I WAS JANE AUSTEN'S BEST FRIEND
CORA HARRISON
Historical YA
Delacorte
ISBN# 978-0385739405
$17.99
Pages
Hardcover—Available Now
Rating: 4.5 Enchantments
I WAS JANE AUSTEN'S BEST FRIEND is a fun historical read for any Jane Austen fan. Actually based in part on fact: Jane's cousin did send a letter letting the family know of Jane's illness and both girls were brought back home with the Austen family, the tale veers off mainly into fiction from then on.
I very much enjoyed I WAS JANE AUSTEN'S BEST FRIEND. Ms. Harrison does a terrific job transporting the reader back in time to 1791 and the Austen family home, making them feel like they are right there watching the story unfold. Cousin Jenny is a great character. Having lost her mother and spent the last few years at boarding school, she's delighted to find herself rescued alongside Jane, and at home with her Aunt Austen and family. The fact that she had to sneak out to get the letter sent however weighs heavily on her mind, as the scandal could ruin her reputation if found out, as it is especially important that the girls make good matches, since there aren't much funds for either of them. Only Jane knows the truth of how the letter was truly sent. When the young Captain that helped Jenny that night arrives in the area, Jenny is panicked, what if he tells the truth?
Ms. Harrison creates a fun and enthusiastic young Jane Austen in her novel. Jane is full of life, loves hanging around her brothers, writing down her stories and sharing them with Jenny and her family. Her relationship with her mother is a strained one, the reason behind which comes to light later in the book when she takes Jenny to meet George, her other older brother who lives in town. I especially enjoyed the scenes with Jenny, Jane and George where the girls are trying to teach his alphabet in the hopes that he'll be able to one day put words together.
Filled with memorable characters, I WAS JANE AUSTEN'S BEST FRIEND has definitely earned a spot on my keeper shelf. Visit Ms. Harrison online at http://www.coraharrison.com/
Lisa
Enchanting Reviews
October 2010
Showing posts with label Lisa. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Lisa. Show all posts
Sunday, October 31, 2010
Enchanting Review: Jump
JUMP
GINGER RUE
Contemporary YA
Tricycle Press
ISBN# 978-0385739405
$15.99
224 Pages
Hardcover—Available Now
Rating: 4.5 Enchantments
Spoiled. Egotistical. Popular. All can describe Brinkley Harper, the undisputable Queen of Story High. She's currently being forced to see a shrink, the peculiar Irirangi, so she can stay at Story High after an 'incident' with one of the other students, not to mention she's personally responsible for four girls leaving the school. When Irirangi ends the first session by telling Brinkley she has some very special therapy planned for her, Brinkley could never imagine what's in store. Within days of their first meeting, strange things start happening. First, she finds herself inhabiting the body of that freak Miranda of all people. But a funny thing happens, Brinkley begins to see just what her and her friends behaviour looks like when she's on the receiving end of it. And twenty-four hours as Miranda, gives her a glimpse of a life she'd never imagined. Unfortunately, Miranda isn't the last jump she makes.
So for the first few chapters, I really didn't like Brinkley much at all. Selfish, stuck-up, a bully, all are adjectives that barely scratch the surface of Brinkley. But as the story moves on, not only does Brinkley start to see a new side of herself that she isn't all that proud of, the reader sees what Brinkley isn't showing the world. Her boyfriend is more arm candy than anything else, her parents could be the definition of absentee and her housekeeper is the closest thing to family she has. Her growing friendship with Miranda was one of my favourite parts of the book, especially when she confided in her what was really going on and Miranda didn't quite believe her. As Brinkley matures, and starts to discover who she really wants to be, she becomes a far more likeable person. One of the best scenes is when Brinkley decides to get back at the guy Carly likes, after a jump into the other girl's body, where she was ignored and overheard the guy's remarks about 'her'. Definitely one of my favourites in the book.
All in all, I found JUMP to be an enjoyable read.
Ginger Rue was the advice columnist for Sweet 16magazine and has written for Girls’ Life, Teen Vogue, and Seventeen magazines, among others. Visit her online at www.gingerrue.com to learn more.
Lisa
Enchanting Reviews
October 2010
GINGER RUE
Contemporary YA
Tricycle Press
ISBN# 978-0385739405
$15.99
224 Pages
Hardcover—Available Now
Rating: 4.5 Enchantments
Spoiled. Egotistical. Popular. All can describe Brinkley Harper, the undisputable Queen of Story High. She's currently being forced to see a shrink, the peculiar Irirangi, so she can stay at Story High after an 'incident' with one of the other students, not to mention she's personally responsible for four girls leaving the school. When Irirangi ends the first session by telling Brinkley she has some very special therapy planned for her, Brinkley could never imagine what's in store. Within days of their first meeting, strange things start happening. First, she finds herself inhabiting the body of that freak Miranda of all people. But a funny thing happens, Brinkley begins to see just what her and her friends behaviour looks like when she's on the receiving end of it. And twenty-four hours as Miranda, gives her a glimpse of a life she'd never imagined. Unfortunately, Miranda isn't the last jump she makes.
