Paranormalcy by Kiersten White

Title: Paranormalcy (Book 1)
Author: Kiersten White
Pages: 352

Publisher: HarperTeen

Publication Date: August 31, 2010

Sixteen-year-old Evie's job is bagging and tagging paranormals. Possessing the strange ability to see through their glamours, she works for the International Paranormal Containment Agency. But when someone--or something--starts taking out the vamps, werewolves, and other odd beasties she's worked hard to help become productive members of society, she's got to figure it out before they all disappear and the world becomes utterly normal.

Normal is so overrated.

All Evie has ever known since she was little, was the IPCA. Her ability to see through glamours has always been valued by the IPCA. But when secrets and lies are uncovered, and IPCA--and her own life--is in danger, she must find the answers to her own questions and finally find out who she really is. One too many secrets, two heart-stopping romances, and one girl to figure it all out.

Ingrained with suspense, romance, and the paranormal, Paranormalcy entrances readers with its addicting prose and lure of mystery. Though set in a paranormal atmosphere, White efficiently and smoothly merges together Evie's teenage world and the tangible paranormal aspects in the novel, compounding a imaginative, entertaining novel. Readers will be magnetized into this electrifying and enigmatic debut.

Evie's personality is tough, witty, and sassy. She isn't afraid of being different, despite her flaws. This makes her a grounded, down-to-earth character as well as a source for humor and sarcasm. And although she works at IPCA, her worries and anxieties are still perceptible to any teenager. Her yearning for a normal, teenage life is palpable to the reader as Evie shows her true vulnerabilities. She is a balanced character who is assertive and mature, but also sensitive and scared. Evie's history keeps her guarded but when she isn't, she truly is an exceptional character both inside and out.

Reth and Lend are both two very different love interests for Evie. Reth is manipulative and overconfident while Lend is genuine and honest. Reth and Evie's previous relationship together is turbulent and almost has a destructive air to it. Evie's feelings for Reth is highly complicated and incomprehensible to the other characters in the novel. Lend, whom Evie is unsure of, at the beginning, is mysterious at first, but as their friendship grows, so do their feelings for one another. Their chemistry is perceivable and natural, developing slowly and consistently.

White's prose mirrors the essence of Paranormalcy, suspense-ridden and unpredictable. The descriptions are clear and expressive, pulling the reader into an authentic paranormal word, rapt with torrents of secrets and unearthly beings. White individualizes common supernatural creatures and makes them unique and more otherworldly, making Paranormalcy sensationally unprecedented.

Seductive, humorous, and prolific, Paranormalcy is a combination of an unpredictable plot, quirky, personified characters, and a convincing setting, all aspects of which, create a valiantly refreshing debut that dares to defy the barriers of young adult fantasy. Kiersten White fearlessly plunges readers into a well-written debut. (A+)

The Bottom Line: A hypnotizing, addicting paranormal read.

---Field Report---
Originality: 9/10
Ending: 9/10
Characters: 10/10
Plot: 10/10
My reaction/enjoyment: 10/10
Theme: 9/10
Imagery: 10/10
Setting: 5/5
Voice: 5/5
Style: 5/5
Tone: 5/5
Cover: 10/10
Total Score: 97/100 (A+)

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The Eternal Ones by Kirsten Miller

Title: The Eternal Ones
Author: Kirsten Miller
Pages: 416

Publisher:Razorbill

Publication Date: August 10, 2010

What if love refused to die?

Haven Moore can’t control her visions of a past with a boy called Ethan, and a life in New York that ended in fiery tragedy. In our present, she designs beautiful dresses for her classmates with her best friend Beau. Dressmaking keeps her sane, since she lives with her widowed and heartbroken mother in her tyrannical grandmother’s house in Snope City, a tiny town in Tennessee. Then an impossible group of coincidences conspire to force her to flee to New York, to discover who she is, and who she was.

In New York, Haven meets Iain Morrow and is swept into an epic love affair that feels both deeply fated and terribly dangerous. Iain is suspected of murdering a rock star and Haven wonders, could he have murdered her in a past life? She visits the Ouroboros Society and discovers a murky world of reincarnation that stretches across millennia. Haven must discover the secrets hidden in her past lives, and loves, before all is lost and the cycle begins again.

Dealing with much already, Haven is looked down upon. Her broken family is abrasive towards her and most of Snope City is hostile to her. Her hallucinations are looked at as hellish and sinful. When she goes to New York to investigate what really happened to her, she finds that she is a reincarnation, destined to be with Iain Morrow. As their love blooms, problems concerning people in their previous past lives arise and they must do all they can to be together.

The Eternal Ones is captivating, gripping love story that will ensnare readers with its allusive prose, tastefully versatile characters, and diverse ideas. Readers will be introduced to a world wherein fantasy and reality become one as two soul-mates finally reunite. Although elaborate and compounded with many details, the plot is solid and logical as well as dramatic. The Eternal Ones provides a refreshing, yet mysterious take on reincarnation and true love.

Haven Moore, a misunderstood teenager with many problems, is a mature yet naive protagonist that deals with many people against her. In Snope City, she is perceived as evil and a 'devil's child' because of her hallucinations. But those hallucinations are memories from her past lives. Her morals and values don't ever change as the book progresses. Haven's narrative engages readers with a resilient voice and an opinionated, appealingly eccentric perspective.

Strongly defined and unpredictable, Iain Morrow is a cultured and well-developed character that has deep, rooted feelings for Haven as well as many harboring dark secrets. His love for Haven is so strong and powerful, but he also underestimates her ability to deal with obstacles. His elusive, dashing demeanor will attract the readers to their striking romance. Iain's protective character flows naturally with Haven's curious and impulsive personality. And although Haven and Iain's connection is undeniable, the looming forces against them will ultimately test their love and force them to choose.

The concept of reincarnation in The Eternal Ones is presented in an unconventional but insightful way that also delves into controversies such as religion and its interpretations. This is tangible in the contrasting imagery of two very different settings; Snope City and New York. Snope City is divulged as the smaller, more intimate and conservative town whilst New York emerges as the bigger, more acceptive city. Snope City is filled with religious townsfolk that is thoroughly against Haven's hallucinations albeit New York, which has more open-minded, unbiased people.

Descriptive and revelatory, Kirsten Miller writes a tantalizing read with magnetic characters, an alluring writing style, and an original storyline. The denouement is fulfilling with a happy ending and a lingering air of mystery. The Eternal Ones is a perfect balance of romance, mystery, and adventure. Readers will be smitten with this intrigue-ridden paranormal romance.

The Bottom Line: What if love REALLY refused to die?

---Field Report---
Originality: 9/10
Ending: 10/10
Characters: 10/10
Plot: 10/10
My reaction/enjoyment: 10/10
Theme: 9/10
Imagery: 10/10
Setting: 5/5
Voice: 5/5
Style: 5/5
Tone: 5/5
Cover: 10/10
Total Score: 98/100 (A+)

In PhD online programs you probably won’t read novels by Kirsten Miller but there are plenty of other authors to catch up on.

