Title: Deadly Cool
Author: Gemma Halliday
Publisher: HarperTeen
Publish Date: October 11, 2011
Genre: YA, Contemporary, Mystery
Pages: 272
Source: Publisher

Hartley Grace Featherstone is having a very bad day. First she finds out that her boyfriend is cheating on her with the president of the Herbert Hoover High School Chastity Club. Then he's pegged as the #1 suspect in a murder. And if that weren't enough, now he's depending on Hartley to clear his name. Seriously? Not cool.

But as much as Hartley wouldn't mind seeing him squirm, she knows he's innocent, and she's the only one who can help him. Along with her best friend, Sam, and the school's resident Bad Boy, Chase, Hartley starts investigating on her own. But as the dead bodies begin to pile up, the mystery deepens, the suspects multiply, and Hartley begins to fear that she may be the killer's next victim.

Hartley loves Josh. Very much so, actually, until the day she heard the rumours and decided to find out if they were true. Unfortunately, the evidence didn't lie, and she goes on a path to confront him, but that decision changes things from bad to worse. Suddenly, her cheating ex is the center of a murder investigation of the very person with whom he may very well have cheated with. Sound tricky? It is for Hartley, especially because she's not sure she wants him to suffer quite that much because he can't possibly be the killer. But if it's not Josh, and Hartley's fast becoming a target, where else can she look?

Deadly Cool isn't your average mystery, however, in the same breath I will wholeheartedly admit that it's not your average contemporary either. Weaving a tenuous balance of wit, off-beat humour, a whodunit mystery and a great host of characters with oversized personalities, author Gemma Halliday has created a fun, entertaining and engrossing novel that keeps the reader guessing. If summer reading is not your thing because it's a bit too light, odds are the the quirky tone and fun, refreshing take on murder mysteries of Deadly Cool might be the perfect alternative for you.

I'll be honest, when I first read the premise for Deadly Cool, trust me, I wasn't expecting a profound novel full of depth, resounding themes and an overriding sense of accomplishment for having read the book. I was, however, fully expecting a fast-paced, action-riddled read, and Deadly Cool delivered. From page one, our protagonist, Hartley, is entertaining. She's got snark, for one, and hell if she's about to roll over and play dead while her boyfriend's off cheating with the president of the chastity club. The interesting thing to note about Deadly Cool is that, in theory, it should be everything I hate about contemporary fiction. It has cliques and cliches, and it most certainly has those teenage hormones that rule just about every inch of bad YA fiction. Yet, somehow, Deadly Cool manages to teeter on the verge of satire while still stringing the reader along on an action-packed ride that keeps you guessing. Best of all though, Deadly Cool never once tries to rest on the laurels of a serious novel, and packs a punch of witty lines that are certain to make more readers than this easily amused blonde laugh out loud.

Honestly, I can genuinely say that Deadly Cool surprised me in a good way. It was a great break from darker novels, and it was nice to read about characters that didn't take themselves too seriously. I give it a strong 4 out of 5, and I'd highly recommend it to those who enjoy YA fiction, especially mysteries and contemporary fiction.

I received this book free of charge from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This, in no way, affected my opinion or review of this book.

Title: Hex Hall
Author: Rachel Hawkins
Publisher: Hyperion Children's
Published: March 2, 2010
Genre: YA, Paranormal
Pages: 323
Source: Personal Copy

Three years ago, Sophie Mercer discovered that she was a witch. It's gotten her into a few scrapes. Her non-gifted mother has been as supportive as possible, consulting Sophie's estranged father--an elusive European warlock--only when necessary. But when Sophie attracts too much human attention for a prom-night spell gone horribly wrong, it's her dad who decides her punishment: exile to Hex Hall, an isolated reform school for wayward Prodigium, a.k.a. witches, faeries, and shapeshifters.

By the end of her first day among fellow freak-teens, Sophie has quite a scorecard: three powerful enemies who look like supermodels, a futile crush on a gorgeous warlock, a creepy tagalong ghost, and a new roommate who happens to be the most hated person and only vampire student on campus. Worse, Sophie soon learns that a mysterious predator has been attacking students, and her only friend is the number-one suspect.

Sophie's always known she was a freak, so why not own it, right? When yet another of her spells goes wrong, Sophie's only chance at a normal life with others like her is at a boarding school called Hecate Hall, or to its students, Hex Hall. Sophie isn't pleased she's been condemned there, and she's even less pleased to see the offbeat school in person, meet the students and discover half her life has been a lie. But there are silver linings...her vampire roommate, though odd, is pretty nice and there's a crushworthy boy just lurking in the foreground. There are mysteries in Hex Hall though, and Sophie's past and future are tied to them, making normal seem like a very lofty goal.

Again, I'm late reading Hex Hall, mainly because when I first started reviewing, it was really hyped. You know me and hype - we don't get along so well. Anyway, I finally decided to read Hex Hall, and I was actually pleasantly surprised. The author, Rachel Hawkins, has a decidedly unique writing voice. It's conversational, easy to follow and allows one to easily access the characters' minds, especially Sophie. I read fast, but Hex Hall, though fairly long, is a fast read with a steady plot, plenty of twists and turns and a lovable heroine that kept me on my toes throughout.

I will say that I don't think Hex Hall, speaking generally, is the most original story (ie - school for magic, hot boy, new students, vamps, mean girls yadda yadda), BUT Hex Hall does present these common items in a unique and interesting way. Sophie's dialogue was consistently tangible to me. She uses slang, she's snarky and her sarcasm was something I could totally relate to. Furthermore, Hex Hall had secondary characters like the hot guy, Archer Cross, who managed to step outside of his stereotype into something a little more, and Sophie's vamp roommate was a great twist on a lot of vamps in YA fiction. Mixed together with an intriguing mystery, Hex Hall is a fun and inventive tale that had me rooting for and laughing with Sophie the entire time.

I'm surprised to say this, but Hex Hall quite lived up to its hype. I give it a strong 4 out of 5, docking points only for the underlying common themes, but I definitely recommend it. I think it would be enjoyable for those who like YA, especially paranormal books with vampires, werewolves and witchcraft.

Title: Ada - Legend of a Healer
Author: R.A. McDonald
Publisher: House of Lore
Published: January 1, 2011
Genre: YA, Paranormal
Pages: 260
Source: Publisher

No sickness, No injuries, No pain, No limits. If you had the power to heal, what would you do? For fifteen-year-old Ada discovering that she can heal feels more like a curse than a gift. When she learns of the mystery surrounding her mother's disappearance, and sees the indifference of so-called friends, she sets out for Paris to find her.