So for the first few chapters, I really didn't like Brinkley much at all. Selfish, stuck-up, a bully, all are adjectives that barely scratch the surface of Brinkley. But as the story moves on, not only does Brinkley start to see a new side of herself that she isn't all that proud of, the reader sees what Brinkley isn't showing the world. Her boyfriend is more arm candy than anything else, her parents could be the definition of absentee and her housekeeper is the closest thing to family she has. Her growing friendship with Miranda was one of my favourite parts of the book, especially when she confided in her what was really going on and Miranda didn't quite believe her. As Brinkley matures, and starts to discover who she really wants to be, she becomes a far more likeable person. One of the best scenes is when Brinkley decides to get back at the guy Carly likes, after a jump into the other girl's body, where she was ignored and overheard the guy's remarks about 'her'. Definitely one of my favourites in the book.
All in all, I found JUMP to be an enjoyable read.
Ginger Rue was the advice columnist for Sweet 16magazine and has written for Girls’ Life, Teen Vogue, and Seventeen magazines, among others. Visit her online at www.gingerrue.com to learn more.
Lisa
Enchanting Reviews
October 2010
Sunday, July 11, 2010
Enchanting Review: Bad Blood
BAD BLOOD (A BLOOD COVEN VAMPIRE NOVEL #4)
MARI MANCUSI
Paranormal YA
Berkley Jam
ISBN# 9780425232644
230 Pages
$9.99
Trade—Available Now
Rating: 4.5 Enchantments
Seventeen year old Sunny McDonald is ready to take a big step forward with her thousand year old vampire boyfriend and coven leader Magnus, until she finds out the Blood Coven has decided upon a Blood Mate for him—Jane, who isn't what she seems. But Magnus won't listen to Sunny's claims, playing it off like she's just jealous...but when Sunny enlists the help of her twin sister, Rayne, to help discover the truth, the two set off for Vegas and find a lot more than they bargained for.
BAD BLOOD is the fourth book in the 'A Blood Coven Vampire' series, but it's first book in the series I've read and I have to say it wasn't hard to get pulled into the story. Things were well laid out so I could slip easily into the story, and didn't feel like I'd missed a ton having not read the previous books. I have to say I really liked Sunny and Rayne and their relationship. Sunny's determination to prove to her boyfriend that she's right about Jane was great and her trek through Las Vegas in search of info that proves her right is both fun and entertaing. It's a path that leads her to a small theatre inside an old hotel and casino that's seen better days, but when she realizes the truth, Magnus isn't exactly easy to convince.
This was one book that once I started I couldn't put down and finished it in an afternoon. Ms. Mancusi does an excellent job keeping the reader in the story, unable to wait to discover what's really going on with Jane, and how she got past the supposed background check of the Coven. Sunny's way of tracking her down is a little more tame than Rayne's ideas, but nonetheless, work. My favorite scenes are when Sunny is at the rehearsal's for the Sun Hotel's production of 'Bram Stoker's Dracula'. You're just waiting for Sunny to get more info, and nervous that she's about to be discovered by the bad guys. The sisters' get an added complication with their staying arrangements, instead of being in one of the hotels, they're staying with their step-mother and the half-sister they never knew about, which causes some animosity between Sunny and Rayne, with Sunny at least attempting to be nice.
Filled with twists and turns, fun characters and a shocking ending that leaves readers demanding the next in the series, BAD BLOOD is a great paranormal read, perfect for summer.
Visit Mari Mancusi online at www.marimancusi.com and on myspace at www.myspace.com/marimancusi
Lisa
Enchanting Reviews
May 2010
MARI MANCUSI
Paranormal YA
Berkley Jam
ISBN# 9780425232644
230 Pages
$9.99
Trade—Available Now
Rating: 4.5 Enchantments
Seventeen year old Sunny McDonald is ready to take a big step forward with her thousand year old vampire boyfriend and coven leader Magnus, until she finds out the Blood Coven has decided upon a Blood Mate for him—Jane, who isn't what she seems. But Magnus won't listen to Sunny's claims, playing it off like she's just jealous...but when Sunny enlists the help of her twin sister, Rayne, to help discover the truth, the two set off for Vegas and find a lot more than they bargained for.
BAD BLOOD is the fourth book in the 'A Blood Coven Vampire' series, but it's first book in the series I've read and I have to say it wasn't hard to get pulled into the story. Things were well laid out so I could slip easily into the story, and didn't feel like I'd missed a ton having not read the previous books. I have to say I really liked Sunny and Rayne and their relationship. Sunny's determination to prove to her boyfriend that she's right about Jane was great and her trek through Las Vegas in search of info that proves her right is both fun and entertaing. It's a path that leads her to a small theatre inside an old hotel and casino that's seen better days, but when she realizes the truth, Magnus isn't exactly easy to convince.
