Falling Under by Gwen Hayes

Title: Falling Under (Book 1)
Author: Gwen Hayes
Pages: 324
Publisher: March 1, 2011
Publication Date: New American Library (NAL)
Source: ARC from Publisher for Review
Official TUBL Rating: A+

Theia Alderson has always led a sheltered life in the small California town of Serendipity Falls. But when a devastatingly handsome boy appears in the halls of her school, Theia knows she's seen Haden before- not around town, but in her dreams.

As the Haden of both the night and the day beckons her closer one moment and pushes her away the next, the only thing Theia knows for sure is that the incredible pull she feels towards him is stronger than her fear.

And when she discovers what Haden truly is, Theia's not sure if she wants to resist him, even if the cost is her soul.

Seductive and elaborately fabricated, Falling Under's enigmatic world, intertwined with its multifaceted characters are expertly compounded together to create a prominent paranormal debut. In Falling Under, there are two very different, dramatic worlds that are developed simultaneously; Theia's daily life in school and at home, and Haden's dark, mysterious hell. Hayes masterfully fosters many symbolic opposites in the novel; day and night, and real life and hell. The normal reality that Hayes cultivates is convincing and readers will be able to connect with the ordinariness of that particular aspect of Falling Under. In contrast, the paranormal factor in the novel incorporates a more imaginative side to to it. Because the two worlds merge together, a labyrinthine storyline is filled with both dramatic and fantastical elements.

Theia's doubtful narrative is immediately magnetic. Her maturity is evident in her strong tone and her established background emphasizes that she's different from everyone else. There's a strong undercurrent of exclusion from Theia's tone that is subtly woven into the novel. Theia is a very controlled and cultured, but with an air of detachment around her. Nevertheless, the lack of presence of Theia's father both in the book and in her life seems to affect her on a more emotional level. Readers will be able to equate themselves with Theia because of the high expectations she has to live up to and her struggle to form a relationship with her father.

Haden is a complicated character with a well-built exterior that exudes coolness and indifference. The difference in his two different personalities--Night Haden and Day Haden--is palpable in the way that he treats Theia in both worlds. And even in Theia's reality, Haden has an otherworldly presence to him. The vivid and creepy descriptions of Haden's hell mirrors one side of him, but his humanity is more and more perceptible as he grows as a character. From the beginning, there is an instant attraction, and Hayes uses that element to contrive an intense relationship between Theia and Haden.

Hayes' prose in Falling Under matches the contemporary and otherworldly components that flows with a harboring undertone of suspense and mystery. The aspects of realism combined with the fantasy provides a balance to the novel. Hayes' addicting, smooth writing coupled with a convoluted plot-line makes for a compelling read.

Falling Under is a stunning play of words and ideas. Hayes' debut will seduce readers to fall under.

The Bottom Line: I loved every single bit of it! I'm eagerly awaiting the sequel to this exciting novel!

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The Vampire Stalker by Allison Van Diepen

Title: The Vampire Stalker
Author: Allison Van Diepen
Pages: 272
Publisher: Point
Publication Date: June 1, 2011
Source: ARC from Publisher for Review
Official TUBL Rating: B+

What if the characters in a vampire novel left their world--and came into yours?

Amy is in love with someone who doesn't exist: Alexander Banks, the dashing hero in a popular series of vampire novels. Then one night, Amy meets a boy who bears an eerie resemblance to Alexander. In fact, he IS Alexander, who has escaped from the pages of the book and is in hot pursuit of a wicked vampire named Vigo. Together, Amy and Alexander set out to track Vigo and learn how and why Alexander crossed over. But when she and Alexander begin to fall for each other, Amy wonders if she even wants him to ever return to the realm of fiction.

Filled with both mystery and hilarity, The Vampire Stalker is a light but very authentic story that chronicles one girl's fantasy that comes true. Because it's set in modern day New York, it is already effortless to relate to the book. The vivid descriptions of the city imbue a subtle appreciation of New York into the novel, otherwise balancing the paranormal factors in The Vampire Stalker.

At the onset of the novel, Amy's authentic, real character is established. Her strong narrative is a combination of comedy, disbelief, and perspective. Her mature outlook on life is caused by her own issues at home. Although The Vampire Stalker is classified as a paranormal novel, it has a contemporary element to it, letting the readers connect more with Amy even though her situation is far-fetched.

Alexander's character is developed as the novel progresses. He's not a perfect love interest and he has quirks that readers will be able to tune into during the novel. Van Diepen slowly unravels his cold-hearted, disinterested exterior while also growing his relationship with Amy. The chemistry between them is undeniable and because they're new to relationships, they discover and learn together.

The Vampire Stalker is a dream-come-true for fangirls and YA lovers. It's funny, romantic, and dangerous combined in a spectacular blend of paranormal and contemporary.

The Bottom Line: It's cliché and original all at once. It's cute and serious all at once. I love the opposites in it and it's just truly one of those books that you read for a laugh. It seriously reminds me of Twilight brought to life... It's the ultimate guilty pleasure for any fangirl!

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Fury by Elizabeth Miles

Title: Fury (Book 1)
Author: Elizabeth Miles
Pages: 352
Publisher: Simon Pulse
Publication Date: August 30, 2011
Source: E-ARC from Publisher for Review
Official TUBL Rating: C-

Sometimes sorry isn't enough....

It’s winter break in Ascension, Maine. The snow is falling and everything looks pristine and peaceful. But not all is as it seems...

Between cozy traditions and parties with her friends, Emily loves the holidays. And this year’s even better--the guy she’s been into for months is finally noticing her. But Em knows if she starts things with him, there’s no turning back. Because his girlfriend is Em’s best friend.