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Whisper by Phoebe Kitanidis

Title: Whisper
Author: Phoebe Kitanidis
Pages: 288

Publisher: Balzer + Bray

Publication Date: April 27, 2010

Joy is used to hearing Whispers. She’s used to walking down the street and instantly knowing people’s deepest, darkest desires. She uses this talent for good, to make people happy and give them what they want. But for her older sister, Jessica, the family gift is a curse, and she uses it to make people’s lives—especially Joy’s—miserable. Still, when Joy Hears a frightening whisper from Jessica's own mind, she knows she has to save her sister, even if it means deserting her friends, stealing a car and running away with a boy she barely knows—a boy who may have a dark secret of his own.

"I wish..."
"I could use a..."
"I want..."
Joy has the ability to hear 'whispers'. She can hear people deepest desires. She uses her talent to benefit people, unlike her sister, who uses her ability to make people's lives harder and miserable. But when Joy starts hearing darker 'whispers', and when her sister runs away, her whole world goes into a tailspin. Will her life ever go back to normal?

Absorbing, riveting, and dark, Whisper will attract readers into its suspense-ridden world wherein a different, darker side of people is exposed. With intensity and an obscure, sinister semblance lingering throughout the novel, readers will be introduced to a different mindset in which hearing people's deep, secret desires are normal happenings. This psychologically-draining urban fantasy unflinchingly delves into the human's dark, inner nature and ultimately divulges what happens if it overtakes a person's sense of humanity.

Always with good intentions and a desire to live a normal life, Joy is a strong protagonist that is thrust into being able to 'hear' people's 'whispers'. Her narration is an intertwining of perspectives, both as a teenager, and a listening outsider. Wracked to the core with raging inner battles, disturbing problems, and worries about her estranged sister, Joy is forced to mature and grow up quickly. Her cheerful, bright, and well-loved personality contrasts the grim, sometimes morbid events that she has to deal with, contriving a young woman torn between two identities.

At first glance, Jessica is grumpy, tainted, and spiteful. But as readers start to familiarize themselves with Jessica, they will ultimately recognize her as a hurt, angry, and sensitive teenager aching to escape the preconceived stereotype that her friends, and even most of her family have put her into. She is discerned as the 'darker, evil' sister while Joy is perceived as 'happier, uplifting' sister. The little, broken glimpses of her softer, delicate side, shown through Joy's eyes towards the end leave a touch of hope and permeate a lighter sense of affection into the novel.

Forgiveness, friendship, and jealousy are all steadfast themes throughout the novel but are shown in unoriginal and somewhat predictable ways. But the redeeming aspect of Whisper is the concept of 'whispers' and how it is seamlessly fused with the real world. The 'whispers' really explored the ugly truth about the shady side of human nature. Through 'whispers', Kitanidis is able to expose the different vulnerabilities, insecurities, and desires that people might not even be aware of.

With dark themes, and concrete character development, Phoebe Kitanidis is the author to watch. Although the plot is confusing, Whisper is filled with gripping, compensating aspects that readers will immediately devour. Whisper's supernatural allure, with its up-to-date contemporary setting, is a stand-out amongst today's YA urban fantasies. (B)

The Bottom Line: A balance of imagination and reality.

---Field Report---
Originality: 6/10
Ending: 5/10
Characters: 9/10
Plot: 5/10
My reaction/enjoyment: 9/10
Theme: 8/10
Imagery: 8/10
Setting: 5/5
Voice: 5/5
Style: 4/5
Tone: 5/5
Cover: 10/10
Total Score: 79/100 (B)

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The Tension of Opposites by Kristina McBride

Title: The Tension of Opposites
Author: Kristina McBride
Pages: 288

Publisher: EgmontUSA

Publication Date: May 25, 2010

It’s been two years since Noelle disappeared. Two years since her bike was discovered, sprawled on a sidewalk. Two years of silence, of worry, of fear.

For those two long years, her best friend Tessa has waited, living her own life in a state of suspended animation. Because how can she allow herself to enjoy a normal high school life if Noelle can’t? How dare she have other friends, go to dances, date boys, without knowing what happened to the girl she thought she would share everything with?

And then one day, someone calls Noelle’s house. She’s alive.

A haunting psychological thriller taken straight from the headlines, The Tension of Opposites is a striking debut that explores the emotional aftermath of a kidnapping on the victim, and on the people she left behind.

The kidnapping of a best friend isn't easy. Just ask Tessa. When Noelle is kidnapped, she is grief-stricken and uses her camera as a shield from people. But when Noelle comes back, Tessa sparks with hope that everything will be back to normal. She's wrong. Noelle, numb and carefree, is a different person to Tessa than what she was two years ago. As they struggle to delicately find common ground, hearts are broken, relationships are mended, and trust will ultimately find its way back.

The Tension of Opposites is a raw, powerful, and emotional read that explores friendship, love, and grief, as well as divulges into 'forbidden', hard-to-grasp concepts such as the Stockholm Syndrome, in this case, with Noelle. Tessa's relationship with Noelle is awkward and uncomfortable at first, but gradually forms into a strong, supportive bond that helps both Noelle and Tessa cope with the kidnapping. In The Tension of Opposites, love is evident in many relationships; Tessa's and Max's, Noelle's and Tessa's, and their families that support them through this ordeal.

When Noelle is finally back with her family, her presence causes many rumors and evokes many questions within the community. In her journal, and when she is interviewed, her two years in captivity is even more scrutinized. Her humiliation and 'relationship' with her captor is ridiculed harshly by many. Noelle's change in character when she comes back manifests itself in the way she treats Tessa and the way that she throws herself to guys with little self respect. All of this is painfully realistic and palpable in the environment that McBride has created. Since The Tension of Opposites is from Tessa's point of view, readers will empathize with Tessa and really feel frustrated and curious with wanting to find out the real mystery of what happened to Noelle. The reader will be given broken details about Noelle as Tessa strives to dig deeper and try to protect Noelle as well.

Tessa is intensely affected by Noelle's kidnapping and is probed closely by her classmates after the incident. She becomes a lifeless shell when Noelle disappears and hides behind the lens of her camera. Her camera is a shield for her as she sees her surroundings through different eyes. When Noelle comes back, she appoints herself as Noelle's protector and takes Noelle's responsibilities upon herself. She deals with her grief in a way that keeps her from trusting others and opening herself up. At first, she despises Max with all her heart, but like most people, she is helpless against her own emotions and the inner battles raging within her.

Max's character is seemingly simple as Tessa's love interest, but underlying complexities and morals are tangible as you delve deeper into his character. On the outside, his playful, boyish personality is visible, but underneath is a deeper, unflinching, mature teenager that fights for what he wants. His struggles with Tessa show the reader a growing strain in their relationship as he fights to save that last common thread.

