Dearly, Departed by Lia Habel

Dearly Departed by Lia Habel

Gone With the Respiration series, book 1

Random House, October 18, 2011

480 pages

ARC copy provided by NetGalley.com

Love conquers all, so they say. But can Cupid’s arrow pierce the hearts of the living and the dead—or rather, the undead? Can a proper young Victorian lady find true love in the arms of a dashing zombie?

The year is 2195. The place is New Victoria—a high-tech nation modeled on the manners, mores, and fashions of an antique era. A teenager in high society, Nora Dearly is far more interested in military history and her country’s political unrest than in tea parties and debutante balls. But after her beloved parents die, Nora is left at the mercy of her domineering aunt, a social-climbing spendthrift who has squandered the family fortune and now plans to marry her niece off for money. For Nora, no fate could be more horrible—until she’s nearly kidnapped by an army of walking corpses.

But fate is just getting started with Nora. Catapulted from her world of drawing-room civility, she’s suddenly gunning down ravenous zombies alongside mysterious black-clad commandos and confronting “The Laz,” a fatal virus that raises the dead—and hell along with them. Hardly ideal circumstances. Then Nora meets Bram Griswold, a young soldier who is brave, handsome, noble . . . and dead. But as is the case with the rest of his special undead unit, luck and modern science have enabled Bram to hold on to his mind, his manners, and his body parts. And when his bond of trust with Nora turns to tenderness, there’s no turning back. Eventually, they know, the disease will win, separating the star-crossed lovers forever. But until then, beating or not, their hearts will have what they desire.

--Summary provided by Goodreads.com

Judging by the cover...: Though it's incredibly, over-the-top emo (as Mr. Frank so delightfully pointed out), I find it a perfect fit, especially the pale red on black. It positively screams young adult, but what's wrong with that?

Favorite Elements:

• Good Zombies - Apparently they DO exist! I knew my dreams of meeting a zombie that wouldn't eat my face could come true.
• New Victorian Era - The Victorian ages are back, this time with much less suck. Unfortunately, you'll still have to put up with the excessive etiquette of the times.
• Steamy Steampunk - Don't let yourself get burned by the blend of supertech and steam-powered machinery!
• Home Girl - When I first read the synopsis, I knew I'd like this book. Then I read her author profile on Goodreads which states she's from Western New York. As a WNY-er myself, I had to know, and a little digging on her website revealed that we're both from Jamestown, a small city in the southwestern tier of the state. I knew then that not only would I read this book and love it, but that I would be compelled to brag that Habel and I were most likely born in the same hospital (it's a small city).

Overall: A-

Allow me to spell out this book using a mathematical equation: catastrophic world events - Europe + massive migration to South America + unhealthy fascination with preserving Victorian times + a disease that brings the dead back to life = perfect gentlemen who will say please before they devour your flesh. Or undress you with smoldering yet cloudy eyes.

Much to my surprise, I've become quite attached to paranormal fantasy. This offering was one of the more enjoyable rides I've taken on an airship in a long time. Witty and smart, with kickbutt heroines, yet steamy and innocent at the same time. Rarely do we get the chance to cheer for the zombie boy to get the girl.

Recommendation: Do you love zombies? Do you love steampunk? Do you love weird yet sexy supernatural beings falling in love with mere humans? Yes, yes, and yes? Then do it!

Similar Reads: For the paranormal romance lovers (and those of you who also like red/black Gothic covers), check out Die For Me by Amy Plum. For those of you who yearn to cheer on more zombies, grab a copy of Warm Bodies by Isaac Marion.

The Near Witch by Victoria Schwab

The Near Witch by Victoria Schwab
Hyperion, August 2011
288 pages

Book Source: This copy was an e-book ARC from NetGalley.com. The release date is set for August 3, 2011.

The Near Witch is only an old story told to frighten children.

If the wind calls at night, you must not listen. The wind is lonely, and always looking for company.

And there are no strangers in the town of Near.

These are the truths that Lexi has heard all her life.

But when an actual stranger—a boy who seems to fade like smoke—appears outside her home on the moor at night, she knows that at least one of these sayings is no longer true.

The next night, the children of Near start disappearing from their beds, and the mysterious boy falls under suspicion. Still, he insists on helping Lexi search for them. Something tells her she can trust him.

As the hunt for the children intensifies, so does Lexi’s need to know—about the witch that just might be more than a bedtime story, about the wind that seems to speak through the walls at night, and about the history of this nameless boy.

Part fairy tale, part love story, Victoria Schwab’s debut novel is entirely original yet achingly familiar: a song you heard long ago, a whisper carried by the wind, and a dream you won’t soon forget.

-- Summary from GoodReads.com

Judging by the cover...: The ethereal cover calls to mind a fairy tale, and that's exactly what we have here, folks, but I'm not quite sure it fits the story. Lexi is a tomboy, not the heroine typical of young adult literature these days, though the cover wants you to think that. But if we're describing Lexi's best friend, then we might have a match.

Favorite Elements:

• Creep Factor - It seems like every area has at least one story that plays off of the characteristics of the land and convinces people to think twice about wandering alone. When I reached the end of this story, there was a terrific thunderstorm outside with tremendous winds, and even though the Near Witch is a story for the moors, I was convinced she was outside.
• Fearless Female - Lexi has my vote for awesome chick. She is strong-willed and won't take no from the piggish males in her village. Her father taught her his trade, despite disapproval from his brother, and she isn't going to let anyone tell her that she can't practice it.
• Witches - Magda and Dreska have been a part of the village since before the village elders were born. To put it lightly, they're old. And even though they've seen some tough times and become outcasts, they're always willing to help.

Overall: B/C+

Schwab's writing and her ability to weave a spooky story is amazing. All through the book I could not stop feeling like there was something lurking outside my window, waiting to steal me from my bed with its beautiful song. The haunted atmosphere of the moors mixed with the fairy tale feel of the village brings the story to life, willing it into existence. If I was lured to a witch's lair, I'd want Lexi as my sister, giving her all to find me, and willing to risk everything to do it. Her dangerous attachment to the new arrival in town heats things up; Cole is the epitome of the mysterious loner boy stereotype.