On the other side of town, Chase is having problems of his own. The stress of his home life is starting to take its toll, and his social life is unraveling. But that’s nothing compared to what’s really haunting him. Chase has done something cruel...something the perfect guy he pretends to be would never do. And it’s only a matter of time before he’s exposed.

In Ascension, mistakes can be deadly. And three girls—three beautiful, mysterious girls—are here to choose who will pay.

Em and Chase have been chosen.

Mythology-infused and problematic, Fury is a disappointment. Set in Maine, the descriptions are beautiful and alluring but there are many other problems with the novel. The interchanging point-of-views between Em and Chase is choppy and ill-timed. There are many clichés in the novel and the two main characters, Em and Chase seem extremely shallow and nonsensical.

Em and Chase are two characters that are extremely similar and depthless. They knew the possible consequences of their actions and yet, they continued with seeming caution and regard to other people. The ordeals that Chase goes through with Ty are just stupid. He's too blinded by whatever cheesy spell she has on him. And the same goes for Em with Zach. It's just really to obvious that he's using her. Ultimately, readers will find Em and Chase to be two completely ignorant, self-centered idiots that have nothing else to do.

Honestly, the plot is horrifying. Fury seems to be a really cliché version of cheesy highs school drama but with a couple of mythological creatures thrown in. There are quite a lot of plot holes and disappointing aspects in Fury. Because of the interchanging point-of-views, and because Fury tries to tell two stories at the same time, the plot and prose seem rushed and flat.

Because Elizabeth Miles is a new author, it's okay if she doesn't deliver as well as people expect. There is lots of potential for the Fury series to grow and hopefully, she will succeed.

The Bottom Line: Just not my cup of tea. It may be yours, but it sure isn't mine.

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A Need So Beautiful by Suzanne Young

Title: A Need So Beautiful
Author: Suzanne Young
Pages: 272
Publisher: Balzer & Bray
Publication Date: June 21, 2011
Source: ARC from Publisher for Review
Official TUBL Rating: A

We all want to be remembered. Charlotte's destiny is to be Forgotten...

Charlotte’s best friend thinks Charlotte might be psychic. Her boyfriend thinks she’s cheating on him. But Charlotte knows what’s really wrong: She is one of the Forgotten, a kind of angel on earth, who feels the Need—a powerful, uncontrollable draw to help someone, usually a stranger.

But Charlotte never wanted this responsibility. What she wants is to help her best friend, whose life is spiraling out of control. She wants to lie in her boyfriend's arms forever. But as the Need grows stronger, it begins to take a dangerous toll on Charlotte. And who she was, is, and will become--her mark on this earth, her very existence--is in jeopardy of disappearing completely.

Charlotte will be forced to choose: Should she embrace her fate as a Forgotten, a fate that promises to rip her from the lives of those she loves forever? Or is she willing to fight against her destiny--no matter how dark the consequences.

Intense and emotional, A Need So Beautiful captures the very crux of beautiful writing. It's a stunningly-woven story that will elicit so much emotion from the reader. Young sets the book in a contemporary environment, letting readers relate to Charlotte in a way despite the paranormal ordeal that she goes through. The concept of The Need is beautiful but nonetheless a little painful. In the novel, Young plays with the idea of light and dark and good vs. evil but the originality enhances the whole plot.

Charlotte is down-to-earth and ordinary (despite The Need). Her perspective is brimming with a sense of isolation and secrecy because she can't share her secret; not even with the person she loves most. Every time The Need overcomes her, the readers will also feel that ultimate compulsion that Charlotte regularly feels. Charlotte's narrative oozes with her caring personality but it also has that hysteria and secretive air to it because of The Need.

Harlin's relationship with Charlotte is intense and fiery. And because they are already together, their interactions with each other are so much more authentic. Harlin isn't a prop or merely a love interest; he pushes the plot and ultimately enhances the tension in A Need So Beautiful. But even so, their romance does not dominate; instead, it creates a sort of equilibrium with the myth-heavy plot.

A Need So Beautiful is truly heartbreaking and bittersweet. It is both utterly stunning and horrifying to see Charlotte make the sacrifices, especially with the raw, pure love that she feels with Harlin. A Need So Beautiful closes with a devastatingly striking ending of understanding and finally, acceptance.

The Bottom Line: Beautiful. Just beautiful and sad.

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Shatter Me by Tahereh Mafi

Title: Shatter Me (Book 1)
Author: Tahereh Mafi
Pages: 352
Publisher: HarperTeen
Publication Date: November 15, 2011
Source: ARC from Publisher for Review
Official TUBL Rating: A+

Juliette hasn't touched anyone in exactly 264 days. The last time she did, it was an accident, but The Reestablishment locked her up for murder. No one knows why Juliette's touch is fatal. As long as she doesn't hurt anyone else, no one really cares. The world is too busy crumbling to pieces to pay attention to a 17-year-old-girl. Diseases are destroying the population, food is hard to find, birds don't fly anymore, and the clouds are the wrong color.

The Reestablishment said their way was the only way to fix things, so they threw Juliette in a cell. Now so many people are dead that the survivors are whispering war- and The Reestablishment has changed its mind. Maybe Juliette is more than a tortured soul stuffed into a poisonous body. Maybe she's exactly what they need right now.

Juliette has to make a choice: Be a weapon. Or be a warrior.

Poignant, real, and beautifully descriptive, Shatter Me pulls hard on every single heart-string and oozes depth and unparalleled adventure. The world of Shatter Me is part dystopian and part paranormal; but nonetheless brutal and gritty. Mafi contrives a harsh, atmospheric beauty when describing Juliette's world. Readers will be lulled into an intricate road of deception and unpredictability with Mafi's powerful, magnetic prose. Shatter Me is beautiful as it is painfully evocative.

