story Siren: 9am EST

Reading Angel: 11am EST

Addicted 2 Novels: 12pm EST

Eve's Fan Garden: 1pm EST

There's a Book: 3pm EST

Sarah's Random Musings: 4pm EST

Reading Teen: 6pm EST

And to see the official full cover, head over to these three blogs tomorrow at 9:00 am EST:

Kari
Jessica E
Steph Su

Holly is also giving away three signed copies of her first book Tell Me a Secret!

To enter, leave a comment below with your email address, and to increase your chances of winning, leave comments on the other blogs as well. This contest is also open internationally! The winners will be picked

on Tuesday (April 26) at 11:59 CST. 

Bumped by Megan McCafferty

Summary/Cover Image from Publisher's Website:

When a virus makes everyone over the age of eighteen infertile, would-be parents pay teen girls to conceive and give birth to their children, making teens the most prized members of society. Girls sport fake baby bumps and the school cafeteria stocks folic-acid-infused food.

Sixteen-year-old identical twins Melody and Harmony were separated at birth and have never met until the day Harmony shows up on Melody’s doorstep. Up to now, the twins have followed completely opposite paths. Melody has scored an enviable conception contract with a couple called the Jaydens. While they are searching for the perfect partner for Melody to bump with, she is fighting her attraction to her best friend, Zen, who is way too short for the job.

Harmony has spent her whole life in Goodside, a religious community, preparing to be a wife and mother. She believes her calling is to convince Melody that pregging for profit is a sin. But Harmony has secrets of her own that she is running from.

When Melody is finally matched with the world-famous, genetically flawless Jondoe, both girls’ lives are changed forever. A case of mistaken identity takes them on a journey neither could have ever imagined, one that makes Melody and Harmony realize they have so much more than just DNA in common.

From New York Times bestselling author Megan McCafferty comes a strikingly original look at friendship, love, and sisterhood—in a future that is eerily believable.

Review:

After reading Megan McCafferty’s Jessica Darling series, I was eager to read more by her. Therefore, when Bumped, her new dystopian, landed in my hands, I was excited beyond words. Luckily enough, Megan has made her “official” YA debut with a quite the bang, as Bumped is compelling, enthralling, and full of twists and turns that will leave nearly any reader on the edge of their seat, dying to know what will happen next.

The main aspect that originally drew me to Bumped was the premise. The idea of teenagers completely embracing the idea of pregnancy and all the wealth and power it brought them seemed startling yet something that could unquestionably happen in the future. The execution turned out to be purely brilliant, because not only did Megan McCafferty fully flesh out this idea, but also she brought so much than just that to the table. You see, Bumped is so much more than just a “teen pregnancy” novel; instead, it is a book about embracing yourself, overcoming society’s perceptions on how you should or should not be. It is about being strong when all you want is to be a weak fledging, about becoming the best person you can be- someone you admire as well as like- and that makes it all the more valuable, in my opinion.

Tying into this, the main characters in Bumped were the ones fighting these standards of this dystopian society. For one, there’s Harmony, a girl whose always lived in a world where signing a fertility contract a must have, but the thing is Harmony doesn’t really want this. She wants to be able to date her best friend/crush; more importantly, she wants to be normal, making her relatable to the fullest potential. Then, there was Melody, her twin sister. She's a girl who has grown up in Godside where religion is everything. Nerveless, just like Harmony, Melody wants so much more than what she's given. However, what I loved most about these characters was that they were average- they made mistakes, but they learned from them; they did not know where they were going or whom they wanted, but they knew they would find out eventually; they were bratty and annoying at times, but who is not? Their imperfections are what made them perfect in my eyes, and I think most others will agree with me on this.

I also have to add that I loved the secondary characters in this. From Zen to Jondoe, nearly all secondary characters were developed fully to bring not only more heart to the novel but some big laughs as well.

Lastly, Megan McCafferty’s writing and world building in this is simply fabulous. Her writing truly captured the voice of a teen as well as brought the world and its characters to life. However, I have to admit I was still left with several questions about everything, but I’m sure they will be answered in the sequel.

Well worth a read, Bumped is a novel I will definitely be recommending come its release.

Grade: B+

Bumped will be released April 26, 2011!

Source: HarperCollins via Netgalley- thanks!

In additon, be sure to check out the video below, in which Megan talks about Bumped.

In My Mailbox (119)

In My Mailbox was started by Kristi at The Story Siren.

For Review:

Moonglass by Jessi Kirby (I've been wanting to read this book for what seems like ages now!)

