INVALUABLE by Holly J Wood

help wanted
Sixteen-year-old girl seeks advice on how to reach out to a sister who has become distant; how to make up with my best friend, who spends every moment with her new boyfriend;how to avoid losing my job over working on Sundays; and how to figure out who has been putting love notes in my locker.Applicants are also required to provide advice on how to handle being head-over-heels for my prom date's best friend—who happens to be the hottest guy in school.
Math tutoring a plus.
Interested persons may contact Eliza Moore. Sound like a tall order? Well, that is what Eliza Moore is up against during her sophomore year of high school. But when her great-grandmother begins visiting Eliza in her dreams, everything starts to change. These dreams take Eliza back in time to see extraordinary women who help teach her about eight important values. As Eliza learns more about these women and the values they lived by, she discovers the courage and confidence she needs to face her challenges—and her secret admirer.

First line:
""Eliza! Honey, please hurry down for breakfast.""

Rating: PG
V: No
L: No
S: No

Good, clean LDS book about virtues and standing for what is right and righteous. Young Women will enjoy this book as it addresses temptations and worldly conduct and what they can do to strengthen themselves.


Liked:
Young Women values

Disliked:
Nothing

4 STARS

TRANSPARENT by Natalie Whipple

Plenty of teenagers feel invisible. Fiona McClean actually is.

An invisible girl is a priceless weapon. Fiona’s own father has been forcing her to do his dirty work for years—everything from spying on people to stealing cars to breaking into bank vaults.

After sixteen years, Fiona’s had enough. She and her mother flee to a small town, and for the first time in her life, Fiona feels like a normal life is within reach. But Fiona’s father isn’t giving up that easily.

Of course, he should know better than anyone: never underestimate an invisible girl.

First line:
"I nearly died the second I was born."

Pitched as Godfather meets X-Men is a pretty good assessment. There is a mafia and there are people with special powers.
And a story about an invisible girl? Cool. Poor Fiona is a teen and invisible. Literally, invisible. I enjoyed reading her storyline and how she changed and grew as a person.
I liked the neighbors! And Seth.
I hoped for more reconciliation between Fiona and her mom.  And maybe a little more scenes with her dad.
A quick, fun story with a cast of interesting characters. Ms. Whipple has debuted a great book. Keep 'em coming, Natalie!


Rating: PG 13
V: Some fighting
L: Sprinkling of swear words
S: Kissing

Liked:
Seth
Special abilities
The twist

Disliked:
Fiona's treatment of her mom
Ending came too quickly

4 STARS

CODE WORD by Traci Hunter Abramson

The media portrayed the military operation as a complete success, but Navy SEAL Jay Wellman wouldn’t describe it that way. He was there. As he tries to come to terms with his role that fateful night, he notices something different about his teammates and wonders if there may be more to their beliefs than he first thought.

When she heard the gunshots, Carina Channing knew the past had caught up with her. She may have changed her last name, but she can’t change who her father is. Carina understands the evil that lurks in “The Family,” and she is determined to steer clear of that life and any other emotional connections.

When they meet, it seems Jay and Carina have only two things in common—mutual attraction and the fact that they are both struggling to overcome devastating trauma. But when a member of The Family arrives and upsets the delicate balance in Carina’s life, Jay chisels away at the barrier Carina has erected around her heart and offers himself as her protector and friend. But can Jay’s Navy SEAL skills, military connections, and loyal Saint Squad friends keep Carina and her sisters safe? And with their different beliefs, can Jay and Carina’s friendship grow into anything more?

First line:
"Carina Channing navigated her way through the outskirts of Denver and listened to her two younger sisters chat about their summer plans."

I enjoy reading Traci's stories for three reasons:
1. She knows what she's talking about when it comes to knowledge about CIA, FBI and other secretive stuff.
2. She develops her all characters really, really, well.
3.  She always has great romantic tension.

Carina's father is a mob boss and in prison for killing his wife. Lou, a friend and bodyguard, has helped Carina and her two sisters stay away from the family and safe. Carina meets Jay, a Navy SEAL, and there is a connection between them but Carina doesn't trust anyone because of her crazy family. 
Jay is a good, strong man who isn't easily intimidated, even by people sent from the Mafia to gather up Carina and her sisters. Jay helps keep them safe when the bad guys come looking for them.
I enjoyed reading Jay's story and the story between Jay and Carina. I did skim a little on the parts where there was a lot of interior dialogue. But overall, this is a good, clean, intriguing read. Keep up the good work, Traci!


Rating: PG 13
V: Mafia, shootings, intense moments
L: No
S: No

Liked:
Jay! I loved Jay!