The exposition of The Tension of Opposites is detailed and absorbing. McBride writes fluently and fascinates readers with the real meaning of 'the tension of opposites'. The mystery, along with the significance of photography is greatly portrayed in this psychologically and emotionally persisting novel. Many of the characters are calloused and imperfect but the connections they make are completely worth it. (A+)

The Bottom Line: A completely amazing debut that captures so much raw turmoil and provokes real, powerful emotions in readers.

---Field Report---
Originality: 10/10
Ending: 10/10
Characters: 10/10
Plot: 10/10
My reaction/enjoyment: 10/10
Theme: 10/10
Imagery: 10/10
Setting: 4/5
Voice: 5/5
Style: 4/5
Tone: 5/5
Cover: 10/10
Total Score: 98/100 (A+)

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Shade by Jeri Smith-Ready

Title: Shade (Book 1)
Author: Jeri Smith-Ready
Pages: 320
Publisher: Simon Pulse
Publication Date: May 4, 2010

Best. Birthday. Ever. At least, it was supposed to be. With Logan's band playing a critical gig and Aura's plans for an intimate after-party, Aura knows it will be the most memorable night of her boyfriend's life. She never thought it would be his last.

Logan's sudden death leaves Aura devastated. He's gone.

Well, sort of.

Like everyone born after the Shift, Aura can see and hear ghosts. This mysterious ability has always been annoying, and Aura had wanted nothing more than to figure out why the Shift happened so she can undo it. But not with Logan’s violet-hued spirit still hanging around. Because dead Logan is almost as real as ever. Almost.

It doesn't help that Aura’s new friend Zachary is so understanding—and so very alive. His support means more to Aura than she cares to admit.

As Aura's relationships with the dead and the living grow ever complicated, so do her feelings for Logan and Zachary. Each holds a piece of Aura's heart…and clues to the secret of the Shift.

There are two kinds of people; the Post-Shift, and the Pre-Shift. Aura is a post-shift and she's been dealing with ghosts ever since she was born...she and 500 million other kids. But she's special. Why? Because she was the very first person born after The Shift. She was the only one born in that single minute. On the other side of the world, there's Zach. He was born Pre-Shift but he's special too. Why? Because he was the last person born before The Shift. He was the only one born in that single minute. When these two meet, their worlds--and hearts--collide. Aura already has a--dead--boyfriend, whom she still loves. And people are spying on her. What do these people want from her? But more importantly, who will win her heart?

Shade is a gripping and intense paranormal romance with a passionate love triangle, an action-packed plot, and teenagers brimming with drama. Readers will be pulled in with Smith-Ready's fast-paced, magnetic prose and will be acquainted with the new, intriguing concept of Shade. Shade is not at all the common, look-me-over book, but rather, its addictive paranormal allure pulls the reader in and they are pushed and introduced to the fantasy-ridden world of Shade and throes of heated romance, gory instances, and difficult decisions.

The electrifying love triangle in Shade is one that is formed over time and is combined with carefully-chosen scenes that makes it hard for the reader to completely vie for one of the two guys; Zach and Logan. This makes Shade more objective which makes it less generic. When this love triangle is bonded with the action-filled plot and the enigma of The Shift, it creates a whole new world filled with themes of jealousy, morality, grief, and love. And although Shade is set in a world that revolves around the mystery of The Shift; where nothing is completely impossible, it still has a distinguished parallelism with our own world.

Aura is a compelling character with maturity beyond her years. But her personality is not so that she is considered 'fake', but instead, she uses this maturity to deal with her never-ending list of problems. Every step of the way, she has to make decisions on her own that could affect her reputation and everyone around her. Some of the choices she makes in this book are contrasted with both unselfish and selfish reasons. Readers will be enamored with her strong personality and narration and the other characters in Shade are also very interesting. As the novel progresses, readers will get to know how and what their ethics and morals are, as well as develop their own opinion of each character and their authentic psyches. Smith-Ready provides intriguing psychoanalyses of the characters and at the same time makes them utterly believable.

Shade is a fast-paced book with a heart-stopping plot line that will have readers craving for the sequel. Jeri Smith-Ready is an author that offers all the right elements in this heated paranormal romance. A+ =)

The Bottom Line: Love Triangle + Action-packed Mystery = Shade =)

---Report Card---
Originality: 10/10
Ending: 8/10
Characters: 10/10
Plot: 10/10
My reaction/enjoyment: 9/10
Theme: 10/10
Imagery: 10/10
Setting: 5/5
Voice: 5/5
Style: 5/5
Tone: 5/5
Cover: 10/10
Total Score: 97/100 (A+)

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The Body Finder by Kimberly Derting

Title: The Body Finder (Book 1)
Author: Kimberly Derting
Pages: 336
Publisher: HarperCollins
Publication Date: March 16, 2010

Violet Ambrose is grappling with two major issues: Jay Heaton and her morbid secret ability. While the sixteen-year-old is confused by her new feelings for her best friend since childhood, she is more disturbed by her "power" to sense dead bodies—or at least those that have been murdered. Since she was a little girl, she has felt the echoes the dead leave behind in the world . . . and the imprints that attach to their killers.

Violet has never considered her strange talent to be a gift; it mostly just led her to find dead birds her cat left for her. But now that a serial killer is terrorizing her small town, and the echoes of the local girls he's claimed haunt her daily, Violet realizes she might be the only person who can stop him.

Despite his fierce protectiveness over her, Jay reluctantly agrees to help Violet find the murderer—and Violet is unnerved by her hope that Jay's intentions are much more than friendly. But even as she's falling intensely in love, Violet is getting closer and closer to discovering a killer . . . and becoming his prey herself.

Echoes. Do you hear them? Do you smell them? Do you taste them? Do you see them? If you do, you're like Violet. She keeps her ability a secret to everyone except those closest to her...including her best friend Jay Heaton. After an uneventful summer, she is faced with dead girls' bodies, a murder on the loose, and a growing romance with her best friend. Violet is the only one who can catch the killer. But time is running out. Soon, she won't be sensing other people's echoes, but rather, she'll be getting her very own.

The Body Finder is an original, edgy read that will pull readers into a convincing and authentic world of passion, romance, and suspense. Derting's prose is sharp, magnetic, and detailed. Fitting this with The Body Finder's enigmatic plot creates a solid and concrete semblance and ultimately captivates readers with its many innate elements. The idea of an 'echo' only adds to the curiosity and intrigue of The Body Finder and once readers are introduced to Violet's strong and genuine narrative, they will eventually connect with her on a more in-depth level.

