THE SPLENDOR FALLS
ROSEMARY CLEMENT-MOORE
Paranormal YA
Delacorte Books
ISBN# 978-0-385-73690-9
513 Pages
$17.99
Hardcover--Available Now
Rating: 4.5 Enchantments
Sylvie Davis' promising career as a ballet dancer is over before it really even had a chance to begin. Thanks to a fluke, she fell and broke her leg and is unable to dance again. To top things off, her mother just remarried and while her and the step-shrink go off on a honeymoon, Sylvie's been shipped south to visit a cousin of her father's she barely remembers meeting once to stay at a house she's never seen. But once she arrives in Alabama, Sylvie finds herself in what seems like a different world. Cousin Paula's remodelling the family estate into a bed and breakfast, and the whole town seems to think she's something special just because she's a Davis, something she just doesn't understand at all. Add in the weird vibe she's getting from some of the locals, including Paula's business partner's daughter and the fact there's strange rumors about the house and things people have seen there, things maybe Sylvie's sorta seen for herself and things are way too complicated too quick for her liking.
One of the best things about Ms. Clement-Moore's writing is her characters. No two are ever alike, but they're as real as real can be. Sylvie is no exception to the rule and neither are those around her in Alabama. I especially loved the relationships between Sylvie and both Rhys, the mysterious stranger staying at the unfinished bed and breakfast with his father and Shawn Maddox, the local good boy, who seems to like Sylvie a little too much, too quickly. The house itself quickly becomes a character of its own, unfamiliar and at times slightly menacing, Sylvie isn't sure what to make of it—or Alabama as a whole. Her father never talked about the place, and maybe she can see why. But when she finds away to seek solace and time on her own, recreating what used to be a magical garden, the secrets of the past begin to be unleashed, something that puts her directly in danger.
THE SPLENDOR FALLS is one of my favorite reads of the year. Sylvie's a great character; I loved her voice, her weariness at where she was and what her future holds now that her dream of being a prima ballerina is shattered. Faced with that and what seems like an unpleasant stay in Alabama—Cousin Paula won't even let her take her beloved little dog up to her room, she soon finds herself involved in something more mysterious and supernatural than she'd ever expected. It all seems to start when she sneaks out with the dog to the back of the house and she sees a figure watching from one of the upstairs windows. But it's not Rhys or his father or even Cousin Paula. Who could it be? And what's their connection to the house? There were so many scenes I loved it's hard to pick one to highlight, but when Sylvie runs into Shawn in town and he takes her to the local coffee shop. All the locals are so excited to see the two of them together. Sylvie begins to wonder what exactly is going on.
Rosemary Clement-Moore lives and writes in Arlington, Texas. THE SPLENDOR FALLS is her fourth book for young readers. Visit Rosemary online at www.readrosemary.com
Lisa
Enchanting Reviews
September 2009
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Monday, November 23, 2009
Enchanting Review: The Blue Shoe: A Tale of Thievery, Villainy, Sorcery and Shoes
THE BLUE SHOE: A TALE OF THIEVERY, VILLAINY, SORCERY, AND SHOES
RODERICK TOWNLEY
Illustrated by Mary GrandPré
Middle Grade Fantasy
Knopf
ISBN# 978-0-375-85600-6
255 Pages
$16.99
Hardcover--Available Now
Rating: 4 Enchantments
An engaging fantasy read, THE BLUE SHOE is a well told story featuring Hap, a young cobbler's apprentice who ends up sent away to the frightening Mount Xexnax, when he tries to save a mysterious beggar from the same fate. Actually Hap doesn't mind, as he hopes he'll be reunited with his father who was sent there a few years earlier because of his own begging, but what Hap stumbles upon is something he hadn't expected. And it's not going to be easy to break out and return to the small town of Apalanap.
Imaginative characters, setting and storyline, readers looking for a fun and intriguing middle grade fantasy read shouldn't miss this one. I especially loved the crazy characters of the Mayor and his wife and the way the story flipped from what was happening with Hap and Sophia back to what was going on in town. I liked how the sand that covered the town from a storm turned to glass shortly after Hap's departure to Mount Xexnax, making things difficult for the more evil characters to move around the small town. That scene is almost comical and very laugh out loud worthy and is hands down one of my favorites in the whole book. Told mostly by a mysterious narrator, THE BLUE SHOE moves at a good pace. Hap's biggest mistake is trying to save the mysterious beggar in the blanket from ending up at Mount Xexnax, a decision that has him stealing a stone from the mysterious blue stone. A move that not only ruins the shoe, but gets him exiled to Mount Xexnax in place of the beggar. And when his crush Sophia tries to break him free from prison the night before, Hap refuses, instead wanting to be reunited with his father. Sophia isn't so easily swayed and ends up stowing away on the wagon and going with, which is one of my favorite scenes in the book. However, Mount Xexnax is worse than all the stories and rumors made it seem and Hap suddenly finds himself appointed the one to save everyone there, especially when the guards find Sophia and hold her hostage in the main building, which is where THE BLUE SHOE really becomes a page turning read as you hope Hap can find Sophia and escape without capture.