I really did want to grade this book higher, considering all of the things I know about it after reading it, but personally I just can't get over a few issues. I'm all for keeping things mysterious, but there are a few ends that should have been wrapped up and weren't, questions that the author is content to leave unanswered. Now that I know this is the first book in a series, I'm willing to let a few of those bits unresolved, and I thank Victoria Schwab for personally offering her rationale behind the ending to me. For those of you who are comfortable with not knowing, I doubt you'll even notice that something is amiss, as there are no serious plot holes.

Recommendation: Your typical witch story this is not, and I suggest that if you like your books to have a certain amount of supernatural atmosphere plus mysterious (and mysteriously romantic) boys, then you must pick this up. You won't regret it.

Ruby Red by Kerstin Gier

Ruby Red by Kerstin Gier, translated from German by Anthea Bell

Henry Holt and Company, May 2011

324 pages

Book Source: Public Library

Gwyneth Shepherd's sophisticated, beautiful cousin Charlotte has been prepared her entire life for traveling through time. But unexpectedly, it is Gwyneth, who in the middle of class takes a sudden spin to a different era! Gwyneth must now unearth the mystery of why her mother would lie about her birth date to ward off suspicion about her ability, brush up on her history, and work with Gideon, the time traveler from a similarly gifted family that passes the gene through its male line, and whose presence becomes, in time, less insufferable and more essential. Together, Gwyneth and Gideon journey through time to discover who, in the 18th century and in contemporary London, they can trust.

-- Summary from Goodreads.com

Judging by the cover...: As soon as I saw the cover, I knew I must get my hands on it. I wanted it so badly, that I completely forgot to even look at what it was about. Though when I look at it, I avoid looking at the girl on the cover, since she creeps me out like there's no tomorrow.

Favorite Elements:

• Comeuppance Received - Charlotte, I'm so glad that you turned out to be such a snob and so easy to hate. That awful ego of yours needed to be taken down a peg or three.
• History Plus a Bit of Steam Punk - The Chronograph is a crazy awesome device that can take you back to any time period within the last 500 years. So who's ready to do some traveling?
• The Cover - The picture above can hardly do it justice; it's shiny, too!
• England - Any book set in the UK is high on my list of To Reads, and Gwen's descriptions of her house, school, and family are a glimpse into what life is like for the (semi) normal British teenager. 
• BFF - Leslie is the coolest friend that anyone could have, considering she believes Gwen's story of her time traveling family. It doesn't hurt that she's on track to being a fantastic librarian with those researching skills.

Overall: A-
Though I violated the cardinal rule of Never Judge a Book by the Cover, I do not at all regret it. Ruby Red was such a pleasant surprise! Often teenagers portrayed in books seem older than they really are, but Gwen's actions were closer what an actual 16 year-old would do. It was refreshing to read a story that involved a relaxed main character who was best friends with a total control freak, not the other way around.

And Gideon. Oh Gideon. Do you remember that stuck up boy in high school who wouldn't even look at you let alone speak to you, but you had the biggest crush on him anyway? Or maybe that was just me... But that high school crush he is, which makes him so easy love and hate at the same time.

Gier's excels at writing the time travel plot. She keeps the story moving forward, though Gwen is constantly moving backwards and forwards through history. I will be eagerly awaiting Sapphire Blue, the next book, due out in the U.S. next year, thought it's already out in Gier's native Germany. This wait makes me wish my German was much better.

Recommendation: Absolutely yes. GO NOW and read. Middle Grade readers will love the PG romance and teens of all ages will be entranced by the task set before Gideon and Gwen. 

The Demon Trapper's Daughter by Jana Oliver

The Demon Trapper's Daughter by Jana Oliver
St. Martin's Griffin, February 2011
340 pages
Book Source: Public Library

Riley Blackthorne just needs a chance to prove herself – and that’s exactly what the demons are counting on…

Seventeen-year-old Riley, the only daughter of legendary Demon Trapper, Paul Blackthorne, has always dreamed of following in her father's footsteps.  The good news is, with human society seriously disrupted by economic upheaval and Lucifer increasing the number of demons in all major cities, Atlanta’s local Trappers’ Guild needs all the help they can get – even from a girl. When she’s not keeping up with her homework or trying to manage her growing crush on fellow apprentice, Simon, Riley’s out saving distressed citizens from foul-mouthed little devils – Grade One Hellspawn only, of course, per the strict rules of the Guild. Life’s about as normal as can be for the average demon-trapping teen.

But then a Grade Five Geo-Fiend crashes Riley’s routine assignment at a library, jeopardizing her life and her chosen livelihood.  And, as if that wasn’t bad enough, sudden tragedy strikes the Trappers’ Guild, spinning Riley down a more dangerous path than she ever could have imagined. As her whole world crashes down around her, who can Riley trust with her heart – and her life?

-- Summary from Goodreads.com

Judging by the cover...: Not totally in love with it, but the red  (can you guess it's my favorite color?) makes it stand out. I approve of the globe visual; good to have a size reference. 

Favorite Elements:

• Demons - I love a good demon hunting party as much as the next girl. It's always interesting to see how an author will treat the spawns of Satan, and Oliver does a good job of giving them new life in her series.
• Starbucks - The ever-present chain of coffee peddlers will never die. Even their buildings live on after the apocalypse as make-shift schools.
• Necromancers - What book about demons would be complete without worshipers of the dead? In this story they're hella creepy and not dudes you want to mess around with, or you might find yourself in their service after your life has been cut short.

Overall: B
Every now and then I find a heroine like Riley and say to myself, "Dang, I wish I was more like her." She is fiercely independent, smart, and apparently gorgeous, and has the eye of the hottest demon trapper around. She knows what she wants in life, and even though not everyone has that same drive, we know the feeling. She might be a teenager, but that girl is going places.

