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

REACHED (MATCHED #3) by Ally Condie

After leaving Society to desperately seek The Rising, and each other, Cassia and Ky have found what they were looking for, but at the cost of losing each other yet again. Cassia is assigned undercover in Central city, Ky outside the borders, an airship pilot with Indie. Xander is a medic, with a secret. All too soon, everything shifts again.


First line:
"Every morning, the sun comes up and turns the earth red, and I think: This could be the day when everything changes."


The Matched Trilogy is over. Good-bye Ky, Xander and Cassia. We enjoyed the ride.

Rating: PG 14
V: some
L: No
Sex: No

Liked:
Strong words and visualizations
The Pilot

Disliked:
Sometimes the story felt bogged down
I almost didn't finish the book

3 STARS

CASE FILE 13: ZOMBIE KID by J. Scott Savage

You hold in your hands a very dangerous record.

I have collected every side of the story and every piece of evidence on case number 13. Now, in this file, you will find all you need to follow the dark adventures of Nick, Carter, and Angelo, three boys who possess an unhealthy obsession with monsters, in a town so grisly, so horrific—

Whoa, whoa, whoa. You're telling it all wrong, dude. You make it sound like it's a scary story.

Ahem. Well, Nick, it is a scary story. In this volume alone, there are voodoo queens, graveyards—even the dreaded Zombie King himself.

Yeah, but there's also the part where Angie gets mashed potatoes all in her face, and the part where I use my cool zombie powers to—

All right, point taken. Now, if you don't mind . . .

You hold in your hands a very dangerous, very funny record, detailing the hilarious adventures of three boys who have an awesome obsession with monsters. This is the first volume. Read on if you dare. . . 

First line:
"Please relax and make yourself comfortable."

BOY BOOK ALERT! 
Boys of all ages will love this book. It has puns and grossness and zombies. Seriously, what boy can pass that up? My 10 year-old loved, loved, loved it. And told me I HAD to read it.  So I did. But I decided to give said child a chance to review this book for me. Take it away, Zachariah!

"I thought Zombie Kid was awesome because there were zombies in it. I liked it because it was funny and creative. My favorite character was Angelo because he's the oldest one and he likes reading. Pretty much without him, Nick would still be a zombie forever. I liked the magic and ideas and scenes people probably wouldn't think of."

And there you have it. Honest, hard review from a fourth grader.


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


Liked:
Unique story

Disliked:
Nothing

4 STARS
 

Beehive Book Award 2013-2014 Nominations ~ local authors

A few local authors made the nominations! (I linked the books I reviewed to the reviews, if you're interested)(which, apparently, isn't as many as I thought. I just added more to my TBR pile!)

The Beehive Book Award 2013-2014 Nominations:

Children's Fiction

·         Brixen Witch by Stacy DeKeyser

·         Close to Famous by Joan Bauer

·         The Humming Room by Ellen Potter

·         Icefall by Matthew Kirby

·         Inside Out & Back Again by Thanhha Lai

·         Malcolm at Midnight by W. H. Beck

·         Three Times Lucky by Sheila Turnage

·         Tuesdays at the Castle by Jessica Day George

·         Wonder by R. J. Palacio

·         Zita the Spacegirl, Book 1, Far From Home by Ben Hatke

Picture Books

·         Bink & Gollie: Two For One by Kate DiCamillo and Alison McGhee, illustrated by Tony Fucile

·         Boy + Bot by Ame Dyckman, illustrated by Dan Yaccarino

·         Goldilocks and the Three Dinosaurs by Mo Willems

·         How to Babysit a Grandpa by Jean Reagan, illustrated by Lee Wildish

·         It’s a Tiger by David LaRochelle, illustrated by Jeremy Tankard

·         Mitchell’s License by Hallie Durand, illustrated by Tony Fucile

·         My Garden by Kevin Henkes

·         Pete the Cat and His Four Groovy Buttons by Eric Litwin, illustrated by James Dean

·         Plant a Kiss by Amy Krouse Rosenthal, illustrated by Peter H. Reynolds

·         The Princess and the Pig by Jonathan Emmett and Poly Bernatene

·         Stars by Mary Lyn Ray, illustrated by Marla Frazee

·         Z is for Moose by Paul O. Zelinsky

Informational Books

·         America is Under Attack:  September 11, 2001: The Day the Towers Fell by Don Brown