The power to heal protects her, but also has her hunted by a man who sees her as nothing more than his fountain of youth. Ada realizes her true power is her will to survive, and that her only chance at freedom is to become the best at escaping.

Ada hasn't grown up in a house with a white picket fence. Instead she was cast off and absorbed into the foster care system, quickly putting up a shield of hostility. Always knowledgeable of the sicknesses of those around her and never getting hurt just seemed like facts of life. Finally on her last strike of trouble, an estranged aunt comes to the rescue, giving Ada the knowledge of how to use her healing power. Now Ada, who up to this point has shunned the world, all of the sudden has the power to heal it.

Ada's lived her entire life in the foster system, knowing she has a gift, but is convinced it's more of a curse than anything else. After pulling her last stunt and being caught, Ada is fifteen and past the age that people and her caseworker can simply overlook her childish rebellion. It's either time for her to stay in a home for kids that can't be placed in stable homes, or she goes to Aunt Jessie, her mother's best friend. The two share similar gifts, but Ada resents hers until her unique ability is brought to light and the extent of her power is revealed. Now her gift is a fight between life and death, and the life hanging in the balance is her own.

I have to say this is a first for me. Healers in YA fiction is a nice, refreshing twist on magic and the paranormal, and it was truly a pleasure to lose myself in a world so vastly different than those I've seen. R.A. McDonald has created a world within Ada - Legend of a Healer that's dark and grim, all the while perfectly merging a delicate balance of human nature, the struggle to find oneself and a trippy world where Ada's gift has more than just the power to heal. With intricate details and clever artwork peppering the pages, Ada - Legend of a Healer was a rich world that one can easily lose themselves within.

I didn't know what to expect from Ada, herself, when I started the book, but I was pleasantly surprised. Despite, or in spite of, her incredible gift, Ada is very much a normal teenager within Ada - Legend of a Healer. She's lived a difficult life outside of her gift, and her gift simply amplifies her struggle. Jessie was also a remarkable character. There were moments that I thought I knew her and loved her, and there were times I wanted to strangle her. Throughout it all though, it was apparent that she was doing the best she could, in her own way, to help Ada. The multiple settings, the search for Ada's mother, and the desperate desire to be someone Ada could come to terms with all made Ada - Legend of a Healer poignant and powerful. The only thing I would have specifically changed in the book was to have fleshed out the climax a bit more. I felt it was a bit rushed.

It's rare that I come across a book that so pleasantly surprises me, especially when the cover isn't my favourite (I'm a cover slut...it's no secret). I give Ada - Legend of a Healer a very strong 4 out of 5, and I'd recommend it to the YA audience, particularly those who enjoy paranormal stories.

I received this book free of charge from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This, in no way, affected my opinion or review of this book.

Title: Wynter Chelsea: The Legacy
Author: Becca Ritchie
Publisher: Outskirts Press
Published: October, 19, 2008
Genre: YA, Paranormal
Pages: 384
Source: Author

Four hundred years ago a creature descended upon the Earth. The supernatural hunted innocent lives wanting blood and vengeance. Two families, the Wynters and the Chelseas, knew of the darkness that reigned over the world. For thousands of years they hunted and killed to protect those who knew nothing of the dangers.

Amanda Chelsea vies to be a part of the Wynter Chelsea legacy, constantly craving the thrill of a lifetime that her older brother, Jack, and the two Wynter boys experience. At seventeen, Amanda’s passion to fight is overwhelming, and she cannot come to grips with why the boys are protecting her. Abilities are cast upon the new generation of Wynters and Chelseas, only in hopes of guiding them to vanquish the impenetrable creature.

Even as Amanda Chelsea receives the power of empathy, feeling other people’s emotions, it brings more harm than a vital potency. Through the turmoil in New Jersey, Dustin Wynter is the only one able to relate to Amanda with a similar gift. As Jack’s rage boils over the edge, Dustin must put the pieces back together and hold the legacy up with a shaking arm and a quirky brother by his side.

Amanda is the only girl in a legacy of demon hunters, two families destined to fight the dark forces in the world. She's consistently trying to prove to herself and to others that she is every bit a part of her family's history as her brother, but it almost seems to bring her further from that. But the forces of darkness are always there, and Amanda seems to be fighting both inside and out, and as much as she wants to fight and be someone, she's got a lot to live up to. Some of what the Wynter and Chelsea families need to live up to is hidden in lies and mystery, and those mysteries are potentially and probably very dangerous.

Some people are born to be writers. Author Becca Ritchie, wrote Wynter Chelsea: The Legacy when she was just 14 years old. Cohesive, action-packed and with a touch of romance that defies the norm of YA fiction (read: this is NOT insta-love), Wynter Chelsea: The Legacy is a little bit of everything that makes the paranormal genre great. The full cast of characters complemented one another well, and each had specific character traits that set them apart from one another. Most of all though, each action had an equal and worthy reaction. If that doesn't equate to what a book should be, then colour me crazy.

The best part of the book was the background and history of the Wynter and Chelsea families. The younger generation of the demon hunting families which included Amanda, Jack, Dustin and Trevor was dynamic and engaging. Jack was a bit of a force to be reckoned with for me. He had a definite mean streak, and his emotions were so off-kilter that it kept the story moving, even when the battles lulled. Amanda, though I desperately wanted her to be a badass in Wynter Chelsea: The Legacy, fell a bit flat for me though, to be honest. Her internal monologues were a bit taxing, and while her power was awesome and really heightened her potential with Dustin, she whined a lot. I get why she did, but I wish she would be less talk and more action, if that makes sense. Either way, the non-stop plot made up for it.

All in all, Wynter Chelsea: The Legacy was a great supernatural read that kept me hooked from page one to the very end. I give it a very strong 4 out of 5, and I recommend it to all YA fans, especially those who enjoy paranormal stories. It's especially great for those fans of shows like Supernatural because, hey, we can never get enough hunters, right?

I received this book free of charge from the author in exchange for an honest review. This, in no way, affected my opinion or review of this book.

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Today is day 12 of The Long Weekend Blog Tour! Be sure to check out today's tour stop over at Alex's blog, Electrifying Reviews. He's got another great review for you, as well as an interview and an international giveaway for you...so enjoy!