Roderick Townley’s books have received many stars and accolades. You can read more about him at www.rodericktownley.com. He lives in Kansas.
Mary GrandPré is perhaps best known for creating the jackets and illustrations for the Harry Potter books. She has also illustrated many fine picture books. You can read more about her work at marygrandpre.com.
Lisa
Enchanting Reviews
October 2009
RODERICK TOWNLEY
Illustrated by Mary GrandPré
Middle Grade Fantasy
Knopf
ISBN# 978-0-375-85600-6
255 Pages
$16.99
Hardcover--Available Now
Rating: 4 Enchantments
An engaging fantasy read, THE BLUE SHOE is a well told story featuring Hap, a young cobbler's apprentice who ends up sent away to the frightening Mount Xexnax, when he tries to save a mysterious beggar from the same fate. Actually Hap doesn't mind, as he hopes he'll be reunited with his father who was sent there a few years earlier because of his own begging, but what Hap stumbles upon is something he hadn't expected. And it's not going to be easy to break out and return to the small town of Apalanap.
Imaginative characters, setting and storyline, readers looking for a fun and intriguing middle grade fantasy read shouldn't miss this one. I especially loved the crazy characters of the Mayor and his wife and the way the story flipped from what was happening with Hap and Sophia back to what was going on in town. I liked how the sand that covered the town from a storm turned to glass shortly after Hap's departure to Mount Xexnax, making things difficult for the more evil characters to move around the small town. That scene is almost comical and very laugh out loud worthy and is hands down one of my favorites in the whole book. Told mostly by a mysterious narrator, THE BLUE SHOE moves at a good pace. Hap's biggest mistake is trying to save the mysterious beggar in the blanket from ending up at Mount Xexnax, a decision that has him stealing a stone from the mysterious blue stone. A move that not only ruins the shoe, but gets him exiled to Mount Xexnax in place of the beggar. And when his crush Sophia tries to break him free from prison the night before, Hap refuses, instead wanting to be reunited with his father. Sophia isn't so easily swayed and ends up stowing away on the wagon and going with, which is one of my favorite scenes in the book. However, Mount Xexnax is worse than all the stories and rumors made it seem and Hap suddenly finds himself appointed the one to save everyone there, especially when the guards find Sophia and hold her hostage in the main building, which is where THE BLUE SHOE really becomes a page turning read as you hope Hap can find Sophia and escape without capture.
Roderick Townley’s books have received many stars and accolades. You can read more about him at www.rodericktownley.com. He lives in Kansas.
Mary GrandPré is perhaps best known for creating the jackets and illustrations for the Harry Potter books. She has also illustrated many fine picture books. You can read more about her work at marygrandpre.com.
Lisa
Enchanting Reviews
October 2009
Enchanting Review: Strange Angels
STRANGE ANGELS
LILI ST. CROW
PARANORMAL YA
Razorbill
ISBN# 978-1-59514-251-1
304 Pages
$9.99
Trade--Available Now
Rating: 4 Enchantments
Dru Anderson’s used to dealing with the ‘Real World’, that is with the paranormal that most people don’t believe or don’t know exists. Zombies, werewolves, ghosts, apparitions, it’s all a part of her day to day life with her monster hunting father. But when her father turns Zombie and she’s forced to take him out to save herself, Dru finds herself all alone for the first time, with something or someone after her. Add in Graves, the mysterious Goth guy from school who’s more than willing to help her out and the appearance of another mysterious guy in Christophe, and things get complicated.
There was a lot about STRANGE ANGELS I liked. The world Ms. St Crow created quickly becomes very real and plausible, especially when her father shows up as a zombie within the first few chapters. I loved the scenes between Dru and Graves at the mall when he first finds her there after her father’s death and takes her in to his hideout of sorts hidden away in the forgotten corner of the mall, an unusual location to be sure. But some parts of the story did seem a little thrown in which tended to pull me out of the story at times and the language did take awhile to get used to. Dru’s a bit of a rough character, which really does fit who she is and how she grew up, fighting ‘real world’ creatures alongside her father, and now finds herself alone in the world with only the mysterious Graves for reluctant company for a good portion of the book. I liked Graves as well, he’s definitely on the mysterious side and the banter between the two is really great. I have to say my favorite scene is when Dru reluctantly takes Graves back to her place in the midst of the snowstorm. After his bite, she’s afraid what he might turn into and ties him down to the bed while he’s asleep. The convo between them the next morning is truly hilarious.
Look for the second book in the series, BETRAYALS: A STRANGE ANGELS novel to be released November 2009.
Lili St. Crow is the author of the Dante Valentine series. She lives in Vancouver, Washington with her husband, three children and a houseful of cats. STRANGE ANGELS is her first YA novel. Visit www.strangeangels.com to find out more.