Dark Eden by Patrick Carman (Looks interesting!)

Ebooks for Review:

Between by Cyndi Tefft

Wild Child by Mike Wells

Netgalley:

Spellbound by Cara Lynn Shultz (Looks so good!)

Much thanks goes to HarperCollins, Cyndi Tefft, Mike Wells, Harelquin Teen/Netgalley, and Chelsy at Big Honcho Media/Simon and Schuster!

In all, a great week bookwise! Though, enough about me, what did YOU get this week? Anything super exciting? Let me know in the comments, and feel free to link to your own IMM posts as well!

Have a great day everyone! :)

Giveaway: A Discovery of Witches by Deborah Harkness + Buttons

Thanks to Lindsay at Viking/Penguin, I have one copy of A Discovery of Witches to giveaway as well as some fun Discovery of Witches themed buttons.

Here's the summary for the book:

A richly inventive novel about a centuries-old vampire, a spellbound witch, and the mysterious manuscript that draws them together.

Deep in the stacks of Oxford's Bodleian Library, young scholar Diana Bishop unwittingly calls up a bewitched alchemical manuscript in the course of her research. Descended from an old and distinguished line of witches, Diana wants nothing to do with sorcery; so after a furtive glance and a few notes, she banishes the book to the stacks. But her discovery sets a fantastical underworld stirring, and a horde of daemons, witches, and vampires soon descends upon the library. Diana has stumbled upon a coveted treasure lost for centuries-and she is the only creature who can break its spell.



The DOW buttons!



Debut novelist Deborah Harkness has crafted a mesmerizing and addictive read, equal parts history and magic, romance and suspense. Diana is a bold heroine who meets her equal in vampire geneticist Matthew Clairmont, and gradually warms up to him as their alliance deepens into an intimacy that violates age-old taboos. This smart, sophisticated story harks back to the novels of Anne Rice, but it is as contemporary and sensual as the Twilight series-with an extra serving of historical realism.

To enter, please read the offical contest rules below and fill out the giveway form.

Offical Contest Rules:

~ Must be 13 years or older to enter (Please note: this is labeled as an adult read so it may have mature content included).

~ Must have a US mailing address.

~ This giveaway will close on May 7, 2011!

Attachments by Rainbow Rowell

Summary/Cover Image from Publisher's Website:

Beth and Jennifer know their company monitors their office e-mail. But the women still spend all day sending each other messages, gossiping about their coworkers at the newspaper and baring their personal lives like an open book. Jennifer tells Beth everything she can't seem to tell her husband about her anxieties over starting a family. And Beth tells Jennifer everything, period.

When Lincoln applied to be an Internet security officer, he hardly imagined he'd be sifting through other people's inboxes like some sort of electronic Peeping Tom. Lincoln is supposed to turn people in for misusing company e-mail, but he can't quite bring himself to crack down on Beth and Jennifer. He can't help but be entertained-and captivated- by their stories.

But by the time Lincoln realizes he's falling for Beth, it's way too late for him to ever introduce himself. What would he say to her? "Hi, I'm the guy who reads your e-mail, and also, I love you." After a series of close encounters and missed connections, Lincoln decides it's time to muster the courage to follow his heart . . . even if he can't see exactly where it's leading him.

Written with whip-smart precision and charm, Attachments is a strikingly clever and deeply romantic debut about falling in love with the person who makes you feel like the best version of yourself. Even if it's someone you've never met.

Review:

Sometimes all I want is a sweet and cozy read to slip into for a few hours, and with Rainbow Rowell’s debut novel Attachments, that is just what I received.

Attachments tells the story of Beth, Jennifer, and Lincoln, employees at The Courier. Beth and Jennifer have been best friends for ages, telling the other of their romantic woes with a certain musician boyfriend in Beth’s case, or in Jennifer’s case, her conflicted fillings over starting a family with her husband. Lincoln, on the other hand, is a new worker. Hired at The Courier as an Internet Security Officer, Lincoln never thought he would be reading and moderating people’s emails- especially the emails interactions between Beth and Jennifer. While he should of reprimand Beth and Jennifer for misusing company emails long ago, he quickly found himself captivated not only by their emails but also by Beth. However, what is a man to do when he falls for someone he has never seen before in person? How will ever be anything besides the creepy person who reads people’s emails? More importantly, will Lincoln ever get the girl? Only time and more pages will tell in this charming book of love, missed singles, and happy endings.