Disliked:
I had to wait to long for the main couple to get together :)
Skimming a little 

4 1/2 STARS

THE LOST GIRL by Sangu Mandanna

Eva's life is not her own. She is a creation, an abomination—an echo. She was made by the Weavers as a copy of someone else, expected to replace a girl named Amarra, her "other," if she ever died. Eva spends every day studying that girl from far away, learning what Amarra does, what she eats, what it's like to kiss her boyfriend, Ray. So when Amarra is killed in a car crash, Eva should be ready.

But sixteen years of studying never prepared her for this.

Now she must abandon everything and everyone she's ever known—the guardians who raised her, the boy she's forbidden to love—to move to India and convince the world that Amarra is still alive.

What Eva finds is a grief-stricken family; parents unsure how to handle this echo they thought they wanted; and Ray, who knew every detail, every contour of Amarra. And when Eva is unexpectedly dealt a fatal blow that will change her existence forever, she is forced to choose: Stay and live out her years as a copy or leave and risk it all for the freedom to be an original. To be Eva.

First line:
"I remember being in town with minna ma."

I can't rate this book. I never finished it. I tried. I got about a third of the way through and had to stop. I love the premise of the book, just not the way it was written. I never really connected to the characters except Sean. I was hoping it would be more unique but it followed the same formula of other books. Girl doesn't fit in; love triangle; girl must fight against prejudice, etc etc. It's not bad, it's just my expectations weren't meet.

BOYS, GIRLS & OTHER HAZARDOUS MATERIALS by Rosalind Wiseman

Looking for a new beginning after a terrible mean girl past, Charlie Healey realizes there's no escaping high school drama...

Charlie Healey thinks Harmony Falls is the beginning of a whole new life. Middle school was brutal. But high school is Charlie's big chance to start over and stay out of drama, except that on her first day she runs into Will, her ex-best friend, who had moved away. Now a varsity athlete and hotter than Charlie remembered, Will hangs with the crowd running the school. But Charlie doesn't understand their power until an innocent delivery guy falls victim to a near-deadly hazing prank.

Torn between doing what's right and her secret feelings for Will, Charlie must decide whether to turn in her very best friend or live with the guilt of knowing what he did.

Rosalind Wiseman's first novel for young adults is a fresh, funny, and juicy read about friendship, betrayal, and how far some will go to be accepted.

First line:
"Here's the deal."

What will you put up with to have friends?
Charlotte, AKA Charlie, was in a negative relationship in junior high and was ecstatic to leave it behind when she entered a different high school. The girls were mean, degrading and enjoyed putting others down. When something happened they didn't like, they resorted to bullying and cyber bullying.  Unfortunately, Charlie did not stand up for the other person nor did she stand up to her friends. That is hard to do!
But after Charlie finds friends who like her and are positive and stand by her, she develops into a stronger person. So when she gets the chance, she tells off her ex friends. Her BFF, Sydney, watches the exchange and is pretty proud and amazed at Charlie. So when a boy starts bullying Sydney, she takes a page out of Charlie's setting-down-mean-frenemies and tells him off. But she takes it a little further and Charlie feels she has to tell her friend to stop.
In the meantime, their is hazing going on and someone gets hurt. Charlie saw the whole incident and feels she has to tell someone but she's stopped by others because who do you tell? Adults? They don't really care. They are all about image and the schools reputation.
So Charlie has to make amends with her friend, find the courage to turn someone in for a hit-and-run and try to figure out the boy she's crushing on.
This is a good story about healthy relationships from girls to girls, boys/girls to girls/boys and teens to adults. The story was pretty balanced in adults who will help and understand to those who turn their head and ignore. And a good balance with stupid girls and smart ones. Also, the problems were real life problems that can be handled and this book teaches some ways to handle them.
The characters were written well and grew throughout the book.
I think this book is worth teens, boys, girls and parents, reading.



Rating: PG 14
V: Bullying, hazing
L: Swearing sprinkled throughout
S: Kissing

Liked:
 Sydney
Charlie
Will
Good look at healthy relationships

Disliked:
Excessive use of exclamation points!!!!

3 1/2 STARS

SONGS OF WILLOW FROST by Jamie Ford

Twelve-year-old William Eng, a Chinese-American boy, has lived at Seattle’s Sacred Heart Orphanage ever since his mother’s listless body was carried away from their small apartment five years ago. On his birthday—or rather, the day the nuns designate as his birthday—William and the other orphans are taken to the historical Moore Theatre, where William glimpses an actress on the silver screen who goes by the name of Willow Frost. Struck by her features, William is convinced that the movie star is his mother, Liu Song.
Determined to find Willow, and prove his mother is still alive, William escapes from Sacred Heart with his friend Charlotte. The pair navigates the streets of Seattle, where they must not only survive, but confront the mysteries of William’s past and his connection to the exotic film star. The story of Willow Frost, however, is far more complicated than the Hollywood fantasy William sees onscreen.
Shifting between the Great Depression and the 1920s, Songs of Willow Frost takes readers on an emotional journey of discovery. Jamie Ford’s sweeping book will resonate with anyone who has ever longed for the comforts of family and a place to call home.