Lisa
Enchanting Reviews
August 2009
LILI ST. CROW
PARANORMAL YA
Razorbill
ISBN# 978-1-59514-251-1
304 Pages
$9.99
Trade--Available Now
Rating: 4 Enchantments
Dru Anderson’s used to dealing with the ‘Real World’, that is with the paranormal that most people don’t believe or don’t know exists. Zombies, werewolves, ghosts, apparitions, it’s all a part of her day to day life with her monster hunting father. But when her father turns Zombie and she’s forced to take him out to save herself, Dru finds herself all alone for the first time, with something or someone after her. Add in Graves, the mysterious Goth guy from school who’s more than willing to help her out and the appearance of another mysterious guy in Christophe, and things get complicated.
There was a lot about STRANGE ANGELS I liked. The world Ms. St Crow created quickly becomes very real and plausible, especially when her father shows up as a zombie within the first few chapters. I loved the scenes between Dru and Graves at the mall when he first finds her there after her father’s death and takes her in to his hideout of sorts hidden away in the forgotten corner of the mall, an unusual location to be sure. But some parts of the story did seem a little thrown in which tended to pull me out of the story at times and the language did take awhile to get used to. Dru’s a bit of a rough character, which really does fit who she is and how she grew up, fighting ‘real world’ creatures alongside her father, and now finds herself alone in the world with only the mysterious Graves for reluctant company for a good portion of the book. I liked Graves as well, he’s definitely on the mysterious side and the banter between the two is really great. I have to say my favorite scene is when Dru reluctantly takes Graves back to her place in the midst of the snowstorm. After his bite, she’s afraid what he might turn into and ties him down to the bed while he’s asleep. The convo between them the next morning is truly hilarious.
Look for the second book in the series, BETRAYALS: A STRANGE ANGELS novel to be released November 2009.
Lili St. Crow is the author of the Dante Valentine series. She lives in Vancouver, Washington with her husband, three children and a houseful of cats. STRANGE ANGELS is her first YA novel. Visit www.strangeangels.com to find out more.
Lisa
Enchanting Reviews
August 2009
Enchanting Review: YOU ARE THE FIRST KID ON MARS
YOU ARE THE FIRST KID ON MARS
PATRICK O'BRIEN
Children's Sci-Fi Futuristic
Putnam
ISBN# 978-0399246340
32 Pages
$16.99
Hardcover—Available Now
Rating: 4.5 Enchantments
YOU ARE THE FIRST KID ON MARS is a wonderfully detailed and imaginative look at what life would be like if you were literally the first kid on Mars. Filled with great digital illustrations that make the story come to life, this a perfect read for boys and anyone is interested in space and what life exploring another planet might be like.
One of the most unusual children's books I've read, YOU ARE THE FIRST KID ON MARS is also one I really enjoyed reading. Filled with fun facts about Mars, like how long the actual journey to the red planet takes and what life might be like on the space station for the months long trek there. YOU ARE THE FIRST KID ON MARS will no doubt even grab the most reluctant reader's attention with its great imagery.
Patrick O'Brien has written and illustrated non-fiction books for children as well as fun adventures such as Captain Raptor and the Moon Mystery. His previous factual books have been historic and prehistoric subjects—this is his first look into the future. O'Brien lives in Baltimore, Maryland with his wife and son.
Visit him online at www.patrickobrienbooks.com
Lisa
Enchanting Reviews
November 2009
PATRICK O'BRIEN
Children's Sci-Fi Futuristic
Putnam
ISBN# 978-0399246340
32 Pages
$16.99
Hardcover—Available Now
Rating: 4.5 Enchantments
YOU ARE THE FIRST KID ON MARS is a wonderfully detailed and imaginative look at what life would be like if you were literally the first kid on Mars. Filled with great digital illustrations that make the story come to life, this a perfect read for boys and anyone is interested in space and what life exploring another planet might be like.
One of the most unusual children's books I've read, YOU ARE THE FIRST KID ON MARS is also one I really enjoyed reading. Filled with fun facts about Mars, like how long the actual journey to the red planet takes and what life might be like on the space station for the months long trek there. YOU ARE THE FIRST KID ON MARS will no doubt even grab the most reluctant reader's attention with its great imagery.
Patrick O'Brien has written and illustrated non-fiction books for children as well as fun adventures such as Captain Raptor and the Moon Mystery. His previous factual books have been historic and prehistoric subjects—this is his first look into the future. O'Brien lives in Baltimore, Maryland with his wife and son.
Visit him online at www.patrickobrienbooks.com
Lisa
Enchanting Reviews
November 2009
Enchanting Review: Summerland
SHADOWLAND (The Immortals Series)
ALYSON NOEL
Paranormal YA
St. Martin's Griffin
ISBN# 978-0312590444
368 Pages
$17.99
Hardcover—Available November 17, 2009
Rating: 4.5 Enchantments
After making an irreversible decision in Blue Moon, Ever and Damen must learn to live with the consequences of not being able to mix DNA until Ever can find whatever antidote exists. Unfortunately, only Roman knows and he's not interested in giving up his secrets, especially to Ever. With that spurring her on, Ever and Damen head to Summerland more often where she hopes to find something to help. But between that, her aunt's new relationship with Ever's teacher and the fact that Ever has to find a summer job within a week or go work as an intern at her aunt's law firm, things aren't exactly looking like she'll get the dream summer she planned. With the return of the twins, Romy and Rayne and their taking up residence at Damen's, things between Ever and Damen are changing. With the twins in tow, suddenly Damen's acting like Mr. Mom, ditching the cool car and staying home to help the girls adjust to life on this side of Summerland. Add in a new mysterious guy who has more history with Ever then she could have imagined and things in the series are really getting complicated.