Title: 12.21.12
Author: Killian McRae
Publisher: Omnific Publishing
Published: December 21, 2010
Genre: Mystery, Thriller
Pages: 238
Source: Tour/Once Upon a Twilight

Archaeologist Sheppard Smyth has staked his career and the honorable memory of his deceased wife and partner on proving his widely-panned theory: Cleopatra VII, last ruler of Ancient Egypt, was murdered. When a statue of the doomed Queen is discovered in an Olmec excavation site in Mexico, Shep rushes to investigate and, hopefully, find the proof that has evaded him for so long.

Soon, he finds himself in the middle of the rivalry between the sexy, enigmatic international thief, Victoria Kent, and infamous rumored Russian mobster, Dmitri Kronastia. Both hold pieces to the puzzle that will finally shed light on Cleopatras death, as they vie for Shep's trust and assistance. As he is drawn further into their world of ancient gods, supernatural powers, and alternative history, little does Shep know that the fate of all humanity may hinge on his ability to discover the truth in between Victoria and Dmitris' fragmented claims and hidden identities.

Shep has enough problems as it is. He's an archaeologist with a drinking problem since his wife's death, and now he's finally got the chance to prove something to both himself and everyone around him that he's not a kook, he's still got game and he's actually right in his theories about Cleopatra. Unluckily for Shep though, he's going to have to contend between two hustling characters to do so, and he inevitably falls down a path that's darker and scarier than he imagined...but not just that...there's a chance he might just figure out more than he anticipated, and it's not good.

First off, if the world is really going to end in 2012, I'm glad I read 12.21.12, so I'm just going to throw that out there. Killian McRae did something in 12.21.12 that not too many authors can do. She mastered throwing multiple subgenres into one cohesive storyline with dynamic characters and a topsy-turvy plot that never failed to surprise me. While it's leaning towards an older YA audience, I couldn't resist the apocalyptic connotations in the title, and I can definitely say that the dark undertones of 12.21.12 don't disappoint.

One of the biggest strengths of 12.21.12 was the superb cast of characters. Shep, though an older MC than I'm used to, was engaging and heroic. He's got a strong voice that also hints at his loss and vulnerability because of it. As a perfect counterpart, Dimitri was this seemingly stereotypical mobster with his hot features and dirty, dirty ways, and yet, he had this sort of saccharin undertone that made you realize the guy wasn't all that bad if you could look past the whole gangster shebang. Victoria was every bit as snaky as I'd anticipated, but knowing there was more to her than surface beauty made her strong and captivating. I would have to say that some of the interactions between the characters seemed a bit forced though, and I liked them better all in their separate scenes. I also think that the scenery within 12.21.12 fell a bit flat compared to the detailed characters.

Overall, 12.21.12 is a great read if you're looking for a slim book with a fast-paced plot and endless action. I give it a strong 4 out of 5, and I'd recommend it to more of an adult audience due to language and some adult situations. It's especially great for those who enjoy a good mystery and thriller, as well as anyone who wants a taste of the apocalypse.

I received this book free of charge in exchange for an honest review. This, in no way, affected my opinion or review of this book.

Title: Forsaken
Author: Keary Taylor
Publisher: CreateSpace
Published: January 11, 2011
Genre: YA, Paranormal
Pages: 330
Source: Author

It’s been four months since Alex gave everything to save Jessica. Life should be perfect; she has Alex, she’s been freed of the nightmares, and most of all- she’s alive. But some things have changed, some things haven’t. That’s the problem. Alex still hasn’t asked “the question”. Jessica can’t see the reason why and it’s tearing her apart. He’s keeping something from her.

Alex isn’t the only one who has changed though. Something is different about Jessica but she doesn’t understand what’s happened. She just knows something’s wrong, that she feels different than she used to, on a skin deep level. And it may keep her and Alex apart. Forever.

Jessica's life should be perfect. Alex gave up everything to save her life, and her troubles are over...but are they really? In a world where her reality has been turned on its end, secrets are coming into the open and Cole is determined to show her that these secrets mean something but the past and just how they might change her future. And, despite the hope that Jessica and Alex might just be together forever, something dark is brewing beneath the surface, and it's almost like destiny is coming into play and overriding it all.

Forsaken is the second installment in author, Keary Taylor's, Fall of Angel series. As the sequel to the promising first book, Branded, I went in with high but measured hopes for Forsaken because, let's be honest, series seem to be the way every single author in just about every single genre goes these days. Luckily for us, Forsaken continues its unique twist and take on the angel trend, giving life to a dark and haunting world where angels are every bit as badass as your run-of-the-mill vampire or werewolf, and perhaps moreso than them, too.

What I enjoyed most about Forsaken was the deeper look we got into Cole's past, which I felt was lacking in book one, and was one of the only reasons I lowered my rating for the first book. Delving into the past and seeing how it affected Jessica's future, as well as the future in general, engaged all the characters into this perfectly enmeshed struggle that was exhilarating and nervewracking at the same time. Yes, there were a few grammatical and punctuation errors, but the only real qualm I had with Forsaken was the cliffhanger ending. While yes, the Forsaken read well, it couldn't stand alone, and I have a hard time with that.

Overall though, Forsaken was a great read with a plot that's well-executed with engaging and dynamic characters, as well as a fabulous voice. I give it a strong 4 out of 5, and I'd recommend it to all YA fans, especially those who enjoy paranormal tales involving angels.

I received this book free of charge from the author in exchange for an honest review. This, in no way, affected my opinion or review of this book.

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Get excited, guys! It's day 5 of The Long Weekend Blog Tour, and we have yet another amazing stop for you to visit today! Be sure to check out Jen's blog, Makeshift Bookmark, for her take on the book, as well as an author interview and international giveaway!

Title: What Comes After
Author: Steve Watkins
Publisher: Candlewick Press
Published: April 12, 2011
Genre: YA, Contemporary
Pages: 334
Source: Publisher

After her veterinarian dad dies, sixteen-year-old Iris Wight must leave her beloved Maine to live on a North Carolina farm with her hardbitten aunt and a cousin she barely knows. Iris, a vegetarian and animal lover, immediately clashes with Aunt Sue, who mistreats the livestock, spends Iris’s small inheritance, and thinks nothing of striking Iris for the smallest offense.

Things come to a head when Iris sets two young goats free to save them from slaughter, and an enraged Aunt Sue orders her brutish son, Book, to beat Iris senseless - a horrific act that lands Book and his mother in jail. Sent to live with an offbeat foster family and their "dooking" ferrets, Iris must find a way to take care of the animals back at the farm, even if it means confronting Aunt Sue. Powerful and deeply moving, this compelling novel affirms the redemptive power of animals and the resilience of the human spirit.