One of the many high points in this novel would have to be the characters. Well developed and full of wit as well as charm, I adored nearly every single one of them. Lincoln was the typical nerdy yet sweet guy you cannot help but adore, while Beth and Jennifer were hilarious as well as relatable due to their realistic characteristics. Better yet, I loved the friendship between the two of them!

Due to the nature in which this was told (a combination of emails between Beth and Jennifer as well as Lincoln’s narration) this novel moved in a smooth and fast paced with plenty of twists and turns to keep nearly any reader committed. However, what I loved the most that while this novel was predictable, it still managed to not only fell fresh and new but also through a surprise or two in everyone once a while.

Rainbow Rowell’s writing was also decent. She created the characters in a way that they jumped of the page and came to life with each sentence and word spoken. More importantly, I loved how she had the perfect balance of light and seriousness in this.

The only aspect about this novel I was a little iffy about was Beth and Lincoln’s relationship. I always thought Lincoln’s infatuation was her was a bit odd due to the fact he barely knew her, but by the end, I truly didn’t care for a variety of reasons which I won't get into here as I don't want to spoil the book for anyone.

Adorable and full of many laugh-out-loud moments, Attachments manages to shine repeatedly thanks to its lively main characters and airtight writing. I can only hope Rowell’s next novel will be as great.

Grade: A-

Attachments is now out!

Source: Publicist at Penguin- thanks Liza!

The Goddess Test by Aimée Carter

Summary/Cover Image from Author's Website:

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.

If she fails...

Review:

Every year comes the books that completely blow me away in the best way possible, and Aimee Carter's The Goddess Test is one of those books. Unique, romantic, and full of fantastic characters, this book was brilliant in more ways than one way to say the least.

The Goddess Test tells the story of Kate, a girl who's always got the short stick so to say when it's come to life. For one, her mother is deathly ill and may not even live to see the following months let alone years. Secondly, thanks to her mother's illness, she wants to move back to her hometown as her last wish- a place where Kate knows no one. Kate quickly complies  because truth be told she loves her mom more than anyone and would do nearly anything to make her happy. But with the new school and location come things she could have never imagined. For one, she quickly makes new friends in not only James, a nerdy but lovable dweeb, and Ava, the queen of mean who may just have a nice side. Then comes Henry. Dark, mysterious, and handsome, he quickly captures her attention, especially when he offers her something she can't refuse- the chance to let her mom live a bit longer; but only if she'll take the seven step Goddess Test. Kate quickly complies, not knowing that this decision will quickly change her life in more ways than one, as she's just made a deal with Hades, the king of the underworld...

This book was so spectacular and mesmerizing that I don't know where to even begin...

For one, I loved the characters in The Goddess Test because not only where they richly described to the point where I could easily picture them in my head, but they all had such distinguishable personalities. Though, the one I loved the most would have to be Kate, the main character. I know I say I love the main character in books a lot, but with this it's especially true. Simply because Kate is fantastic. Brave, strong, and full of spunk, there was nothing to not love about her. I loved her dedication to her mom as well as the goddess tests and her friends. Plus, she showed a lot of heart when she begin to show Henry a different side to life, one that showed life could still be great if he gave it a try. I also have to add that I adored the secondary characters such as Ava and James.

Though, the thing I loved the most about The Goddess Test was the plot and all the fun, twists, and turns it contained. I have to admit I've always held a strong love of Greek Mythology, but with The Goddess Test this especially rang true. Because not only did Aimée provide lots of Greek fun, but she present it in such a unique and promising way that I simply can't wait to see what she has up her sleeves next. Adding to this, I loved the setting of The Goddess Test. Creepy and described vividly, Henry's estate was simply the best place to set the story.

Last but not least, I have to say that Aimée is just as fantastic as everything else. She is so talented for a new commoner I simply can't believe it. So yet again I simply can't wait to see what she comes up with next.

In all, The Goddess Test is one book you simply MUST read. Though, word of warning, you'll be dying to read the sequel once you're done.

Grade: A+

The Goddess Test is now out!

Source: Harlequin Teen via Netgalley

Waiting on Wednesday (107)

Waiting on Wednesday was started by Jill at Breaking the Spine.

Don't Expect Magic by Kathy McCullough

Delaney Collins doesn't believe in fairy tales. And why should she? Her mom is dead, her best friend is across the country, and she's stuck in California with "Dr. Hank," her famous life-coach father—a man she barely knows. Happily ever after? Yeah, right.