I really enjoyed SHADOWLAND, the third installment in The Immortals series. Ms. Noel does an excellent job deepening the mystery of the Immortals and what exactly Roman wants, other than to make Ever and Damen's lives miserable. With the addition of the mysterious Jude, surfer and owner of the crystal shop, we finally get a glimpse into Ever's surprising past lives, lives which Damen may not have truthfully portrayed before. Are Ever and Damen truly destined to be together or has he chased after her unmercifully for centuries? And what role does Jude have in her life—past and present? At times SHADOWLAND gives us more questions than answers as it moves forward. I really liked the addition of the twins and learning more of their history and their past connection to Damen. I think my favorite scenes take place in the crystal shop where Ever takes a part time job, working the store and giving psychic readings, taken on a whole new persona for the readings to disguise her identity—a good idea when someone from school shows up with interest in taking one of Jude's introduction classes.
Ms. Noel never fails to leave things with an immense cliffhanger and SHADOWLAND is no different. With Ever's life changing decision, more things hang in the balance, much to Roman's sick delight. I can't wait to see what Ms. Noel has in store for us with the next book in the series out in 2010.
Alyson Noel is the author of Evermore, Blue Moon and seven previous novels for St. Martin’s Press. She lives in Laguna Beach, California, where she is at work on the next book in the Immortals series. Visit her on the web at www.alysonnoel.com.
Lisa
Enchanting Reviews
November 2009
ALYSON NOEL
Paranormal YA
St. Martin's Griffin
ISBN# 978-0312590444
368 Pages
$17.99
Hardcover—Available November 17, 2009
Rating: 4.5 Enchantments
After making an irreversible decision in Blue Moon, Ever and Damen must learn to live with the consequences of not being able to mix DNA until Ever can find whatever antidote exists. Unfortunately, only Roman knows and he's not interested in giving up his secrets, especially to Ever. With that spurring her on, Ever and Damen head to Summerland more often where she hopes to find something to help. But between that, her aunt's new relationship with Ever's teacher and the fact that Ever has to find a summer job within a week or go work as an intern at her aunt's law firm, things aren't exactly looking like she'll get the dream summer she planned. With the return of the twins, Romy and Rayne and their taking up residence at Damen's, things between Ever and Damen are changing. With the twins in tow, suddenly Damen's acting like Mr. Mom, ditching the cool car and staying home to help the girls adjust to life on this side of Summerland. Add in a new mysterious guy who has more history with Ever then she could have imagined and things in the series are really getting complicated.
I really enjoyed SHADOWLAND, the third installment in The Immortals series. Ms. Noel does an excellent job deepening the mystery of the Immortals and what exactly Roman wants, other than to make Ever and Damen's lives miserable. With the addition of the mysterious Jude, surfer and owner of the crystal shop, we finally get a glimpse into Ever's surprising past lives, lives which Damen may not have truthfully portrayed before. Are Ever and Damen truly destined to be together or has he chased after her unmercifully for centuries? And what role does Jude have in her life—past and present? At times SHADOWLAND gives us more questions than answers as it moves forward. I really liked the addition of the twins and learning more of their history and their past connection to Damen. I think my favorite scenes take place in the crystal shop where Ever takes a part time job, working the store and giving psychic readings, taken on a whole new persona for the readings to disguise her identity—a good idea when someone from school shows up with interest in taking one of Jude's introduction classes.
Ms. Noel never fails to leave things with an immense cliffhanger and SHADOWLAND is no different. With Ever's life changing decision, more things hang in the balance, much to Roman's sick delight. I can't wait to see what Ms. Noel has in store for us with the next book in the series out in 2010.
Alyson Noel is the author of Evermore, Blue Moon and seven previous novels for St. Martin’s Press. She lives in Laguna Beach, California, where she is at work on the next book in the Immortals series. Visit her on the web at www.alysonnoel.com.
Lisa
Enchanting Reviews
November 2009
Enchanting Review: Cromwell Dixon's Sky-Cycle
CROMWELL DIXON'S SKY-CYCLE
JOHN ABBOT NEZ
Children's Historical
Putnam
ISBN# 978-0399250415
32 pages
$16.99
Hardcover—Available Now
Rating: 4.5 Enchantments
Based on the true story of CROMWELL DIXON'S SKY-CYCLE, this fun and brightly illustrated children's book details young Cromwell's journey to making his dream of flying through the air a reality. With the help of his mother and unwavering drive to make his dream a reality, despite at least one horrendous set back when part of his sky-cycle catches fire before he has a chance to fly, Cromwell makes his goal a reality.