·         Balloons Over Broadway:  The True Story of the Puppeteer of the Macy’s Parade by Melissa Sweet

·         Barnum’s Bones: How Barnum Brown Discovered the Most Famous Dinosaur in the World by Tracy Fern

·         Billy the Boy Wonder: The Secret Co-Creator of Batman by Marc Tyler Nobleman

·         Bomb:  The Race to Build—and Steal—The World’s Most Dangerous Weapon by Steve Sheinkin

·         Harry Houdini:  The Legend of the World’s Greatest Escape Artist by Janice Weaver

·         Invincible Microbe:  Tuberculosis and the Never-Ending Search for a Cure by Jim Murphy and Alison Blank

·         It’s a Dog’s Life: How Man’s Best Friend Sees, Hears and Smells the World by Susan E. Goodman

·         Just a Second by Steve Jenkins

·         North:  The Amazing Story of Arctic Migration by Nick Dowson

Poetry Books

·         BookSpeak! Poems About Books by Laura Purdie Salas

·         Last Laughs: Animal Epitaphs by J. Patrick Lewis and Jane Yolen

·         Out of This World by Amy Sklansky

·         Poems I Wrote When No One Was Looking by Alan Katz

·         The President’s Stuck in the Bathtub by Susan Katz

·         Shiver Me Timbers by Douglas Florian

·         Swirl by Swirl: Spirals in Nature by Joyce Sidman

           Twosomes by Marilyn Singer

Young Adult Books

·         Cinder by Marissa Meyer

·         Code Name Verity by Elizabeth Wein*

·         The False Prince by Jennifer A. Nielsen

·         The Fault in Our Stars by John Green*

·         Legend by Marie Lu

·         Lions of Little Rock by Kristin Levine

·         Rot and Ruin by Jonathan Maberry*

·         The Scorpio Races by Maggie Stiefvater*

·         Shadow and Bone by Leigh Bardugo

·         Ungifted by Gordon Korman

·         Welcome Caller, This is Chloe by Shelley Coriell

·         Wrapped by Jennifer Bradbury

*mature readers

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PRINCESS of the SILVER WOODS by Jessica Day George

When Petunia, the youngest of King Gregor's twelve dancing daughters, is invited to visit an elderly friend in the neighboring country of Westfalin, she welcomes the change of scenery. But in order to reach Westfalin, Petunia must pass through a forest where strange two-legged wolves are rumored to exist. Wolves intent on redistributing the wealth of the noble citizens who have entered their territory. But the bandit-wolves prove more rakishly handsome than truly dangerous, and it's not until Petunia reaches her destination that she realizes the kindly grandmother she has been summoned to visit is really an enemy bent on restoring an age-old curse. The stories of Red Riding Hood and Robin Hood get a twist as Petunia and her many sisters take on bandits, grannies, and the new King Under Stone to end their family curse once and for all.

Last line:
""It's for mine.""

Sadness!
This is the last book of the princess series by Jessica Day George.
I enjoyed this latest installment! Petunia is 'accidently' kidnapped by bandits but secrets are revealed, hearts touched and Petunia is taken to the place she was headed before she was kidnapped.
But more secrets are revealed! So many people aren't what they seem but through it all Petunia isn't afraid, until the nightmares of King Under Stone return.
The princes need brides! And the princesses of Westfalin are who the princes are going to marry. Unless, the princesses and a few of their husbands can stop the Under Stone King and his brothers. I kinda expected the princes to hurry and marry the princesses once they were all underground. I would have liked the husbands/betrothed to have to break up a huge wedding. And maybe one of the bad princes could turn good and actually be able to go out in the sunlight.
Red Riding Hood shows up as does the wolf and the huntsman.