Throughout the entirety of The Body Finder, readers will always have a feeling of unwavering intensity and passion. The whole book is one big climax, and when the real climax actually happens, it creates an even bigger boom of action. The same tone is potent between Violet and Jay. The tension between them builds up as they start to realize their feelings for each other. And when they do, there is a great sense of revelation and realization, but the depth and emotion is never lost. Their chemistry is apparent from the very start, and their background as friends only makes their romance more believable. Jay's fierce protectiveness of Violet is completely justified, but so is Violet's stubbornness. This clashing and conflict towards each other is what fuels the tension and the building excitement between them.

The Body Finder alternates between Violet's and the killer's perspective and provides a deeper look into the psyche of two very different people; a teenager, and a killer. Having the killer's point of view evokes more enigma and mystery, while Violet's narrative is made an opportunity to show teenage realism and the grappling struggles of teens whilst still pertaining to Violet's ability. Derting skillfully balances everything and perfectly combines touches of reality with fantasy.

Kimberly Derting's debut novel is sure to amaze readers with its unique, perceptible ideas that is completely balanced by the reality and fluctuating thoughts of a convincing narrator. The Body Finder is a passionate and engaging read that readers will never forget. It's a fusion of suspense, mystery, romance, and major drama. Let's just say that The Body Finder will never have its own echo...it'll never die out! The Body Finder has left me breathless with anticipation for its sequel, Desires of the Dead, coming in 2011. A+ =)

The Bottom Line: It's the face of TUBL! What other proof do you need for its awesomeness?

---Report Card---
Originality: 10/10
Ending: 10/10
Characters: 10/10
Plot: 10/10
My reaction/enjoyment: 10/10
Theme: 10/10
Imagery: 10/10
Setting: 5/5
Voice: 5/5
Style: 5/5
Tone: 5/5
Cover: 10/10
Total Score: 100/100 (A+) !!!This is one of the NINE books that hold the title: The Holy Grail - Beholder of the Perfect 100!!!

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Swoon by Nina Malkin

Title: Swoon
Author: Nina Malkin
Pages: 432
Publisher: Simon Pulse
Publication Date: May 19, 2009

Swoon, Connecticut, stands proudly on its heritage and the good behavior of its Lilly Pulitzer–clad inhabitants, so semi-psychic New York transplant Candice (Dice) sticks out like a sore thumb. On the autumnal equinox, Dice’s sweet and gentle cousin Penelope suddenly changes into a dangerous vixen, and only Dice is able to see that she has been possessed. Dice knows she must exorcise Sinclair, the ghost of a handsome young man from the colonial era, but she has fallen deeply in love with the appropriately nicknamed Sin. Finally, Dice follows Sin’s directions for an exorcism, which frees Penelope from his hold and releases Sin into his own physical form. The golem-like Sin finally reveals his goal: to exact revenge on the descendants of those who unjustly hung him for the murder of his fiancée.

When Dice moves to Swoon, Connecticut, her only connection to the social circle there is her angelic yet naive cousin Pen. But drama starts to bloom when Pen falls from a tree. Dice finds that Pen is a mortal-shell of Sinclair Youngblood Powers. He's not happy at what the people of Swoon did to him all those decades ago. Now, he's back for revenge on the descendants of those who unjustly punished him for the murder of his fiancée. Dice tries to exorcise him out of Pen's body, and instead, sets him free with his own body to go with his soul. There's no stopping him now...except Dice. But how can she go against the guy she loves?

Swoon is a hypnotic, dark, and edgy read that will capture readers' attentions with its addictive and sensual prose. Malkin writes with vivid detail and lures readers in with the contrast of the quaint town of Swoon, Connecticut and the complete epitome of bad-ass: Sin. The intriguing premise of this book is what will ultimately attract readers, but that is only the surface. Once the first page is turned, readers will be pulled into the witty and unconventional narration of Dice. Her strong, persuasive voice draws them into the intense and suspense-filled plot.

Swoon, unarguably, has some of the most charismatic characters you will ever meet in YA fiction. That includes Sin. Just like literal and actual sin, Sin is forbidden but with an ensnaring and captivating air that makes him completely and utterly desirable. Swoon triggers and draws out real urges and desires in the reader without being explicit and that is what makes this novel so special. The magnetism and chemistry between the characters--not just with Sin and Dice--is undeniable. Each is so very different, and together, they fit perfectly like a puzzle.

Malkin perceptively instills the 'real' teenage world and does not sugar-coat or soften the real nature of themes greed, lust, and jealousy. The interesting thing about Swoon is that Malkin writes with a seductive prose and at the same time, shows the true and raw actions of not only the teens of Swoon, but also the adults. These unthinkable 'sins' are seemingly and suddenly glamorous and highly tempting. And this all happens in the small town of Swoon, Connecticut.

Every single element in Swoon is mesmerizing and alluring. Readers will find Swoon to be a secret-filled, provocative, and ultimately irresistible novel about the people of Swoon. Malkin's book will make every reader swoon...both for Sin and the novel itself. Swoon is a seductive and sinful read that doesn't overstep the boundaries of YA fiction, but rather, teeters on the very edge. A+ =)

The Bottom Line: Suspense + Addicting = Swoon

---Report Card---
Originality: 10/10
Ending: 10/10
Characters: 10/10
Plot: 10/10
My reaction/enjoyment: 10/10
Theme: 10/10
Imagery: 10/10
Setting: 5/5
Voice: 5/5
Style: 5/5
Tone: 5/5
Cover: 10/10
Total Score: 100/100 (A+) !!!This is one of the EIGHT books that hold the title: The Holy Grail - Beholder of the Perfect 100!!!

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The Lost Children by Carolyn Cohagan

Title: The Lost Children
Author: Carolyn Cohagan
Pages: 320
Publisher: Aladdin
Publication Date: February 9, 2010

Josephine Russing owns 387 pairs of gloves. She's given a new pair every week by her father, a sullen man known best for his insistence that the citizens in town wear gloves at all times.

A world away, the children of Gulm have been taken. No one knows where they might be, except the mysterious and terrifying leader of the land: The Master. He rules with an iron fist, using two grotesque creatures to enforce his terrible reign.

When a peculiar boy named Fargus shows up on Josephine's property and then disappears soon afterward, she follows him without a second thought and finds herself magically transported to Gulm.

After Fargus introduces her to his tough-as-nails friend Ida, the three of them set off on an adventure that will test everything Josephine has ever thought about the rules of the universe, leading to a revelation about the truth of the land of Gulm, and of Josephine's own life back home.

Carolyn Cohagan's debut novel is filled with magic, wonder, and curiosity. It takes readers into a whole new world of fantasy and mystery. As words flow from page to page, Cohagan creates a supernatural atmosphere and at the same time brings magic to life. The vivid descriptions of both worlds are truly beautiful and the 'crack' in between physically as well as metaphorically separates the differences of these two completely different places.

Josephine, from the start, is a quirky, curious and determined protagonist and as she goes on an adventure with Fargus and Ida, her understanding and perception of both worlds begin to shape. When Fargus is first introduced, readers will immediately become fascinated and interested in him. And when Josephine follows him into Gulm, readers will never expect a roller-coaster filled with adventure, action, and mystery!