Then Dr. Hank tells her an outrageous secret: he's a fairy godmother—an f.g.—and he can prove it. And by the way? The f.g. gene is hereditary. Meaning there's a good chance that New Jersey tough girl Delaney is someone's fairy godmother.

But what happens when a fairy godmother needs a wish of her own?

First, I love the cover of this book! The girl's outfit adorable- it looks like something I would wear. And second of all, the premise of this sounds fantastic. Fairy godmother parent and the daughter is one too? Count me in for sure! Making things even better Kathy's a debut author!

To add this book to your Goodreads page click here. To find out more about Don't Expect Magic and its main character check out "Delaney's" website.

Invincible Summer by Hannah Moskowitz

Summary/Cover Image from Publisher's Website:

Noah's happier than I've seen him in months. So I'd be an awful brother to get in the way of that. It's not like I have some relationship with Melinda. It was just a kiss. Am I going to ruin Noah's happiness because of a kiss?

Across four sun-kissed, drama-drenched summers at his family's beach house, Chase is falling in love, falling in lust, and trying to keep his life from falling apart. But some girls are addictive....

Review:

I have been hearing amazing things about Hannah Moskowitz and her books since her first book was released in '09, and while I even have that said book in my TBR pile, I had not read anything by Hannah until Invincible Summer. And boy do I regret that now, as not only is Invincible Summer one of the grittiest, emotionally charged books of the year, if not ever, but it’s also a book that will make any reader feel a bucket full of emotions: anger, love, joy, the list goes on and on.

Invincible Summer tells the story of Chase over the course of four summers spent at the beach with his family. For Chase and his family, the best parts of their years have always been spent at the beach along with the Hathways’ (Melinda, Bella, and Shannon as well as their parents). However, this summer, Chase’s fifteenth, is nothing like the ones before. He is starting to feel things for the girl who has always been his brother’s…the one who has always made him the happiest. Worse of all, everything is changing this summer, lust will be felt, hearts will be shattered, and it will continue on for the next four summer as lives as well as faith are tested time and time again, and Chase as well as his family face the biggest challenge live has yet to through them. Will Chase overcome it? Will everything in Chase’s live change for the better or worse? Will everything in his life ever make sense again? Only more pages and time will tell in this addicting read filled with laughter and tears and hope and despair.

Looking at the sunny cover of this one, any reader would thing this is ultimately a feel-good type of book, as I did. Surprisingly enough, it’s anything but that, and that’s what made it an absolute star in my eyes, because it’s different; it’s unique; it’s one of kind; it's a book that includes the tough parts of live as well as the amazing parts. It tests faith… but I digress.

One of my favorite parts of this novel would have to be the characters, no doubt about it. Hannah creates each one with such grace to the point where they simply jump of the page and come to life with every word said aloud to the ones not said at all. Chase, the narrator, would have to be favorite out of the bunch. He is a boy who has his head on his shoulders; a boy who always wants to do the good thing, the right thing, but the problem is life isn’t always that way- he’s starting to find. His inner struggles over loss and love will make any reader root for him as well as well relate to him and his jokes and quotes will make readers laugh as well. Though, my favorite part of his character was his ties to his family. His family (his parents, and his siblings) play such an important role in in not only Noah’s live but the book as well. Better yet, it was hard not to simply adore ever one of them, even with their faults.

Adding to this, the plot of this was always a high point. I really enjoyed the way it was told over four summers, as not only did it make it suspenseful, but also it allowed for just the right amount of the story to be told. More importantly, I loved all the twists and turns to the story. I don't think I ever knew just how everything was going to end until the very end, which made me love this book even more.

Lastly, Hannah Markowitz…she’s one heck of an author. I know that for sure. She just gets the feelings teens feel down pat in her characters, in my opinion. She brings to life their problems, strengths, and weakness with her lyrical writing, and she never shies away from the hard parts of live, making her a very valuable author, in my opinion.

Full of emotions and fantastic and lively characters and events, Invincible Summer is one book you simply must not pass up. It is spectacular, gritty, and a worthwhile contemporary read. I can only hope you will love it as much, if not more, than I did.

But word of warning: you're going to need a few tissues.

Grade: A+

Invincible Summer is now out!

Source: Galley Grab

Blog Tour: Jackie Morse Kessler's Rage (Review and Interview!)

Summary/Cover Image from Publisher's Website:

Missy didn’t mean to cut so deep. But after the party where she was humiliated in front of practically everyone in school, who could blame her for wanting some comfort? Sure, most people don’t find comfort in the touch of a razor blade, but Missy always was . . . different.