Rating: PG
V: Some fighting, shooting, stabbing
L: No
S: Kissing

Liked:
The whole series
Petunia


Disliked:
A couple of poor edits
A few loose stroytelling threads

4 STARS

NOT YOUR AVERAGE FAIRY TALE by Chnatele Sedgewick

Ash Summerland has it all-good looks, popularity, and the best grades at The Academy of Magical Beings. Ready to complete his last assignment in order to graduate, Ash is confident he will get the apprenticeship he wants. but when he opens the letter from the Council, he is shocked to discover he has been assigned to apprentice Lady Shenelle, Keeper of Happy Endings- aka the head fairy godmother. Ash is forced to grant three wishes to a troubled human girl named Kendall, and ultimately give her a "happy ever after." But Kendall turns out to be more than he bargained for. Still grieving over her father's death, she doesn't want anything to do with Ash. And worst of all, she doesn't believe in happy endings.

First line:
"I stared at the gold-flecked envelope in my hand, trying to ignore my pounding heart."

Good, clean read. Any teenager girl would enjoy this story. This is the first book in a possible trilogy.


Ash has magic running through his blood, though he's not sure what kind. Elf? Fairy? One of his parents is human, the other unknown. So Ash goes to a school for magical beings and this is the year he is chosen to apprentice. He really wants to work with Sandman because then he can manipulate dreams and time. But what does he get instead?? Fairy Godmother, er, Boy? Ash is not happy with this but if he can fulfill his assignment, he might still have a shot with Sandman. 
What Ash doesn't count on is Kendall (hello? boys name for a girl?). She intrigues Ash and soon he finds he's falling for her. 
The title is accurate. This is not your average fairytale. It's not a retelling either. It's a different look into a different, magical realm. Ms. Sedgwick did a good job keeping me intrigued and reading. The chapters alternate between Ash and Kendall and are good insights into each character.
Teen girls AND boys will like this book! 

Rated: PG
V: Some fighting
L: No
S: A kiss or two

Liked:
Ash
Kendall
Teen boy Fairygodmother

Disliked:
Ending (Waiting for next book?)

  4 1/2 STARS


 

THE DARK UNWINDING by Sharon Cameron

A spine-tingling tale of steampunk and spies, intrigue and heart-racing romance!

When Katharine Tulman's inheritance is called into question by the rumor that her eccentric uncle is squandering away the family fortune, she is sent to his estate to have him committed to an asylum. But instead of a lunatic, Katharine discovers a genius inventor with his own set of rules, who employs a village of nine hundred people rescued from the workhouses of London.

Katharine is now torn between protecting her own inheritance and preserving the peculiar community she grows to care for deeply. And her choices are made even more complicated by a handsome apprentice, a secretive student, and fears for her own sanity.

As the mysteries of the estate begin to unravel, it is clear that not only is her uncle's world at stake, but also the state of England as Katharine knows it. With twists and turns at every corner, this heart-racing adventure will captivate readers with its intrigue, thrills, and romance.

Rating: PG 13
V: Some tense scenes
S: No
L: No

 Thrills, chills and suspense all in one story. 
Katharine is raised in an abusive home by her aunt, who sends her away to check on an odd uncle. The aunt claims the uncle is insane and wasting all of her poor, fat boys inheritance. When Katharine arrives, she finds secrets, imagination and possibly love. And a whole village of people who help her uncle with his inventions plus keep him safe.
I like the way Ms. Cameron weaves her story. Her words are eloquent and insightful. I also loved the individual characters. Katharine had a great character arc as did many of the characters. 
This book is in my top ten fav reads of 2012.


Liked:
Katharine
Lane
The cover

Disliked:
The ending

4 1/2 STARS

VODNIK by Bryce Moore

Tomas returns to Slovakia where he must first avoid a vodnik, straight out of a fairy tale, who wants to drown him and put his soul in a teacup, and then beat Death to save his cousin's life.

Last line:
"Like I was home."

Fun, educational story full of mythical stories and magic and adventure. Tomas life isn't really normal. He has burn scar that he hates, he almost drown once and now his parents have moved him to Slovakia. But the first day in this new country, Tomas sees creatures he's not suppose to see, like Death. He has no idea the adventure he's come into or the mystery he will have to unravel to save his cousin, Katka.
Katka is sick and Tomas can help her if he can figure out how to work up a potion or spell to help her.
Tomas has a lot of flaws or weaknesses. He's scared of water after he almost drown, he screams any time he's surprised and he's a bit of a wimp. 
But he doesn't quit when he learns he can help his cousin and uncle. He doesn't quit after being beat up by bullies and he doesn't quit when strange creatures scare him, like the Vodnik.
LOVED Vodnik. What a funny, strange little man.
One aspect that confused me was where Tomas lived. Did he live with his parents? Because they weren't around when he got beat up or disappeared or snuck out of the house multiple times. Tomas spent a lot of time with Katka or at her house with her dad.