This was one book that once I started I couldn't put down and finished it in an afternoon. Ms. Mancusi does an excellent job keeping the reader in the story, unable to wait to discover what's really going on with Jane, and how she got past the supposed background check of the Coven. Sunny's way of tracking her down is a little more tame than Rayne's ideas, but nonetheless, work. My favorite scenes are when Sunny is at the rehearsal's for the Sun Hotel's production of 'Bram Stoker's Dracula'. You're just waiting for Sunny to get more info, and nervous that she's about to be discovered by the bad guys. The sisters' get an added complication with their staying arrangements, instead of being in one of the hotels, they're staying with their step-mother and the half-sister they never knew about, which causes some animosity between Sunny and Rayne, with Sunny at least attempting to be nice.
Filled with twists and turns, fun characters and a shocking ending that leaves readers demanding the next in the series, BAD BLOOD is a great paranormal read, perfect for summer.
Visit Mari Mancusi online at www.marimancusi.com and on myspace at www.myspace.com/marimancusi
Lisa
Enchanting Reviews
May 2010
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
Enchanting Review: The Six Rules of Maybe
THE SIX RULES OF MAYBE
DEB CALETTI
Contemporary YA
Simon Pulse
ISBN# 9781416979692
321 Pages
$16.99 US/$19.99 Can
Hardcover--Available Now
Rating: 4.5 Enchantments
Between her older sister, Juliet's, unexpected return home, not to mention unexpected husband and news in tow, it's hard for seventeen year old Scarlet to adjust to the new turn her summer has taken. Her sister's husband, Hayden, is nothing like the bad boys Juliet usually dates and Scarlet finds herself falling for the sweet, soft-hearted guy. Scarlet's the kind of girl who wants to look after everyone, including the elderly neighbor couple across the street who are falling prey to an internet scam despite Scarlet's best efforts. I have to say that was one of my favorite sub-plots in the book and it's ending made me crack up.
Ms. Caletti creates a wonderful read with THE SIX RULES OF MAYBE. I loved Scarlet, how she was always wanting to look out for those around her, whether it was creating mail for Clive Weaver across the street; setting up the Goth Girl who draws on the sidewalk with a date for prom, or trying to fix her sister's marriage, all without really acknowledging that maybe the ones that need the help the most are her and her sister. It takes Scarlet awhile to dig deep enough to discover the real reason behind it all, why her sister keeps shoving Hayden away and why she herself is the way she is. I loved the scenes between Scarlet and Hayden, how she takes him on a tour of the small island they live on and the way she goes out to keep him company when he goes out to smoke in the middle of the night. I love how she's completely blind to the guy from school who seems interested in her, the same boy one of her BFF's is crushing on and how one of the oddest guys in school is trying to convince her to go out with him, even though that's the last thing she wants. THE SIX RULES OF MAYBE is full of everything I love about Ms. Caletti's books: great voice, characters and plot. Definitely one for my keeper shelf.
Ms. Caletti is the author of The Queen of Everything; Honey, Baby, Sweetheart (a National Book Award finalist); Wild Roses; The Nature of Jade; The Fortunes of Indigo Skye; and The Secret Life of Prince Charming. She lives with her family in Seattle. You can visit her online at www.debcaletti.com and become a fan on Facebook.
Lisa
Enchanting Reviews
May 2010
Thursday, May 13, 2010
Enchanting Review: My Double Life
MY DOUBLE LIFE
JANETTE RALLISON
Contemporary YA
Putnam
ISBN# 978-0-399-25262-4
272 Pages
$16.99
Hardcover—Available May 2010
Rating: 4 Enchantments
Alexia Garcia can't believe the offer that comes her way after a mean girl's prank on her backfires when the photo catches some surprise attention. With her uncanny resemblance to pop star Kari Kingsley, Kari and her publicist want her to play the role of Kari's double, filling in for Kari at a handful of events and small concerts so the real Kari can concentrate on working on her long delayed album. The offer seems too good to be true, and her mother is decidedly against the idea, especially when she confides the identity of Alexia's father, something that's been a secret all of Alexia's life. The girls' resemblance isn't so much a coincidence, as the two are half sisters, a piece of knowledge that spurs Alexia to quickly agree to the plan and move to California for a chance to get to know the half-sister she never knew existed and for a chance to meet her father.
I really enjoyed MY DOUBLE LIFE. While Alexia struggles to fit into her role as Kari's double, including a complete make-over with hair extensions, dance classes, a designer wardrobe and more, she finds herself facing some unexpected issues of her own. With the physical distance between her and her mother and grandmother, things aren't exactly the way Alexia thought they'd be. Add in her developing feelings for fellow teen star Grant who thinks she's really Kari, and not only is Alexia confused, she's also torn between doing exactly what everyone expects her to and what she feels is right. I have to say I really liked the friendship of sorts that forms between Alexia and Kari and the way that Alexia wants to help her half-sister out of the trouble she's in, which I wish would have played into the story a little more. However it didn't make the book any less enjoyable. I have to say my favorite scene that still makes me smile is when Grant goes to drop 'Kari' off after their date and instead of taking Alexia to where she's living with the publicist, he takes her to Kari's home. Alexia panics but it looks like maybe no one is home, until she hears footsteps in the house. Between dealing with a very confused poolman who tells her that she just argued with him in the driveway (obviously the real Kari) and Kari's real boyfriend showing up after Grant leaves, it's one enjoyable mess.