The tale Oliver has woven is brilliant. She has developed a world with demons so close to our own, and it's eerie. Even without the demons, Riley's story had me believing that we're only one fuel crisis away from her world, a reality that's not so distant. Unfortunately for me (many of you may disagree) the story had to involve angels, but I can look past that, since they play such an important role.

I waited on pins and needles for this book to come out, then agonized over how long the libraries near me were taking to get it. I was just about to give up when a nearby system added it to their collection. The wait was well worth it, though, and I am eagerly awaiting the sequel. In the meantime, I'll have to content with Oliver's novella, Retro Demonology, which takes place shortly before The Demon Trapper's Daughter.

Recommendation: If you're like me and appreciate a good demon out of hell story, you'll love this book. It even gets a "Mr. Frank Seal of Approval". Oliver's writing will appeal to both teens and adults.

Similar Reads: The Bartimaeus series by Jonathan Stroud. It's a series about demons that doesn't involve angels. Yes, it can be done!

Shiver by Maggie Stiefvater

Shiver by Maggie Stiefvater

Read by Jenna Lamia and David LeDoux

Scholastic Audio, August 2009

9 discs, 10 hours and 43 minutes

Book Source: Public Library

the cold.
Grace has spent years watching the wolves in the woods behind her house. One yellow-eyed wolf—her wolf—watches back. He feels deeply familiar to her, but she doesn't know why.

the heat.
Sam has lived two lives. As a wolf, he keeps the silent company of the girl he loves. And then, for a short time each year, he is human, never daring to talk to Grace...until now.

the shiver.
For Grace and Sam, love has always been kept at a distance. But once it's spoken, it cannot be denied. Sam must fight to stay human—and Grace must fight to keep him—even if it means taking on the scars of the past, the fragility of the present, and the impossibility of the future.

-- Summary from Goodreads.com 

Judging by the cover...: Just so we're clear here, my entire reason for reading this book is the cover. Werewolves? Ugh. Cheesy romance? Meh. But the cover... I'm just so drawn to it... Simple, but oh so beautiful. Too bad the disc case didn't have the same artwork on it, just a plain picture of a wolf.

Favorite Elements:

• No Supernatural Factor - "But," you say, "It's about werewolves!" I know that, silly, but the explanations are all very scientific. And there are certainly no vampires to muck up the story, either.
• Sappy Love Story - Alright, I guess every once in a while a cry-your-heart-out love story is necessary. Just don't expect this very often from me.
• The Cover - See above.
• Temperature - Sam's fight to stay human is dependent on the temperature outside, and so Stiefvater has included the temperature at the beginning of each chapter. I could actually feel the cold seeping into my bones, even though it is 100F in Dallas now.

Overall: B+

Let me get it out there that Shiver is not just Twilight with wolves. But it doesn't escape completely from the stigma of its predecessor. There is quite enough of teen drama to go around. The plot is saved by Sam's struggle to stay human while nature and his past keep trying to reclaim him. This sad, sweet story is worth every minute of listening. 

Audio Notes: Jenna Lamia, who voices Grace's parts, is an excellent reader who was perfect for the role. David LeDoux (Sam), is equally as good at reading, but I don't think that his voice fit the role. His has a rougher edge more suited to reading murder mysteries or really anything that doesn't involve romance, and his voices for female characters was a little disturbing. 

I really enjoyed listening to this audiobook, and somehow I feel like I wouldn't have enjoyed the story as much if I had read it. It felt more like watching a movie instead of an actual book. 

Recommendation: Everyone needs a swoony story now and then, but if you can't stomach the constant lovey-doveyness, don't do it. Those readers who adore supernatural/paranormal romances will eat this story up and be eagerly waiting for the next book. 

Wrapped by Jennifer Bradbury

Wrapped by Jennifer Bradbury

Atheneum, May 2011

320 pages

Book Source: Public Library

Agnes Wilkins is standing in front of an Egyptian mummy, about to make the first cut into the wrappings, about to unlock ancient (and not-so-ancient) history. 

Maybe you think this girl is wearing a pith helmet with antique dust swirling around her.

Maybe you think she is a young Egyptologist who has arrived in Cairo on camelback.

Maybe she would like to think that too. Agnes Wilkins dreams of adventures that reach beyond the garden walls, but reality for a seventeen-year-old debutante in 1815 London does not allow for camels—or dust, even. No, Agnes can only see a mummy when she is wearing a new silk gown and standing on the verdant lawns of Lord Showalter’s estate, with chaperones fussing about and strolling sitar players straining to create an exotic “atmosphere” for the first party of the season. An unwrapping.

This is the start of it all, Agnes’s debut season, the pretty girl parade that offers only ever-shrinking options: home, husband, and high society. It’s also the start of something else, because the mummy Agnes unwraps isn’t just a mummy. It’s a host for a secret that could unravel a new destiny—unleashing mystery, an international intrigue, and possibly a curse in the bargain.

Get wrapped up in the adventure . . . but keep your wits about you, dear Agnes.

-- Summary from GoodReads.com

Judging by the cover...: Though not the best drawing I've ever seen on a cover, it's certainly not the worst, and the mummy is pretty creepy. It gets a seal of approval, but not by much.

Favorite Elements:

• ANCIENT EGYPT - That's right, it's so awesome it gets all caps.
• The British Museum - When the Pandorica was found at Stone Henge, it was taken to the most fabulous place in all of Great Britain. Or maybe that was an episode of Doctor Who. Regardless, everything cool is housed in the British Museum, and one day I will go there and marvel at all of the historical greatness housed in its four walls.
• Jane Austen - I'll admit that I've never ever read any of Austen's books. But, the discussion about A. Lady confused me, and thus prompted me to do some research on the famous Jane. What a fantastic woman!