That’s why she was chosen to become one of the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse: War. Now Missy wields a new kind of blade—a big, brutal sword that can cut down anyone and anything in her path. But it’s with this weapon in her hand that Missy learns something that could help her triumph over her own pain: control.

A unique approach to the topic of self-mutilation, Rage is the story of a young woman who discovers her own power and refuses to be defeated by the world.

Review:

After last year’s unique and startling Hunger, the start to the Horsemen of the Apocalypse series, I have been eager to read the sequel Rage. I wondered if it would better than the first one, or lackluster in comparison. Luckily, Rage managed to win me over in one big swoop with not only Jackie’s way of writing, but also its honest look at a serious issue- one that affects many lives across the world.

It all started a while ago…Missy found comfort in a blade, a sliver one with a sharp edge. It gave her comfort and control that she did not receive in real life. However, one night she went too far. It was a bad night, because not only was she caught in a compromising and embarrassing position in front of her malicious classmates thanks to her jerk of an ex-boyfriend, but also there were pictures taken and words said- words that keep circling around in her head. Therefore, she got it out in the way she knew best- cutting- and it left her on Death’s doorstep. Only for her to find out she had been expected as one of the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse, and given a role she is unable to believe- War. With this new role come a sword and a power no 16-year-old girl has faced before. Missy will face not only her inner demons but also the chance at redemption and love- two things she never thought she would receive. Will everything turn out okay in the end? Will Missy squash her problems to the ground, or will she let them get the best of her? Only time and more pages can tell in this captivating read.

Missy is a girl who in most ways is nearly broken to the point of no repair. She has faced more loss, ridicule, and embarrassment than anyone her age should. Sometimes all I wanted to do was shake her gently on the shoulders and talk some sense into her, to tell her there was a live out there worth living for, and that cutting was never the answer. However, since I obviously could not do that, I supported her the best way I could- I rooted for her. Her path from the start of the novel to the end is not an easy one. It is filled with drama and problems; it will make nearly any reader go through a wide variety of emotions- from sadness to shock to hate to happiness.

This leads me to the plot.

The aspect I always love the most about these novels is the fact that Jackie takes such tough and hard subjects (in this case self-mutilation), and presents them in such unique, memorable, and most importantly un-preachy ways. With this novel, particularly, her writing and world building talents improved immensely. The characters and their tales jumped off the pages; the story came to life; and the world of the Horsemen felt like it was right there in front of me the whole time.

Finally yet importantly, I have to add that I loved the ending. It was anywhere near the “perfect” ending most stories have these days. Instead, it gave me as well as other readers an honest ending. It was hopeful; do not get me wrong, but it also was realistic in the best way possible.

Startling and unflinchingly honest, Rage packs quite the punch, and let me tell you, if you enjoyed Hunger, you will love this one. I can only the next one will be as good.

Grade: A+

Rage is now out!

Source: Publisher

I also had the chance to ask Jackie a few questions about Rage and some other things so without a further ado...

LCB: In your opinion, what are the top three reasons why readers should consider picking up Rage, your latest release, the next time they see it in stores or online?

JK: 1. It takes a hard-hitting look at self-injury; 2. It has the Horsemen of the Apocalypse; and 3. Death plays the guitar. :)

LCB: Death playing the guitar is enough of reason to read it, in my opinion! Anyhow, Rage tells the story of Missy, a teen who faces problems surrounding self-mutilation, which leaves me to wonder why you gave her this particular trait? In addition, do you have any advice for others who may be going through similar problems to Missy’s?

JK: When I finished writing HUNGER, the first book in the Riders of the Apocalypse (in which an anorexic teenage girl becomes Famine), my agent said to me, “Which Horseman are you writing about next?” Based on events in HUNGER, it made sense for the Horseman to be War. In my series, War carries a humongous sword, which is her symbol of office. When I thought about the sword, making the connection to another sort of blade — in Missy’s case, a razor — came quickly. That’s when I began to research self-injury.

I’m donating a portion of proceeds of RAGE to a terrific organization called To Write Love On Her Arms . This non-profit group is there for people who are coping with depression, self-injury, addiction and suicidal thoughts—it is there to offer support and to help people find treatment options near them. TWLOHA is there, ready to listen to anyone who needs to talk. As the organization says, your story matters. :)

LCB: Very cool! To Write Love On Her Arms is such a great group! Rage is the second addition to the Horseman of the Apocalypse series, which leaves me to wonder the follow: what is your favorite aspect of writing this series, and what inspired you to switch up who the main characters are with each book?