I really enjoyed CROMWELL DIXON'S SKY-CYCLE. Filled with charming and colorful illustrations that richly accompany the story, kids will no doubt enjoy following along as Cromwell begins his journey from inventor to first boy to fly through the air on bicycle. Based in reality, it was a nice touch to see a photo of the real Cromwell and his mother at the end of the story. My favorite scene is when the first version of the sky-cycle meets with a mishap and Cromwell is forced to start all over again, vowing to make it better then the first was.
CROMWELL DIXON'S SKY-CYCLE will appeal to kids and adults alike.
John Abbot Nez has made more than fifty children's books of all sorts. He lives in Seattle with his wife and two children. Visit his website: It has more details about my bookmaking and illustrations at cromwelldixonsskycycle.com to learn more about his bookmaking and illustrations. And learn more about him and his artwork at www.johnnez.com
Lisa
Enchanting Reviews
November 2009
JOHN ABBOT NEZ
Children's Historical
Putnam
ISBN# 978-0399250415
32 pages
$16.99
Hardcover—Available Now
Rating: 4.5 Enchantments
Based on the true story of CROMWELL DIXON'S SKY-CYCLE, this fun and brightly illustrated children's book details young Cromwell's journey to making his dream of flying through the air a reality. With the help of his mother and unwavering drive to make his dream a reality, despite at least one horrendous set back when part of his sky-cycle catches fire before he has a chance to fly, Cromwell makes his goal a reality.
I really enjoyed CROMWELL DIXON'S SKY-CYCLE. Filled with charming and colorful illustrations that richly accompany the story, kids will no doubt enjoy following along as Cromwell begins his journey from inventor to first boy to fly through the air on bicycle. Based in reality, it was a nice touch to see a photo of the real Cromwell and his mother at the end of the story. My favorite scene is when the first version of the sky-cycle meets with a mishap and Cromwell is forced to start all over again, vowing to make it better then the first was.
CROMWELL DIXON'S SKY-CYCLE will appeal to kids and adults alike.
John Abbot Nez has made more than fifty children's books of all sorts. He lives in Seattle with his wife and two children. Visit his website: It has more details about my bookmaking and illustrations at cromwelldixonsskycycle.com to learn more about his bookmaking and illustrations. And learn more about him and his artwork at www.johnnez.com
Lisa
Enchanting Reviews
November 2009
Monday, November 9, 2009
Enchanting Review: When Mike Kissed Emma
WHEN MIKE KISSED EMMA
CHRISTINE MARCINIAK
YA romance
Climbing Roses imprint of The Wild Rose Press
ISBN# 978-1601545459
$9.99
176 Pages
Paperback—Available Now
Rating: 4 Enchantments
Emma’s whole dream is for both her and her boyfriend to be cast as the leads in their high school’s production of The Song of Music. It’s basically a shoe in too. Or so she thought.
Things don’t turn out the way she thought. Emma doesn’t get cast next to her popular boyfriend. Also Biker Mike, the resident bad boy, gets into the play. Things go topsy turvy when she finds out maybe the rumors of Mike might not be true. Emma’s not sure what to do as her friends don’t accept him. Plus she’s feeling things for Mike that she shouldn’t considering she has the so-called ‘perfect’ boyfriend. Or does she? Is it possible feelings can change?
WHEN MIKE KISSED EMMA is one of those romantic tales you want to curl up with and read. Add the excitement of the school play and a cute guy with a past that is mysterious. Marciniak does a great job showing the emotions that go through Emma as she struggles with that age old problem of fitting in. Should she go with what she feels? Or stay with the safe more acceptable solution?
The pacing is great. So is the dialogue set behind The Song of Music. Very appropriate for middle graders too. Those who enjoy clean romances will love WHEN MIKE KISSED EMMA. Romance, mystery, drama, friendships, and loyality--this book has it all.
And the kiss? Let’s just say it’s one that all girls imagine and want. This is a sure hit for those who love clean romantic tales set behind the drama called high school.
Christine Marciniak loves to write and even dreamed of acting when she was younger. A former editor, now she’s a stay at home mother of two children. Find out more at www.christinemarciniak.com
KIM
ENCHANTING REVIEWS
NOVEMBER 2009
CHRISTINE MARCINIAK
YA romance
Climbing Roses imprint of The Wild Rose Press
ISBN# 978-1601545459
$9.99
176 Pages
Paperback—Available Now
Rating: 4 Enchantments
Emma’s whole dream is for both her and her boyfriend to be cast as the leads in their high school’s production of The Song of Music. It’s basically a shoe in too. Or so she thought.
Things don’t turn out the way she thought. Emma doesn’t get cast next to her popular boyfriend. Also Biker Mike, the resident bad boy, gets into the play. Things go topsy turvy when she finds out maybe the rumors of Mike might not be true. Emma’s not sure what to do as her friends don’t accept him. Plus she’s feeling things for Mike that she shouldn’t considering she has the so-called ‘perfect’ boyfriend. Or does she? Is it possible feelings can change?