Iris hardly lives the life that every teen wants to live. After a tremendous loss, she's thrust into a world completely foreign to her that turns abusive, painful and emotionally destructive. So when things finally turn around for Iris and she's sent to another place that's quirky, but instills a desire for her to care for those animals she's left behind, no matter what. Is she brave enough to face the horrors she left, and can she do it for more than the animals...can she do it for herself?

I'm an animal nut. It's no lie. I have to cats and a dog, and if I ever won a million dollars, I'd start a cat sanctuary. But I digress. What Comes After combines all of my favourites into one neat little package - animals, the human condition and the desire to be better. With a pretty original premise in YA today that focuses on character development rather than romance, Steve Watkins has created a novel in What Comes After that just might have the power to transform our own agendas and make us thing beyond our own needs.

I have to be honest. What Comes After has all the makings of a great novel. Iris is a great character. She's relatable, caring and kind, and her innocence lends to the character development she faces through the novel. She struggles. She fails, and yet she has a constant desire to get back up again. The pain in this book is very raw and extremely tangible. She loses her father, faces adversity and yet she wants to find her way back to peace at all costs. Aunt Sue was a terrifying counterpart, and her foster parents added a hint of humour and quirk to an otherwise heart-wrenching tale.

What Comes After is not easy to stomach if you're in a feel-good movie. Yes, it has a message and reads extremely well, but it's not for the faint of heart. I cried. A lot. I give it a strong 4 out of 5, and I'd recommend it to fans of YA, especially those who enjoy contemporary fiction.

I received this ARC free of charge from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This, in no way, affected my opinion or review of this book.

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It's day 3 of The Long Weekend Blog Tour, and today we're stopping over at Jenny's blog, Supernatural Snark! Be sure to check out her incredibly insightful REVIEW, then stop by for a chance to read Savita's thoughts and enter the international GIVEAWAY!

Title: We'll Always Have Summer
Author: Jenny Han
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Children's
Published: April 26, 2011
Genre: YA, Contemporary
Pages: 288
Source: S&S Galley Grab

It's been two years since Conrad told Belly to go with Jeremiah. She and Jeremiah have been inseparable ever since, even attending the same college-- only, their relationship hasn't exactly been the happily ever after Belly had hoped it would be.

And when Jeremiah makes the worst mistake a boy can make, Belly is forced to question what she thought was true love. Does she really have a future with Jeremiah? Has she ever gotten over Conrad? It's time for Belly to decide, once and for all, who has her heart forever.

Belly is practically a grownup now, and her heart still remains torn between both Jeremiah and Conrad, though she's technically made her decision and gone with Jeremiah. She's in college, she's having the time her life, but something remains lingering in the back of her mind. When Jeremiah slips up, Belly is forced to re-examine her feelings, her emotions and the pieces of her heart that are divided between two great guys. Does she have the strength to make the decision once and for all?

We all know that contemps aren't really my thing, but I began this series a good while back with the first book, The Summer I Turned Pretty and It's Not Summer Without You. I remember being captivated by the love triangle even though they tend to aggravate me, and the writing was engaging throughout. Jenny Han has created a brilliant third book that's emotional and raw, alternating between breaking your heart and gluing the pieces back together again with a great story of love, friendship and growing up.

I have to admit that I felt this story wasn't quite as powerful as the previous two books - perhaps just because Belly is older now. She's in college and she has this whole new life going on. That said, Belly, Jeremiah and Conrad are as fabulous as ever. Their character traits are as strong as book one in We'll Always Have Summer, and I definitely read the fast-paced plot at a steady speed to figure out what happened in the end...and I have to say that, overall, I was pleased with the outcome.

In a sea of YA stories where we lose the characters and plot as the books progress, We'll Always Have Summer was a refreshing read. Sweet, heartfelt and powerful, I give it a strong 4 out of 5, and I recommend it to YA fans of the series, especially those who enjoy contemporary fiction and romance.

I received this eARC free of charge from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This, in no way, affected my opinion or review of this book.

Title: Red Moon Rising
Author: Peter Moore
Publisher: Hyperion
Published: February 8, 2011
Genre: YA, Paranormal
Pages: 336
Source: Publisher

Being only half-vamp in a high school like Carpathia Night makes you a whole loser. But Danny Gray manages to escape the worst of the specists at his school. Thanks to genetic treatments he had as an infant, most people assume Danny's other half is human. Which is a good thing.

Ever since the development of synthetic blood – SynHeme – vamps have become society’s elite, while wulves like his father work menial jobs and live in bad neighborhoods. Wulves are less than second class citizens; once a month they become inmates, forced to undergo their Change in dangerous government compounds.

For Danny, living with his vamp mother and going to a school with a nearly all-vamp student body, it’s best to pretend his wulf half doesn’t even exist. But lately Danny's been having some weird symptoms — fantastic night vision; a keener-than-usual sense of smell; and headaches, right around the full moon.

Even though it's easy to be in denial, it's hard to ignore evidence. There's only a month until the next few moon, and Danny's time is running out.

Red Moon Rising is the story of Danny (Dante), a teenage boy living in a world divided into three very distinct and separate classes. There are the vampires – elite, rich and powerful, there are the humans – desperate to be everything the vampires are, and at the bottom of the pack are the wulfs. Danny, unfortunately, is part wulf. He’s had treatments to make him look more like the exclusive vamps with whom he attends school, but he had to stop them, and now his symptoms are getting worse. To top it all off, Danny has to deal with conflicting emotions towards his biological father, qualms with his mom and stepfather, and the snotty kids at school. Throw in a love interest, and Danny’s world is ready to turn upside-down.

I don’t like vampires and, frankly, werewolves tend to bore me because it’s the same-old, same-old every time…usually. Red Moon Rising isn’t your typical werewolf and vampire tale. With a teenage boy as your narrator, a society that’s twisted and skewed and every bit of teenage angst you can bear, Red Moon Rising is daring and quirky. Author, Peter Moore, took your traditional paranormal tale, turned it upside-down, threw in a snarky MC and added an actual undercurrent of morals throughout the story – an intriguing and infectious combination.

I’ve decided I don’t read nearly enough books from a male POV. Red Moon Rising was a fun read, in large part because of Danny’s narration. He’s every bit a teen boy with humour and hilarity, but his emotions run a bit deeper, and a little more subtle at times, though perhaps more powerful because they boil over at the right (or wrong – depending on how you look at it) moments. I think there’s a real theme of prejudice in the story, as well. Society has class divisions, certain species are considered subhuman, and frankly, this adds a deeper note to what could have very well been a shallow tale. I think the main highlight of the story was the developing relationship between Danny and his father though, and the internal battle for acceptance that Danny consistently dealt with. The only real qualm I had with Red Moon Rising was that the plot becomes a bit predictable after a while and let’s face it – I like to be surprised, and there were a lot of unanswered questions.