JK: I’d had the idea for HUNGER for 10 years, so when I finally sat down to write it, it all came pouring out. I had no idea that Death was going to look (and sound, and sing) like Kurt Cobain. It just happened. That was very fun—and now I know exactly why he looks like Kurt, and what his story is. And I can’t wait to tell it! **rubs hands gleefully** So as a series, I’d say writing Death’s character throughout is my favorite part.

I knew when HUNGER was done that Lisa’s story was complete, and that I wouldn’t be revisiting her and James. Therefore, I needed a new protagonist for RAGE. It took me a while before I discovered Missy, and longer before she opened up to me.

When it was time for me to start writing LOSS, which is about a bullied teenage boy who is tricked into becoming the new Pestilence, it made sense for the protagonist to be male because the White Rider, whom we’ve seen in both HUNGER and RAGE, is male. Consistency rocks!

LCB: Consistency does rock, and I love seeing all the crossover characters! Since becoming an official teen author with last year’s Hunger, have you experienced any noteworthy ‘rock star’ type moments? If so, do you have any you would like to share?

JK: LOL — well, just the other week, Richelle Mead, Rachel Caine and I, and a boatload of other people, got kicked out of a dinner party in a hotel room for, apparently, being too noisy. At 9:30 pm on a Saturday night. In Los Angeles. (!!!) We didn’t even break any of the furniture! But at least we ate before Security told us to leave. (Priorities!!!)

LCB: haha, that's hilarious and defiently rock star-worthy! Anyhow, Rage’s release date was April 4. How did you spend the day?

JK: Working at my full-time day job, and then going to my favorite local indie bookstore, Flights of Fantasy in Colonie, NY, and doing a reading/signing/Q&A about Rage. :)

LCB: What is up next for you, book-wise?

JK: I’m currently working to finish writing LOSS, the third book in the Riders of the Apocalypse (goal finish date: THIS THURSDAY!!!), and then before I start writing the fourth and final Riders book (BREATH, which is Death’s book, yay!), I have an idea for a middle-grade (tween) book that I want to write for my boys. :)

~~

YAY, I can't wait to read Loss and Breath, especially Breath, as I'm eager to see things from Death's point of view! Anyhow, thanks so much for stopping by Jackie!

Also, as part of the tour Jackie's hosting an awesome contest. Here's all the details you need to know.

Riders of the Apocalypse giveaway! Three lucky winners will receive one copy each of HUNGER and RAGE along with postcards and a mini-poster! To enter, send an e-mail to RageGiveaway@gmail.com. In the body of the e-mail, include your name and e-mail address (if you're under 13, submit a parent's name and e-mail address). One entry per person and prizes will only be shipped to US or Canadian addresses. Entries must be received by midnight (PDT) on 4/30/11. Winners will be selected in a random drawing on 5/1/11 and notified via email.

Jackie's next stop is In Bed with Books. Be sure to check it out! To find out more about Jackie and her books, head on over to her website.

In My Mailbox (118)

In My Mailbox was started by Kristi at The Story Siren.

For Review:

Flawless by Lara Chapman (Read it as soon as I got it, and let me tell you, it was AMAZING! My review will be posted within the next couple of weeks!)

Tempest Rising by Tracy Deebs (Mermaids? Count me in!)

OyMG by Amy Fellner Dominy (I've heard so many good things about this one.)

The A Circuit by Catherine Hapka and Georgina Bloomberg (Pitched as The A List meets Canterwood Crest. I'm looking forward to reading it.)

If Sons, Then Heirs by Lorene Cary (Not my usual read but it looked too good to pass up!)

Hotel No Tell by Daphne Uviller (Sounds like a fun mystery!)

Annie Begins by Michelle Toth (Blurbed by one of my favorite authors Jennifer Sturman, the person behind And Then Everything Unraveled and And Then the Truth Came Out!)

eBooks for Review:

Happy Birthday to Me by Brian Rowe (Sounds interesting!)

Aurora Undefined by Kate Hinderer (As does this one!)

Much thanks goes to Brian Rowe, Kate Hinderer, Kate at Bloomsbury, Cristina at Simon and Schuster, Christelle at BookSparksPR/Random House, and Jocelyn Kelley & Hall Book Publicity!

Such a great book week! Though, the big question is, which book should I read and review next out of the ones above? Feel free to live your choice below. Anyhow, enough about me, what did you get this week? Anything super exciting? Let me know in the comments, and feel free to link to your own IMM posts- I look forward to seeing them. :)

Have a great week everyone!