First line:
"William Eng woke to the sound of a snapping leather belt and the shrieking of rust springs that supported the threadbare mattress of his army surplus bed."

Jamie Ford is a gifted writer. His talent is bringing places and times to life through good storytelling. This newest book of his is no exception.
Willow's life is never really her own. She does as others ask or demand. The era she lives in is not kind to the Chinese and everywhere she turns, she is looked down on, even in her own family. Her parents were singers and actors. Willow inherited a beautiful voice and is able to earn money by singing.
The chapters are either set in 1934, William's time (Willow's 12 yr old son), or 1921, telling about Willow's younger life.
I enjoyed Jamie's last book and was excited to see this one on netgalley so I requested it. I had a hard time reading it. Without spoiling the story, let's just say I got very frustrated with the story. I learned how hard and prejudice society was toward unwed mothers AND the Chinese people. The injustices were pointed out again and again and again and again. So much so that I started skimming. I wanted something positive to happen sometime!
I never really empathized with William. He didn't act twelve. I actually thought he was younger.
 I did like the romance between Willow and Colin but that one left a bitter aftertaste as well.
Finishing the book was hard, but I was determined to get through it. If not for Jamie's writing ability, I would have given up one third of the way through.



Rating: Adult reading
V: Bullies
L: No
S: Yes: one scene of rape, implied prostitution

Liked:
love story of Willow and Colin

Disliked:
Willow's constantly harsh life


3 STARS

Thanks to netgalley for the preview

TIGER'S CURSE (The Tiger Saga #1) by Colleen Houck

Passion. Fate. Loyalty.

Would you risk it all to change your destiny?

The last thing Kelsey Hayes thought she’d be doing this summer was trying to break a 300-year-old Indian curse. With a mysterious white tiger named Ren. Halfway around the world. But that’s exactly what happened. Face-to-face with dark forces, spellbinding magic, and mystical worlds where nothing is what it seems, Kelsey risks everything to piece together an ancient prophecy that could break the curse forever.

Tiger’s Curse is the exciting first volume in an epic fantasy-romance that will leave you breathless and yearning for more.

First line:
"The prisoner stood with his hands tied in front of him."

I really liked the idea of this story. A curse that spanned hundreds of years that needed broken, a beautiful tiger and handsome prince. What could be better? Well, maybe an editor who put this book through one more revision. But I did enjoy the story and adventures.

Rating: PG
S: No; teen lusting, some kissing
L: No
V: Some fighting, intense scenes

Liked:
Ren 

Disliked:
Constantly referring to Ren's strong chest, cobalt blue eyes, beautiful face. 
Kelsey's tantrums 

2 1/2 STARS

THE RUNAWAY KING (The Ascendance Trilogy #2) by Jennifer A. Nielsen

A kingdom teetering on the brink of destruction. A king gone missing. Who will survive? Find out in the highly anticipated sequel to Jennifer A. Nielsen's blockbuster THE FALSE PRINCE!

Just weeks after Jaron has taken the throne, an assassination attempt forces him into a deadly situation. Rumors of a coming war are winding their way between the castle walls, and Jaron feels the pressure quietly mounting within Carthya. Soon, it becomes clear that deserting the kingdom may be his only hope of saving it. But the further Jaron is forced to run from his identity, the more he wonders if it is possible to go too far. Will he ever be able to return home again? Or will he have to sacrifice his own life in order to save his kingdom?

The stunning second installment of The Ascendance Trilogy takes readers on a roller-coaster ride of treason and murder, thrills and peril, as they journey with the Runaway King!


First line:
"I had arrived early for my own assassination."
I'm really enjoying this series. There are pirates, treasures and a princess involved in this installment.
Jaron is the rightful king and after making it back on the throne, he has to leave it again to keep his country safe. He turns on the people who are close to him so they don't get hurt because of him. I( didn't really like that part.) I felt bad for both Imogen and Amarinda. I like both of them and didn't think they got treated well.
I thought Jaron was clever and I found myself rooting for him to win, even when he pulled through because something convenient happened. 
There is a lot of action and a few twists that kept me reading. Good job, Ms. Nielsen.


Rating: PG
S: No
L: No
V: Some fighting

Liked:
Jaron
Storyline

Disliked:
Roden
Why Roden??


4 1/2 STARS

WHEN THE BUTTERFLIES CAME by Kimberley Griffths Little

Everybody thinks Tara Doucet has the perfect life. But in reality, Tara’s life is anything but perfect: Her dear Grammy Claire has just passed away, her mother is depressed and distant, and she and her sister Riley can’t seem to agree on anything. But when mysterious and dazzling butterflies begin to follow her around after Grammy Claire’s funeral, Tara just knows in her heart that her grandmother has left her one final mystery to solve.