Overall though, Red Moon Rising was a great paranormal read, and it definitely exceeded all my expectations. I give it a strong 4 out of 5, and I’d recommend it for a YA audience (or upper MG), especially those who enjoy paranormal stories.

I received this ARC free of charge from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This, in no way, affected my opinion or review of this book.

Title: Priscilla the Great
Author: Sybil Nelson
Publisher: Worldmaker Media
Published: December 15, 2010
Genre: Upper MG, Sci-Fi
Pages: 276
Source: Author

Meet Priscilla Sumner, an ordinary seventh grader with extraordinary gifts. As if middle school isn’t hard enough, not only does Priscilla have to fight pimples and bullies, but genetically enhanced assassins trying to kill her and her family. Armed with wit, strength, and a genius best friend, Priscilla must defeat the Selliwood Institute, an organization dead set on turning children into killing machines.

Add an older brother annoyingly obsessed with Christina Aguilera, mischievous baby twin brothers who could scare the sin off of Satan, and parents more puzzling than a Rubik’s cube in the Bermuda triangle and expect a smoking page-turner!

Priscilla is pretty much your average tweenage girl. She has crushes, she has a best friend, she experiences bullying and all the stress the middle school entails. Priscilla, however, has something else going for (or against) her, depending how you look at it. Priscilla has incredible superpowers that leave her vulnerable in ways that her classmates could never imagine, but also give her amazing power and potential, making her a veritable fire hazard in school. Can Priscilla master her powers with the help of her best friend in time, or will she fall prey to a heinous plan to turn children into monsters?

It should be made known that I don’t read too much Middle Grade literature because it tends to be a bit too flat or unemotional for me. However, when the author, Sybil Nelson, approached me to try Priscilla the Great, I was intrigued by the premise containing superpowers. You all know I’m obsessed with superpowers. So, I decided to give it a go. Priscilla the Great is a fun, engaging tale of a young teenage girl grappling with the realities of life while throwing fire-starting, mind-reading and more into the mix. Written in a simple but descriptive prose, the book flows well, and kept me rooting for Priscilla throughout.

The book starts with a bang, showing us Priscilla in a precarious situation, then backtracks to show what led Priscilla to her current situation. I loved the beginning of the story. When books launch full-speed into the action, I’m immediately caught from page one. However, I was a bit disappointed by the amount of backstory that was crammed right into the first part of the story after the initial plot-opener. To be honest, the book came to a screeching halt for me. Luckily, Priscilla the Great picked up speed again and built up to a fun and exciting page-turner, in part because of the great characters. Both Priscilla and her best friend, Tai, a genius, were laugh-out-loud funny and perfectly balanced with the plot.

Despite the rocky first bit of Priscilla the Great, I was quite impressed by the story as a whole (despite my cover love totally not being satisfied by the cover). It’s a bit like a cross between Percy Jackson and superhero comic – definitely entertaining. I give it a 4 out 5 overall, and I’d recommend it to fans of upper MG and lower YA reads, especially those who enjoy a good science fiction story.

I received this book free of charge from the author in exchange for an honest review. This, in no way, affected my opinion or review of this book.

Title: Minder
Author: Kate Kaynak
Publisher: Spencer Hill Press
Published: June 18, 2010
Genre: YA, Sci-Fi
Pages: 264
Source: Author

Sixteen-year-old Maddie Dunn is special, but she needs to figure out how to use her new abilities before somebody else gets hurt. Ganzfield is a secret training facility full of people like her, but it's not exactly a nurturing place.

Every social interaction carries the threat of mind-control. A stray thought can burn a building to the ground.

And people's nightmares don't always stay in their own heads. But it's still better than New Jersey. Especially once she meets the man of her dreams...

Maddie Dunn has enough to deal with without adding special powers to the list, but she doesn’t have a choice. When a dangerous situation leaves three people inexplicably dead and Maddie in desperate need of answers and support, she’s shuttled off to Ganzfield. Designed as a special school for those with gifts like herself, Maddie must learn to harness her newfound powers before something bad happens to the people she cares about. Ganzfield is a great place, and Maddie might have just found the guy of her dreams in the midst of all the chaos around her, but there’s something dark after them, and when a single stray thought can kill, Maddie needs stability…now.

I’ve seen reviews for Minder for a long time now. The concept is one that I love, albeit, perhaps not the most original. A touch X-Men with a hint of Supernatural thrown into the mix, Minder is a story of superhuman powers in otherwise ordinary citizens and their struggle for survival and a normal life. Kate Kaynak has, however, managed to create a new and endearing heroine that has you rooting for her from page one. With a fast-paced plot and plenty of twists and turns to keep you on the edge of your seat, Minder is great for those who love superheroes and the idea that they live among us.

Despite a few flaws, I was impressed with Minder. The idea was put together well, and the story flowed nicely. There were no real plot lags, and I enjoyed the characters, though I found that (at times) Maddie could be a bit too introspective. I don’t always need to read her thoughts to understand what she’s thinking or feeling. I also think that a few parts of the plot could have been fleshed out more. While I appreciated how fast the story got moving, I would have enjoyed a chance to get to know Maddie right off. That said, Kaynak managed to weave character development through the ever-moving plot, which isn’t an easy thing to do.

I think Minder is a great start to the Ganzfield series, and I’m excited to read where the rest of the story takes Maddie and her new friends. I give Minder a 4 out of 5, and I’ll definitely be looking for book two in the series, Adversary. I would recommend Minder to those who enjoy YA, especially those who enjoy science-fiction stories with a touch of romance. This is also great for fans of shows like The Cape, Smallville and X-Men.

I received this book free of charge from the author in exchange for an honest review. This, in no way, affected my opinion or review of this book.

Title: The Lost Gate
Author: Orson Scott Card
Publisher: Tor
Published: January 4, 2011
Genre: YA, Urban Fantasy
Pages: 378
Source: Publisher

Danny North knew from early childhood that his family was different, and that he was different from them. While his cousins were learning how to create the things that commoners called fairies, ghosts, golems, trolls, werewolves, and other such miracles that were the heritage of the North family, Danny worried that he would never show a talent, never form an outself.