Overall: C+

Wrapped had so much promise, and the summary had me thinking, "I must read this tonight." Sadly, the predictability of the plot and the forced natures of every character (they all fit in to a stereotype), turned the book into a train wreck of a mystery. I had every thing figured out within the first few chapters and was not at all surprised by any of the revelations at the end. This might be because I have read entirely too many mysteries, but I highly doubt it.

It was, however, very refreshing to find that Agnes reflected what a lot of women feel: the need to dress up and look gorgeous AND to be fiercely independent and adventurous. Too often the heroine of the story just wants to either be invisible or the wildest child on the block, neither embracing the more reasonable of society's standards.

Recommendation: Those readers who are looking for a fast read with plots typical of romance and mystery novels will enjoy this book. Reluctant readers will appreciate the quick pace, and can use the book as a jumping off point for more sophisticated mysteries. It's also very appropriate for those readers looking to bridge the gap between juvenile and young adult books.

Similar Reads: Prisoners in the Palace by Michaela MacColl for lovers of historical mysteries (see my review here), the Amelia Peabody Emerson series by Elizabeth Peters for historical mystery and Ancient Egypt lovers, or the Jade del Cameron series by Suzanne Arruda for historical mysteries about a fiercely independent woman.

Sean Griswold's Head by Lindsey Leavitt

Sean Griswold's Head by Lindsey Leavitt

Bloomsbury USA, March 2011

288 pages

Book Source: Public Library

According to her guidance counselor, fifteen-year-old Payton Gritas needs a focus object-an item to concentrate her emotions on. It's supposed to be something inanimate, but Payton decides to use the thing she stares at during class: Sean Griswold's head. They've been linked since third grade (Griswold-Gritas-it's an alphabetical order thing), but she's never really known him.

The focus object is intended to help Payton deal with her father's newly diagnosed multiple sclerosis. And it's working. With the help of her boy-crazy best friend Jac, Payton starts stalking-er, focusing on-Sean Griswold . . . all of him! He's cute, he shares her Seinfeld obsession (nobody else gets it!) and he may have a secret or two of his own.

In this sweet story of first love, Lindsey Leavitt seamlessly balances heartfelt family moments, spot-on sarcastic humor, and a budding young romance.

--Summary from Goodreads.com

Judging by the cover...: The cover is what I feel Payton's epiphany about Sean's head was like. Staring off into the abyss of boredom in the classroom, glancing at the board, and then all of a sudden WHAM there it is: Sean Griswold's Head.

Favorite Elements:

• We are Family - Payton's family has a wonderful dynamic. Sure her dad is sick, but everyone has pulled together to show how much they care. Well, everyone but Payton, but that's the kind of thing that family overlooks, right?
• Valley Forge - Having a bad day? Just imagine those poor soldiers marching through Valley Forge in the winter with no shoes. Up hill both ways. Sort of makes your life feel like a rock star's.
• Girl Power - Speaking of rock stars, Payton totally rocks her epic rebound. By the end, I wanted to stand up and cheer loudly (though the other customers in the restaurant did not agree).
• BFF - I seriously LOVED Jac. I almost wish the book had been about her and not Payton. But then we wouldn't have the opportunity to delve into Sean and his big headness.

Overall: B-

This book was sweet, cute, and filled with a whole lot of Sean, but there comes a point in every adult's life when they say to themselves, "Boy, teens sure do whine a lot." I reached a point in Payton's kvetching about her parents' lie when I just couldn't take it anymore. I felt like there were whole chapters of pushing her angsty agenda that just weren't necessary, and her "OMG my parents don't treat me like an adult so I'm going to be a total brat" attitude was too over the top for me. The ending almost makes up for all of the obnoxiousness in the middle. I guess.

Leavitt's writing, however, is completely and embarrassingly authentic. Though Payton's pout routine was enough to make my eyes roll, it did conjure up feelings of when I was a teen. I remember (shamefully) pulling that same act on my parents, thinking the things they did were the utmost in insane parenting. 

Recommendation: Sean Griswold is great for younger teens, mainly girls. They'll be able to sympathize with Payton's situation a bit more than boys or any adult ever would. As an adult, I can tell you that unless you want to scream at Payton for a few hours, this book just isn't for you.

 

Die For Me by Amy Plum

Die For Me by Amy Plum

HarperTeen, May 2011

341 pages

Book Source: Public Library

In the City of Lights, two star-crossed lovers battle a fate that is destined to tear them apart again and again for eternity.

When Kate Mercier's parents die in a tragic car accident, she leaves her life--and memories--behind to live with her grandparents in Paris. For Kate, the only way to survive her pain is escaping into the world of books and Parisian art. Until she meets Vincent.

Mysterious, charming, and devastatingly handsome, Vincent threatens to melt the ice around Kate's guarded heart with just his smile. As she begins to fall in love with Vincent, Kate discovers that he's a revenant--an undead being whose fate forces him to sacrifice himself over and over again to save the lives of others. Vincent and those like him are bound in a centuries-old war against a group of evil revenants who exist only to murder and betray. Kate soon realizes that if she follows her heart, she may never be safe again.

In this incandescent debut, newcomer Amy Plum has created a powerful paranormal mythology with immortal revenants. The Paris setting comes enchantingly alive as a relentless struggle between good and evil takes place in its streets. Rich with romance, atmosphere, and thrills, Die for Me will leave readers breathlessly awaiting its sequel.

-- Summary from GoodReads.com

Judging by the cover...: I'm not the lying sort, so I'll put it right out there: I read this book solely because of the cover. While reading, I couldn't help but frequently stop and just gaze at the beauty of it; the black vines, the model's dress, the cityscape, and most importantly, the beautifully rich scarlett tones used. I'm in lust with this cover.

