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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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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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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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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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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Prophecy of the Sisters by Michelle Zink

Title: Prophecy of the Sisters
Author: Michelle Zink
Pages: 352
Publisher: Little, Brown Young Readers
Publication Date: August 1, 2009

An ancient prophecy divides two sisters---

One good...

One evil...

Who will prevail?

Twin sisters Lia and Alice Milthorpe have just become orphans. They have also become enemies. As they discover their roles in a prophecy that has turned generations of sisters against each other, they find themselves entangled in a mystery that involves a tattoo-like mark, their parents' deaths, a boy, a book, and a lifetime of secrets.

Prophecy of the Sisters is an unprecedented and transcendent start to a new series. From the turn of the first page, up until the flip of the last page, Zink persistently keeps the reader captivated and absorbed in the book. Zink writes with perfect balance and vivid imagery that establish the dark, cryptic, and elegant ambiance that is the Prophecy of the Sisters.

Zink's engrossing and powerfully suspenseful plot was executed with great authenticity and skill. Zink's lyrical and alluring prose helped cultivate the eerie and graceful atmosphere throughout the totality of the novel. The vividly-described setting is matched flawlessly with the ominous, enigmatic time era.

An interesting aspect of the novel is the relationship between Lia and James. Their easy-flowing romance has suddenly become dark and secretive. What used to be luminous and blithe is now withdrawn and obscure. The bonds between her and James seem to slowly crumble with the lack of trust and--seemingly--love.

Throughout the entirety of this novel, the reader will feel like Lia is suffocating and trapped in all the events and conflicts that distinguish themselves. Lia, herself, is a strong and unique character...not at all like any stereotype. The unknown mysteries about the prophecy pique her interests. And as she delves deeper, and deeper, she is slowly becoming the very heart of the prophecy. She must fight against Alice; no matter what it takes. Intense pressure and grief must not overcome her. If it does, nothing will ever be the same...everything will change---for the worse.

The Bottom Line: If I was to describe the Prophecy of the Sisters, I would choose beautiful. Beautiful is a simple word, yet it portrays more than any other word could. Zink delivers a magical tale of two sisters with the surrounding of lies, deceit, and hate. This debut author seems like she's been in this business for a much longer than 2009. I can't wait for the next installation of the series to come out! A+ :-)

---Report Card---
Originality: 10/10
Ending: 8.5/10
Characters: 9.5/10
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: 9/10
Total Score: 95.5/100 (A+)

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The Exorsistah by Claudia Mair Burney

Title: The Exorsistah (Book 1)
Author: Claudia Mair Burney
Pages: 272
Publisher: Pocket
Publication Date: July 22, 2008

She just wants a home, a hottie, and some kickin' boots. Does she really have to fight the devil to get them?

After the creep who's married to her friend Kiki tries to assault her, Emme Vaughn finds herself in an all-night Walgreens at 3 A.M. with a quarter in her pocket and a rumble in her stomach. She sure does wish she'd gotten to eat her french fries before she had to kick and run. But God has his plan, and apparently tonight He means for her to whip some serious demon butt.

Ever since her mom went crazy, Emme's been wary of the gift they share for seeing demons, but she's not about to let one get to her. So when an ugly beast lurks into Walgreens behind a dude who's clearly up to no good, Emme tells it exactly where it can go. Problem is, the beautiful guy beside her at the magazine rack just helped her conquer the nasty duo, and now he wants her to join a group of demon-fighters led by his father, and aging exorcist bombarded with requests to deliver people from evil. Shoot, and all she really hoped for was some breakfast...

I had mixed feelings about The Exorsistah (I love the title! It's so cool!). I loved the characters and the execution, but I hated the religious-related stuff in this book. That's what ultimately, put me off. Even though I'm Catholic, I still didn't like the religious references in this book. It seemed like everything had to do with religion. Some people might get offended when reading this book.

The characters in this book were exciting and unique. The protagonist, Emme, was a sassy, don't-you-mess-with-me African American who totally cracked me up. She reminded me of Susannah from The Mediator series a little bit. But what was most fun in this book, were the secondary characters. They were flat out hilarious; especially Penny Pop. She was the character that stood out to me the most. She was cheeky and always tried to 'fatten' everyone up!

The plot itself was okay. I wasn't crazy about the whole book revolving around religion, but it was still a good read. There were many references to Santeria, Voodoo, and Catholicism. It was abundantly clear that Burney had done research on the 'religions' thoroughly. The execution of all the information was slipped in cleverly. I learned about how these religions work without even knowing it, until the end of the book! Clever!

The Exorsistah was very realistic. The slang and language was dead-on perfect. Burney caught the way people like Emme talked, with phrases like 'Find yourself another mama' and 'Brotha'. It was the best part of the book.

The Bottom Line: The Exorsistah was an okay read. I want to read the next book in the series, but I'm not crazy for it. It's a unique and one-of-kind book. Burney did a good job. I didn't like the ending for reasons that you will know if you read this book. It was bitter-sweet (more bitter than sweet). Go ahead and get it! B+ :-)

---Report Card---
Originality: 10/10
Ending: 6.5/10
Characters: 9/10
Plot: 7.5/10
My reaction/enjoyment: 8/10
Theme: 7/10
Imagery: 8/10
Setting: 5/5
Voice: 4/5
Style: 4/5
Tone: 5/5
Cover: 10/10
Total Score: 84/100 (B+)

Note: This book is a little subject-sensitive. If I offended you in anyway, I'm sorry. I don't mean any insults or harm to your beliefs.

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Gilda Joyce: The Ghost Sonata by Jennifer Allison

Title: Gilda Joyce: The Ghost Sonata (Book 3)
Author: Jennifer Allison
Pages: 352
Publisher: Puffin; Reprint edition
Publication Date: October 30, 2008

Gilda Joyce. International woman of mystery.

Gilda Joyce's best friend, Wendy Choy, is chosen to participate in a piano competition in Oxford, England, so of course super-sleuth Gilda finds a way to go too. Once there, the grueling practice schedule takes a backseat to strange and spooky occurrences. There are foreboding tarot cards that keep appearing to the participants and ominous numbers etched in frosty windowpanes. But even more chilling are Wendy's ghost nightmares of a young boy--and the haunting melody she can't shake out of her mind. Could there be a sinister connection to the piano competition? Gilda has a genuine haunting on her hands, and solving this one will take every ounce of psychic intuition she's got--especially when there are cute English boys to distract her.

I never get tired of hearing or reading the name Gilda Joyce. Whenever I hear or read that name, a sassy and witty improviser comes to mind. She's direct and straightforward...these are just a few things I love about her. She is hilarious and different from all of the other characters I've read about. Gilda Joyce is a conspicuous character not just because she's wacky, but also because of how she handles herself in the situations she's in.

When I picked up the third installment of the Gilda Joyce series. I was expecting thrilling and captivating adventures that were also unique. I wasn't disappointed. Allison's writing all throughout the entire series has been substantial and consistent. In Gilda Joyce: The Sonata Ghost, she proved that even further and added more unpredictable twists and turns. Sure, some things were a little random here and there but isn't it supposed to be? Just like Gilda?

After I read this book, I have done everything you should expect from a comedy thriller; I laughed out loud and I got scared. Only good books like this can get a reaction from me.

The Bottom Line: This book is a great, funny read. You will embark on a one-of-a-kind adventure where you will find thrills and laughs all the way. Gilda Joyce: The Sonata Ghost is truly, an unforgettable read. A :-)

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