There are many secrets in the House, and many rules that Danny must follow. There is a secret library with only a few dozen books, and none of them in English — but Danny and his cousins are expected to become fluent in the language of the books. While Danny’s cousins are free to create magic whenever they like, they must never do it where outsiders might see.

Unfortunately, there are some secrets kept from Danny as well. And that will lead to disaster for the North family.

The Lost Gate follows the story of Danny, just one young boy in a family of exiled mages, forced to live in the real world where kids create stories of fairies, werewolves, and the type of stuff his family knows is real. Danny lives his life in a realm of secrets, some of which he can never share with others, but he’s beginning to learn that there are just as many (if not more) secrets being hidden from him. His family calls him a Drekka, or someone without powers. But unknown to Danny, there is more power than he could ever imagine lurking inside of him. He’s a gatemage – and so powerful that it could very well be more of a curse than a magical gift.

Before this, the only work of Orson Scott Card that I’d read was Ender’s Game, which is kind of a hit or miss series, or so I hear. Luckily, it was a hit for me, so I was incredibly excited to read The Lost Gate. The first book in a new series called the Mithermages, The Lost Gate is a riveting urban fantasy adventure blending Norse mythology with an intricate plot that’s equal parts spellbinding and cryptic. Orson Scott Card has an amazing writing style that sends the reader on a journey with the characters, allowing you to experience and feel exactly what they feel giving life to the world within The Lost Gate.

I’ll admit, The Lost Gate is complex at times, and there are moments when the mythology and background of the story gets a bit tedious and too intricate, but the world that’s been created is phenomenal. Danny was a bit hard for me to connect with at first. He was very…bland, and rather unlikeable, but the character development he portrayed throughout the story redeemed him in the end. Wad, however, was the character that defined the story for me. Almost completely shrouded in mystery, I was hooked to every action (and inaction) of his character, desperate to find out who he really was. The dialogue between the characters is fitting and age-appropriate, but I did find it a bit crass or graphic at times. That said, for the age of the MC, it fits.

All in all, The Lost Gate is a great start to a new series from Orson Scott Card. And yes, the cliffhanger ending is a killer. I hate those endings! I give The Lost Gate a strong 4 out of 5, and I’d recommend it to fans of YA, especially teen boys and those who enjoy fantasy, urban fantasy, and anything along the lines of Ender’s Game or Pathfinder.

I received this book free of charge from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This, in no way, affected my opinion or review of this book.

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Because of the generosity of Tor Books, I've been given a second, finished hardcover copy of The Lost Gate for a giveaway. This giveaway is international and will end promptly at midnight EST on January 30, 2011. Winners will be notified by email. To enter to win The Lost Gate by Orson Scott Card, follow the link below.

ENTER TO WIN

Title: The Latte Rebellion
Author: Sarah Jamila Stevenson
Publisher: Flux
Published: January 1, 2011
Genre: YA, Contemporary Fiction
Pages: 327
Source: Publisher

When high school senior Asha Jamison gets called a "towel head" at a pool party, the racist insult gives Asha and her best friend Carey a great money-making idea for a post-graduation trip. They'll sell T-shirts promoting the Latte Rebellion, a club that raises awareness of mixed-race students.

Seemingly overnight, their "cause" goes viral and the T-shirts become a nationwide fad. As new chapters spring up from coast to coast, Asha realizes that her simple marketing plan has taken on a life of its own-and it's starting to ruin hers. Asha's once-stellar grades begin to slip, threatening her Ivy League dreams, and her friendship with Carey is hanging by a thread.

And when the peaceful underground movement turns militant, Asha's school launches a disciplinary hearing.Facing expulsion, Asha must decide how much she's willing to risk for something she truly believes in.

The Latte Rebellion follows Asha Jamison, your ordinary teenage girl with extraordinary dreams that finds herself at the bad end of a racial slur during a pool party. When one of her fellow classmates calls her a “towel-head,” Asha and her friend Carey dream up something they call “The Latte Rebellion.” A group formed for all those who don’t quite fit into a single ethnic background, Asha decides to capitalize on the idea to make a little money on the side…but she had no idea that The Latte Rebellion would be so popular. Seemingly overnight, the rebellion takes on a life of its own, and students start becoming more forceful. In fact, the helpful and supportive organization Asha created might just be the end of her Ivy League dreams.

I remember hearing the premise of The Latte Rebellion a while back, and I was instantly hooked by the premise. Plus, who can deny a cover with a steaming mug of coffee, eh? While contemporary fiction isn’t usually my thing, I was attracted to The Latte Rebellion because of the undercurrent of morals that seemed to seep into every pore of the story, giving it a real, tangible approach to a serious issue in this day and age. While a lot of contemps seem to be surface-level only, Sarah Jamila Stevenson has seamlessly blended a coming-of-age story with a strong theme of tolerance, community, and friendship.

What I loved most about The Latte Rebellion was the accessibility of the characters. Asha is extremely approachable. She’s a teen with all her angst and rebellion, but she has a goal and a viewpoint. Carey is well-rounded, too, and a bit of a joker – adding just a hint of comic relief through the otherwise tense situations. While I enjoyed the overall pacing of The Latte Rebellion, it’s important to note that the story jumps between flashbacks of what happened to the current predicament that Asha has found herself in. I felt that, at times, it was a little abrupt, and I had to remind myself we’d changed from past to present.

Overall though, The Latte Rebellion was a poignant, powerful, and inspiring read. In an age where too many people turn a blind eye, or shut up when they should speak, this book encourages the reader to stand up for their beliefs and values. I give it a very strong 4 out of 5, and I’d recommend it to fans of YA, as well as adult audiences, especially those who enjoy contemporary fiction. 

I received this book free of charge from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This, in no way, affected my opinion or review of this book.

St. Vladimir's Academy isn't just any boarding school—it's a hidden place where vampires are educated in the ways of magic and half-human teens train to protect them. Rose Hathaway is a Dhampir, a bodyguard for her best friend Lissa, a Moroi Vampire Princess. They've been on the run, but now they're being dragged back to St. Vladimir's—the very place where they're most in danger...

Rose and Lissa become enmeshed in forbidden romance, the Academy's ruthless social scene, and unspeakable nighttime rituals. But they must be careful lest the Strigoi—the world's fiercest and most dangerous vampires—make Lissa one of them forever.
Taken from GoodReads.

Rose Hathaway and Lissa Dragomir have been on the run for two years when we first meet them in Vampire Academy. Rose is committed to keeping Lissa, a royal Moroi vampire princess, safe, and Lissa is determined to have Rose's back at all times. The girls, however, are brought back to St. Vladimir's Academy - the very place from which they escaped. Rose is keeping a deadly secret for Lissa, and the bond they share is in jeopardy every day - can they keep Lissa and Rose safe while within the walls of the vampire academy?