WHEN MIKE KISSED EMMA is one of those romantic tales you want to curl up with and read. Add the excitement of the school play and a cute guy with a past that is mysterious. Marciniak does a great job showing the emotions that go through Emma as she struggles with that age old problem of fitting in. Should she go with what she feels? Or stay with the safe more acceptable solution?
The pacing is great. So is the dialogue set behind The Song of Music. Very appropriate for middle graders too. Those who enjoy clean romances will love WHEN MIKE KISSED EMMA. Romance, mystery, drama, friendships, and loyality--this book has it all.
And the kiss? Let’s just say it’s one that all girls imagine and want. This is a sure hit for those who love clean romantic tales set behind the drama called high school.
Christine Marciniak loves to write and even dreamed of acting when she was younger. A former editor, now she’s a stay at home mother of two children. Find out more at www.christinemarciniak.com
KIM
ENCHANTING REVIEWS
NOVEMBER 2009
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Blog-In-Progress
Just a head's up that not all of our YA reviews are on our new blog yet since some are searching for them. There's still a few dozen that need to be added over here, including some that never made it to our webpage this summer. Look out for those soon.
Enchanting Review: Highway To Hell
HIGHWAY TO HELL
ROSEMARY CLEMENT-MOORE
Paranormal YA
Delacorte Books
ISBN# 978-0385734639
368 Pages
$16.99
Hardcover--Available Now
Rating: 4.5 Enchantments
It's time for more Maggie Quinn fun in the third book of the series, HIGHWAY TO HELL. This time, trouble finds Maggie and best friend Lisa on the way to Spring Break, the one time the two friends hope to just be normal and leave their paranormal abilities behind. But normal is soon quickly thrown out the window when Maggie's Jeep hits something in the middle of the dark Texas highway and they find themselves investigating something that definitely isn't human. Half the town believes its only coyotes or some other animal that's terrorizing and killing their livestock, but the other half of town, they believe something a little more sinister is behind the attacks, something that shouldn't exist outside nightmares. It's up to Maggie and Lisa to figure out the truth, but can Maggie figure it out before she gets in its way?
Well paced and full of the same great mix of paranormal and humor as the first two in the series, HIGHWAY TO HELL is an addicting read that pulled me in from the first page and never let me go. The setting is a bit unusual, especially compared to previous books, and I liked how Maggie and Lisa were a bit of the outsiders in the small town, under the microscope at times by the locals as they threw their ideas out into the conversations about what was happening around them. The supporting characters were great, from Teresa who runs the restaurant/bar at the small motel to the slightly mysterious Hector, who seems to be looking out for the girls and the fun addition of Justin's best friend Henry to the mix. Ms. Clement-Moore does a fabulous job with the supporting characters in this one, with Dave being a personal favorite of mine. Absolutely loved the scene with him and Maggie out in the pick-up truck where they make their first frightening contact with the supposed mythological creature that's traumatizing the small Texas town. One of the best scenes is when the girls find out about a local museum a short drive away that's supposed to have an actual skeleton of the beast, and Maggie and Lisa head out to see this creature. The museum itself is odd and creepy enough, but the rattlesnake that seems to hiss every time Maggie is near is one of the creepiest parts of all. With a heart pounding last few chapters that will have you desperately flipping the pages, HIGHWAY TO HELL is one of my favorite reads of the year.
Rosemary Clement-Moore lives and writes in Arlington, Texas. Visit Rosemary online at www.readrosemary.com
Lisa
Enchanting Reviews
September 2009
ROSEMARY CLEMENT-MOORE
Paranormal YA
Delacorte Books
ISBN# 978-0385734639
368 Pages
$16.99
Hardcover--Available Now
Rating: 4.5 Enchantments
It's time for more Maggie Quinn fun in the third book of the series, HIGHWAY TO HELL. This time, trouble finds Maggie and best friend Lisa on the way to Spring Break, the one time the two friends hope to just be normal and leave their paranormal abilities behind. But normal is soon quickly thrown out the window when Maggie's Jeep hits something in the middle of the dark Texas highway and they find themselves investigating something that definitely isn't human. Half the town believes its only coyotes or some other animal that's terrorizing and killing their livestock, but the other half of town, they believe something a little more sinister is behind the attacks, something that shouldn't exist outside nightmares. It's up to Maggie and Lisa to figure out the truth, but can Maggie figure it out before she gets in its way?
Well paced and full of the same great mix of paranormal and humor as the first two in the series, HIGHWAY TO HELL is an addicting read that pulled me in from the first page and never let me go. The setting is a bit unusual, especially compared to previous books, and I liked how Maggie and Lisa were a bit of the outsiders in the small town, under the microscope at times by the locals as they threw their ideas out into the conversations about what was happening around them. The supporting characters were great, from Teresa who runs the restaurant/bar at the small motel to the slightly mysterious Hector, who seems to be looking out for the girls and the fun addition of Justin's best friend Henry to the mix. Ms. Clement-Moore does a fabulous job with the supporting characters in this one, with Dave being a personal favorite of mine. Absolutely loved the scene with him and Maggie out in the pick-up truck where they make their first frightening contact with the supposed mythological creature that's traumatizing the small Texas town. One of the best scenes is when the girls find out about a local museum a short drive away that's supposed to have an actual skeleton of the beast, and Maggie and Lisa head out to see this creature. The museum itself is odd and creepy enough, but the rattlesnake that seems to hiss every time Maggie is near is one of the creepiest parts of all. With a heart pounding last few chapters that will have you desperately flipping the pages, HIGHWAY TO HELL is one of my favorite reads of the year.