Favorite Elements:

• Paris - If you don't want to visit the most romantic city in the world, you have no soul. Well, okay, maybe that was a bit harsh, but come on! Every place Vincent took Kate was another reason to go weak in the knees for him all over again (at least for me). It sounds so beautiful, so magical, that it was tempting to not jump on the first plane headed to France.
• Non-Brain Eating Zombies - A hot undead boyfriend who won't try to ingest my grey matter? Sign me up!
• French - This might seem like a repeat of my first fav, but really, it isn't. I've always been jealous of those who can speak the language. Though I fared better at it than Spanish, my grasp of it never became like that of German. Seriously, try being romantic while speaking THAT!
• The Cover - You mean I've harped on that too much already? Oh, fine!

Overall: C+

While not the most stellar of paranormal romances, I can't say it was the worst, either. Kate's adventures with Vincent were fun, and while I'd probably run like hell if a boyfriend of mine were to tell me that he was immortal, I do admire her willingness to put up with him and his "family". The Revenants are an interesting idea, much different than vampires or werewolves, and I really liked the direction the story was taking. Everything wrapped up neat, and I'll most definitely be checking out the next book in the series.

My one "but" for this book isn't really something I can fault the author with, since it is my personal preference. I would much rather read a story where the characters draw out their realization that they love each other, instead of meeting and falling in love with each other on the first page. In those sort of books, it always seems as if the heroine spends most of her time wallowing in her inability to be glued to the hero's side 24/7. If you're the sort who likes that kind of thing, then you'll be a big fan.

Recommendation: For those of you who love paranormal romances, you're in luck. Whether you borrow it, buy it, or steal it*, if you can't get to it today, it's okay. But definitely put it in your TBR pile. And make sure you frame that gorgeous cover!

*Um, yeah. About that. Don't really do that.

I Love New York

After days of waiting for New York to finally decide on the same sex marriage bill (and enduring the announcement of the official state vegetable: corn), The Empire State has demonstrated tonight that this country is changing for the better.

Congratulations to all of you out there who FINALLY get what should have been yours all along. You deserve it! So proud of my home state tonight, and wish I could be there partying with everyone.

Putting Makeup on Dead People by Jen Violi

Putting Makeup on Dead People by Jen Violi

Disney Hyperion, May 2011

336 pages

Book Source: This was an ARC copy provided free by and downloaded from NetGalley.com.

In the spring of her senior year, Donna Parisi finds new life in an unexpected place: a coffin.

Since her father’s death four years ago, Donna has gone through the motions of living: her friendships are empty, she’s clueless about what to do after high school graduation, and her grief keeps her isolated, cut off even from the one parent she has left. That is until she’s standing in front of the dead body of a classmate at Brighton Brothers’ Funeral Home. At that moment, Donna realizes what might just give her life purpose is comforting others in death. That maybe who she really wants to be is a mortician.

This discovery sets in motion a life Donna never imagined was possible. She befriends a charismatic new student, Liz, notices a boy, Charlie, and realizes that maybe he's been noticing her, too, and finds herself trying things she hadn’t dreamed of trying before. By taking risks, Donna comes into her own, diving into her mortuary studies with a passion and skill she didn’t know she had in her. And she finally understands that moving forward doesn’t mean forgetting someone you love.

Jen Violi’s heartfelt and funny debut novel is a story of transformation—how one girl learns to grieve and say goodbye, turn loss into a gift, and let herself be exceptional...at loving, applying lipstick to corpses, and finding life in the wake of death. 

--Summary from GoodReads.com

Judging by the cover...: Upside down dead chick? Alright, you got me there. I may not be 100% in love with it, but it brings out the goth girl I hide deep down. It has a certain Six Feet Under appeal, except with no Michael C. Hall.

Favorite Elements:

• Serious Creep Factor - We're not talking the kind of creepiness involving supernatural monsters, but about the monsters within us all. Ooooh, very philosophical! Death, the fate that no one escapes from, brings out the weirdness in all of us. 
• Big Family - It's not often that main characters have a big family. They always seem to be the only-child, almost-orphan type of families where day-to-day events escape the present-in-body parent's attention. It's nice to see a character interact with her siblings and ca-razy extended relatives.
• Patty - Don't hate. I secretly think she's awesome, thought I can't put my finger on it. She's got attitude, she's abrasive, and she isn't afraid to let her opinion be known (even if it is mean). We all deserve to be loved, don't we?

Overall: B-

Donna has some serious issues since her dad died. Who wouldn't? Everyone in her family is dealing with it in a different way, and it's easy to see how she got left behind. Lucky for her, she found something to throw herself into - dead people. The book could have gone in so many directions, and I was expecting it to be slightly flippant, but was relieved when I realized just how deep and introspective Donna becomes. Congratulations to Violi for tackling the hard issues without the preaching that could have resulted. Donna's voice comes across as authentic as any girl in her position would, and the decisions she makes are natural and almost (but not quite) adult.

My one issue with the plot was that certain elements seemed too convenient. Befriending Liz, encountering J.B., the decision to go to mortuary school. These events happened fast, almost too fast, but each has an important impact on the story.

Recommendation: Yes! Read it! Even if you only read it for the creepy-but-not funeral home scenes (I swear I'm not usually this obsessed), it's still a beautiful coming of age story. Older teens, girls mostly, will enjoy reading about Donna, and not-quite-young adults will root for Donna and her mom.

Beauty Queens by Libba Bray

Beauty Queens by Libba Bray

Scholastic, May 2011

390 pages

Book Source: Public Library

From bestselling, Printz Award-winning author Libba Bray, the story of a plane of beauty pageant contestants that crashes on a desert island.
Teen beauty queens. A "Lost"-like island. Mysteries and dangers. No access to email. And the spirit of fierce, feral competition that lives underground in girls, a savage brutality that can only be revealed by a journey into the heart of non-exfoliated darkness. Oh, the horror, the horror! Only funnier. With evening gowns. And a body count.

--Summary from GoodReads.com

Judging by the cover...: I hate to start off on a negative note, since this is such a kick*** book, but Printz award or not, I was tempted to brown bag it at the store. Yes, the lipstick bandolier is ironic and witty, but it's hard to be taken seriously when eating lunch holding a bikini clad picture that just screams, *"SHE'S READING CHICK LIT, Y'ALL!"