A strange butler brings Tara and Riley to Grammy Claire’s house, where Tara finds a stack of keys and detailed letters from Grammy Claire herself. Note by note, Tara learns unexpected truths about her grandmother’s life. As the letters grow more ominous and the clues more difficult to decipher, Tara realizes that the secrets she must uncover could lead to mortal danger. And when Tara and Riley are swept away to the beautiful islands of Chuuk to hear their grandmother’s will, Tara discovers the most shocking truth of all — one that will change her life forever.

From Kimberley Griffiths Little comes a magical, breathtaking mystery full of loss and love, family and faith.

First line:
"The butterfly comes the day after the funeral."
Beautifully written.  There is a lot of sadness in this book. Loss of loved ones and innocence but live still has to be lived. That is what Tara finds out. 
I did enjoy the clues and watching Tara and The Boy unravel them. Tara had to overcome some fears to do so and I thought that was strengthening for her character.
I like the butterflies, though I wasn't fascinated by them and their behavior didn't make anything sparkle for me. BUT I did enjoy the book! And I like the author. She's super nice. :)

Rating: PG
V: Someone trying to hurt the Doucet
L: No
S: No

Liked:
settings
Tara
The Clues
The Boy

Disliked:
Surprise twist

 4 1/2 STARS

THE REBELS OF CORDOVIA by Linda Weaver Clarke

Centuries after the legendary Robin Hood, a group of men and women find themselves fighting for speech, and equality. Robin's Rebels realize they must fight against the tyranny of a wicked king and help the people survive this oppression. In the small country of Cordovia, small groups of revels begin springing up, but its Robin's Rebels who get the attention of the king.

In this battle for freedom, a tender love story begins to blossom. Daniel, a rogue and a leader of the Freemen, doesn't realize that the sweet feminine woman he has met and is falling for happens to be the leader of Robin's Rebels. realizing the importance of uniting all the rebel groups, Daniel tries to recruit Robin's Rebels but they refuse. Now he has to find a way to convince them. When he finds out the leader is actually a woman, what will his reaction be?

First line: "There was a time when life was easy, neighbors cared about one another, and charity reigned in the kingdom."


 I'm a sucker for a romance. I really am. And throw in Robin Hood, a strong female and a romance and I'm hooked.
I liked the story of Robin Marie. She's spunky and strong. Daniel is her equal. I liked how their two stories merged.
There is a lot of description in this story so I skimmed the story a little. The characters weren't always real but they were good, strong people who any reader would like to read.
I loved the twist at the end.


Liked:
Robin Marie
Daniel

Disliked:
Pacing (I skimmed)

3 STARS

  -->

The Stories of Robin Hood is Inspiration for The Rebels of Cordovia

We celebrate Independence Day, remembering the freedom we fought for centuries ago. Many patriots had to pay for this freedom with their lives and we are grateful to those who fought for our liberty. In this new novel, you get a glimpse of what another country had to fight for, as well. The freedom of speech, the freedom of equality, and the freedom to worship as we please! No one could have a greater gift than this.

This tale will entertain those who enjoy bits of adventure, humor, mystery, and a tender love story. The stories of Robin Hood have enchanted readers for years. In our youth, we enjoyed hearing the escapades of Robin Hood and were spellbound by each story and how he cared for the people. How awesome would it be to live during that time period just because of Robin Hood! In The Rebels of Cordovia, a similar story is created but centuries after the legend of Robin Hood. But this time, there are two major groups of rebels fighting for the rights of the people. Daniel, a good-looking rogue, would be the leader of the Freemen. Robin Marie, a young woman, would be the leader of Robin’s Rebels. Each leader is an expert archer and swordsman. With bits of adventure and delectable kisses, this tale will entertain anyone who enjoys a sweet romance.

In The Rebels of Cordovia by Linda Weaver Clarke, the time period is set in the late 1700s. Centuries after the legendary Robin Hood, a group of men and women find themselves fighting for the same cause: for their rights, for freedom of speech, and equality. Robin’s Rebels realize they must fight against the tyranny of a wicked king and help the people survive this oppression. In the small country of Cordovia, groups of rebels begin springing up, but its Robin’s Rebels who get the attention of the king.

In this battle for freedom, a tender love story begins to blossom. Daniel, a rogue and a leader of the Freemen, doesn’t realize that the sweet feminine woman he has met and is falling for happens to be the leader of Robin’s Rebels. Realizing the importance of uniting all the rebel groups, Daniel tries to recruit Robin’s Rebels but they refuse. Now he has to find a way to convince them. When he finds out the leader is actually a woman, what will his reaction be?

Author Anna Del C. Dye wrote: “What a fun and interesting tale The Rebels of Cordovia is. A very good story to keep you glued all the way to the end. I really enjoyed the romance mingled with the fights. It is a well-paced tale to give you entertainment next to a warm fire in the rain. Linda writes a good, clean, and sweet romance, for young adults and adults alike. You will enjoy this story to the end.”