Rosemary Clement-Moore lives and writes in Arlington, Texas. Visit Rosemary online at www.readrosemary.com
Lisa
Enchanting Reviews
September 2009
Enchanting Review: OH.MY.GODS
OH.MY.GODS
TERA LYNN CHILDS
Fantasy YA
Dutton
ISBN# 978-0-525-47942-0
Pages
$16.99
Hardcover--Available Now
Rating: 4 Enchantments
Phoebe Castro has one dream in life—to get a running scholarship to her dream school with her two lifelong best friends. Unfortunately, her mother is about to ruin everything. When her mother arrives home from a family reunion, with new fiancé in tow, she breaks the news that they're moving to a small island in Greece and Phoebe's about to miss out on her senior year with her BFFs. As if that wasn't bad enough, Phoebe finds herself at a school for descendants of the Gods and is about as much of a fish out of water as a girl can get, and not to mention, sworn to secrecy about that whole Gods thing. With her life suddenly turned upside down, a cold-hot relationship with the one of the hottest guys at school, who also happens to be dating one of the school's meanest girls, and an evil new soon-to-be stepsister to boot, Phoebe finds herself longing for her normal life back in Cali.
OH.MY.GODS was a really fun fantasy read. A mix of contemporary and the possibility that the Gods did exist and their descendants are all housed on a small secret island in Greece going to school together all combine into a world that would be fun to step right into, as long as you didn't upset the popular clique and get on the wrong side of the mean girl, which you guessed it, Phoebe does. Phoebe's really likeable as the girl who has to seemingly give everything up and struggles to make it through the year away from her best friends and the life she left behind, with her mother psycho-analyzing her half the time. When her evil soon-to-be stepsister throws a wrench into things, Phoebe's desperately happy for the two friends she's made on the island. But that still doesn't explain why the male half of the hottest couple in school seems to have split personalities where she's concerned. Some of the best scenes in the book happen while Phoebe's out running and trying to make the team. The surprise in the book about Phoebe herself may not come as much as total surprise to all readers, but the way it comes out is pretty good.
Sometimes though, the story did seem a bit slow moving, which was the only flaw to this fun and engaging read. I look forward to reading the next in the series, 'Goddess Boot Camp', also available now.
Tera Lynn Childs is a wannabe goddess and the author of OH. MY. GODS. and GODDESS BOOT CAMP. Tera lives in Houston, Texas, where she spends her time fleeing hurricanes, making character profiles on MySpace, blogging with the Buzz Girls at booksboysbuzz.com, and writing wherever she can find a comfy chair and a steady stream of caffeinated beverages.
Lisa
Enchanting Reviews
September 2009
TERA LYNN CHILDS
Fantasy YA
Dutton
ISBN# 978-0-525-47942-0
Pages
$16.99
Hardcover--Available Now
Rating: 4 Enchantments
Phoebe Castro has one dream in life—to get a running scholarship to her dream school with her two lifelong best friends. Unfortunately, her mother is about to ruin everything. When her mother arrives home from a family reunion, with new fiancé in tow, she breaks the news that they're moving to a small island in Greece and Phoebe's about to miss out on her senior year with her BFFs. As if that wasn't bad enough, Phoebe finds herself at a school for descendants of the Gods and is about as much of a fish out of water as a girl can get, and not to mention, sworn to secrecy about that whole Gods thing. With her life suddenly turned upside down, a cold-hot relationship with the one of the hottest guys at school, who also happens to be dating one of the school's meanest girls, and an evil new soon-to-be stepsister to boot, Phoebe finds herself longing for her normal life back in Cali.
OH.MY.GODS was a really fun fantasy read. A mix of contemporary and the possibility that the Gods did exist and their descendants are all housed on a small secret island in Greece going to school together all combine into a world that would be fun to step right into, as long as you didn't upset the popular clique and get on the wrong side of the mean girl, which you guessed it, Phoebe does. Phoebe's really likeable as the girl who has to seemingly give everything up and struggles to make it through the year away from her best friends and the life she left behind, with her mother psycho-analyzing her half the time. When her evil soon-to-be stepsister throws a wrench into things, Phoebe's desperately happy for the two friends she's made on the island. But that still doesn't explain why the male half of the hottest couple in school seems to have split personalities where she's concerned. Some of the best scenes in the book happen while Phoebe's out running and trying to make the team. The surprise in the book about Phoebe herself may not come as much as total surprise to all readers, but the way it comes out is pretty good.
Sometimes though, the story did seem a bit slow moving, which was the only flaw to this fun and engaging read. I look forward to reading the next in the series, 'Goddess Boot Camp', also available now.