From the very first chapter, Juliette's true essence of imprisonment and longing is infused with the tone of the novel. The jagged descriptions and the strike-throughs make Juliette seem all the more real. Every word carries a heavy weight and holds a larger impact. Juliette's perspective of the ruthless environment that cages her heart is so genuine and real. The strike-throughs lessen as the book goes on; adding a callous and raw factor to her character.

The passion in Shatter Me is truly tangible. The tensions and attraction between Juliette and Adam is electrifying from the very beginning. Because the novel is set against a seemingly hopeless backdrop, the romance between Juliette and Adam is the light in the cruel reality they live in. Even though the romance is a large part of Shatter Me, it doesn't dominate the plot.

Mafi's prose in Shatter Me is completely unrivaled. The distorting reality that she manages to make hopeful and the beautiful imagery she manages to make raw and disturbing. The metaphors used in Mafi's novel only amplifies the beauty of her writing. The element of unpredictability always harbors in the book. And as Juliette and Adam teeter on the edge of survival, so does the reader.

The Bottom Line: Shatter Me blew me away from the very first page. It's a tumultuous journey that I did not regret on going. Juliette, Adam, James, and even Warner are characters in their own right; good or evil. There's a lot of gray area, and that made Shatter Me even better. There are no words to express the ordeal that I've just gone through. No words for reading a book as amazing and unparalleled as Shatter Me. Tahereh Mafi has a new lifelong fan (or stalker =D).

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Vesper by Jeff Sampson

Title: Vesper (Book 1)
Author: Jeff Sampson
Pages: 304
Publisher: Balzer + Bray
Publication Date: January 25, 2011

Emily Webb is a geek. And she’s happy that way. Content hiding under hoodies and curling up to watch old horror flicks, she’s never been the kind of girl who sneaks out for midnight parties. And she’s definitely not the kind of girl who starts fights or flirts with other girls’ boyfriends. Until one night Emily finds herself doing exactly that . . . the same night one of her classmates—also named Emily—is found mysteriously murdered.

The thing is, Emily doesn’t know why she’s doing any of this. By day, she’s the same old boring Emily, but by night, she turns into a thrill seeker. With every nightfall, Emily gets wilder until it’s no longer just her personality that changes. Her body can do things it never could before: Emily is now strong, fast, and utterly fearless. And soon Emily realizes that she’s not just coming out of her shell . . . there’s something much bigger going on. Is she bewitched by the soul of the other, murdered Emily? Or is Emily Webb becoming something else entirely— something not human?

As Emily hunts for answers, she finds out that she’s not the only one this is happening to—some of her classmates are changing as well. Who is turning these teens into monsters—and how many people will they kill to get what they want?

Haunting and eerie, Vesper deals with a fresh, new concept in the paranormal genre; the Dr. Jekyl and Hyde-esque idea of the different alter-egos. Along with originality, Vesper is also a mysterious, striking page-turner with a captivating premise. The suspense and thrill drips off every page with the mystery of the events slowly being peeled off, layer by layer to piece together what happened.

Emily's real personality is too one-dimensional even with her alter egos; 'Daytime' Emily and 'Nighttime' Emily. She becomes flat and too predictable at times, but there are those precious moments where she really becomes relatable and her expressiveness triggers the readers' empathy. Emily's relationships are dulled and disregarded upon at the beginning, but they begin to grow with her friends and when she starts to find out the truth about herself. Her change in character parallels with how her new-found abilities are developing as well. Emily is still in a phase where her character is still fickle and underdeveloped at times, but in the next installment, her characterization will hopefully improve.

The plot of Vesper is unpredictable and believable at the same time. The interrogation transcripts between Emily and Mr. Savage creatively add a more mysterious allure to the novel and feeds the reader well-needed information to fit the pieces together. At the start, Emily is as much in the dark as the reader is, and as events are put on the spotlight, Emily, together with the reader, will discover things slowly as the book progresses.

Ultimately, Vesper is part of a series that has lots of potential to grow. It has that edge-of-your-seat element flawlessly perfected and an originality that stays true. Although it doesn't have bonds as developed, this could be improved in the next installment. But well done to Mr. Sampson for writing a fast-paced, enjoyable read!

The Bottom Line: An okay read for me, but Vesper has lots of potential!


---Field Report---
Originality: 9/10
Ending: 8/10
Characters: 7/10
Plot: 7/10
My reaction/enjoyment: 7/10
Theme: 6/10
Imagery: 7/10
Setting: 3/5
Voice: 3/5
Style: 4/5
Tone: 4/5
Cover: 10/10
Total Score: 75/100 (B)

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Born At Midnight by C.C. Hunter

Title: Born at Midnight (Book 1)
Author: C.C. Hunter
Pages: 416
Publisher: St. Martin's Griffin
Publication Date: March 29, 2011

One night Kylie Galen finds herself at the wrong party, with the wrong people, and it changes her life forever. Her mother ships her off to Shadow Falls—a camp for troubled teens, and within hours of arriving, it becomes painfully clear that her fellow campers aren’t just “troubled.” Here at Shadow Falls, vampires, werewolves, shapshifters, witches and fairies train side by side—learning to harness their powers, control their magic and live in the normal world.

Kylie’s never felt normal, but surely she doesn’t belong here with a bunch of paranormal freaks either. Or does she? They insist Kylie is one of them, and that she was brought here for a reason. As if life wasn’t complicated enough, enter Derek and Lucas. Derek’s a half-fae who’s determined to be her boyfriend, and Lucas is a smokin’ hot werewolf with whom Kylie shares a secret past. Both Derek and Lucas couldn’t be more different, but they both have a powerful hold on her heart.