Carolyn Cohagan crafts a beautiful and magical story in The Lost Children! Even as a debut novelist, Cohagan proves in The Lost Children that even adults can enjoy this fun-filled novel. Readers of all ages will be enthralled and absorbed into this wonderful story! A+ =)

The Bottom Line: Debut + Amazing = Carolyn Cohagan!

---Report Card---

Originality: 10/10
Ending: 10/10
Characters: 10/10
Plot: 10/10
My reaction/enjoyment: 10/10
Theme: 9/10
Imagery: 9/10
Setting: 5/5
Voice: 4/5
Style: 5/5
Tone: 5/5
Cover: 9/10
Total Score: 96/100 (A+)

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The Vinyl Princess by Yvonne Prinz

Title: The Vinyl Princess
Author: Yvonne Prinz
Pages: 320
Publisher: HarperTeen
Publication Date: December 22, 2009

Summer is here, and 16-year-old Allie, a self-professed music geek, is exactly where she wants to be: working full-time at Berkeley’s ultra-cool Bob and Bob Records. There, Allie can spend her days bantering with the street people, talking the talk with the staff, shepherding the uncool bridge-and-tunnel shoppers, all the while blissfully surrounded by music, music, music. It’s the perfect setup for her to develop her secret identity as The Vinyl Princess, author of both a brand-new zine and blog. From the safety of her favourite place on earth, Allie is poised to have it all: love, music and blogging.
Her mother, though, is actually the one getting the dates, and business at Allie’s beloved record store is becoming dangerously slow—not to mention that there have been a string of robberies in the neighborhood. At least her blog seems to be gaining interest, one vinyl junkie at a time….

Allie, a complete music geek, has got the perfect summer job at Bob & Bob Records. A lot can happen in a store full of records. It's the perfect place to fall in love, try to solve a mystery, and develop her secret identity as The Vinyl Princess. Her blog and zine get more attention that she expected, and a thief is on the loose, stealing and pointing guns at cashiers...it's a good thing Allie's ready for anything right? And sure, business is slow, but is she ready for Bob&Bob's to close down?

Allie is the epitome of a vinyl princess. She's funky, fab, and completely music-savvy. She is one spunky heroine! Allie isn't the only well-developed character in The Vinyl Princess; Prinz populates the book with quirky and friendly characters; each with his or her own individualized personality. But even with her entertaining line up of characters, the plot is disappointing, but with great potential. The execution of the plot itself is great, through Allie's humorous voice, but the plot is confusing with its aimless chain of events. Allie's (two!) love interests, and her relationship with each of them is underdeveloped and bland. And the conflict with the thief is also not as emphasized in the novel, but it works to Prinz's advantage because in doing this, she weaves more suspense into the novel. And on the other hand, Allie's best friend is gratifying and humorous! Kit is one funny and supportive BFF that anybody would love to have at their side! Allie's mom is also another character that absolutely supports Allie but she's more like Allie's friend, rather than a mom. While Allie's stuck between two, her mom is out there getting her groove on, jumping into the dating arena!

The Vinyl Princess really focuses on the blogging and music aspect. Allie's opinions on vinyls are compassionate and real. It's not any of that generic, fake *excuse my language* crap that some people just make up. Prinz offers a true, modern--and at the same time classic--take on life, music, and love. The Vinyl Princess is a light, pop-culture book that just needs a little polishing; it introduces a whole new genre to YA! A =)

The Bottom Line: I really enjoyed The Vinyl Princess. It's like nothing I've read before! It's probably the most modern, tech and music-savvy book out there!

---Report Card---
Originality: 10/10
Ending: 7/10
Characters: 9/10
Plot: 7/10
My reaction/enjoyment: 9/10
Theme: 9/10
Imagery: 10/10
Setting: 5/5
Voice: 5/5
Style: 4/5
Tone: 5/5
Cover: 10/10
Total Score: 90/100 (A)

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Fallen by Lauren Kate

Title: Fallen (Book 1)
Author: Lauren Kate
Pages: 464
Publisher: Delacorte Books for Young Readers
Publication Date: December 8, 2009

There's something achingly familiar about Daniel Grigori.

Mysterious and aloof, he captures Luce Price's attention from the moment she sees him on her first day at the Sword & Cross boarding school in sultry Savannah, Georgia. He's the one bright spot in a place where cell phones are forbidden, the other students are all screw-ups, and security cameras watch every move.

Even though Daniel wants nothing to do with Luce--and goes out of his way to make that very clear--she can't let it go. Drawn to him like a moth to a flame, she has to find out what Daniel is so desperate to keep secret . . . even if it kills her.

Cryptic and devilishly secretive, Daniel Grigori wants nothing to do with Luce Price...if only she would listen. His dark, mysterious allure magnetizes her into an almost-obsession. Little does she know that she and Daniel are doomed lovers; destined to meet each other again and again in his immortal life. Now, something has broken the 'cycle' and their lives are in danger. Will they finally be together? Will they overcome everything that threatens to tear them apart? Will they ever, get their 'happily ever after'?

Fallen is an epic love story about two star-crossed lovers cursed for eternity. When Luce enters the dreary halls of Sword & Cross reform school, the first thing that catches her eye is the rebellious Daniel, whom she finds a strange attraction to. He does whatever it takes to avoid her, but they keep crossing paths, and Luce is wondering why it feels like she knows Daniel. Maybe from her childhood? Maybe from school? Or maybe, just maybe, she knows him from another life...

The relationship between Daniel and Luce is truly addicting and ever fluctuating. The tension when both characters interact fits the whole atmosphere of the book. Luce, stubborn and curious, is a solid protagonist fitted perfectly with Daniel. At the beginning, Daniel is an enigma, but as the novel progresses, Lauren Kate unravels more of his history through Luce's 'stalking'. Even if Daniel is infuriating, Luce can't help but find him infatuating and irresistible.

Though Luce's mindset is on being with Daniel, there's also Cam. Cam is the total opposite of Daniel. He's bright, cheery, and intent on getting Luce for himself. Luce leads him on accidentally, only wanting to stay friends but she ends up entangled and being fought over by Daniel himself and Cam. Who will win? Maybe, they're fighting for more than just her love...

Fallen is full of mystery, suspense, and dark allure. The plot and conflict of the characters, against the backdrop of the prison-like Sword & Cross makes Fallen an exiting, fast-paced read. Who says Luce is the only one that can fall for the fallen? A+ =) Beholder of the Perfect 100!!!