Read a sample chapter here: http://www.lindaweaverclarke.com/rebels.html

The Rebels of Cordovia by Linda Weaver Clarke

Genre: Sweet romance

ISBN: 978-1484147658

Purchase Book Link: http://www.lindaweaverclarke.com/purchasebook.html

Price: $12.95, Ebook: $2.99

THE LIONS OF LITTLE ROCK by Kristin Levine Beehive Award Nominee

Two girls separated by race form an unbreakable bond during the tumultuous integration of Little Rock schools in 1958

Twelve-year-old Marlee doesn't have many friends until she meets Liz, the new girl at school. Liz is bold and brave, and always knows the right thing to say, especially to Sally, the resident mean girl. Liz even helps Marlee overcome her greatest fear - speaking, which Marlee never does outside her family.

But then Liz is gone, replaced by the rumor that she was a Negro girl passing as white. But Marlee decides that doesn't matter. Liz is her best friend. And to stay friends, Marlee and Liz are willing to take on integration and the dangers their friendship could bring to both their families.


First line:
"I talk a lot."

An intriguing read about a year during the civil rights movement set in Little Rock in the 50's. I get frustrated with anyone being bullied or picked on by people who think they are bigger and better than someone else. This story brought out some of the frustration and I wanted to knock a few heads together. I have to say I enjoyed all the characters because they all changed or ended up suffering with the natural consequences of their actions.
Marlee hardly speaks. Her family encourages her but she's shy. Then she meets Liz who helps her speak. Then Liz is gone and there is a rumor that she was a black girl passes as a white girl. Marlee is forbidden from seeing Liz and at first is fine with that edict because she feels Liz lied to her. But after thinking about Liz and missing her, Marlee decides to see her friend anyway.
Marlee becomes more and more courageous as she tries to help her friend.


Rating: G
V: Bullies
S: No
L:No

Liked:
Character arc
Marlee
Liz
The lions
Teaching of the era through story

Disliked:
Some preaching

4 STARS

A WOUNDED NAME by Dot Hutchison

There's a girl who could throw herself head first into life and forge an unbreakable name, an identity that stands on its own without fathers or brothers or lovers who devour and shatter.

I'VE NEVER BEEN THAT GIRL.

Sixteen-year-old Ophelia Castellan will never be just another girl at Elsinore Academy. Seeing ghosts is not a skill prized in future society wives. Even when she takes her pills, the bean sidhe beckon, reminding her of a promise to her dead mother.

Now, in the wake of the Headmaster's sudden death, the whole academy is in turmoil, and Ophelia can no longer ignore the fae. Especially once she starts seeing the Headmaster's ghosts- two of them- on the school grounds.

At the center of her crumbling world is Dane, the Headmaster's grieving son. He, too, understands the power of a promise to a parent- even a dead one. To him, Ophelia is the only person not tainted by deceit and hypocrisy, a mirror of his own broken soul. And to Ophelia, Dane quickly becomes everything. Yet even as she gives more of herself to him, Dane slips away. Consumed by suspicion, rage, and madness, he spirals towards his tragic fate- dragging Ophelia, and the rest of Elsinore, with him.

YOU KNOW HOW THIS STORY ENDS.

Yet even in the face of certain death, Ophelia has a choice to make- and a promise to keep. She is not the girl others want her to be. But in Dot Hutchison's dark and sensuous debut novel, the name "Ophelia" is as deeply, painfully, tragically real as "Hamlet"

First line:
"The sky is blue today."

The first line doesn't do justice to the lyrical words throughout the book. The haunting, twisted, profound sentences that Ms. Hutchison weaves together to tell a story we all know and yet now, we understand.
This story is set in modern times at Elsinore Academy.  Dane's dad, the headmaster, has mysteriously died. Now the uncle is taking over, even marrying the widow (remembering Hamlet now?). Dane is distraught, grieving, angry and after talking with his dad's ghost, ready for revenge. He constantly yells at his mom or says snide things to her now that's she remarried. The only friends he feels he can turn to are Ophelia and Horatio.
Ophelia is beautifully portrayed in this story. Wanting to badly to be seen by others for who she is and not "her mother's daughter" (in other words, crazy), she takes Dane's pain, both literally and figuratively. I don't like that he isn't respectful to her or tries and protects her better from himself. He often leaves her more bruised after she's tried to consul him.
All the characters are well developed. From Dane to Ophelia to her mom's ghost, all the characters were unique and drove the story and madness.
The story flows well and chaotically. Even though I knew the ending, I was fighting it. I wanted a happier ending.



Quotes:
"I love and I hurt, inescapable and intertwined... To love is to hurt, either in giving pain or in suffering it. Which helps more with grief: feeling the pain or sharing it?"

"To whom do we owe the greater debt, the living or the dead?"