Even though Kylie feels deeply uncertain about everything, one thing is becoming painfully clear—Shadow Falls is exactly where she belongs…

Rapt with distinctive characters derived from common beings that are encountered in paranormal YA, Born at Midnight creates a paranormal atmosphere of discovery and compassion. In real life, everybody faces a point in their life where they find who they really are, but in Born at Midnight, Kylie has to find out who she is, and what she really is. Hunter fearlessly delves into the inner psyche of a not-so-regular teenager and forges a tangible ambiance that effortlessly envelops the otherworldly environment.

At the beginning, Kylie starts out with a shy, quiet base for a character, but Kylie slowly transforms throughout the novel to a girl who can truly stand up for herself. She's rational and compassionate, but she's at the liminal age where she needs to deal with different coming-of-age issues; which includes finding out what she really is. Kylie is a strong, tenacious protagonist with a loyal and determined personality. Her journey to self discovery is filled with forged friendships and relationships that prove to be genuine and reliable. Hunter makes readers probe deeper into the emotional angst and actually feel it. The friendships and the unyielding love triangle lights the whole book up fire and passion.

Choices and decision-making is a concept very much explored throughout Born at Midnight. The pacing matches the constant flow of decisions and Kylie's gradual change. And the consistent mystery of what she really is, keeps the reader in suspense and anxious to read on. Born at Midnight is a great start to the Shadow Falls series and sets the characters and the atmosphere flawlessly to transition to the second book, where I'm sure more questions will be answered, and many more that will arise.

Born at Midnight is an evenly-paced, descriptive coming-of-age story that holds nothing back. Its otherworldly environment sustains a well-rounded cast of characters and well-developed bonds that emanate a sense of safety and at the same time holds an air of suspense. The intricate weaving of paranormal aspects and realism, is flawlessly executed by Hunter.

The Bottom Line: I loved the characters, especially Kylie. I'm in awe of C.C.'s writing style and character development. I can't wait to read the next one!

---Field Report---
Originality: 8/10
Ending: 9/10
Characters: 10/10
Plot: 10/10
My reaction/enjoyment: 9/10
Theme: 10/10
Imagery: 9/10
Setting: 5/5
Voice: 5/5
Style: 5/5
Tone: 5/5
Cover: 10/10
Total Score: 95/100 (A+)

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Haven by Kristi Cook

Title: Haven
Author: Kristi Cook
Pages: 416
Publisher: Simon Pulse
Publication Date: February 22, 2011

One month into her junior year, sixteen-year-old Violet McKenna transfers to the Winterhaven School in New York’s Hudson Valley, inexplicably drawn to the boarding school with high hopes. Leaving Atlanta behind, she’s looking forward to a fresh start--a new school, and new classmates who will not know her deepest, darkest secret, the one she’s tried to hide all her life: strange, foreboding visions of the future. But Winterhaven has secrets of its own, secrets that run far deeper than Violet’s. Everyone there--every student, every teacher--has psychic abilities, 'gifts and talents,' they like to call them. Once the initial shock of discovery wears off, Violet realizes that the school is a safe haven for people like her. Soon, Violet has a new circle of friends, a new life, and maybe even a boyfriend--Aidan Gray, perhaps the smartest, hottest guy at Winterhaven. Only there’s more to Aidan than meets the eye--much, much more. And once she learns the horrible truth, there’s no turning back from her destiny. Their destiny. Together, Violet and Aidan must face a common enemy--if only they can do so without destroying each other first.

Deceitful and strikingly dramatic, Haven twists overused concepts into a captivating mystery of electrifying romance, rich background, and an ancient sense that instills itself gradually into the tension-filled air. The paranormal and contemporary elements blend perfectly and form a flawless dynamic that catapults readers into the veiled world of Winterhaven. The ensemble of characters result to explosive connections and friendships made. The plot brims with undulated mystery and intricate details that enhance the nuances of the paranormal aspect.

Violet is confused with her abilities that she classifies as a burden. She's naive and clueless to the Winterhaven's real purpose. Her relationship with Aiden doesn't build up at all. At first sight, they already have a sizzling interaction which plays out to be unconvincing. Her actions prove to be clingy and reckless which doesn't seem pertinent to her real, inner character. Although her character is quite well-built, her voice isn't distinct and her interactions with Aiden, cliché and misused.

Aiden is a multifaceted character, clear from the different sides he shows. Throughout the novel, he is hot-and-cold, instead of being an attractive asset, it turns to an annoying, irritating side of his personality. His distant personality ultimately classifies him as a loner at Winterhaven. He lacks interactions with the other classmates, not solidifying his character enough to be believable. And although he drives a big portion of the mystery and intrigue, almost every interaction with him is seemingly awkward. Aiden has the potential to be a great character, but he falls flat as a love interest and as a friend.

Violet's friends drive the comedic elements of the plot and they are their interactions with Violet are always humorous and fun. Sophie, Cece, Kate, and Marissa's support for Violet is always constant, no matter what crazy stunts Violet is up to. The bond they form is admirable and each character has their individual flaws and personalities. Their friendship blossoms steadily as they begin to trust each other. With their different powers, and their unbreakable bond, they are an unstoppable force.

Cook's writing is exceptionally captivating and compelling. The paranormal elements really seep into the words and writing style, weaving an intricate play of words. Pertinent to the ancient air, the setting's atmosphere is molded to mirror the enigmatic role of the school and the students there. Haven's pacing is consistent and adept, speeding up just right to lead into the explosive climax.

Haven is a compelling, complex novel that keeps the reader absorbed in fiery drama, unraveled lies, and the ultimate deception. Cook brings immense surprise with the shocking ending and it ties up the events flawlessly and leaves room for an obvious sequel. Detailed and vivid, with somewhat lacking main characters, and effortless writing, Haven is a gripping read with haunted illusions and suspense.