Janette Rallison lives in Chandler, Arizona with her husband, five children and enough cats to classify her as "an eccentric cat lady." You can visit her online at her website, http://www.janetterallison.com/
Lisa
ENCHANTING REVIEWS
March 2010
JANETTE RALLISON
Contemporary YA
Putnam
ISBN# 978-0-399-25262-4
272 Pages
$16.99
Hardcover—Available May 2010
Rating: 4 Enchantments
Alexia Garcia can't believe the offer that comes her way after a mean girl's prank on her backfires when the photo catches some surprise attention. With her uncanny resemblance to pop star Kari Kingsley, Kari and her publicist want her to play the role of Kari's double, filling in for Kari at a handful of events and small concerts so the real Kari can concentrate on working on her long delayed album. The offer seems too good to be true, and her mother is decidedly against the idea, especially when she confides the identity of Alexia's father, something that's been a secret all of Alexia's life. The girls' resemblance isn't so much a coincidence, as the two are half sisters, a piece of knowledge that spurs Alexia to quickly agree to the plan and move to California for a chance to get to know the half-sister she never knew existed and for a chance to meet her father.
I really enjoyed MY DOUBLE LIFE. While Alexia struggles to fit into her role as Kari's double, including a complete make-over with hair extensions, dance classes, a designer wardrobe and more, she finds herself facing some unexpected issues of her own. With the physical distance between her and her mother and grandmother, things aren't exactly the way Alexia thought they'd be. Add in her developing feelings for fellow teen star Grant who thinks she's really Kari, and not only is Alexia confused, she's also torn between doing exactly what everyone expects her to and what she feels is right. I have to say I really liked the friendship of sorts that forms between Alexia and Kari and the way that Alexia wants to help her half-sister out of the trouble she's in, which I wish would have played into the story a little more. However it didn't make the book any less enjoyable. I have to say my favorite scene that still makes me smile is when Grant goes to drop 'Kari' off after their date and instead of taking Alexia to where she's living with the publicist, he takes her to Kari's home. Alexia panics but it looks like maybe no one is home, until she hears footsteps in the house. Between dealing with a very confused poolman who tells her that she just argued with him in the driveway (obviously the real Kari) and Kari's real boyfriend showing up after Grant leaves, it's one enjoyable mess.
Janette Rallison lives in Chandler, Arizona with her husband, five children and enough cats to classify her as "an eccentric cat lady." You can visit her online at her website, http://www.janetterallison.com/
Lisa
ENCHANTING REVIEWS
March 2010
Saturday, April 10, 2010
Enchanting Review: Sweet Little Lies: An L.A. Candy Novel
SWEET LITTLE LIES: An L.A. Candy Novel
LAUREN CONRAD
Contemporary YA
HarperCollins
ISBN# 978-0061767609
320 Pages
$17.99
Hardcover—Available Now
Rating: 4.5 Enchantments
Picking up right where 'L.A. Candy' leaves off, Jane is trying to recover from the leaked photos of her and Braeden, her boyfriend's best friend. Unknown to Jane, the person out to get her is her new BFF and fellow L.A. Candy co-star Madison. Meanwhile, her true BFF, Scarlet is dealing with her own misery. With Jane gone, L.A. Candy has been forcing her into hanging out with her worst nightmare—Gaby. But when the cameras stop rolling, maybe Gaby isn't as bad as Scar originally thought. When one of the cute cameramen asks Scar out, she finds herself agreeing, which is totally against L.A Candy rules.
Fast moving, SWEET LITTLE LIES keeps the reader turning the pages, waiting for Jane to discover the truth and waiting to see if Scar's really in love. And what is Madison's little secret? Someone out there knows and the way she's determined to hide it, it must be something good. I have to say I really enjoyed SWEET LITTLE LIES. A strong second book in the series, the reader gets pulled deeper into the lives of Jane, Scar, and Madison. Jane and Scar's friendship is a little more on the rocks in this one, thanks to Madison's lies and Jane's need to believe the best about people. I really liked how we got to know Scarlet better and the relationship brewing between her and the cute cameraman. And you can't help but feel bad for Jane when the whole truth is exposed and she finds herself possibly without a best friend and a place to stay. I'm really looking forward to seeing where Ms. Conrad takes this cast of characters next.
Lauren Conrad is best known for starring in the MTV hit series The Hills. Her first novel, L.A. Candy, was a #1 New York Times bestseller. She began her career as a fashion designer in spring 2008 with the debut of the Lauren Conrad Collection and expanded in 2009 with a second line, LC Lauren Conrad, exclusively for Kohl's. She has been featured on the covers of Cosmopolitan, Teen Vogue, Us Weekly, Rolling Stone, and Entertainment Weekly, among others. Lauren also launched the m.powerment by mark charity campaign with mark cosmetics in 2008. She lives in Los Angeles and is currently working on her third novel in the L.A. Candy series.