Yes, I took my sweet assed time getting to Vampire Academy because I loathe vampires. They glitter, and stalk, and whine, and meddle in that vampire series I'm sure some of you might have heard of...but a few of my really good bloggy friends convinced me to give this a go. I can honestly admit that I'm pleased I read Vampire Academy. It's a whirlwind of adventure that blends friendships, lore, and enemies into a tale that makes you want to know more. Richelle Mead has created a world of vampires that I can honestly admit - intrigues me.

Now, that's not to say that Vampire Academy didn't have a few hiccups for me. For one, had I not been forewarned, I would have been extremely confused by Lissa and Rose's relationship. For the first half, I was pretty sure they were a couple - not that there's anything wrong with that, but it kind of confused the other relationships in the story. I also think the book started off a bit slow. There was a lot of background in Vampire Academy, and it took a while for that to get out of the way and into the real action of the story. I will, however, note particular strengths in characterization and descriptiveness. The world within Vampire Academy is alive.

No, it's not the best book I've ever read, and I know I'm eating my words here, but I'm going to give Vampire Academy a 4 out of 5, and I'd recommend it to all fans of YA, paranormal romance, and vampire stories - even if you don't like vampires, this is an exciting adventure! I definitely need to know what happens next...mostly with Dimitri. And Rose.

Marc said he heard the dark song when he creeped houses. The song the predator's heart sings when it hears the heart of the prey. I heard it now. Marc said it had always been in me. Lurking. Waiting for me to hear.
Ames is not the person she was a few months ago. Her father lost his job, and her family is crumbling apart. Now, all she has is Marc. Marc, who loves her more than anything. Marc, who owns a gun collection. And he'll stop at nothing--even using his guns--to get what he wants. Ames feels her parents have betrayed her with their lies and self-absorption, but is she prepared to make the ultimate betrayal against them?
Taken from GoodReads.

In Dark Song, we meet Ames. She’s a golden girl with the world at her feet. Born into a life of privilege, cushy mansions, and excess, Ames doesn’t know the first thing about loss until the rug is pulled out from under her feet. When her father is fired from his job, details emerge revealing him for what he truly is, and Ames feels betrayed. Lost and confused, her perfect world starts to unravel, and suddenly she’s thrust into a new town with new lies and new losses. But Marc offers her an out. He offers her protection and a sense of stability…but how much is Ames willing to give up for him?

Before I say anything else, let me state that Dark Song is NOT a feel-good book. If you are looking for something light and fluffy, this is not the book for you. I didn’t really know what I was in for when I started Dark Song, but I was intrigued, and I’ll admit that I devoured this book in about four hours. It’s a quick and fast-paced read that sends you on a dark and enthralling ride as a good girl goes bad. Gail Giles strings you along with Ames and her family, hooking you with a plot that won’t let you go.

I was amazed by just how dark Dark Song really was. I had a general idea where it was going, but wow…it dips into some pretty dark and messy material – stuff that I’m not usually used to or want to read. That said, I think Gail Giles handled the issues with due tact. I will, however, state that while I found the characterization of Ames, her family, and Marc to be superb, I was really, really disappointed in the secondary characters at the beginning like Kim. Her first introduction is as “the anorexic girl,” and her descriptions that followed were stereotyped and a bit crass. Furthermore, her cronies were the stereotypical mean girls that I loathe so much. I wished those characters broke the mold like Emily. I also had some trouble stomaching the actual relationship between Marc and Ames. It’s very…graphic, shall we say. I think, however, that was the point of Dark Song.

All in all, if you’re looking for a no-holds-barred take on one girl’s downward spiral from good to bad, Dark Song is a really great read. It’s very dark though, so if you do read, be prepared for the content to be rather heavy. I give this a very strong 4 out of 5, and I’d recommend it to fans of YA, contemporary fiction, and I think an adult audience would appreciate it, as well, as it’s a very poignant story.

This ARC was given to me free of charge from the publisher, Little Brown Books for Young Readers, in exchange for an honest review. This, in no way, affected my opinion or review of this book.

Tory Brennan, niece of acclaimed forensic anthropologist Temperance Brennan (of the Bones novels and hit TV show), is the leader of a ragtag band of teenage "sci-philes" who live on a secluded island off the coast of South Carolina. When the group rescues a dog caged for medical testing on a nearby island, they are exposed to an experimental strain of canine parvovirus that changes their lives forever.

As the friends discover their heightened senses and animal-quick reflexes, they must combine their scientific curiosity with their newfound physical gifts to solve a cold-case murder that has suddenly become very hot if they can stay alive long enough to catch the killer's scent.

Taken from GoodReads.

Virals follows the story of fourteen-year-old Tory Brennan living on Morris Island with her estranged father and her three best friends, Hi, Ben, and Shelton. Smart and curious, the three friends have plenty to discover around their hometown, and they decide to explore Loggerhead Island looking for the wolfdogs, a small pack of half-wolf, half-German-shephard dogs living in the monkey-infested island jungle, setting an unimaginable adventure in motion. By saving a puppy, Tory and her friends discover there's something sinister happening on Loggerhead Island, and they've just become a part of it.

Confession: I am the biggest Bones geek in the world. It could have to do with the fact that when kids dreaming of being in the circus when they were little, I just wanted to cut open dead people. I digress (TMI?) Anyway, when I heard that Kathy Reichs was coming out with a YA book, I did a little happy dance and waited impatiently with the rest of you. Virals was so much fun! The nerdlets (Tory and her gang) were so well-defined, and each had a very distinct and well-rounded personality that kept the plot moving along. Best of all though, Kathy Reichs created a story with a conversational narrator, a relatable voice, and a plot with enough intrigue to keep me on my toes the whole time.

That's not to say I didn't have a few qualms with Virals. First of all, I wanted to see more of Kit, Tory's father. I think he added an element to the start of the story that was missing a bit later on. I also think that the actual Virals element could have been introduced a bit earlier on. It didn't appear until about halfway through. And, if I might be petty for a wee moment, every time I saw Hiram's nickname, Hi, I got really confused why someone was saying Hi to me in the middle of the book. I will, however say that Virals is written really uniquely, peppered with sarcasm and fractions just like a tweenager would speak, and it was done in a way that wasn't at all obnoxious to me.