The Bottom Line: An fantastic debut with lots of potential to become a great, developed series.

---Field Report---
Originality: 8/10
Ending: 8/10
Characters: 7/10
Plot: 8/10
My reaction/enjoyment: 9/10
Theme: 8/10
Imagery: 8/10
Setting: 5/5
Voice: 4/5
Style: 5/5
Tone: 4/5
Cover: 10/10
Total Score: 84/100 (B+)

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Through Her Eyes by Jennifer Archer

Title: Through Her Eyes
Author: Jennifer Archer
Pages: 240
Publisher: HarperTeen
Publication Date: April 5, 2011

Sixteen-year-old Tansy Piper moves with her grandfather and her mother, a horror writer, to the setting of her mother's next book--a secluded house outside of a tiny, desolate West Texas town. Lonely and upset over the move, Tansy escapes into her photography and the dark, seductive poems she finds hidden in the cellar, both of which lure her into the mind and world of a mysterious, troubled young man who died sixty years earlier.

While her mother is running away from her past, Tansy moves with her; always moving, always running away. Because of all the moves, Tansy doesn't have any friends and it leaves her lonely and isolated. When they move to a West Texas town, she finds mysterious poems in a journal that belonged to Henry, the 'ghost' that haunts their house. As she finds sanctuary in her photography and in Henry's writing, she is pulled into his seductive world and can't let go. Will she let his past consume her future?

Hauntingly vivid and thoroughly original, Through Her Eyes is a blend of many elements. Here, a historical setting is interwoven with an authentic contemporary one, with the interchanging between the two different times. The paranormal aspect of the novel comes naturally with the gritty, well-established setting. Both elements pull together to forge an eerie, sometimes rustic feel to the book. The classic small town atmosphere dominates both culturally and atmospherically.

Through Her Eyes would be incomplete without its characters. Tansy is a flawed character that questions her mom's decisions in the novel. She hides behind her camera at times, but her vulnerability and her thoughtfulness is apparent in the way she treats her grandfather. She resonates with the reader extremely well because the different sides of her personality parallel to the different aspects of a person at a pertinent level. Just like Tansy, Bethyl Ann is also an outsider. She exudes a more original personality than the rest of the characters. Although she's younger, her mature mentality and her endearing quirks will definitely charm readers. The relationships formed in Through Her Eyes are definitely intense and well-built. The parallelisms between Tansy's relationship with Tate and with Henry manifest at the very beginning; both love interests intrigue her right away.

Through Her Eyes starts out at a snail's pace; a lot of time is spent on long, sometimes dragging descriptions of the town. Archer's writing is fluid but some parts are unnecessary and only prolong the novel's anti-climactic stage. Regardless, the overall atmosphere in Through Her Eyes is solid with a disconnected semblance, deftly and effectively portraying an outsider's narration.

Although slow at the beginning, Through Her Eyes picks up the pace to an arresting climax. Rapt with mystery, and a haunting romance, Jennifer Archer's debut is definitely a fresh and imaginative novel with adept characters, an unpredictable storyline, and writing that captures the essence of a small town.

The Bottom Line: An unconventional debut.

Originality: 9/10
Ending: 7/10
Characters: 9/10
Plot: 8/10
My reaction/enjoyment: 8/10
Theme: 8/10
Imagery: 8/10
Setting: 5/5
Voice: 4/5
Style: 4/5
Tone: 4/5
Cover: 10/10
Total Score: 84/100 (B+)

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Nightshade by Andrea Cremer

Title: Nightshade (Book 1)
Author: Andrea Cremer
Pages: 454

Publisher: Philomel

Publication Date: October 19, 2010

Calla Tor has always known her destiny: After graduating from the Mountain School, she'll be the mate of sexy alpha wolf Ren Laroche and fight with him, side by side, ruling their pack and guarding sacred sites for the Keepers. But when she violates her masters' laws by saving a beautiful human boy out for a hike, Calla begins to question her fate, her existence, and the very essence of the world she has known. By following her heart, she might lose everything--including her own life. Is forbidden love worth the ultimate sacrifice?

Nightshade is an elaborately-woven, gripping, paranormal romance held against a backdrop with the rich contrast of an intricate, otherworldly setting and an equally convincing context in the human world. Both worlds are discrepant to each other in some aspects, and similar in others. The relationships and the political dynamics in both environments are different, but the characters remain consistent in the entirety of the novel. The ancestry and realistically-portrayed descriptions of the characters and the hierarchy merge together to create a consistent ambiance, constant all throughout the book.

Fierce, loyal, and strong, Calla's personality is truly an alpha's. Her personality and mindset mirrors her stance as an alpha but her pre-destined union with Ren affects her in such a way that she carries a caged, constricted air around her that contradicts her nature as a werewolf. Calla's analyzing and authoritative, but she's also confused. Her selflessness and her loyalty to the pack is admirable but behind her well-put front, she's afraid of completely letting Ren or Shay in. Calla is a strong, rough, and frank; just like the characteristics of a werewolf. In Nighshade, Calla is both wolf and human. Both beings are truly a part of her.

Sexy, commanding, and unfailing, Ren embodies similar characteristics to Calla, embedded into his alpha nature. His tainted past leaves him careful, protective, and hardened underneath. Readers will be drawn to his seductive charisma and animalistic qualities and still percieve him as a deep, thoughtful, three-dimensional character. He's flawed, and has been hurt before, but there are moments wherein his more sensitive, sweeter side is highlighted.

