Nobody by Jennifer Lynn Barnes (Review)

Nobody by Jennifer Lynn Barnes
Published: January 22, 2013 (Egmont USA) / Hardcover
Grade: 3.5 stars out of 5

Sixteen year old Claire has always felt invisible and unmemorable, but she never knew why. So when a boy is staring straight at her, Claire is shocked and elated. That is, until the boy points a gun at her.

Nix is a trained assassin. He has never been caught and planned to never be for he is a Nobody –an ignored, unloved, practically invisible being. His next target is said to be Claire: a Null that feels no empathy, no compassion, a defective selfish being. But when his eyes meet hers, he feels a connection. He shouldn’t feel this way for a girl he just met, but he can’t help it. And what he has been told about Claire goes against what he has witnessed. Nix starts to question everything that he has been told….

Together, Claire and Nix will find the truth.

As a huge fan of Jennifer Lynn Barnes’s Raised by Wolves trilogy, I was excited to read an ARC of Nobody. Nobody, however, fell short of expectation, but had moments of wonders and positive glee.

Nobody is a fast-paced novel that can be easily finished in less than a day. If I didn’t have classes to attend I would’ve just kept plowing through the novel. Barnes’s writing draws me into her story and cajoles me to continue even if my mind says to sleep. Barnes’s writing style is brisk, but coupled with long sentences that paint the scene and emotions:

“A new mantra. New words, pumping through his veins, forming a strange duet with the old one.

Less than—
Shadow—
Less than—
Air—
Nothing—
Claire.”

I have a preference for these short brisk sentences mostly because I can be easily distracted. But these sentences have an amplifying effect that builds up emotions—anxiety, fear, happiness, etc. That said and done, Barnes’s writing might be distinct, but shortly finishing Nobody I quickly forgot about it. Perhaps Barnes’s exemplification of her characters being a nobody has extended to her entire novel.

Claire’s metamorphosis from a timid girl to a strong, take-action, fighting woman progressed far too quickly for my liking. Mayhap those traits were always there, but my initial judgment of Claire did not match her actions. Which can be a good thing, but in this case the development of Claire occurred too rapidly, which of course is a bad thing. Aside from that I do value Claire as a good support to Nix. She’s compassionate, understanding, determined and at times stubborn, and not one to be the damsel in distress. She is a multidimensional character whom I find interesting.

Nix, on the other hand, developed at a much relatively “normal” pace. As the book is split into both POVs it was easy to follow Nix’s thinking patterns and his viewpoint on life and his actions. Nix’s POV is more angst ridden than Claire’s and borders on that typically bad boy, “woe is me, you are too good for me” mindset. A Cliché, overdone, becoming a bore type of character. But hey, Nix is a man who takes action; when he says he’ll kill someone he will probably do so. I appreciate that.

Together, Claire and Nix have chemistry that sizzles and sparks. Typically I abhor insta-romance/love, but for Claire and Nix it was easier to believe. As a Nobody, they never experienced attention or affection. This joy of being around someone who sees you can quickly transform into love.

But enough about love.

Overall I find the novel more enjoyable as I read it, but forgettable as I finish. The climax was…shy of being explosive. The ending was neat and compact, leaving very little questions left to be answered. It’s a picture perfect ending for the two of them that makes sense. I repeat: the ending did not come from left-field just to smack you across the face. It makes sense to what Barnes has set up throughout the novel. Hallelujah!

Jennifer Lynn Barnes's website
Purchase your own copy of Nobody: Amazon / Barnes and Noble / Indie Bound

Source: thank you Media Masters Publicity and Egmont USA for a review copy

A&L Do Summer

A&L Do Summer by Jan Blazanin

Grade: 4 stars out of 5

Aspen and Laurel are practical nobodies in their small town of Cottonwood Creek, Iowa. In their attempts to make this summer the best summer ever, Aspen and Laurel will talk dirty to customers, take a skunk for a stroll, puke their guts out, steal a chicken, and you know, save a neighbor’s life. All in the name of summer. And maybe by the end of the summer everyone will know their names.