The Bottom Line: Move over vamps! Fallen angels are the new HOTT! Fallen is probably the best paranormal romance I've read...rivaling Hush, Hush and Gena Showalter's Teen Alien Huntress series! *sigh* Daniel, Patch, Eric...my list of paranormal crushes is becoming longer...who next? I can't wait for the next in the Fallen series; Torment, which is sold in stores September...2010! That's crazy long!!!!!!! It's a good thing I like re-reading! I think that Fallen might be read about probably 800 times! It's that good =)

---Report Card---
Originality: 10/10
Ending: 10/10
Characters: 10/10
Plot: 10/10
My reaction/enjoyment: 10/10
Theme: 10/10
Imagery: 10/10
Setting: 5/5
Voice: 5/5
Style: 5/5
Tone: 5/5
Cover: 10/10
Total Score: 100/100 (A+) !!!This, Going too Far, and Perfect Chemistry are the only title-holders for The Holy Grail: Beholder of the perfect 100!!!

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Cleopatra's Daughter by Michelle Moran

Title: Cleopatra's Daughter
Author: Michelle Moran
Pages: 448
Publisher: Crown

Publication Date: September 15, 2009

The marriage of Marc Antony and Cleopatra is one of the greatest love stories of all time, a tale of unbridled passion with earth-shaking political consequences. Feared and hunted by the powers in Rome, the lovers choose to die by their own hands as the triumphant armies of Antony’s vengeful rival, Octavian, sweep into Egypt. Their three orphaned children are taken in chains to Rome, but only two—the ten-year-old twins Selene and Alexander—survive the journey. Delivered to the household of Octavian’s sister, the siblings cling to each other and to the hope that they will return one day to their rightful place on the throne of Egypt. As they come of age, they are buffeted by the personal ambitions of Octavian’s family and court, by the ever-present threat of slave rebellion, and by the longings and desires deep within their own hearts.

The fateful tale of Selene and Alexander is brought brilliantly to life in Cleopatra’s Daughter. Recounted in Selene’s youthful and engaging voice, it introduces a compelling cast of historical characters.

Selene has lost everything; her parents, her kingdom, and her brother. Octavian brings her and her twin, Alexander from Egypt to Rome and provides them with enough adventure to last a lifetime. Selene struggles to stay and behave as she is introduced to rebellion, first love, and the great empire of Imperial Rome. She goes through many sufferings, but will she ultimately overcome them all?

Woven with immense clarity and diversity, Michelle Moran writes a novel full of rich history and adventure. Selene's narrative is mature and original. Her character is solid from the very start and only grew as the novel progressed. And unlike many other protagonists, Selene is headstrong and knows what she wants.

The mystery in Cleopatra's Daughter is captivating and suspenseful. The Red Eagle is rebellious and nobody can catch him. Selene admires him and doesn't know that he's actually closer to her than she thinks...

Architecture and art plays a big role in Cleopatra's Daughter. It is described vividly and beautifully. Selene finds solace in her work and defies tradition and insists in doing what she loves. She never gives up as people try to stop her from achieving her goals. A+ =)

The Bottom Line: Cleopatra's Daughter is the perfect historical fiction read. It's full of suspense, mystery, and, of course, romance. The ending is my favorite; it's sweet and completely unpredictable! Just like the book!

---Report Card---
Originality: 10/10
Ending: 10/10
Characters: 9/10
Plot: 10/10
My reaction/enjoyment: 9.5/10
Theme: 9.5/10
Imagery: 10/10
Setting: 5/5
Voice: 5/5
Style: 5/5
Tone: 5/5
Cover: 8/10
Total Score: 96/100 (A+)

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Never Bite a Boy On the First Date by Tamara Summers

Title: Never Bite a Boy On the First Date
Author: Tamara Summers (pseudonym)
Pages: 288
Publisher: HarperTeen
Publication Date: September 29, 2009

1. I've got a few issues:
2. I'm a vampire now.
3. One of my classmates was found dead, with telltale fang marks.
4. I didn't do it! (really!)
5. Nobody believes me, so . . .
6. I'm going to have to find the real killer. I've already got three suspects. (three very cute suspects.)
7. One more problem: I am seriously falling for one of them . . . but what if he's the killer?

Kira, a normal 16 year-old-turned-vampire, is being accused of killing a fellow classmate at school; a pig-headed jock called Tex. If she doesn't find out who killed him, she's going to be locked up in a coffin for a very, very, long time by her vampire parents. She makes a list and has her top three suspects; Daniel, Milo, and Rowan. They've got nothing in common, apart from the fact that Kira has a crush on all of them. What if one of the boys (or the one she's falling head-over-heels for) is the killer? Juggling a murder? No problem. Juggling three guys? Big problem.

Never Bite a Boy On the First Date is a hilarious vampire romance coming from HarperTeen author Tamara Summers. Kira, the protagonist is a fun, unprecedented character surrounded with three very different guys who all want to be with her. Her so-called 'investigations' lead her with kisses coming from all three suspects and she finds that one of them has a history with her...

Rowan, the brooding poet, and one of Kira's suspects is creepy and secretive, making him all the more guilty through Kira's eyes. He has weird hobbies and obsessions and his parents are overprotective of him; never letting him leave the house and always checking in. Doesn't that seem suspicious?

Kira's other suspect, Daniel, is probably the most conspicuous character (but he may or may not be the guilty one! Read to find out!) out of the three, but his charming, mysterious allure lures Kira in. There's just one problem; is he good, or is he bad? Can he be trusted?

Milo is probably my favorite out of all Kira's suspects. He's bright, he's hott, he's completely amazing and Kira has him completely under her spell...and vice-versa. It's too bad he has a secret...and it's a secret that will tear them apart. A+ =)

The Bottom Line: As you can see, characterization is the best part of the novel, but that isn't to say that everything else is dull. In fact, it isn't. Everything is perfect and the plot, the characters, the writing, makes for an vamptastic and romantically amazing novel! Read it and find out the real suspect!

---Report Card---
Originality: 9/10
Ending: 7/10
Characters: 10/10
Plot: 10/10
My reaction/enjoyment: 10/10
Theme: 10/10
Imagery: 10/10
Setting: 5/5
Voice: 5/5
Style: 5/5
Tone: 5/5
Cover: 10/10
Total Score: 96/100 (A+)

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The Eternal Kiss by Trisha Telep (Editor)

Title: The Eternal Kiss
Editor: Trisha Telep
Authors: Holly Black, Libba Bray, Melissa De La Cruz, Cassandra Clare, Rachel Caine, Nancy Holder, Debbie Viguié, Cecil Castellucci, Kelley Armstrong, Maria V. Snyder, Sarah Rees Brennan, Lili St. Crow, Karen Mahoney, Dina James
Pages: 416
Publisher: Running Press Kids
Publication Date: July 28, 2009

There’s an allure to vampire tales that have seduced readers for generations. From Bram Stoker to Stephenie Meyer and beyond, vampire stories are here to stay. For those fresh-blooded fans of paranormal romance or for those whose hunt and hunger never dies, these stories have what readers want!