(This is where the paragraph of Shay is supposed to be in. But I'm Team Ren *laughs evilly*)

Although fast-paced and action-packed, Nightshade isn't rushed. The details and nuances are naturally revealed and the descriptions only strengthen the plot even more. Even with so many characters, Cremer is able to give each individual his/her own distinct personality. Each character stays true to themselves through the entire novel.

Nightshade is an suspenseful start to a new, exciting series. The danger, the romance, the action, and the characters all pull together to create an absorbing world of deceit, lies, and passion. Cremer's debut will definitely impress readers and pull them into Nightshade's world. A stunning original debut.

The Bottom Line: Team Ren FOR THE WIN. *throws confetti*

---Field Report---
Originality: 9/10
Ending: 9/10
Characters: 10/10
Plot: 9/10
My reaction/enjoyment: 10/10
Theme: 10/10
Imagery: 9/10
Setting: 4/5
Voice: 5/5
Style: 5/5
Tone: 5/5
Cover: 10/10
Total Score: 95/100 (A+)

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Angelfire by Courtney Allison Moulton

Title: Angelfire (Book 1)
Author: Courtney Allison Moulton
Pages: 464

Publisher: Katherine Tegen Books

Publication Date: February 15, 2011

When seventeen-year-old Ellie starts seeing reapers - monstrous creatures who devour humans and send their souls to Hell - she finds herself on the front lines of a supernatural war between archangels and the Fallen and faced with the possible destruction of her soul.

A mysterious boy named Will reveals she is the reincarnation of an ancient warrior, the only one capable of wielding swords of angelfire to fight the reapers, and he is an immortal sworn to protect her in battle. Now that Ellie's powers have been awakened, a powerful reaper called Bastian has come forward to challenge her. He has employed a fierce assassin to eliminate her - an assassin who has already killed her once.

While balancing her dwindling social life and reaper-hunting duties, she and Will discover Bastian is searching for a dormant creature believed to be a true soul reaper. Bastian plans to use this weapon to ignite the End of Days and to destroy Ellie's soul, ending her rebirth cycle forever. Now, she must face an army of Bastian's most frightening reapers, prevent the soul reaper from consuming her soul, and uncover the secrets of her past lives - including truths that may be too frightening to remember.

Fierce, dramatic, and elaborately detailed, Angelfire seduces readers into a fiery world of drama and action, along with a sizzling romance. The world that Moulton creates is double-sided; the division between the supernatural and mortal realms is physically portrayed through the grim, providing a stark contrast of two completely different atmospheres. This demonstrates the disparity between Ellie's life as a Preliator, and her life as a normal teenager. With many symbolic contrasts and the contradicting concept of good vs. evil, Moulton creates a vividly convoluted world of romance and conflict.

Ellie is an unusual and strong protagonist, torn between two very different identities; a teenage girl, and the Preliator. A flawed character from the very start, Ellie's personality is detailed and concrete. Her life isn't labeled, unlike other female protagonists; she isn't poor or rich, and she isn't popular, and neither is she an outcast. She's sarcastic, and headstrong at times, but Ellie always has good intentions at heart. Ellie's character never looses its particular essence as the novel progresses. Moulton highlights her flaws as well as her strengths, making for a realistic, identifiable character. The reader will acquaint themselves with Ellie's problems, as she slowly comes to terms with her new powers and the responsibility attached to it. The flashback memories of her delicate pasts contribute a historical air while also leaving the reader to put the pieces together. The road to this acceptance is rough and unpredictable, but well-developed and honest.

Protective, humble, and sardonic, Will is unfathomable and macabre at the beginning, mirroring characteristics of a stalker, giving the reader fresh insight to a new male counterpart. Underneath his battle-hardened front, and shadowed by his experience, lies a flawed, but loyal fighter willing to sacrifice his life for Ellie's. The inner battles conflicting him is distinct and his gritty, scarred past affects him in a way that only further strengthens his character. Will's character drives the plot, and contributes much to the suspense. His disputing feelings for Ellie develops as they re-acquaint themselves with one another while he fights to decide whether their relationship is right or wrong. His heart wants Ellie, but his mind is against it. They both struggle with the choices that face them and learn to compromise in their situation.

Acceptance and trust are key themes in Angelfire that fuel the plot. Ellie's journey of acceptance and learning to trust Will develops in the midst of action and suspense, contriving a balanced, yet perplexing read. Many factors pull together to create a detailed, complex plot and sound voice. Both main and secondary characters fuel the novel from Ellie to Will, to Ragnut and Ivar. Each character has a distinct voice that is key to the development of the Angelfire. The mythological aspect and the concept of good vs. evil, merge together to create a striking, character-driven novel with unpredictable twists.

Moulton's sharp, detailed novel of angels is captivating and wonderfully original. Angelfire defies all stereotypes of an urban fantasy novel and introduces a world of romance, angels...and gore. Moulton's debut is filled with angelic lore and gory, bloody battles, foreshadowing what's to come in the next installment. All of these aspects compound together to create a seductive, action novel that will engulf the reader in its unique flame. Angelfire is a fierce, heavenly fire that readers will voluntarily dive into!

The Bottom Line: Bloody fights + Angels + Reapers = A book lover's dream!

---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: 5/5
Voice: 5/5
Style: 5/5
Tone: 5/5
Cover: 10/10
Total Score: 100/100 (A+) !!!This is one of the TWELVE books that hold the title: The Holy Grail - Beholder of the Perfect 100!!!