"Which is worse, to struggle to fly against the tether that always snaps you back? Or to accept the tether with such blind contentment that you don;t even mind when your wings are clipped?"

"Sorrows come not as spies but as armies whole hosts that stand at the gates to tear down our defenses."


Loved:
Horatio

Liked:
The prose
Hamlet from Ophelia's point of view

Disliked:
The bruises
Skimmed some of Shakespear's words

4 STARS

Thanks to Netgalley for the preview!

THE BRIXEN WITCH by Stacy DeKeyser

An enchanted coin. A witch’s curse. And rats, rats everywhere! What’s a boy to do?When Rudi Bauer accidentally takes a witch’s coin, he unleashes her curse. Accident or not, he knows he’s got to fix things, so he tries to return the coin, only to lose it on the witch’s magic mountain just as the snows come. Plagued all winter by terrible dreams, Rudi tries to find the coin again in the spring, but it has vanished—and a plague of rats has descended on his village.

     Then a stranger arrives and promises to rid the village of rats—for the price of the missing coin. Desperate to get rid of the rats, the villagers agree—but when they cannot pay, the stranger exacts a price too terrible for anyone to bear. Now Rudi is going to need all his courage—and some help from his savvy grandmother and a bold young girl—to set things right in this fast and funny adventure.

First line:
Rudi Bauer ran for his life and cursed his bad luck."

Beehive Award Nominee
I liked this retelling of the Pied Piper. I really liked Rudi and how he changed and grew in throughout the book. Great middle grade story and I would recommend it to any family!

Rating: G


Liked:
Pied Piper retelling
Rudi
Rudi's growth
The witch!

Didn't like:
Well, the rats. Not that I'm afraid of rats but there were soooo many! yuck!


4 1/2 STARS

INSOMNIA by J.R. Johansson

It’s been four years since I slept, and I suspect it is killing me.

Instead of sleeping, Parker Chipp enters the dream of the last person he’s had eye contact with. He spends his nights crushed by other people’s fear and pain, by their disturbing secrets—and Parker can never have dreams of his own. The severe exhaustion is crippling him. If nothing changes, Parker could soon be facing psychosis and even death.

Then he meets Mia. Her dreams, calm and beautifully uncomplicated, allow him blissful rest that is utterly addictive. Parker starts going to bizarre lengths to catch Mia’s eye every day. Everyone at school thinks he’s gone over the edge, even his best friend. And when Mia is threatened by a true stalker, everyone thinks it’s Parker.

Suffering blackouts, Parker begins to wonder if he is turning into someone dangerous. What if the monster stalking Mia is him after all?

 First line:
"It’s been four years since I slept, and I suspect it is killing me."

Oh my glob! This book made me tired...in a good way. Poor Parker! He has strange dreams that don't allow him any rest. For the last four years, the last person he makes contact before he sleeps is whose dreams he has. He witnesses horrible/odd/creepy things he wishes he didn't. (Four years!! How can someone go that long without sleep and not go crazy?)
Then he meets Mia. And looks into her eyes. Parker worries about entering her dreams but finds they are peaceful. And that he can sleep! Now Mia is like a drug to Parker. He can't get enough of her dreams because now he is rested. He almost stalks the poor girl. Then she gets threatening letters and everyone, including Parker, wonders if it's him.
Ms. Johansson has written an amazing, mind-numbing book. I couldn't take it all in at once and yet I couldn't put the book down. 
And the series is called The Night Walkers?? Creepy! And intriguing! Bring it on!


 

Rating: PG 17
L: No
S: kissing
V: Fighting, nightmares, blood,

Liked:
Unique story
Cliffhanger


Disliked:
Trilogy!
Cliffhanger

4 1/2 STARS

Thanks to Netgalley for the preview.

THE TREACHERY OF BEAUTIFUL THINGS by Ruth Frances Long

A darkly compelling mix of romance, fairy tale, and suspense from a new voice in teen fiction

The trees swallowed her brother whole, and Jenny was there to see it. Now seventeen, she revisits the woods where Tom was taken, resolving to say good-bye at last. Instead, she's lured into the trees, where she finds strange and dangerous creatures who seem to consider her the threat. Among them is Jack, mercurial and magnetic, with secrets of his own. Determined to find her brother, with or without Jack's help, Jenny struggles to navigate a faerie world where stunning beauty masks some of the most treacherous evils, and she's faced with a choice between salvation or sacrifice--and not just her own.

First line:
"The streetlights flickered on outside the window and Jenny looked up from her book."

This book is full of all sorts of literature: Shakespeare, Sleeping Beauty, mermaids, fairies, trees and more.
Jenny watched in horror as her brother was literally swallowed whole by a forest of trees. For seven years she's tried to find but nothing works. Until one day she's lured into the Realm and meets all sorts of deceptive people. Jack and Puck try to get her to leave the forest but she's determined to bring her brother back with her.
So starts Jenny's adventures, and there are many. While she's strong and smart, she's no match for the magic of the Realm so she has to rely on others to help her.