I give Virals a really strong 4 out of 5, and I really can't wait to see how the story continues! I want to see what happens next, and it was so much fun getting to know the characters in the book. I would recommend this to all YA fans, especially those who enjoy sci-fi, mystery, and just a hint of your very own, modern-day Nancy Drew.

Night after night, Jessica stands trial before a council of vindictive angels for deeds she didn’t commit. Condemnation brings a branding as they dementedly laugh and point but exaltation starts a war over her soul. These are Jessica’s nightmares. Alex is everything Jessica could ever want and she’ll do anything to be with him. Even tell him the truth about angels, why she never sleeps, and the scar on the back of her neck.This is what she will fight for.

But the nightmares rule Jessica’s life and she must find a way to stop the events that are pulling her toward her own judgment or become the object of her greatest fear. And lose Alex forever.
Taken from GoodReads.

Branded follows the story of Jessica, terrified to sleep because when she does, she's judged. She stands trial before the angels, both good and bad, for the souls of the dead. She's lived this life since she was five, and she was eventually committed by her own mother because her parents couldn't deal with her problems. Independent and afraid of opening up, Jessica knows she must eventually sleep, and when she does, she'll be judged again and face the branding of the angels.

Holy original plot! Branded is a new take on angels, which are apparently the new supernatural "creature" that's hot in the YA book world. That said, author Keary Taylor has presented a fresh idea with a delightfully independent and strong female protagonist that will keep you cheering for her throughout the story. Branded is, in a nutshell, a rich blend of biblical undertones, the weight of right and wrong, and the quest to save one's soul.

While the plot of Branded was beautifully original, I will say there were a few things I would have changed, if at all possible. First of all, there were some points where I could read right between the lines to see what happens next. I would rather be surprised. I also felt that the villain was a little too surface-heavy for me. I want to know more than his actual motives. I want to know what drives his motives, if that makes sense. The true strength of Branded lies within the relationship between Alex and Jessica. That was pure gold, in my honest opinion.

All in all, in my very humble opinion, Branded is an extremely strong 3.5 out of 5. The author shows so much promise and talent, and I can't believe a publisher hasn't picked her up yet. I'll definitely be on the lookout for more of her work. I would recommend this to fans of YA fantasy, especially those who enjoy supernatural and romance elements.

I received this book free of charge from the author in exchange for an honest review. This, in no way, affected my opinion or review of this book.

Talia fell under a spell . . . . Jack broke the curse.

Think you have dating issues? Try locking lips with a snoozing stunner who turns out to be 316 years old. Can a kiss transcend all—even time?
Taken from GoodReads.

A Kiss in Time is a re-imagining of the classic fairy tale, Sleeping Beauty. Talia was warned to stay away from spindles at a young age. The miracle princess was cursed as an infant and when she fails to stay away from spindles, the curse is triggered, and Talia falls asleep. Jack, on the other hand, lives to be rebellious. When he finds himself in a sleepy town with an even sleepier gorgeous girl, he can't help himself - he kisses her. Talia's been asleep for a very, very long time though, and their relationship is just beginning along a journey of magical proportions.

Finally! I've been in a bit of an ok-book slump...meaning the books I've been reading were good, but they weren't really great. A Kiss in Time was a total breath of fresh air for me. No, it wasn't the most exceptional writing or the most original tale, but A Kiss in Time really entertains. Written by author, Alex Flinn, the prose is engaging, the story is a throwback to the classic with twists of originality to keep you guessing, and the characters are fun and alive.

Now, let me just say that the story of Sleeping Beauty has always creeped me out a little bit because of the fact that the guy desperately wants to kiss the comatose girl. That said, A Kiss in Time plays up the humour and finds the hilarity in the classic tale. I enjoyed how defined and true both Talia and Jack's personalities were. They were definitely different, and they kept the plot pace going steady and strong. My one and only gripe with A Kiss in Time is the fact that we all know how the story ends. (If you don't...you might be living under a rock.) I was sort of hoping that Alex Flinn would throw a wrench in the original tale so the happily-ever-after story kept us guessing throughout, rather that staying true to the classic.

All in all, A Kiss in Time is a fun, fluffy, and engaging read that you will breeze through. I give it a very strong 4 out of 5, and I would recommend it to fans of classic fairy tales, YA fiction, and historical fiction. I will definitely be reading more of the author's work in the future.

Maggie and Caleb just went through the worst year of their lives. Hit by a car and starting life over with a limp, Maggie never thought she would forgive Caleb. But she did—and fell in love. What they shared was real. But Caleb wanted to be free from the past—and a terrible secret: he wasn't the one who hit Maggie. So he left Paradise—and Maggie—forever. When Maggie and Caleb run into each other in a different town, they can't deny their true feelings. Will Maggie let Caleb get away again? Or will Caleb face the truth and return to Paradise?
Taken from GoodReads.

Return to Paradise is the second half of Maggie and Caleb's journey. They hated each other, found each other, loved each other, and lost each other, all in one year. Now the circumstances are different, and in a new town and place, Caleb and Maggie have found each other again. Only this time, Caleb has gotten himself into a new mess of trouble, and Maggie has found her confidence - and her voice. Are they brave and strong enough to weather their mutual struggles and learn to live with and love each other again?

I read Return to Paradise in about five hours straight, much like I did with Leaving Paradise, but I have to say that I don't feel as satisfied with this installment as I did with the first. That's not to say that the writing of Return to Paradise is any less emotional or exceptional as before, but I'm going to be honest. Simone Elkeles is an amazing author with the unique ability to paint a story with environments and characters that are tangible, true to humanity, and relevant. That said, I almost think the story was better left with the inconclusive story line of Leaving Paradise. Ever hear that statement, less is more? In my humble and brutally honest opinion, sometimes I think authors need to remember that.

I'll start with the strengths of Return to Paradise. Written in alternating POVs, I can honestly say that this book holds true to the character voices developed in book one. Caleb and Maggie are easily distinguished, and their own voices make it easier to relate to them. I have to be honest though, while I enjoyed the character development for Maggie - she was stronger, braver, and more assertive - I felt that this was almost the same journey as we watched them go through before. The same questions were posed in my mind...do they love each other? Will their love overcome obstacles? Will the truth come out after all? That, I felt, was a little tedious. Delving into some of the minor characters from the last book definitely helped the book along though.

I think that Return to Paradise is a good book, don't get me wrong, but I don't think I absolutely had to read it. I almost prefer how it played out in my head. Either way, it's a strong read with a great voice and cast of characters. I'll give it a 4 out of 5, and I'd recommend this to fans of YA, contemporary fiction, and those who loved Leaving Paradise.