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Halo by Alexandra Adornetto

Title: Halo (Book 1)
Author: Alexandra Adornetto
Pages: 496

Publisher: Feiwel & Friends

Publication Date: August 31, 2010

Nothing much happens in the sleepy town of Venus Cove. But everything changes when three angels are sent from heaven to protect the town against the gathering forces of darkness: Gabriel, the warrior; Ivy, the healer; and Bethany, a teenage girl who is the least experienced of the trio. They work hard to conceal their true identity and, most of all, their wings. But the mission is threatened when the youngest angel, Bethany, is sent to high school and falls in love with the handsome school captain, Xavier Woods. Will she defy the laws of Heaven by loving him? Things come to a head when the angels realize they are not the only supernatural power in Venus Cove. There′s a new kid in town and he′s charming, seductive and deadly. Worst of all, he′s after Beth.

The dark forces are causing many disasters; floods, fires, and generally spreading mishaps around the world. Three angels, Gabriel, Ivy, and Bethany go to Venus Cove to stop the catastrophes happening there. Out of the three, Bethany is the most inexperienced, and the most human. She is torn between her mission and her humanity. In Venus Cove, she experiences friendship, happiness, and falls in love. But the dark forces are gaining ground in Venus Cove, and somebody close to Bethany will betray her.

Halo is a vivid, powerful, and meaningful novel that elicits so much emotion as well as forces the reader to contemplate the religious references made in the novel. Halo's atmospheric difference is perceivable in the contrasting environments of Bethany's house and out of it. Inside Bethany's house, there's almost always an unsettling tension and it embodies a perplexing, complicated mood. Outside, there's a sense of freedom and an impression of limitless possibilities.

Bethany's growth throughout Halo is palpable from her transformation. At the beginning, her personality is naive and afraid; always careful and observant, never forgetting that this is her first mission. But as she befriends other people and gets closer to Xavier, she begins to change. Her yearning to be with Xavier is relatable as Bethany reveals her vulnerabilities and fears as an angel. She becomes more assertive, permissive, and independent, but her true values are genuine and never change.

Despite his guarded exterior, Xavier emanates a very genuine and honest personality from the very beginning. He isn't the cliché hero-type, instead, he's an honorable person with a past that still haunts him. Most of the time, people define others based on their pasts; in this case, the characters make assumptions and form opinions of Xavier with regards to his past. His relationship with Bethany is developed and extremely romantic. Their intense connection is tangible with the way they act towards each other; both depend on each other equally. Their relationship is symbolically sublime and profound.

Ivy and Gabriel (yup! THAT angel), the siblings of Bethany both holds an air of confidence and sophistication, whilst still holding their individual values and characteristics. Gabriel is serious, high-strung, and sometimes quite brooding, but he's caring and his carefully constructed façade of sureness and assurance hides his fears and inner-most vulnerabilities. This conveys his few imperfections. Ivy, although also serious, is more positive and reassuring. As the older sister, she withholds motherly characteristics and plays the role of the guiding, and understanding family member.

In Halo, the concept of differing between good and evil, and right and wrong is elaborately contemplated in different ways. Complete opposites such as heaven and hell, angels and demons, and light and dark, are re-introduced with religious connotations but without being preachy or assertive. The historical aspects in Halo are established in a non-pious, non-platonic way, making for a less religiously-biased read.

With new and old conceptualized ideas, fresh prose, and symbolic, vivid descriptions, Adornetto entices readers with contemporary and original characters and vivid imagery. Halo captures readers with the characters' magnetizing chemistry and the blend of both au courant and old-fashioned views of angels and love. A+ =)

The Bottom Line: Halo is a beautifully-woven tale that will definitely persuade readers to look forward to the next installment.

---Field Report---
Originality: 9/10
Ending: 7/10
Characters: 10/10
Plot: 9/10
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: 95/100 (A+)

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Crescendo by Becca Fitzpatrick

Title: Crescendo (Book 2)
Author: Becca Fitzpatrick
Pages: 432

Publisher: Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing

Publication Date: October 19, 2010

Nora should have know her life was far from perfect. Despite starting a relationship with her guardian angel, Patch (who, title aside, can be described anything but angelic), and surviving an attempt on her life, things are not looking up. Patch is starting to pull away and Nora can't figure out if it's for her best interest or if his interest has shifted to her arch-enemy Marcie Millar. Not to mention that Nora is haunted by images of her father and she becomes obsessed with finding out what really happened to him that night he left for Portland and never came home.

The farther Nora delves into the mystery of her father's death, the more she comes to question if her Nephilim blood line has something to do with it as well as why she seems to be in danger more than the average girl. Since Patch isn't answering her questions and seems to be standing in her way, she has to start finding the answers on her own. Relying too heavily on the fact that she has a guardian angel puts Nora at risk again and again. But can she really count on Patch or is he hiding secrets darker than she can even imagine?

Nora's life is in shambles. Her relationship with Patch is shattering, her father's murder still haunts her, and a new secret society is hot on her heels. With everything not making sense, she forces herself to find the pieces of the puzzle to the mysteries and secrets of her life. What she finds about Patch is shocking, and more so the truth about her father's death. Will the angels finally tear Patch and Nora apart? Or are they willing to sacrifice everything to be together?

Electrifying, edgy, and emotionally-charged, Crescendo plunges readers into an intoxicating plot of action-filled, striking drama that will leave people completely breathless. The world that Fitzpatrick has forged in Hush, Hush, is further developed with its vivid imagery and thought-provoking flashbacks that have the reader grasping for more, and at the same time, solidifying the mythological concepts in the novel. The conceptualized details and themes are infused tastefully and not to overwhelm the reader, making this sequel an elaborate and intriguing look on angel mythology.

Nora's character in Crescendo is bolder, taking more daring risks than before, and audaciously confronting Patch a number of times. Her primary goal is to figure out the mystery of her father's murder and learn why Patch is slowly pulling away from her. Her determination and perseverance pushes her to find out for herself, but not understanding the dangers that are potent. In her narration, Nora is mature and independent for her age, especially because of what she has been through, and she is perceptive to those around her, but sometimes over-analyzing them. At her core, she is truthfully a practical albeit insecure person who has to deal with the lies, mysteries, and betrayal that surrounds her life.