Lisa
ENCHANTING REVIEWS
February 2010
Enchanting Review: A Brief History of Montmaray
A BRIEF HISTORY OF MONTMARAY
MICHELLE COOPER
Historical Fantasy YA
Knopf
ISBN# 978-0375858642
304 Pages
$16.99
Hardcover—Available Now
Rating: 4 Enchantments
"Princess" Sophie Fitzosborne lives on the small island of Montmaray with the King, his daughter, her younger sister and a handful of residents who still remain. Her dear older brother is away at school in England and Sophie and family miss him terribly, keeping in contact only through sporadic letters. The house is terribly dilapidated, but despite that, Sophie is happy with her life. And even more so when a letter arrives from her aunt, inviting her to London for her debut. The only thing is, Sophie knows her cousin Veronica won't go and she's reluctant to go on her own. How could she navigate life in London without her? But then something happens that might just jeopardize everything.
I have to admit from the cover blurb, I thought A BRIEF HISTORY OF MONTMARAY might be a bit of a dry read. I was wrong. What I enjoyed most about the book was Sophie herself; she had a great voice and was really likable right from the start. All the characters were very unique: Veronica, Sophie's cousin and daughter of the King, who'd rather hole up in the library and work on the history of Montmaray then head to England and make her debut, not to mention The King himself, who's just a wee bit unstable and prefers to stay locked up in his room, preferring to deal only with the housekeeper and not his daughter nor his nieces. One of my favorite scenes is when we actually get a glimpse of the crazy King as he appears briefly and we see the chaos that erupts around him as he finally emerges from his room and into the kitchen where most of the family is present. From Sophia's memories, we see how the King's wife took off suddenly and how he fell into the state he's in. A great combination of history, intrigue and a dash of suspense, I look forward to reading more from Ms. Cooper.
Michelle Cooper lives in Sydney, Australia. Find an excerpt here: http://www.randomhouse.com/catalog/display.pperl?isbn=9780375858642
Lisa
Enchanting Reviews
October 2009
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
Enchanting Review: Dizzy In Your Eyes: Poems About Love
DIZZY IN YOUR EYES: POEMS ABOUT LOVE
PAT MORA
YA Poetry
Knopf
ISBN# 978-0375843754
176 Pages
$15.99
Hardcover—Available
Rating: 4.5 Enchantments
DIZZY IN YOUR EYES: POEMS ABOUT LOVE is filled with a collection of fifty poems of different types, from a simple poem, to '3 a.m. Blues' which is the blues to the last in the book 'My Song' which is written as a song.
I have to admit, I'm not usually big on poetry but I really enjoyed DIZZY IN YOUR EYES: POEMS ABOUT LOVE. Every poem is different, told from a different narrator's point of view. The one thing they all have in common though is the theme—love. With some of the poems Ms. Mora provides a description of the type of poem on the opposite page, so those interested can learn more about that particular style. Two of my favorite poems are 3 a.m. Blues because I like the lyrical styling and an earlier one in the book, To-Do List because it's very much true to life.
DIZZY IN YOUR EYES: POEMS ABOUT LOVE is Pat's second collection for young adults. Pat also wrote My Own True Name: New and Selected Poems for Young Adults and six poetry collections for adults. To learn more about Pat and her books visit her online at www.patmora.com
Lisa
Enchanting Reviews
January 2010
PAT MORA
YA Poetry
Knopf
ISBN# 978-0375843754
176 Pages
$15.99
Hardcover—Available
Rating: 4.5 Enchantments
DIZZY IN YOUR EYES: POEMS ABOUT LOVE is filled with a collection of fifty poems of different types, from a simple poem, to '3 a.m. Blues' which is the blues to the last in the book 'My Song' which is written as a song.
I have to admit, I'm not usually big on poetry but I really enjoyed DIZZY IN YOUR EYES: POEMS ABOUT LOVE. Every poem is different, told from a different narrator's point of view. The one thing they all have in common though is the theme—love. With some of the poems Ms. Mora provides a description of the type of poem on the opposite page, so those interested can learn more about that particular style. Two of my favorite poems are 3 a.m. Blues because I like the lyrical styling and an earlier one in the book, To-Do List because it's very much true to life.
DIZZY IN YOUR EYES: POEMS ABOUT LOVE is Pat's second collection for young adults. Pat also wrote My Own True Name: New and Selected Poems for Young Adults and six poetry collections for adults. To learn more about Pat and her books visit her online at www.patmora.com
Lisa
Enchanting Reviews
January 2010
Enchanting Review: Dream Life (Dream Girl #2)
DREAM LIFE (Dream Girl #2)
LAUREN MECHLING
Paranormal YA
Delacorte Books
ISBN# 978-0385735230
336 Pages
$16.99
Hardcover—Available Now
Rating: 4.5 Enchantments
When her best friend Becca starts acting funny after returning home from holidays, Claire feels abandoned, until she finds out Becca's been tapped for a secret society, and surprisingly she gets 'invited' to join herself. But if only things were that easy. It seems there's a rival society out to get the Blue Moons and take over New York for themselves. Soon Claire finds herself in the thick of things, trying to solve the mystery before their top secret plans are disclosed and the group is relegated to nothing more than a name forever.