Red Glove by Holly Black

Summary/Cover Image from Publisher's Website:

Curses and cons. Magic and the mob. In Cassel Sharpe's world, they go together. Cassel always thought he was an ordinary guy, until he realized his memories were being manipulated by his brothers. Now he knows the truth—he's the most powerful curse worker around. A touch of his hand can transform anything—or anyone—into something else.

That was how Lila, the girl he loved, became a white cat. Cassel was tricked into thinking he killed her, when actually he tried to save her. Now that she's human again, he should be overjoyed. Trouble is, Lila's been cursed to love him, a little gift from his emotion worker mom. And if Lila's love is as phony as Cassel's made-up memories, then he can't believe anything she says or does.

When Cassel's oldest brother is murdered, the Feds recruit Cassel to help make sense of the only clue—crime-scene images of a woman in red gloves. But the mob is after Cassel too—they know how valuable he could be to them. Cassel is going to have to stay one step ahead of both sides just to survive. But where can he turn when he can't trust anyone—least of all, himself?

Love is a curse and the con is the only answer in a game too dangerous to lose.

Review:

Sometimes sequels are even better than prequels. It does not happen often, but when it does, it is nothing short of spectacular. Luckily, Holly Black’s Red Glove was one of those books. Spellbinding, unique, fast paced, Red Glove packs quite the punch to say the least.

It has been a while since White Cat left off, and Cassel is still dealing with the drama and mishaps that previously occurred. He is barley talking to his brothers- given the fact he can barely trust them-, and he is avoiding the girl of his dreams, thanks to the ridiculous curse of his mother’s, among other things. However, everything changes when the feds contact him after his older brother’s suspicious death. Learning things about the past as well as the current times, Cassel falls into yet another sketchy situation, leaving him torn between “good” and “bad.” What side of the game will Cassel fall on? Will everything with Lila ever get better? Only time and more pages will tell in this action-packed sequel.

In this addition, Cassel grew greatly as a character. He became someone I didn’t just “like” but “love.” For one, he is pretty kick-butt. He is cunning and manipulative at times, but he still is a huge sweetheart when it comes down to it. I especially loved seeing his relationship with Lila continue, as it caused lots of suspense and intrigue. Moreover, not only did the secondary characters in this also grew greatly, but they also played such a great role in the book as either the “bad” people or the “good” or even sometimes in between the two.

I also adored the plot of this one! It was filled with so many heart-stopping moments that continuously had me on the edge of my seat, dying to know what would happen next. There were many twists and turns involving not only the curse workers but the characters and their relationships as well. I especially loved the ending, as it completely amazed me becasue I did not expect it one bit.

Full of twists and turns, Red Glove is a book you simply cannot miss this spring season!

Now if I could only get the third one ASAP…

Grade: A-

Red Glove is now out!

Source: Galley Grab

Where She Went by Gayle Forman

Summary/Cover Image from Publisher's Website:

It's been three years since the devastating accident . . . three years since Mia walked out of Adam's life forever.

Now living on opposite coasts, Mia is Juilliard's rising star and Adam is LA tabloid fodder, thanks to his new rock star status and celebrity girlfriend. When Adam gets stuck in New York by himself, chance brings the couple together again, for one last night. As they explore the city that has become Mia's home, Adam and Mia revisit the past and open their hearts to the future-and each other.

Told from Adam's point of view in the spare, lyrical prose that defined If I Stay, Where She Went explores the devastation of grief, the promise of new hope, and the flame of rekindled romance.

Review:

Two years ago a little book named If I Stay captured my heart with its fantastic writing as well as characters and world building, and with Where She Went, this statement rings even more true. Heartbreaking as well as heartwarming, Gayle Forman’s Where She Went picks the reader up with the very first word and doesn’t let go until the very last.

Where She Went opens up three years after If I Stay left off. However, everything is much different from what it used to be. Adam is a famous rock singer, and Mia’s thriving at Julliard, quickly becoming the next big thing in classical music. Moreover, while these two seem to have everything and more, they don’t have each other…they haven’t since Mia left Adam all those years ago unexpectedly. However, when Adam runs into Mia once lonely night in New York City, everything shifts once again. Thrown together on a wild goose chase, Mia and Adam are left to face the past as well as the future. Will they came together once again, or will they be left even more far apart at the end of the night? In addition, what exactly happened all those years ago as well as the one’s leading up to this night? Only time and more pages will tell in this heart-wrenching yet hopeful sequel to If I Stay.