Rating: PG
S: Kissing
V: Fights, scary creatures
L: No

Liked:
Jenny
Jack

Disliked:
Some convenient rescues

3 1/2 STARS

SMART MOVE by Melanie Jacobson

The spark was undeniable the night Sandy Burke met the devastatingly handsome Jake. Conversation flowed easily, so after they parted, she waited eagerly for his call. It never came. A high-powered career woman at the ripe old age of twenty-seven, Sandy feels she has had her heart broken one too many times, and now the redheaded trendsetter is facing a major quarter-life crisis. After some introspection, Sandy determines that helping others may be the key to helping herself. When she's presented with a job offer in Washington DC as the director of New Horizons, a nonprofit organization benefiting women in poverty, it seems providential.

But now that she's moved, two major obstacles threaten the success of her first assignment: The first is her mother and her constant fog of less-than-helpful New Age advice. Secondly, plans to build another New Horizons outreach center have come to a screeching halt, thanks to the interference of a pesky lawyer and his attempts to reverse zoning approval for the building project.

After weeks of verbal sparring over the phone, Sandy is in for a shock when she comes face-to-face with her foe. The smooth voice at the other end of the line is a heart-wrenching blast from the past. In this twist of fate, Sandy sees the perfect opportunity to ensure the success of the outreach center — and to enact a little payback on this man she thought she'd left behind. And so the battle of wits begins. Will Sandy's "flirt-to-convert" plot sway her nemesis' determination to block the center, or will his charming and undeniably attractive ways convince the sassy redhead to give love a second chance?

First line:
"Sandy tapped the toe of her high-heeled boot as she considered its sharp point and where it would do the most damage to Jake Manning."

Sandy Burke has her heart in the right place. She wants to help women who need a hand up and she's passionate about saving the place she works that helps those women.
Jake Manning is a lawyer with a good, honest work ethic. He's been hired to stop the place where Sandy works from building an annex.
Unbeknownst to either party, they met, and connected a year ago. But now they are on opposite sides of a good fight.
Ms. Jacobson is a good writer and does a good job at keeping romantic tension in the story. This is a good, clean story that I was able to read in one sitting.
I have to admit though that I was annoyed with Sandy's character. While she was passionate about her side, she never listened to Jake's side. She'd rant and rave about evil corporations and how if Jake liked her he'd back off. Jake tried to explain his side several times but she always cut him off or walk away. It got old. I felt sorry for Jake and wondered WHY! he kept coming back to her. I know he felt a strong connection but why?
Finally, they called a truce and dated (against their better judgement) and something happened at court where Sandy decided she hated Jake...again. Then finally, in the last few pages of the book, Sandy really listened to Jake and they resolved their differences. I couldn't help wonder if they married what their relationship would be. Would Sandy ever listen to Jake? Would he feel he had to constantly defend himself? Not a great start I think.
And don't even get me started on how she treated her mother. Once again, Sandy didn't listen, only judged. They did make amends towards to the end, which was good!


Rating: PG
S: No
V: No
L: No

Liked:
Sandy's real name was Sand Dollar
Jake
Clean, romantic book
Book cover

Disliked:
Sandy not changing until the very end
Relationship issues

3 1/2 STARS

ESTHER THE QUEEN by H.B. Moore

She is a beautiful young Jewess, content in her life of anonymity... He is the most powerful king in the world... When chance brings the two together, the course of history is forever altered.

The glittering court of the Persian Empire serves as the backdrop for one of the most poignant tales of courage in the Bible, brought vividly to life in the pages of bestselling author H.B. Moore’s sweeping saga. And it begins on a dusty road in the Jewish Quarter . . .

An unexpected meeting between Esther and King Xerxes results in an immediate and unmistakable connection. When Esther is summoned to enter the king’s harem—the first step toward becoming his wife—Esther is torn between her desire to be with Xerxes and the knowledge that they will forever be divided by the secret of her Jewish heritage. Encouraged by her family to do what she must to help her people, she deftly navigates her new position in the palace, quickly becoming beloved by all—including Xerxes.

But when a treacherous plan threatens to engulf the kingdom in violence, Esther must choose between love and duty.


First line:
“You will be the bride today,” Abigail said, tugging on Esther’s hand.

I read Esther the Queen in one weekend. Another good story from H.B. Moore, full of intrigue and romantic tension and, as always, historically accrurate. I enjoy learning history without knowing I am.
Esther is a good, strong character. Kind, gentle and strong in her faith. She inspired me to be better. That's good writing. I had no idea how long a woman had to be 'cleansed' before meeting the king. That's a long time to think and wonder if the king is still thinking about you. Even during this part of the story, Esther was kind to those around her and made many friends and allies.
King Xerxes is cute (at least in my head) and also kind. I liked watching him change into a better/moral person. And the drive to make his kingdom and people better also.
Haman is a fantastically written villain. Vile is a good word to use for him. I hated him throughout the whole book.
There were several intense places too: the plot to kill the king, Haman making the edict and Esther going to the king.
Then came the scene with Esther going before the king and then telling him the truth a few days later--very moving. I even got teary-eyed and that's hard to do with this reader.