*Since Miss Texas plays a predominate role in this book AND I'm currently in Texas, this is a perfectly acceptable use of the word "y'all". You go, Taylor!

Favorite Elements

• Girl Power - Who knew beauty queens were more than plastic barbie dolls? Well, duh, of course! And these ladies are awesome to the max. Every one of them could be my best friend and we would have the coolest tropical vacations.
• A Re-Done Lord of the Flies - I can't be the only person out there who hated TLotF. Right? My 11th grade English teacher gave us a project to add an ending on, and I tacked on some lame garbage about the boys finding their way back to civilization and not being able to cope. If only I had thought of mixing in some beauty queens!
• Shout Out to All - No one escapes scrutiny in this book! Libba (we're on a first name basis in my head) leaves no stone unturned, no group untouched. Religion, sex ed, bisexuals, Consumer America, free spirits, you name it!

Overall: A-
Here's where I have to be honest and accept that my YA card may be revoked: this is the first book by Libba that I have read. I know!!! I am ashamed.

I know I spent some hate on that cover, but this is one of those cases in which you should not judge a book by its wrappings (holy cow, I could spend an hour analyzing just how much that phrase pertains to this book). Each girl in that book has a characteristic that is in all of us: Taylor with her need to feel needed, Shanti and her desire to be liked by everyone, Nikki who just wants to impress her mom, Mary Lou and her ______ (SPOILERS!). It reminds me of the movie Identity, with all those people inside that one guy's brain**. 

Plot-wise it was over the top, but let's be honest here, that's what she was going for. I mean, how many deranged Asian dictators bestow the honor of General on their former pet monkey, now stuffed? How many "deserted" islands are home to gigantic rainbow-chromatic snakes? Reality t.v. pirates? The ridiculousness of the events just adds to the twists and turns, and turn these Teen Dreamers into Wonder Women.

**Don't yell at me about the spoilers here, the movie came out in 2003. If you had wanted to see it, you would have already. So there. 

Recommendation: Though not for the faint of heart (ZOMG sex! ZOMG alcohol!), this book will have you laughing and crying, sometimes on the same page. It is definitely a girl power book, so the boys will have a hard time understanding, but it would be very hard for a girl to NOT relate.

Winterborne by Augusta Blythe

Winterborne by Augusta Blythe

Published April 24, 2011 by the author

188 pages

Book Source: My ePub copy was provided by the author. The book is currently only available on Kindle for $2.99.

Sixteen-year old Mia Winterborne is destined to be special. Details are sketchy, though, as her dad disappeared with all the answers when she was five. Mia only knows that she'll inherit her kickass superpowers on her seventeenth birthday. Helping Mia prepare for her anticipated ascendancy is Loie Bryce, her best friend and eternal sidekick extraordinaire. The girls' intense friendship has never wavered until now, when Andreas arrives in Salcey Ridge. They both fall hard for the British hottie, who quickly becomes a fixture in their lives. When they discover that Andreas is not who he appears to be, the frightening reality of Mia's powers finally hits home. The nearer Mia's birthday draws, the more the danger escalates and long-buried lies are exposed, putting the girls on a path that they never expected.

--Summary from GoodReads.com

Judging by the cover...: It's a shame that this book in only available electronically, because this is a cover I would flaunt shamelessly. Simple yet gorgeous. Absolutely love it.

Favorite Elements:

• Boy With an Accent - It goes without saying that any boy with a British accent immediately becomes swoon worthy. Andreas is absolutely perfect, and if he had just moved in next door to me (and I was 17), I wouldn't hesitate for a moment to claim him as mine.
• Subtle Supernatural - If you've followed my blog for a while, you'd know I am leery of anything to do with tiny supernatural creatures (fairies, pixies, leprechauns, etc.). There are few authors who can write them without getting sappy and obnoxious. So not the case here! Wee Folk make an appearance, but their presence adds mayhem and mystery, no drama llamas here.
• Super Powers - I will leave what they are a mystery, but when they start to happen, it's pretty freakin' cool.
• Narrator to Love - Loie has the patience of a saint and unfortunately the self-esteem of a termite (do termites have self-esteem?), but I love her anyway. If she was my best friend, I'd do everything it takes to show her just how awesome she really is (luckily she has Katie for that).

Overall: A-

You should know that I don't give out As lightly. It takes hard work and determination from an author to win a spot on my A List, and Blythe has achieved it! 

At the current price, this book is a ridiculously good deal. The world created for us is so simple yet overwhelmingly realistic, it's hard to believe that this isn't real life. Loie's voice and feelings are authentic enough to make you think she is actually telling you the story while you're sitting on your couch sipping lattes, instead of reading it on a page. I certainly hope there's a sequel on the way, because this girl can't wait too much longer to know what happens.

Recommendation: You'd have to be crazy to not buy it right now. There's something for everyone to enjoy: action, romance, fantasy, and a homecoming dance and its length will attract reluctant readers.

Is Young Adult Lit Too Dark For Our Teens?

If you haven't read the Wall Street Journal's recent article about young adult literature, please take a moment to do so.

The YA community is up in arms about this travesty of an opinion, and rightly so. Thankfully, we have some of the best role models in Maureen Johnson when it comes to organizing ourselves. Johnson and Libba Bray called for their readership to tell them how #yasaves. I urge you to take a moment and see the amazing stories that were shared.

For many teens out there, YA books are a way to explore their world without facing the consequences themselves. And the notion that because a teen reads a book about self-mutilation will make them want to do the same to her own body is ridiculous. It's the old debate about violence on television and video games. The act of watching will not cause violence if the teen has a family open to discussing the complicated issues of life.