Trish Telep gathers a wide range of authors; both old and new for a collaboration that will completely blow your fangs away! From vamps (duh!), to healers, and to vampire hunters (some also actual vamps!), this anthology with 13 different stories is exciting, suspenseful, seductive, and fang-tastic!

Of course, out of the thirteen different stories, I had a few favorites; The Thirteenth Step, All Hallows, Falling to Ash, and, in my opinion, the best out of all: Passing.

Alluring and mysterious, Libba Bray with The Thirteenth Step, is enthralling from the very start. Lauren is both a gullible and logical character at the same time. She's gullible whenever it came to Johannes but logical when it came to other things. Johannes is what pulls you into the plot with his dark, sexy charm. Throughout the whole story, you see something that is so obvious, but can't pinpoint exactly what it is. The Thirteenth Step is a contrast: obvious and mysterious at the same time.

All Hallows brings you a whole new meaning of 'dating the undead'. Rachel Caine writes an action-infested, seductive story with rebellious and hilarious characters to match it. The scene with Eve, Shane, and Claire will definitely laugh out loud and Michael will make you want to be the one 'dating the undead'!

First in The Eternal Kiss, Falling to Ash did not disappoint. Debut author, Karen Mahoney showed everyone that even she can compete with the gladiators of urban fantasy! Falling to Ash was distictly different than the other short stories. It had a kind of twisted humor or allure that fascinated me to no end...especially the very interesting interrogation scene! Loved it!

Out of all the thirteen (my lucky number!) though, there was one. One story that stood out and has me craving for more...

*drum roll please*...

Passing by Nancy Holder and Debbie Viguié! This rocking duo writes an explosive, action-packed, and cute, paranormally romantic short story! It's an all-in-one perfect package; Passing has everything a vampire read should have. Antonio and Jenn were two characters in the middle of a 'war' with the vampires. Jenn is confused with her feelings and she has to choose between Antonio or Jack. Jack has a secret, but mysterious and brooding Antonio has more...

The Eternal Kiss is a fascinating and entertaining anthology that all vamp-addicts will love. Trisha Telep compiles a range of authors with stories that you will be thirsty for! A+ =)

The Bottom Line: I didn't write single reviews for all thirteen stories because it would've been too long. I loved all of them! These are the few that really stood out to me.

---Report Card---
Originality: 9/10
Ending: 8.5/10
Characters: 9/10
Plot: 10/10
My reaction/enjoyment: 9.5/10
Theme: 9/10
Imagery: 10/10
Setting: 5/5
Voice: 5/5
Style: 5/5
Tone: 5/5
Cover: 10/10
Total Score: 96/100 (A+)

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Bite Me! by Melissa Francis

Title: Bite Me! (Book 1)
Author: Melissa Francis
Pages: 304
Publisher: HarperTeen
Publication Date: July 28, 2009

AJ Ashe isn't your typical seventeen-year-old vampire—as if there is such a thing! She's stuck in the middle of a huge fight between her two BFFs. Her ex-boyfriend—whom she's still totally in love with, by the way—is now her stepbrother. A former classmate—who, um, she may or may not have turned into a vampire—is stalking her. And now, apparently, the fate of humankind lies in her little undead hands. What ever happened to the good old days, when all a vampire girl had to worry about was the occasional zit and hiding her taste for blood?


AJ and Ryan used to be a hot couple, now, they're siblings. When their parents re-marry, they have to break it off with each other and try to act like a normal family...however normal a family with vampires can be at least. As AJ struggles with her new found 'relationship' with Ryan, her blood-lust, and a classmate that she did or did not bite accidentally, someone is out to get her...and her family. It's true what they say about how the past comes back to bite you...but this time, with fangs!

Bite Me! is a hilarious and interesting read, full of suspense and deceit. The premise of this book was appealing. The brother and sister relationship of AJ and Ryan was unconventional, therefore, making the reader more curious. AJ was a relatable protagonist even though she was a vampire. Her feelings and actions were accompanied by decisions that we, as teens, have had to make.

Bite Me!, on the outside, looks fun. But when you start flipping though the pages, you'll never stop. It's unique. It's intense. It's suspenseful. When AJ's mom marries Ryan's dad, it's like her whole world crumbles. She gets drunk and (nearly?) loses control with a guy. Now, that guy has become undead and is stalking her, apart from that, an unknown being is after her, waiting for the right time...to kill.

Although the book was interesting and suspenseful, it was a little bit too sexual. Every few pages, there would always be a sexual thought or action. It got a little disturbing after a while...especially with the teacher-student conflict in the novel. There was too many sexual references and lots of seduction. I guess it's to be expected of a vampire novel.

Another aspect of the book that I really disliked, was the ending. I'm a sucker for happy endings, and this didn't end the way I wanted it to (you'll just have to read and find out!). But to give Francis credit, the ending is perfect to give room for a sequel. A- :-)

The Bottom Line: Francis is one author to look out for! Bite Me! is a great vamp read that readers will be able to sink their teeth into!

---Report Card---
Originality: 9/10
Ending: 6/10
Characters: 8/10
Plot: 8/10
My reaction/enjoyment: 8.5/10
Theme: 8/10
Imagery: 9.5/10
Setting: 5/5
Voice: 5/5
Style: 5/5
Tone: 5/5
Cover: 10/10
Total Score: 87/100 (A-)

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Blacklisted by Gena Showalter

Title: Blacklisted
Author: Gena Showalter
Pages: 240
Publisher: MTV
Publication Date: July 17, 2007

Alien hunting can get a girl killed. It can also get her a date.

High school senior Camille Robins and her best friend are determined to snag the attention of their crushes before graduation next month. Armed with red-hot outfits and killer hair, they sneak into the hottest nightclub in town -- which caters to the rich and famous, both human and alien. They end up following Erik (who is human) and Silver (who isn't) through a guarded door and are soon separated and under attack...and not the good kind.

Bad boy Erik spares Camille's life, but the two are soon being chased by gun-toting Alien Investigation and Removal agents. Camille's more confused than ever because Erik's finally showing real interest in her, but the agents are accusing him of dealing Onadyn -- a drug that ruins human lives. Suddenly, with the heat of his kiss lingering on her lips, Camille has to decide whose side she's on...and whether she's willing to put her life on the line to save Erik's.

Camille's world is different. Humans and aliens live together in peace...most of the time. Some aliens can breathe oxygen, but most can't. That's why they have Onadyn; the drug that is the only lifeline for aliens, and the kiss of death for humans. It needs to be regulated and controlled...but what the government doesn't know, is that there is an immense number of aliens that can't afford it; therefore, they die. Erik, a former AIR agent, supplies them with drugs in order to help. Now, AIR is on his back and he's dragged along Camille, an innocent girl with an innocent crush on him. Together, they will either make or break the fate of hundreds of aliens.