Rating: PG
S:Kissing
V: No
L: No

Liked:
Ms. Moore's writing
Esther
King Xerxes

Disliked:
Nothing

5 STARS

THE DAY BEFORE by Lisa Schroeder

One moment can change everything. Amber’s life is spinning out of control. All she wants is to turn up the volume on her iPod until all of the demands of family and friends fade away. So she sneaks off to the beach to spend a day by herself.

Then Amber meets Cade. Their attraction is instant, and Amber can tell he’s also looking for an escape. Together they decide to share a perfect day: no pasts, no fears, no regrets.

The more time that Amber spends with Cade, the more she’s drawn to him.  And the more she’s troubled by his darkness. Because Cade’s not just living in the now—he’s living each moment like it’s his last.

First line:
"Some mornings,
it's hard to get
out of bed."

I love books in verse for a change up in my reading. I love how quickly they read and yet they relay a story in fewer words. It's the same with THE DAY BEFORE. And just when I thought I had the plot twists figured out, I didn't.
Amber is dealing with hard news in their life. She decides to take the day off from life and enjoy her last one before she has to face some major changes and upheaval. She goes to the aquarium where she meets Cade, who is also taking the day to adjust to the changes happening in his life the next day.
The story follows how the two spend their day together with the vow not to talk about tomorrow. 
 I almost read the whole book in one sitting. It's pulled me along and wouldn't let me rest. I wanted to know Amber and Cade's secrets and how they would end their day.
There were a things that didn't make sense to me or were unrealistic but I don't want to give anything away.


Rating: PG 13
V:No
S: kissing
L: some

Liked:
reading in verse

Disliked:
some unrealistic ideals/situations/problems

4 STARS

A BLIND EYE book trailer! by Julie Daines

If you think this book trailer is awesome, you should read the book! Go over to my writing blog and enter to win!





Buy the book: amazon.com; seagullbook.com; deseretbook.com
Visit Julie's web site: www.juliedaines.com

When Christian Morris finds a blind girl hiding in his car, his attempt to run away becomes a race to save her from death by scientific experimentation.

INSURGENT by Veronica Roth

One choice can transform you--or it can destroy you. But every choice has consequences, and as unrest surges in the factions all around her, Tris Prior must continue trying to save those she loves--and herself--while grappling with haunting questions of grief and forgiveness, identity and loyalty, politics and love.

Tris's initiation day should have been marked by celebration and victory with her chosen faction; instead, the day ended with unspeakable horrors. War now looms as conflict between the factions and their ideologies grows. And in times of war, sides must be chosen, secrets will emerge, and choices will become even more irrevocable--and even more powerful. Transformed by her own decisions but also by haunting grief and guilt, radical new discoveries, and shifting relationships, Tris must fully embrace her Divergence, even if she does not know what she may lose by doing so.

"New York Times" bestselling author Veronica Roth's much-anticipated second book of the dystopian "Divergent" series is another intoxicating thrill ride of a story, rich with hallmark twists, heartbreaks, romance, and powerful insights about human nature.

First line:
"I wake with his name in my mouth."
I wasn't sure I wanted to start this series. With all the factions I thought I might get lost and that would frustrate me so I didn't want to read any of these books. But I'm glad I did. Well, from the first page I got sucked right in. And I HAD to read the second book and now I'm annoyed with myself because if I had shown a little restraint and waited until the fall to read this series, I wouldn't have to wait for the third book!
Enough ranting. 
INSURGENT is what happens when the people fight against a corrupt government. A government that wants totally control over it's people. Or a faction that wants control and is willing to kill an entire faction to achieve that goal. 
But then you find out there are secrets that a few people know and are willing to kill to keep them secret so the whole world is topsy-turvy now and what is up and who is really in charge and can they be trusted.
Tris and Four go about trying to make things right the entire book. Sometimes they go together but most times they go separately to save each other. And boy does Tris get beat up! Emotionally and physically. I can't believe this girl keeps going through the whole story. But Ms. Roth plays it well and reminds us often, through Tris, how hurt she is and how she's fighting the inner demons.
Now the factions: they all have their strengths, which can turn to weaknesses...
The ending was WOW! Reall? Come one! Now I have to wait for October to finish!


Rating: PG 14 

V: Yes
S: Alluded to?
L: No

Liked:
Plot
Four trying to protect Tris

Disliked:
So much fighting and pain
Tris constantly putting herself in the middle of the fighting
 Waiting for the next book!

4 1/2 STARS