When I was at an age considered young adult by the publishing world, I was more interested in reading adult mysteries than anything that was written for my peers. As I grew older and read more and more of those mysteries, I began to notice just how gruesome they became. They contained the subject material Gurdon accuses YA lit to contain, but in greater concentrations. As I branched out to regular fiction, I discovered those were even worse! The authors wrote overly-descriptive violence, rape, incest, child molesting, and extremely harsh language, and most of these were just gratuitous. If this is the case Gurdon is trying to make, then adult lit is setting a poor example.

Take, for example, the best selling The Millennium trilogy by Stieg Larrson (which were extremely well written, I might add). If you factor in all of the horrific scenes in those books, you can't even compare to the violence and sexual situations found in YA. Those situations are never there just for the hell of it. Young Adult authors are very aware of their target readership and are including the material to help their readers prepare for whatever the world throws at them. It's a double standard: what makes it acceptable for adults to read such highly charged violent material, but not for a teen to read about a girl and a vampire who are deeply in love?

I turned to young adult books way past the age that I was "supposed" to. YA became my savior when the atmosphere of the adult lit world began to overwhelm me with it's wonton abuse of violence and language. Now I take comfort in those books, look forward to immersing myself in a world that is familiar.

I hope that no matter what your views are about current young adult literature, you can accept that teens and their parents will make up their own minds about what is acceptable for their families. Anything else is just censorship, and as we've discovered by reading the vast amounts of dystopia novels available for teens, censorship never works out in the end.

Many authors and my fellow bloggers have written responses to the article, too, and they are worth reading:

Laurie Halse Anderson
Persnickety Snark
Liz B.
Steph Su

The Goddess Test by Aimee Carter

The Goddess Test by Aimee Carter

Harlequin Teen, April 19, 2011

304 pages

Book Source: This copy was an advanced reader's copy provided by the Early Reviewer program on LibraryThing.com.

It's always been just Kate and her mom—and her mother is dying. Her last wish? To move back to her childhood home. So Kate's going to start at a new school with no friends, no other family and the fear her mother won't live past the fall. 

Then she meets Henry. Dark. Tortured. And mesmerizing. He claims to be Hades, god of the Underworld—and if she accepts his bargain, he'll keep her mother alive while Kate tries to pass seven tests.

Kate is sure he's crazy—until she sees him bring a girl back from the dead. Now saving her mother seems crazily possible. If she succeeds, she'll become Henry's future bride, and a goddess.

--Summary from GoodReads.com 

Judging by the cover...: Not a big fan of the cover. It's a little too seductive and surreal for my tastes. Luckily I had an ebook copy.

Favorite Elements:

• Persephone and Hades - What if the story we have been told for thousands of years wasn't the correct version? That somewhere down the line, Hades was turned into a villain and Persephone won everyone's sympathy? It's not completely without reason, considering history has a habit of rewriting itself.
• The Gods - The big kahunas of Greek mythology are featured within these pages. Brings to mind Percy Jackson's "family" of Gods and how they have their own unique personalities.
• Biggest Wardrobe Ever - I almost fainted when Kate was offered every possible piece of clothing ever available in history. And I love that all she wanted were the jeans and sweaters (because let's face it, that's what I'd go for, too).

Overall: C-
Ouch, I know, but after all of the hype given to this book, I really don't get it. The premise had major possibilities, but once the story got going, we are made to believe improbable plot points (who really just accepts that their friend saw someone bring another human back from the dead?) and root for a character who makes such uncharacteristic choices. There are plot holes galore, and the tests fail to live up to their reputation.

Recommendation: Meh. If you want a light and fluffy romance without having to think too hard about it, choose this one. If you're looking for something with more substance, keep searching.

Similar Books: Percy Jackson and the Olympians series by Rick Riordan (action packed, tiny amount of romance, crazy thrills) or Abandon by Meg Cabot (sa-woon!).

The Liar Society by Lisa Roecker and Laura Roecker

The Liar Society by Lisa Roecker and Laura Roecker

Sourcebooks Fire, March 1, 2011

361 pages

Book Source: Public Library

Kate Lowry didn't think dead best friends could send e-mails. But when she gets an e-mail from Grace, she’s not so sure.

To: KateLowry@pemberlybrown.edu
Sent: Sun 9/14 11:59 PM
From: GraceLee@pemberlybrown.edu
Subject: (no subject)

Kate,
I'm here…
sort of.
Find Cameron.
He knows.
I shouldn't be writing.
Don't tell.
They'll hurt you.

Now Kate has no choice but to prove once and for all that Grace’s death was more than just a tragic accident. But secrets haunt the halls of her elite private school. Secrets people will do anything to protect. Even if it means getting rid of the girl trying to solve a murder...

--Summary from GoodReads.com 

Judging by the cover...: This cover wins points for sticking to the story, except for adding freckles on Kate (this freckled blogger wants to know why!). Grace's pearls, even though they ARE in the book, are obviously photoshopped in, which drives me nuts! The model couldn't have slung some real pearls around her neck?

Favorite Elements:

• Private School - While it's fun to read about the exploits of the rich and famous, Pemberly Brown is just like every other preparatory private academy which serves the excessively wealthy: messed up. Seriously, how screwed up are the people who send their kids to these kinds of schools? Mayhem? Murder? I'm sending my kids to public school, that's for sure. 
• Secret Societies - (cue spy music) Anyone want to start a mysterious and secret club with me? We could be the YAngels, or something...
• Pink Hair!! - Ever get the urge to dye your hair a crazy color? For me it was always fire engine red. Kudos to Kate for doing it up bubblegum style! 
• Cuties - Kate's got her hands full with both Liam and Seth. She might not think Seth is a catch, but with his flaming curly hair and front office connections, he'd be the one to steal my heart.

Overall: A

The Sisters Roecker really have something here. Their fast-paced style keeps your attention as Kate races to solve the mystery Grace has set for her. And who wouldn't root for poor Kate, devastated over the loss of not one friend, but two? Kate is one of those characters you wish you could be, someone you'd want to have a real conversation with, comfort if you could. She knows something is wrong deep in her heart and desperately wants to figure it out. It's too bad that no one believes her, especially her parents. And if ever there was a character who needs new parents, it's this poor girl!