Blacklisted is an explicitly captivating part of a new series that will keep readers frantically flipping pages to get to the end. Erik and Camille, are dynamic characters with unique personalities, which are only amplified even more in their situation. Their impulsive (but not random) actions and characteristics, completely match their character.

Showalter's fast-paced, action-filled execution, also emphasized her skill for creating exciting histories and backgrounds for the characters. There were no plot-holes even with the entanglement of circumstances. Blacklisted is a complicated tie of secrets, twists, deception, and passion. It only gets more intense and more potent as the reader is pulled and consumed into the story.

Blacklisted is not only a book of secrets, it takes a good, serious look on controversial issues. It covers social and political issues that can still be connected to our world, even when it's set in a futuristic backdrop. The underlying message is still the same; make a difference. That's what Erik and Camille tried to do. Facing many obstacles and many hardships, they risked their own lives to save hundreds of others', even though the lives their trying to save belong to those of aliens. It didn't matter to them. So why should it matter to us? We need to help as much as we can. They did.

The Bottom Line: *SQUEE* Blacklisted is amazing! It's full of action and suspense...now that's my type of book! I loved everything about it! Although the ending was a little wierd...you'll know if you read it (WHICH YOU SHOULD TOTALLY DO!). All characters were likable for me. Anyway, here's the big, grand, closing line (hehe):

Blacklisted is a book that will keep your heart beating up until the very end. Even then, you will still ponder for many hours; what happened to Erik and Camille? It's an enjoyable read with lots of fast-paced action that you will enjoy. I know this reader did! A+ :-)

---Report Card---
Originality: 10/10
Ending: 9/10
Characters: 9/10
Plot: 10/10
My reaction/enjoyment: 10/10
Theme: 10/10
Imagery: 9/10
Setting: 4.5/5
Voice: 4.5/5
Style: 5/5
Tone: 5/5
Cover: 9/10
Total Score: 95/100 (A+)

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Uninvited by Amanda Marrone

Title: Uninvited
Author: Amanda Marrone
Pages: 224
Publisher: Simon Pulse
Publication Date: October 23, 2007

Jordan's life sucks. Her boyfriend, Michael, dumped her, slept his way through half the student body, and then killed himself. But now, somehow, he appears at her window every night, begging her to let him in.

Jordan can't understand why he wants her, but she feels her resistance wearing down. After all, her life -- once a broken record of boring parties, meaningless hookups, and friends she couldn't relate to -- now consists of her drinking alone in her room as she waits for the sun to go down.

Michael needs to be invited in before he can enter. All Jordan has to do is say the words....

Michael needs to be invited into Jordan's bedroom before he can enter. It's been months since his death and he patiently begs Jordan to let him in, waiting for the right moment...if there is one. Jordan doesn't know whether or not to trust him. She's not sure if he's even human! Will she slip up? Or will she have the courage to save herself from this monster?

Uninvited is a completely fluctuating read. The eerie and distinct depictions are what endows the intense, haunting atmosphere. Marrone will constantly keep the reader on edge with her misleading and sinuous twists and turns that is eventually concluded and cleared up in the very, very surprising ending.

The delivery of this novel, is climactic and dramatic. It will lure the reader in. Readers will get to know the characters better, through flawlessly written flashbacks, cleverly distributed throughout the entirety of Uninvited.

One thing that is not so flawless, is the overly-stuffed plot, brimming with tons of action and events. Too much is happening and it's likely that the reader will get confused with all of the occurrences. The reader will drown with the overload of happenings and surroundings. It's too much for the senses.

Uninvited is a unique novel that needs less action but is a fantastic read if you're looking for good-quality writing. It's chilling, full of suspense...and danger...lots of danger...

The Bottom Line: I loved it but it was too crowded. Marrone should have taken it down a notch. It was one-of-a-kind read that will leave readers asking for more Jordan! Risks are taken and lives are in danger...but because of who? (hehe, suspense! mwahhahaha!!!! Do you like my evil laugh?) B+ :-)

---Report Card---
Originality: 10/10
Ending: 8/10
Characters: 9.5/10
Plot: 6/10
My reaction/enjoyment: 7/10
Theme: 6/10
Imagery: 10/10
Setting: 5/5
Voice: 4/5
Style: 4/5
Tone: 5/5
Cover: 9.5/10
Total Score: 84/100 (B+)

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Cracked Up To Be by Courtney Summers

Title: Cracked Up To Be
Author: Courtney Summers
Pages: 224
Publisher: St. Martin's Griffin
Publication Date: December 23, 2008

What's the worst thing you've ever done?

When 'Perfect' Parker Fadley starts drinking at school and failing her classes, all of St. Peter's High goes on alert. How has the cheerleading captain, girlfriend of the most popular guy in school, consummate teacher's pet, and future valedictorian fallen so far from grace?

Parker doesn't want to talk about it. She'd just like to be left along, to disappear, to be ignored. But her parents have placed her on suicide watch and her counselors are demanding the truth. Worse, there's a nice guy falling in love with her and he's making her feel things again when she'd really rather not be feeling anything at all. Nobody would have guessed she'd turn out like this. But nobody knows the truth.

Something horrible has happened, and it just might be her fault.

One word to describe Parker before the incident would be 'perfect'. After the incident, it would be 'careless'. How could a person like Parker become a suicidal, self-absorbed person who doesn't care anymore? Everything revolves around 'the incident' or 'the accident'. Parker has many obstacles thrown at her, and everything goes wrong. Her relationship with her friends is slowly crumbling and her feelings toward Jake seem to be growing...awkwardly. Has Parker finally cracked?

Cracked Up To Be is an amazingly realistic and suspenseful debut novel. Parker is a character that will absorb the reader into her daily life and problems. Readers will be itching to find out her secret and what she did. Parker's life has turned into one big mess because of one thing that completely and utterly changed her life.

Many contradicting and controversial issues are brought up in Cracked Up To Be. Parker deals with suicide, drugs, alchohol, and pressure. Summers delivers every single one of these issues, straightforwardly without sugar-coating them. Just plain and raw in its most simple form.

The mystery of Parker's grief is slowly, and smoothly unraveled through a series of strategically placed flashbacks. As her secret is carefully revealed, she is forced to deal with all her surroundings and obstacles. Will the thought of never living with herself take over her completely? Or is she still the same Parker that can overcome anything...perfectly?

The Bottom Line: Cracked Up To Be was an emotionally-draining read for me! It will take me longer to read something like that again...even though I read this one in an hour! It was so depressing for me to read about all her problems. She was suffocating in them...literally! I felt I was too! A devastatingly perfect read! A+ :-)

---Report Card---
Originality: 10/10
Ending: 8/10
Characters: 9.5/10
Plot: 10/10
My reaction/enjoyment: 9/10
Theme: 10/10
Imagery: 10/10
Setting: 5/5
Voice: 5/5
Style: 5/5
Tone: 5/5
Cover: 10/10
Total Score: 96.5/100 (A+)

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