DREAM LIFE is my favorite book in the Dream Girl series so far. The characters seemed much more formed this time and I found myself liking Claire a lot more. DREAM LIFE stands well on its own, so if you haven't read the first novel 'Dream Girl' don't worry about it. The world created is at times a bit eccentric but nonetheless fun to visit.
My favorite scenes happened when Claire was tapped to become a member of the Blue Moons. From the scene where they 'grabbed' her to where the hangout was actually located were really fun. Also, the friendship between Claire and her unusual society grandmother, Kiki, continues, climaxing at her grandmother's birthday party, a scene which turns out to be so horrific for Claire, I could only hope she'd get out of there as fast as she could.
Overall DREAM LIFE is a really fun and unusual read. I can't wait to return to Claire's world and see what happens next.
Lauren Mechling is the coauthor of all three 10th-Grade Social Climber books. She has written for the New York Times, Marie Claire, and Seventeen. She lives and writes in New York City. You can visit her at www.laurenmechling.com.
Lisa
Enchanting Reviews
February 2010
LAUREN MECHLING
Paranormal YA
Delacorte Books
ISBN# 978-0385735230
336 Pages
$16.99
Hardcover—Available Now
Rating: 4.5 Enchantments
When her best friend Becca starts acting funny after returning home from holidays, Claire feels abandoned, until she finds out Becca's been tapped for a secret society, and surprisingly she gets 'invited' to join herself. But if only things were that easy. It seems there's a rival society out to get the Blue Moons and take over New York for themselves. Soon Claire finds herself in the thick of things, trying to solve the mystery before their top secret plans are disclosed and the group is relegated to nothing more than a name forever.
DREAM LIFE is my favorite book in the Dream Girl series so far. The characters seemed much more formed this time and I found myself liking Claire a lot more. DREAM LIFE stands well on its own, so if you haven't read the first novel 'Dream Girl' don't worry about it. The world created is at times a bit eccentric but nonetheless fun to visit.
My favorite scenes happened when Claire was tapped to become a member of the Blue Moons. From the scene where they 'grabbed' her to where the hangout was actually located were really fun. Also, the friendship between Claire and her unusual society grandmother, Kiki, continues, climaxing at her grandmother's birthday party, a scene which turns out to be so horrific for Claire, I could only hope she'd get out of there as fast as she could.
Overall DREAM LIFE is a really fun and unusual read. I can't wait to return to Claire's world and see what happens next.
Lauren Mechling is the coauthor of all three 10th-Grade Social Climber books. She has written for the New York Times, Marie Claire, and Seventeen. She lives and writes in New York City. You can visit her at www.laurenmechling.com.
Lisa
Enchanting Reviews
February 2010
Enchanting Review: I Kissed A Zombie and I Liked It
I KISSED A ZOMBIE AND I LIKED IT
ADAM SELZER
Paranormal YA
Delacorte Press
ISBN# 978-0385735032
192 pages
$7.99
Trade—Available Now
Rating: 4 Enchantments
What a fun read! Eighteen year old Algonquin "Alley" Rhodes is determined to get out of small town Cornersville Trace and head to Seattle, where there has be a bigger dating pool. Unlike some of the other girls at school, she isn't aspiring to date an 'undead': a/k/a a vampire, werewolf, or zombie. But one night, covering the local band scene she meets Doug, a guy who sings Cole Porter songs and makes her feel like swooning, something she's never felt before.
Readers looking for a fun, laugh out loud paranormal read should definitely pick up I KISSED A ZOMBIE AND I LIKED IT. This book truly has it all. From plot to interesting characters, including the high school guidance counselor who doesn't believe in mixed relationships between the living and the undead, to amazing wit and a moment the reader can't wait for: Alley to realize the truth about Doug. But along the way Alley realizes the truth about herself, that she doesn't exactly like being the snarky sarcastic 'ice queen' she is at school and prefers who she is when she's with Doug. The humorous moments are plenty, thanks especially to Alley's voice and the situations Mr. Selzer puts the characters in.
One of my favorite scenes is when Alley and Doug go on their first date. There's something a little odd about Doug, but Alley can't quite put her finger on what it is. But if there was a perfect guy in the world for her, Doug could seriously fit his description.
To learn more about Mr. Selzer and his books, visit him online at http://www.adamselzer.com/
Lisa
Enchanting Reviews
February 2010
ADAM SELZER
Paranormal YA
Delacorte Press
ISBN# 978-0385735032
192 pages
$7.99
Trade—Available Now
Rating: 4 Enchantments
What a fun read! Eighteen year old Algonquin "Alley" Rhodes is determined to get out of small town Cornersville Trace and head to Seattle, where there has be a bigger dating pool. Unlike some of the other girls at school, she isn't aspiring to date an 'undead': a/k/a a vampire, werewolf, or zombie. But one night, covering the local band scene she meets Doug, a guy who sings Cole Porter songs and makes her feel like swooning, something she's never felt before.