When I finished the book, I didn't know that this is to be a series, so don't panic when you find yourself grasping at the loose ends like I did. Though I was really hoping for a stand alone novel (so rare these days), Kate is an awesome character who shouldn't be contained to just one book.

Recommendation: Read it. Read it now. Do not wait! The suspense will make you wish you could read the book in one sitting and has enough romance mixed in to keep things interesting.

Similar Reads: The Mockingbirds by Daisy Whitney and The Disreputable History of Frankie Landau Banks by E. Lockhart. For younger readers I'd suggest The Red Blazer Girls series by Michael D. Beil.

Warm Bodies by Isaac Marion

Warm Bodies by Isaac Marion

Atria Books, April 26, 2011

239 pages

Book Source: Public Library

A zombie who yearns for a better life ends up falling in love—with a human—in this astonishingly original debut novel.

R is a zombie. He has no memories, no identity, and no pulse, but he has dreams. He doesn’t enjoy killing people; he enjoys riding escalators and listening to Frank Sinatra. He is a little different from his fellow Dead.

Not just another zombie novel, Warm Bodies is funny, scary, and deeply moving.

-- Summary from GoodReads.com 

Judging by the cover...: Little weird (seriously, what is that red stuff?), but slightly creepy, which fits the book. It's desolate, like the mind of a zombie.

Favorite Elements:

• Zombies - If there ever was a war between Zombies and Unicorns... Oh, wait! There totally was! And zombies kicked the magic unicorn blood out of the, well, unicorns! (And if you haven't read about their epic battle, you must read Zombies vs. Unicorns.) Just like they would any other supernatural creature. Because what harm could you do to a zombie? They're already dead!
•  BFF - Nora is the quintessential BFF. Loyal, loose, and just wacky enough to trust in Julie and R.
• Crazy Theories That Just Might Work - Have you ever read a book and thought, "Wow! That was great! But I wonder what a book would be like from the viewpoint of a zombie..."? Well, I have. Thankfully, Marion had the same idea!
• Spoilerific! - Anything else that I tell you I love will completely give it away! But believe me, there's awesomeness galore in these pages.

Overall: A+
I don't give out As freely, and certainly not A+s. This isn't your typical zombie book, so it doesn't deserve a just any grade. We all know how the Living view the Dead, but what do the Dead think about us? Do they only want our brains so they can view our memories, or could there be something else in there, some piece of humanity left deep inside that only needs a Julie to coax it out? The next time you're out zombie hunting, think about their feelings. 

It's not just the premise that I find so enthralling. I seriously could not stop laughing while reading, even during the "dinner" scenes. The dialog between R and M, best friends since death, is absolutely hilarious, and the zombie culture could not be more entertaining (how many zombies do you know that love to ride escalators?). I heartily raise a glass to Marion for bringing the lighter side of zombies to life. 

Recommendation: Warm Bodies is not for the faint of heart, but if I can stomach their feasts, then I think anyone could. Older teen boys (the frequent appearances of sex and foul language would rule this out for the younger set) will be dying to get their hands on it. And at 239 pages, any reluctant reader will be reluctant to put it down.

Giveaway Hosted by Lauren DeStefano

Hey there fellow fans!

You all know how much I raved about Wither by Lauren DeStefano (if you didn't get that memo, look here). She promised that when she reached 3,000 Twitter followers that she would host a giveaway of two ARCs, Wither and Fever (the next book in the series). If you'd like to enter to win, check out her blog and follow the directions.

Best of luck to you all!

The Gathering by Kelley Armstrong

The Gathering by Kelley Armstrong

HarperCollins, April 12, 2011

359 pages

Book Source: Public Library

Sixteen-year-old Maya is just an ordinary teen in an ordinary town. Sure, she doesn't know much about her background - the only thing she really has to cling to is an odd paw-print birthmark on her hip - but she never really put much thought into who her parents were or how she ended up with her adopted parents in this tiny medical-research community on Vancouver Island.

Until now.

Strange things have been happening in this claustrophobic town - from the mountain lions that have been approaching Maya to her best friend's hidden talent for "feeling" out people and situations, to the sexy new bad boy who makes Maya feel . . . . different. Combine that with a few unexplained deaths and a mystery involving Maya's biological parents and it's easy to suspect that this town might have more than its share of skeletons in its closet.

In The Gathering, New York Times best-selling author Kelley Armstrong brings all the supernatural thrills from her wildly successful Darkest Powers series to Darkness Rising, her scorching hot new trilogy.

-- Summary from GoodReads.com 

Judging by the cover...: Not the worst cover I've ever seen, not the best, but it's nice to see some continuity; the theme matches those from the first trilogy. I quite like the pretty blue, too.

Favorite Elements:

• Native American Myths - It's nice to see Native American heritage get a nod in popular teen lit. With the latest Greek/Roman craze it's easy to overlook our own continent's history.
• It's Witchcraft, Native American Style - More witches! This time, thankfully, it's not Tory-style, complete with razor sharp attitude, because that would get old real fast.
• Top Shelf Shout Out - Holla at my hometown (and the disaster that happened there in the first series)! Let's go Buff-a-lo! Seriously, mentioning that Darkest Powers took place in The City of Good Neighbors never ever gets old.

Overall: B

A solid B is nothing to sneer at. The Gathering is a continuation of the Darkest Powers series, but it isn't necessary to have read the first trilogy (though it would certainly help). Without giving too much away, Armstrong has created a whole new set of superpowers for Maya and other residents of Vancouver Island. Don't worry though; this isn't just a copy of Chloe and her friends. There are new twists and turns around every corner, and the Native American mythology added in keeps the storyline fresh and compelling.

Recommendation: It's not necessary to have read the first trilogy to understand what's going on with Maya, but it certainly helps (there are veiled references to what happened in Buffalo, along with Dr. Davidoff). Pick this up if you liked the Darkest Powers and want to see how the story continues.