Tera Lynn Childs is a wannabe goddess and the author of OH. MY. GODS. and GODDESS BOOT CAMP. Tera lives in Houston, Texas, where she spends her time fleeing hurricanes, making character profiles on MySpace, blogging with the Buzz Girls at booksboysbuzz.com, and writing wherever she can find a comfy chair and a steady stream of caffeinated beverages.
Lisa
Enchanting Reviews
September 2009
Enchanting Review: Fat Cat
FAT CAT
ROBIN BRANDE
Contemporary YA
Knopf
ISBN# 978-0-375-84449-2
327 Pages
$16.99
Hardcover--Available Now
Rating: 4.5 Enchantments
Cat has always been a bit of a brain. AP classes all the way, and so she's eagerly awaiting what should be one of the highlights of her high school career, the project in Mr. Fizer's research science class. But when she picks her picture out of the stack, instead of something she can be excited about and sure to beat former best friend Matt at, she ends up with a picture of the hominids, our earliest human ancestors. What is she supposed to with that? But the more she thinks, the more the idea begins to form. She'll use herself as the project, eating and living how the early humans lives, which means giving up nearly everything she loves—junk food, her car, TV and make a record of her transformation.
Cat's likeable from the start and I loved her best friend, Amanda, who definitely stole a few scenes on her own, especially at the cafe. At the beginning of the book, Cat's a little on the heavy side, she doesn't seem to be focused that much on her body, though she would like to feel prettier. So when she ends up with the photo of the hominids for her class, and decides to do the project on herself, she couldn't imagine the results or how it'll change her life. As the story moves along, Cat finds herself evolving, not only physically by losing the weight but mentally as well when her social life changes as does her self esteem. She even finds herself bonding more with her little brother. The only thing still negative around her is her former best friend, Matt, who she'd do anything to beat in this competition. It takes almost the whole book before the reader gets to find out what happened to her and Matt's friendship as thirteen year olds. Some of my favorite scenes are when Cat notices him watching her at school and especially when she's talking to one of the guys in class. The first time they meet up at the Zoo is one of the most memorable ones in the book. The awkwardness between the two, Cat's desire to show him she doesn't need him in her life and yet so desperately wants him to apologize for those hurtful words. And the scene between her and Amanda in the car afterwards was great too.
All in all, FAT CAT is a really great and entertaining read as Cat goes on a bit of a journey of self-discovery and finding out what it is in life that truly makes her happy. Highly recommended to anyone looking for a great mix of humor, little romance and friendship.
Robin Brande is a former trial attorney who is also the author of the young adult novel Evolution, Me & Other Freaks of Nature. Robin was herself an overweight teen, and knows that a smart girl can figure out a smart way to be fit. She lives in Tucson, Arizona.
Lisa
Enchanting Reviews
October 2009
ROBIN BRANDE
Contemporary YA
Knopf
ISBN# 978-0-375-84449-2
327 Pages
$16.99
Hardcover--Available Now
Rating: 4.5 Enchantments
Cat has always been a bit of a brain. AP classes all the way, and so she's eagerly awaiting what should be one of the highlights of her high school career, the project in Mr. Fizer's research science class. But when she picks her picture out of the stack, instead of something she can be excited about and sure to beat former best friend Matt at, she ends up with a picture of the hominids, our earliest human ancestors. What is she supposed to with that? But the more she thinks, the more the idea begins to form. She'll use herself as the project, eating and living how the early humans lives, which means giving up nearly everything she loves—junk food, her car, TV and make a record of her transformation.
Cat's likeable from the start and I loved her best friend, Amanda, who definitely stole a few scenes on her own, especially at the cafe. At the beginning of the book, Cat's a little on the heavy side, she doesn't seem to be focused that much on her body, though she would like to feel prettier. So when she ends up with the photo of the hominids for her class, and decides to do the project on herself, she couldn't imagine the results or how it'll change her life. As the story moves along, Cat finds herself evolving, not only physically by losing the weight but mentally as well when her social life changes as does her self esteem. She even finds herself bonding more with her little brother. The only thing still negative around her is her former best friend, Matt, who she'd do anything to beat in this competition. It takes almost the whole book before the reader gets to find out what happened to her and Matt's friendship as thirteen year olds. Some of my favorite scenes are when Cat notices him watching her at school and especially when she's talking to one of the guys in class. The first time they meet up at the Zoo is one of the most memorable ones in the book. The awkwardness between the two, Cat's desire to show him she doesn't need him in her life and yet so desperately wants him to apologize for those hurtful words. And the scene between her and Amanda in the car afterwards was great too.
All in all, FAT CAT is a really great and entertaining read as Cat goes on a bit of a journey of self-discovery and finding out what it is in life that truly makes her happy. Highly recommended to anyone looking for a great mix of humor, little romance and friendship.
Robin Brande is a former trial attorney who is also the author of the young adult novel Evolution, Me & Other Freaks of Nature. Robin was herself an overweight teen, and knows that a smart girl can figure out a smart way to be fit. She lives in Tucson, Arizona.
Lisa
Enchanting Reviews
October 2009
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