Readers looking for a fun, laugh out loud paranormal read should definitely pick up I KISSED A ZOMBIE AND I LIKED IT. This book truly has it all. From plot to interesting characters, including the high school guidance counselor who doesn't believe in mixed relationships between the living and the undead, to amazing wit and a moment the reader can't wait for: Alley to realize the truth about Doug. But along the way Alley realizes the truth about herself, that she doesn't exactly like being the snarky sarcastic 'ice queen' she is at school and prefers who she is when she's with Doug. The humorous moments are plenty, thanks especially to Alley's voice and the situations Mr. Selzer puts the characters in.
One of my favorite scenes is when Alley and Doug go on their first date. There's something a little odd about Doug, but Alley can't quite put her finger on what it is. But if there was a perfect guy in the world for her, Doug could seriously fit his description.
To learn more about Mr. Selzer and his books, visit him online at http://www.adamselzer.com/
Lisa
Enchanting Reviews
February 2010
Saturday, December 19, 2009
Enchanting Review: Fade Out
FADE OUT (Morganville Vampires Book Seven)
RACHEL CAINE
Paranormal YA
NAL
ISBN# 978-0-451-22866-6
237 Pages
$6.99
Paperback—Available Now
Rating: 4.5 Enchantments
With Bishop gone and Eve in the local production of 'A Streetcar Named Desire', things around Glass House are about as normal as they've been in a long time. But normal is short lived in Morganville, especially for Claire. She thinks there's something a little odd about Eve's sudden new BFF Kim and it's not just the fact that she hooked up with Shane in the past either, no there's something there that Claire just can't put her finger on. When Kim suddenly goes missing before a rehearsal of the play, Claire and friends can't believe what they uncover about Eve's supposed new friend.
Ms. Caine does a great job with FADE OUT, the seventh installment in this entertaining paranormal series. With Bishop gone in the last book, I wasn't quite sure what would happen next in Morganville with Amelie seemingly back in charge, but things just keep on escalating. When the truth about Kim is found out, suddenly Claire, Eve, Michael and Shane are forced to save her from the Vamps punishment, even if she may actually deserve what she could get. Even with that going on, Ada is still out for blood—namely Claire's—and she really will do anything to get rid of her, making things between the two reach a climatic and chilling head in FADE OUT, where Myrnin gets caught in the middle of deadly game Ada's playing. I never imagined a character who's usually nothing more than a computer generated image of her former self can be so evil and devious. I love how we see Myrnin evolving from his crazed character in the earlier books in the series, even if he still retains a bit of his dark side, which shows up here and there. What I like best about the Morganville series is what I love best about this book, things just keep getting more complicated and the unexpected keeps popping up around every corner. I can't wait to see what's in store for Claire in the next book!
Rachel Caine is the internationally bestselling author of thirty novels, including the New York Times and USA Today bestselling Morganville Vampires young adult series: Glass Houses, The Dead Girls’ Dance, Midnight Alley, Feast of Fools, Lord of Misrule, Carpe Corpus, and Fade Out, with five more to follow in 2009-2011. Visit her online at www.rachelcaine.com
Lisa
Enchanting Reviews
November 2009
RACHEL CAINE
Paranormal YA
NAL
ISBN# 978-0-451-22866-6
237 Pages
$6.99
Paperback—Available Now
Rating: 4.5 Enchantments
With Bishop gone and Eve in the local production of 'A Streetcar Named Desire', things around Glass House are about as normal as they've been in a long time. But normal is short lived in Morganville, especially for Claire. She thinks there's something a little odd about Eve's sudden new BFF Kim and it's not just the fact that she hooked up with Shane in the past either, no there's something there that Claire just can't put her finger on. When Kim suddenly goes missing before a rehearsal of the play, Claire and friends can't believe what they uncover about Eve's supposed new friend.
Ms. Caine does a great job with FADE OUT, the seventh installment in this entertaining paranormal series. With Bishop gone in the last book, I wasn't quite sure what would happen next in Morganville with Amelie seemingly back in charge, but things just keep on escalating. When the truth about Kim is found out, suddenly Claire, Eve, Michael and Shane are forced to save her from the Vamps punishment, even if she may actually deserve what she could get. Even with that going on, Ada is still out for blood—namely Claire's—and she really will do anything to get rid of her, making things between the two reach a climatic and chilling head in FADE OUT, where Myrnin gets caught in the middle of deadly game Ada's playing. I never imagined a character who's usually nothing more than a computer generated image of her former self can be so evil and devious. I love how we see Myrnin evolving from his crazed character in the earlier books in the series, even if he still retains a bit of his dark side, which shows up here and there. What I like best about the Morganville series is what I love best about this book, things just keep getting more complicated and the unexpected keeps popping up around every corner. I can't wait to see what's in store for Claire in the next book!