While I know that A&L Do Summer is far from being the most realistic contemporary read, there’s outlandishly fun about this read that made this a great end of summer. My summer was far from exciting with school starting in a little over week from now, but I was able to experience a wild vicariously from A&L. A&L Do Summer  was a hilarious read with an ending that vindicated Aspen and Laurel rightfully. With a happily ever after, A&L Do Summer  would be a great way to end the summer.

Aspen is the more level-headed person in the relationship where as Laurel is always out looking for something to do. I wished Aspen had more of a back-bone and I wished Laurel would think things through, but together they make one heck of a pair. The yin to the yang.

With every good-feel book, however, there is a lack of development. The side-characters were one-dimensional and the villains were flat. I wasn’t able to pick up an array of emotions from them as I did from Aspen. Even Laurel seemed to be one noted.

Despite this I would recommend A&L Do Summer to readers looking for something quick, fun, and comedic.

Cover B-

Source: ARC from media firm

Published: 2011, May 3; paperback

Amazon: part of 4 for 3 promotion

Trial by Fire

Trial by Fire by Jennifer Lynn Barnes [review of prequel]

Grade: 4.8 stars out of 5

Jennifer Lynn Barnes’ Raised by Wolves series is fast becoming my favorite teen paranormal series because of the fact that she keeps the plot going and focused. Whereas many paranormal fictions would drift off into the realm of romance and lust and excessive flowery descriptions about eye color, Raised by Wolves and its sequel, Trial by Fire, sticks to the action.

Byrn is the alpha of the underdog (or should I say underwolf) pack. Consisting of a handful of teenagers, several children, one full grown male werewolf, and more female werewolves than any other packs, the Cedar Ridge Pack is always on the defense. And with Byrn being the alpha and a human alpha at that, she is constantly pressured. Second-in-command Devon’s brother, alpha to the Snake Bend Pack, is only making things worst. When a renegade wolf leaves the Snake Bend Pack asking for help from Byrn, life becomes a ticking time-bomb as Bryn struggles to figure just what to do.

Trial by Fire is an intricate mind game that tries to shake its readers from its tail. Just when readers think that they might have figured out what is happening and what would happen next, Barnes would spin readers around. Trial by Fire keeps its readers on their toes and fidgeting to find out what’s coming up. The novel is unafraid to take risks and twists and it pays off; Trial by Fire is nothing like I’ve read before and is becoming one of my favorite Were novels.

Forget everything about girls being the damsel in distress because Byrn can kick ass. Despite not being able to shift into a wolf, Byrn manages to hold her own and can prove it as readers would soon find out. What struck me as Bryn being a great protagonist was her connection to her emotions and the rest of the pack. She’s very in tune or at least tries very hard with the people around her. Trial by Fire demonstrates the little touches with a light shimmer of the hand or just a quick glimpse in the eye can speak volumes. Byrn can be the hard female, but also the insecure and naïve young teenager. Trial by Fire is just another growing process for her.

What I love about the relationship between Bryn and Chase is the toned down attitude. The little scenes with just Chase and Bryn are far and little making me relish each one so much more. There’s nothing sexually explicit about their relationship but the light brush of their lips, cuddling together, and being in each other’s presence gives me plenty enough to be satisfy. Chase is very much the protective male, but still understanding Byrn’s responsible as alpha. He just is there whenever Bryn needs him.

Readers should expect to come out of Trial by Fire with more knowledge than ever about some characters (coughAlicough). There were some wonderful character developments and enriching details about Weres and Packs. Hierarchy and strategies are important; there are many factors each action every character makes, which readers may not know until the end. Things fall perfectly together in the end with an ah-ha! moment.

Would recommend this series to paranormal fans. I really do.

Cover A-

Published: 2011 June 14; hardcover

Source: review copy from publicity firm

Amazon

Never Sit Down in a Hoopskirt and Other Things I Learned in Southern Belle Hell

cuter in person

Never Sit Down in a Hoopskirt and Other Things I Learned in Southern Belle Hell by Cricket Rumley

Grade: 3.5 stars out of 5  

Never Sit Down in a Hoopskirt and Other Things I Learned in Southern Belle Hell speaks for itself. Charming and funny with a sassy protagonist that’s sure to keep things lively. Never Sit Down in a Hoop Skirt brings to attention the life of the wealthy with their many connections, racial tension, and the pressure of being truthful to yourself while still trying to please others.