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

Liked:
Slovakia folklore
Beginning of chapters 
Vodnik
Tomas

Disliked:
The beginning 1/3 of the book confused me
 

 4 STARS

POISON by Bridget Zinn

Sixteen-year-old Kyra, a highly-skilled potions master, is the only one who knows her kingdom is on the verge of destruction—which means she’s the only one who can save it. Faced with no other choice, Kyra decides to do what she does best: poison the kingdom’s future ruler, who also happens to be her former best friend.

But, for the first time ever, her poisoned dart . . . misses.

Now a fugitive instead of a hero, Kyra is caught in a game of hide-and-seek with the king’s army and her potioner ex-boyfriend, Hal. At least she’s not alone. She’s armed with her vital potions, a too-cute pig, and Fred, the charming adventurer she can’t stop thinking about. Kyra is determined to get herself a second chance (at murder), but will she be able to find and defeat the princess before Hal and the army find her?

Kyra is not your typical murderer, and she’s certainly no damsel-in-distress—she’s the lovable and quick-witted hero of this romantic novel that has all the right ingredients to make teen girls swoon.

Poor Kyra! The kings soldiers are after her, she has to save the kingdom and now she has an enchanted pig to take care of. Not to mention, a traveling companion named Fred.
All Kyra tried to do was kill the princess.
Kyra is a potions master and this talent and her potions come in handy as she disguises herself, fights off goblins and helps Fred sleep so he won't follow her. But Kyra's life does not go according to her plans. I liked Kyra. She's strong and bright and flawed. She has to learn to accept and use certain things in her life to accomplish what she needs to. I just wish we would have seen more of that earlier in the story.
This story is full of interesting and unique characters, like Rosie the enchanted pig and Arlo, the bad guy (who I kept picturing as the goblin king in The Hobbit movie). Also, lots of wit and humor fill the pages.
A lot of humor came out in the end between the characters. I wanted more of that throughout the book.
There was a twist I didn't see coming but some of the others were foreshadowed.
Good, clean teen read.

Last line:
"Then she kissed him back."

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

Liked:
Rosie
Kyra
Ari
Fred

Disliked:
Quick ending

4 STARS


Thanks to Netgalley for the preview!

FEEDBACK by Robison Wells

Benson Fisher escaped from Maxfield Academy’s deadly rules and brutal gangs.

Or so he thought.

But now Benson is trapped in a different kind of prison: a town filled with hauntingly familiar faces. People from Maxfield he saw die. Friends he was afraid he had killed.

They are all pawns in the school’s twisted experiment, held captive and controlled by an unseen force. As he searches for answers, Benson discovers that Maxfield Academy’s plans are more sinister than anything he imagined—and they may be impossible to stop.

Variant blew readers away with its breakneck pacing, flawless plotting, and impossibly high stakes. It earned starred reviews from both Publishers Weekly and VOYA, which described it as “an exciting, edge-of-your-seat read that combines psychological themes from works like Lord of the Flies, The Hunger Games, and Ender’s Game in a truly unique way.”

In Feedback, Robison Wells delivers all the answers you’ve been craving—with enough twists and turns to keep readers guessing until the very last page.

Last line:
""Just checking.""



Good sequel to VARIANT by Robison Wells. Once I got reading the book, I couldn't put it down, even though there were a few times I got confused. 
Benson feels guilty. In VARIANT, he led a revolt and escape from the awful school. Many students died in the attempt, Becky was hurt and Benson feels guilty. 
But the escape didn't bring freedom. Benson and Becky ended up in another prison. A place the bad students were sent--detention. A fort and barracks. There are secrets at the fort. Like, the same people who own the school, own the fort. 
Now, Benson needs to figure out another escape. But he's crippled by the guilt of the deaths and Becky's injuries. Can he help the others?
There are a lot of twists and turns and surprises in this book. And confusion. I should have read the first book again before reading this one. Though Mr. Wells tries to remind us of what happened before, it doesn't always make sense.
I thought the last few chapters of the book were too short or rushed. And the last few sentences of the book? Weird. 
But overall, it's a good read and YA readers will enjoy it.