Externally, Patch is portrayed as a bad-boy with a knack for trouble. His flirty quips and erratic behavior conveys him as the bad-boy stereotype. But as his character develops more fully throughout Crescendo, his love for Nora becomes more palpable and believable. Although he can be manipulative in some ways, he still has his pure values in heart. His constant guard makes him seem distant, but internally, he is fighting for Nora and isn't afraid to put her before himself.

Patch and Nora's relationship in Crescendo is more physical, as well as more emotionally explosive. The secrets that come between them complicate things even more, and eventually forces them apart. As Nora questions Patch's faithfulness, she is made more vulnerable to jealousy and resentment. This renders her as a flawed character, convincing and realistic, making Crescendo exceedingly relative and grounded.

Captivating, riveting, and mysterious, readers will surely gravitate to Fitzpatrick's strong prose. Fitzpatrick's writing emanates a thrilling, dark tone, deriving an intense, tension-ridden atmosphere. Fitzpatrick manages to capture real-life concepts such as decision-making, and relationships as well as adhere a supernatural environment.

Crescendo is a seductive, witty novel that immediately catapults readers into Fitzpatrick's well-developed world of angels and nephilims; a world where anything is possible. With a sensational romance, a staggering plot, and expressive characters, Fitzpatrick finally brings Crescendo to a temporary close with a stunning cliff-hanger.

The Bottom Line: Hush, Hush was a FANTASTIC book. Crescendo is even better.


---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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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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Shadow Hills by Anastasia Hopcus

Title: Shadow Hills (Book 1)
Author: Anastasia Hopcus
Pages: 400
Publisher: EgmontUSA
Publication Date: July 13, 2010

After her sister Athena's tragic death, it's obvious that grief-stricken Persephone "Phe" Archer no longer belongs in Los Angeles. Hoping to make sense of her sister's sudden demise and the cryptic dreams following it, Phe abandons her bubbly LA life to attend an uptight East Coast preparatory school in Shadow Hills, MA -- a school which her sister mysteriously mentioned in her last diary entry before she died.

Once there, Phe quickly realizes that something is deeply amiss in her new town. Not only does Shadow Hills' history boast an unexplained epidemic that decimated hundreds of its citizens in the 1700s, but its modern townies also seem eerily psychic, with the bizarre ability to bend metal. Even Zach -- the gorgeous stranger Phe meets and immediately begins to lust after -- seems as if he is hiding something serious. Phe is determined to get to the bottom of it. The longer she stays there, the more she suspects that her sister's untimely death and her own destiny are intricately linked to those who reside in Shadow Hills.

With dreams and visions and her sister's death haunting her, Phe decides to fulfill what her sister wanted to do. Now, she finds herself in Devenish Prep, in the town of Shadow Hills. Her dreams and visions are following her and Shadow Hills is the only place where she can find the answers she needs. She meets Zach and more questions are raised about the mystery of Shadow Hills. Her destiny seemingly interlocks with the residents of Shadow Hills...and Zach. But dark forces are out to get her...will she stay alive, or will she follow in her sister's footsteps...to her grave?

Shadow Hills is a magnetic and intensifying read with immense depth and clarity. Hopcus weaves a cryptic mystery and inter-combines it with a deeply intricate romance that delves deep into the paranormal world of Shadow Hills. The concept of BVs, and the Greek mythological aspect, is strongly developed and fits into the the suspense-building atmosphere. There is a lot of inevitable explanation and description, but Hopcus integrates these in carefully-placed parts of the book, thus, not bombarding the reader with so much information and consistently solidifying the tense atmosphere.

Phe's narrative voice in Shadow Hills is powerful and balanced; readers will empathize with Phe in every aspect. She has an authentic teenage voice, but with a mature air surrounding her. Her visions and dreams are vividly realistic and reflects the fear that she feels towards the puzzle behind her sister's death and her own presence in Devenish Prep. She is perceived differently by everybody and is scrutinized more because of her 'odd' behavior and her lingering curiosity about the town. Phe's supportive friends--Graham, Toy, Adriana, and Brock--are completely different people, each with their own withstanding personality. Together, they make an unpredictable but entertaining cast of friends.

The chemistry and magnetism between Phe and Zach is immediately present and potent from their first meeting. Their inexplicable connection haunts and confuses them at first, but they soon grasp their feelings for each other and inevitably fall in love. Zach and Phe's relationship is uncommon, and paranormality in Shadow Hills emphasizes that. An underlying aspect that is extensively developed between them, is the understanding and sacrifice that shows how much genuinely care for each other. This is an aspect many YA novels miss to develop.

The anecdotal depictions of the town of Shadow Hills subtly emanates a dark and looming sensation that adds to the mysterious, dark allure of the novel. Devenish Prep is also depicted as a rigorous academic community in which the students' abilities are inconspicuously hinted to be BV powers. These descriptions are all aspects that accentuates the presence of a haunting mystery in Shadow Hills.

Hopcus writes a novel that is filled with a passionate romance, a looming mystery, and a striking storyline. Readers cannot escape the hypnotic world of Shadow Hills...nor would they want to. The interlocking of the well-developed romance with the dark enigmatic mystery is hauntingly beautiful and utterly perfect. Shadow Hills is the ultimate paranormal romance. A+ =)

The Bottom Line: Intense. Powerful. Amazing.

---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: 5/5
Voice: 5/5
Style: 5/5
Tone: 5/5
Cover: 10/10
Total Score: 100/100 (A+) !!!This is one of the ELEVEN books that hold the title: The Holy Grail - Beholder of the Perfect 100!!!

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