Rachel Caine is the internationally bestselling author of thirty novels, including the New York Times and USA Today bestselling Morganville Vampires young adult series: Glass Houses, The Dead Girls’ Dance, Midnight Alley, Feast of Fools, Lord of Misrule, Carpe Corpus, and Fade Out, with five more to follow in 2009-2011. Visit her online at www.rachelcaine.com
Lisa
Enchanting Reviews
November 2009
Friday, December 18, 2009
Enchanting Review: Fallen
FALLEN
LAUREN KATE
Paranormal YA
Delacorte Press
ISBN# 978-0-385-73893-4
452 Pages
$17.99
Hardcover—Available Now
Rating: 4.5 Enchantments
Luce Price has always seen shadows, these terrifying things that appear around her without warning. She's helpless to stop them and the destruction that usually follows their appearances. Thanks to them and the death of the guy she was crushing on, she's found herself at Sword & Cross boarding school, a place for screw-ups and delinquents, something that Luce appears to be—at least to everyone else, including her own parents, who are slightly afraid of her after what happened. But how can Luce explain the shadows without everyone thinking she's crazy?
Daniel Grigori has a secret. He's immortal and he and Luce have had several past lives together before, but every time she's died before things reached a certain point. So when she shows up at Sword & Cross, he vows to stay away from her, that is until she finds herself in real danger and Daniel is forced to intervene.
I really enjoyed FALLEN. I thought it was a really unique mixture of paranormal, setting and characters. What better place for fallen angels to hide than a school for delinquents? Ms. Kate does a great job at making the reader not sure of some of the characters intentions, especially the female characters of Gabbe and even Luce's friend, Arriane. The dilapidated conditions of Sword & Cross come to life on the page, especially during the Parents Weekend scene where Luce is seeing things through the eyes of her parents, as she's already gotten used to things in her short stay. The cemetery in the middle of the campus is just plain creepy. As is the fact that detention involved being there before dawn to clean off the statues. I really liked Luce and the rest of the characters, especially Penn. Every character has something different about them, including a secrets that seem to be revealed in due time. Filled with twists and turns, and the deep sense of foreboding as the shadows that follow Luce become darker and more frequent as she gets deeper into the mystery of why Daniel feels so familiar and why it seems like she's able to interact with the shadows more. With an ending that literally had my jaw dropping with a couple dark surprises, FALLEN has quickly become one of my favorite reads of the year. I cannot wait to read the second in the series and see where Ms. Kate takes these characters next. Wherever it is, I doubt it'll be boring.
Lauren Kate recently finished her M.A. in Creative Writing at UC Davis, where she also teaches. She lives and writes in an old farm house in Winters, California.
Lisa
Enchanting Reviews
December 2009
LAUREN KATE
Paranormal YA
Delacorte Press
ISBN# 978-0-385-73893-4
452 Pages
$17.99
Hardcover—Available Now
Rating: 4.5 Enchantments
Luce Price has always seen shadows, these terrifying things that appear around her without warning. She's helpless to stop them and the destruction that usually follows their appearances. Thanks to them and the death of the guy she was crushing on, she's found herself at Sword & Cross boarding school, a place for screw-ups and delinquents, something that Luce appears to be—at least to everyone else, including her own parents, who are slightly afraid of her after what happened. But how can Luce explain the shadows without everyone thinking she's crazy?
Daniel Grigori has a secret. He's immortal and he and Luce have had several past lives together before, but every time she's died before things reached a certain point. So when she shows up at Sword & Cross, he vows to stay away from her, that is until she finds herself in real danger and Daniel is forced to intervene.
I really enjoyed FALLEN. I thought it was a really unique mixture of paranormal, setting and characters. What better place for fallen angels to hide than a school for delinquents? Ms. Kate does a great job at making the reader not sure of some of the characters intentions, especially the female characters of Gabbe and even Luce's friend, Arriane. The dilapidated conditions of Sword & Cross come to life on the page, especially during the Parents Weekend scene where Luce is seeing things through the eyes of her parents, as she's already gotten used to things in her short stay. The cemetery in the middle of the campus is just plain creepy. As is the fact that detention involved being there before dawn to clean off the statues. I really liked Luce and the rest of the characters, especially Penn. Every character has something different about them, including a secrets that seem to be revealed in due time. Filled with twists and turns, and the deep sense of foreboding as the shadows that follow Luce become darker and more frequent as she gets deeper into the mystery of why Daniel feels so familiar and why it seems like she's able to interact with the shadows more. With an ending that literally had my jaw dropping with a couple dark surprises, FALLEN has quickly become one of my favorite reads of the year. I cannot wait to read the second in the series and see where Ms. Kate takes these characters next. Wherever it is, I doubt it'll be boring.
Lauren Kate recently finished her M.A. in Creative Writing at UC Davis, where she also teaches. She lives and writes in an old farm house in Winters, California.
Lisa
Enchanting Reviews
December 2009
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Enchanting Review: The Splendor Falls
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
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
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
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
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
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