Rating: PG 13
V: Boy is murdered, fighting robots
L:  A few words
S: No

Liked:
Short chapters

Disliked:
The ending. It was...weird.

3 1/2 Stars

JACOB OF AVONDALE by P. Craig Packer

 The king’s servant, Jacob, makes a shocking discovery in a secret room. What he finds could change his life forever. Witness the transformation of a commoner into a conqueror in Jacob of Avondale.
As Jacob reached the top of the staircase with the tray of soiled food still in hand, he heard a strange whispering coming from the room near the far end of the hall. In all of the years that Jacob had been a servant in the castle, he had never seen the inside of that room. He saw the court jester standing near the far wall with his back to the door. The little man seemed to be profoundly captivated by something and was whispering in an eerie, monotone voice.

The tyrannical reign of King Humphrey and Queen Millicent has inspired growing discontent among the people of Avondale. Few hold out hope for any change.

The king’s servant Jacob, an orphan who’s seen little beyond the castle walls, makes a shocking discovery in a secret room. What he finds could change his life and the future of Avondale forever. Jacob’s newly acquired treasure launches an epic journey for him and his friends, Princess Catherine, Raoul, and Elizabeth.

To restore the kingdom to its former glory, he’ll need to locate the five missing components of an ancient artifact. Along the way, he must defeat ferocious beasts, summit mountains, and journey to the depths of a vast and frigid lake if his expedition is to be successful.

But is a lowly servant up to such a task? Witness the transformation of a commoner into a conqueror in Jacob of Avondale

First line:
“You pick that up right now!” echoed the queen’s voice from down the long, dimly lit hallway as she disappeared around the corner."
(I wanted to put the last line, not the first, but it might be a spoiler.)

This book surprised me, in a positive way. It's a good, coming of age and guess what you aren't what you think you are book.
A fateful discovery leads Jacob and his companions on many cool quests and adventures. Middle grade readers, especially boys, will totally enjoy this book.


Rating:
L: No
V: No
S: No

Liked:
Jacob
Catherine

Disliked:
Possible trilogy (hate waiting!)

3 1/2 STARS

Curse of the Beast by Ashley Lavering

Seventeen-year-old Tayla Jonas longs for a simple life, but after a traumatizing family loss, she is forced to be both mother and sister to her cousins while caring for her mentally unstable aunt. Moving to her grandma’s quiet town of Cody, Wyoming, Tayla finds some normalcy with her quirky green activist friend, Chel, who spends no time converting her to vegetarianism.

A few weeks into her new school, Tayla catches the eye of Kyle Harrington—the high school quarterback and resident millionaire—who can seduce any girl with his charismatic charm, including Tayla. But Kyle is anything but what he seems.

Walking through City Park, Tayla is unaware that an ancient curse has her in its crosshairs. The silver moonlight illuminates the path to her van, sprinkling shadows like evil twinkling eyes. Tayla’s skin prickles, and she turns. Something—or someone—is watching her.

A powerful werewolf steps from the shadows. An iridescent blue cord shoots from him and slams into her stomach, dissolving instantly. Pain wracks her body, and she tries to scramble to safety, but his silver eyes freeze her in place as the curse binds them together. The cord settles deep inside her body, coiling with dread around her heart.

Dismayed by the prospect of a werewolf for a shadow, Tayla fears for the safety of her friends and family. How will she keep the werewolf’s insatiable hunger in check? Her plans for a vegetarian lifestyle quickly dwindle away, and Tayla wrestles to fit her frazzled life back together—piece by piece. But what she didn’t expect was her attraction to the werewolf or the power of the full moon.

Will Tayla be strong enough to survive the Curse of the Beast? Or will it consume her like so many before? Find out in the first installment of this unique retelling of Beauty and the Beast.

Last line:
 "The music washed over me, like rolling waves swaying in the sea, turning me into a hopeful tide pool of dreams."

This book is a good, clean, exciting twist on Beauty and the Beast and werewolves.