When I first learned that Where She Went would be told from Adam’s perspective, I have to admit, I was a bit worried. I wondered if Gayle Forman would be able to pull it off…if she would be able to make me as dedicated to Adam’s story as she did with Mia’s. However, I should never have doubted her, as not only did she allow jump Adam and his emotions and feelings to jump of the page, but she left so much room for me as well as other readers to relate to him and like him.

Adam is a character who is very lost in life. He doesn’t really know what he wants, let alone how to get it. He’s a character who while whined a bit too much, still remanded loveable, easy to root for, and most importantly, relatable. However, what I liked most about it was the way I was able to see the whole situation from If I Stay in a very different light, a very intriguing one to say the least.

I also adored the plot in this one. The way Gayle jumped from present to what occurred in the past three years was nothing short of brilliant, as it truly opened my eyes to what lead Mia and Adam to becoming so far apart yet so close. I also loved the wild goose chase Mia lead Adam on, as well as the way through it Mia and Adam’s characters both grew. I could go on and on for days about it but I don’t want to give anything away.

Lastly, just like in If I Stay, Gayle Forman’s writing is flawless. I’m constantly awed by how easily she’s able to develop her characters into such well-rounded people so to say. She’s just an incredible writer.

In all, Where She Went blew me away in all ways possible. It was, without a doubt, the perfect ending to Mia and Adam’s story…the ending I didn’t realize I needed.

In addition, can I just add how much I’m looking forward to reading more by Ms. Forman?

Grade: A+

Where She Went is now out!

Source: Netgalley

Waiting on Wednesday (106)

Waiting on Wednesday was started by Jill at Breaking the Spine.

My pick this week is:

On the Fringe by Courtney King Walker

Claire is struggling to overcome the murder of her childhood friend and secret crush, Daniel. Everyone else seems to be moving on with their lives, but she's still trying to cope. The fact that she finds herself alone and drowning on her 16th birthday isn't helping.

Neither is thinking she sees Daniel's face in murky water as she mysteriously resurfaces. But something happened during those four and a half minutes that will make her realize it was not just her imagination.

As Claire and Daniel try to grasp a possible reconnection, other grudge-holding beings have plans of their own. Now, the two of them have to decide if their fleeting relationship is worth the possibility of Claire being trapped on the fringe forever.

Beautifully told, On the Fringe intertwines fresh ideas about devotion, revenge, and the consequences that come with life and death.

Doesn't the premise of this book sound amazing? I love the idea of a "fringe", and I'm eager to see Claire and Daniel reconnection as well whether or not it changes things for the better or worse.

On the Fringe comes out October 19, 2011!

Adversary by Kate Kaynak

Summary/Cover Image from Publisher's Website:

Things are more dangerous than they seem at Ganzfield, and not everyone will survive. Does Maddie have what it takes?

See what happens next in the sequel to Minder.

Review:

If you thought Minder was fantastic, well just wait until you read Adversary, the next fast paced, heart-stopping tale in Kate Kaynak's Ganzfield series!

Starting a few months after Minder ended, Adversary picks up with even more action and surprises. For one, after Maddie and her team, including Trevor, Rachel, Drew, etc., are off on a overnight mission, they return to an askew, nearly deserted Ganzfield. Not only has Ganzfield itself been pretty much been torn apart but more than half the population is dead! Knowing that the evil, conniving, Isaiah is behind it, Maddie and her team are once again on the run, hoping that this time they will finally be able to stop Isaiah once and for all. But will they succeed, or will even more blood be shed? Only time will tell in this second addition filled with even more romance, surprises, and loss than the first one.

Just like the first addition, one of the richest parts of Adversary is the fantastic cast of characters. Once again we get to see right into Maddie and her friends' lives. Maddie is yet again the bravest of the bunch, and while she does make some silly, rash decisions, you can't help but love her determination and fierceness. Even better, I loved the development into Maddie and Trevor's relationship, because not only was it much needed but it made me truly understand why Maddie and Trevor love each other so much on an emotional level. I also loved to hate Isaiah, the scary man who wants to kill off Ganzfield population, because even though he is someone I detest, he still manages to bring a lot of twists and turns into the novel and series with his evilness.

Kate Kaynak also did a fantastic job with the plot of this one, because not only did it include even more world and character building but it also was filled with many heart racing moments, and the ending has left me eager for more, more, and more!

In all, Kate Kaynak manages to shine as an author once again with Adversary!

Grade: A

Adversary is now out!

Source: Author. Thanks Kate!