Liked:
Tayla
Chel
Interesting retelling


Disliked:
Kyle (potential of enemy in the next books??)
First book of trilogy (I HATE waiting!)
The cover


4 STARS

THE PRICE WE PAID by Andrew D. Olsen

The story of the Willie and Martin handcart pioneers--two pioneer companies that desperately wanted to get to the Salt Lake basin--is among the most compelling in the history of America's western migration. Though tragic, it is also a story of triumph that scarcely has an equal. It is one of history's great witnesses of the power of faith and sacrifice.
Although this story is one of the most frequently told of all Mormon pioneer accounts, it is also among the least understood. This book provides the most comprehensive and accessible account of these pioneers' epic 1856 journey. In addition to painting a broad perspective of the trek, it includes dozens of personal stories from the pioneers themselves. Woven into the larger story of the journey west, these stories inspire, build faith, recount miracles, and reveal how these pioneers were able to endure such adversity. The book also includes chapters on the lives of many of these pioneers after the handcart trek.


Last line:
"For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light. Matthew 11:28-30"

Stories of the handcart pioneers make me cry, especially those of the Willie and Martin handcart companies. I'm always amazed and grateful for the examples of the pioneers who listened to the prophets voice and walked thousands of miles to find a safe haven.
I had a relative in the Willie handcart company; Susanna Stone Lloyd. She traveled by herself and was only 25. This is one of her quotes:
"I am thankful that I was counted worthy to be a pioneer and a handcart girl. It prepared me to endure hard times in my future life. I often think of the songs we sang to encourage us on our toilsome journey. It was hard to endure, but the Lord gave s strength and courage..."
This is a good book to read for history on these two companies. It's broken into two parts, one for each handcart company, with an index for easy searching.
Many of the stories and quotes made me cry again even though I've heard or read them. It's good to have these stories, to bolster faith. What would I do to prove my faith in my Heavenly Father? What sacrifice would I make now?


41/2 STARS

MICHAEL VEY: Rise of the Elgen by Richard Paul Evans

Michael must save his mother—and protect his powers—in the electric sequel to the #1 New York Times bestselling Michael Vey, from Richard Paul Evans.

Michael was born with special electrical powers—and he’s not the only one. His friend Taylor has them too, and so do other kids around the world. With Michael’s friend Ostin, a tecno-genius, they form the Electroclan, an alliance meant to protect them from a powerful group, the growing Order of Elgen, who are out to destroy them. The leader of the Elgen, Dr. Hatch, has kidnapped Michael’s mother, and time is running out.

After narrowly escaping an Elgen trap, Ostin’s discovery of bizarre “rat fires” in South America leads the gang to the jungles of Peru, where the Electroclan meets new, powerful foes and faces their greatest challenge yet as Michael learns the extent of the Elgen’s rise in power—and the truth of their plan to “restructure” the world.

First line:
""This had better be important," the man said."
The next book in the Michael Vey series won't disappoint. With constant twists and action, and creepy plots like glowing rats, it's hard to put this book down.
Michael Vey is part of a special group of kids with special powers. And certain people want them dead. Another group of people also want the special kids, but hopefully to help them. But Michael must first save his mother, who has been kidnapped by the bad guys as bait for Michael.
Throughout the book Mr. Evans used a few convenient methods to get the kids out of trouble. Also, everything, and I mean, everything, rests on Michael Vey saving not only his mom but the world.
Dr. Hatch, the main bad guy, has no redeeming qualities. None. I'm curious how the Electroclan will defeat him in the next book. And how much more can the group take on?


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

Liked:
Action
Twists
Plot

Disliked:
Cliffhanger!
Possibly FIVE more books?? 

3 STARS

HATING HEIDI FOSTER by Jeffrey Blount

Mae McBride and Heidi Foster were the very best of friends. Tied at the hip from early elementary school, their relationship was the stuff of storybooks, legendary even, in the minds of their high school classmates.

Unshakable.

That is, until Mae's father died while saving Heidi's life. When Mae finds out, she blames Heidi. She blames her father for putting Heidi ahead of her. She blames her friends for taking Heidi’s side. She begins to unravel amid that blame and her uncontrollable and atypical anger.

At the same time Heidi is beset by guilt, falls into depression and stops eating properly; wasting away physically and emotionally while waiting for Mae to let her back into the friendship she misses so dearly.

Mae, consumed by her hatred of Heidi, the confusion regarding her father’s motives, the perceived desertion of her friends and her mother’s grief, loses more and more of herself.

What could possibly bring these two old friends back to each other? A miracle?

Hating Heidi Foster, is a young adult novel about the place of honor true friendships hold in our lives. It is about suffering and loss and the ethics of grief. It is about a deep and painful conflict, the bright light of selflessness and sacrifice and the love that rights the ship and carries us safely to port.

First line:
"I've never been very good with faces."

If you have ever lost someone close to you, this book might be helpful for you. Mae McBride has lost her father in a tragic fire. Her father is a hero, saving her best friend, Heidi but the pain of losing her father sends Mae into a depression that she takes out on everyone around her, including Heidi. How Mae learns to deal with her grief is told in this story by Jeffrey Blount.
This is a short and sweet story, easily read in one setting.
This is more of a book to help with death and grieving than a YA story. There's a lot of nicknames is this book, which can be distracting but it is a good book about friendship.


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

Liked:
This book helping others with grief
 Value of a good friendship

Disliked:
Nothing

2 1/2 STARS

Guest Author Post~ Jeffrey Blount

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The Trouble with Writing

Jeffrey Blount

The trouble with writing is that it requires a lot of time and much effort.  I always have the desire and effort is not an issue, but finding time is indeed a dilemma.  I have a full-time job and an amazing family that I love to spend time with.  I like tennis too.  I play at least twice a week.  And don’t stand in front of my television during football season!

Over the years, I have tried to put my writing aside because there was just no space in my life, and the game of agents and publishing got tiresome.  I put the desire and the dream up for adoption.  But the kid just kept finding his way home and pretty soon, I just had to let him stay.  I had to find a way to make it right between the two of us.

I set aside some time.  In the morning, after dropping off my son and daughter at school and my wife’s departure for work and also late at night, after everyone was in bed.  But the times weren’t absolute.  Changing family schedules and work demands often imposed themselves.  The question arose, how do I link the erratic moments together to create some kind of flow or rhythm to my writing which I believe is so very important when trying to maintain an even voice throughout a novel?  In the end, I found I had to link them together by keeping the characters alive and with me at all times so that when I did find the time to sit down and write, they didn’t have to be conjured up.  They were already with me.

They lived in my head all day long, growing, changing, reacting, failing and succeeding.  As I drove, whole scenes developed.  On my lunch hour and while in the carpool line, new characters appeared and plot lines came to fruition.  When I first started, I carried notecards with me or I wrote on napkins and the corners of newspaper pages.  Then I got smart and realized my smartphone had apps for this.  After a while, it seemed like I was always writing.

When I finally found the time to sit down and physically write, transferring the notes from the phone to the computer became part of keeping that flow alive.  Also, because time was short, meaning I didn’t have time to walk around the block and commune with myself to create the proper mood for writing; I had to find ways to get my head immediately into the process in order to maximize the use of the time I had set aside.

After transferring my notes, I always read the previous chapter before moving on.  Then I turned on the music.  Music has always been a part of my moods, both good and bad.  Certain songs make me happy, certain songs make me sad and certain songs make me contemplative.  So if I was planning to write about a very sad event, I would listen to appropriate music while reading the previous chapter and many times I would continue listening as I began a new scene or chapter of my book.  Sometimes one grouping of songs could take me through the whole manuscript.  For instance, much of Hating Heidi Foster was written while listening to the soundtrack from the movie Road to Perdition. 

Also, if your writing time is short, enhancing focus can be critical.  I write in a darkened room with only the light from my laptop and a desk lamp.  Everything else around me falls away.   No visual distractions lead to great moments of concentration.

And finally, I leave each writing session with an idea of where I want the story to go next.  It gives my characters places to go while I’m going through the daily business of my life.

Bio

Jeffrey Blount is an Emmy award-winning television director and an award recipient for scriptwriting on multiple documentary projects.  Born and raised in rural Virginia, he now lives in Washington, DC with his wife, Jeanne Meserve. They have two children, Julia and Jake.