Jane Fontaine Ventouras has gone through countless boarding schools until eventually she ends up back South to her grandmother. Not only is Jane expected to turn over a new leaf, but she has to participate in the Magnolia Maid pageant. Is this a nightmare or what?

Jane is one smart aleck who has had difficult past: a father who is in and out of her life because of work and a mother who passed away from a disease. Her history may be the reason why Jane has a hard shell to crack and why I have a little tear in my eye in one scene. But never say Jane isn’t fair when it comes to people; Jane defends the other belles when trouble comes around and isn’t afraid to speak her mind.

The progression of the novel mainly features Jane’s growth and her acceptance into the role as a leader who steps out of traditions. Along the way, Jane starts to connect to her mother in a way she never imagined. Jane and the other belles pull antics that will leave readers chortling and waiting for whatever happens next. Getting to that point, however, was not all rainbows and flowers; expect fierce attitudes, stiff competition and one mother who perfected passive aggressiveness.

Never Sit Down in a Hoopskirt and Other Things I Learned in Southern Belle Hell was one heck of a book about girl power and finding your roots.

Cover B+/A-

Published: 2011 June 14; paperback

Source: review copy from publicity firm

Amazon

Will Work for Prom Dress

Will Work for Prom Dress by Aimee Ferris

Grade: 4 stars out of 5

I love watching reality/competition shows like Project Runway. Will Work for Prom Dress was a dream come true for me because it corporate an easy fun, fashion inspired work of fiction to help make time pass more enjoyable. However, that was not the case. Will Work for Prom Dress was more than that.

Girls dream of their perfect dress may it be for their wedding or prom just like Quigley. But the perfect dress does not come cheap, which is why Quigley needs a job (after being fired from her old one because of an incident). She and best friend, Ann, are hired to be…models! It may sound glamorous if you had the figure like Ann who immediately attracts the attention of all the fashion designers, but when you’re just a regular teen like Quigley it’s mortifying.  Luckily there’s Zander who’s willing to take a chance on Quigley and it might just be a win-win situation for the both of them.

Will Work for Prom Dress takes a simple narrative that evokes a sense of fun and nostalgia. When I read Will Work for Prom Dress I remember the frustration of being a reasonably price prom dress that still looked fun and flirty. Readers’ like me can connect to Quigley through the ups and downs. However what Quigley does have what I never had was working with a designer (a student) and if you think all male designers are gay, you are so wrong. Zander appreciates Quigley’s beauty and crafted molds clothes that fit her body. Quigley and Zander collaborate and find a balance where it embraced both of their talents.

I would advise that readers of Will Work for Prom Dress have some vague notion of dress materials or things related to fashion designing. While there were not many instances that could confuse readers, a little outside knowledge definitely would not hurt.

As I mentioned before Will Work for Prom Dress offers a “more” than what is face value.

There’s a rivalry between Quigley and another art student. The rivalry becomes confusing when the student shows a romantic interest in Quigley and rejection meant more than hurt feelings. Won’t spoil anything huge, but love triangles can always be fun when the main character doesn’t even realize it. The ending, however, was just a bit too much. It offered too much of a happily ever after that borders on the impossible.

With Zander there’s an allure of mystery behind him. He has a past that tucks itself nicely into the story without being an overpowering focal point.

The friendship between Ann and Quigley was nicely done and one of better, equal, friendships I’ve read.

In all Will Work for Prom Dress a fun first time read and fills the craving I have for fashion and sweet crushes. While I do not plan on reading it again seeing as how it misses that spark that pulls you in and a climax that made the novel so worth it, I found Will Work for Prom Dress to be enjoyable.

Cover B

Published: 2011 February 8; paperback

Source: review copy from publicity firm

Amazon

The False Princess

The False Princess by Elis O'Neal

Grade: 4 stars out of 5

Nalia has known herself to the Princess and that's all that she has known. But one day out of the blue she's told that she's not the real princess but the false princess. Her real name is Sinda. Sinda is kicked out of the castle and handed over to her aunt who is a dyer. Life now is much different than what's she used to. To make matters more surprising, Sinda finds herself possessing magic and discovering that maybe the real princess that replaced Sinda is perhaps not the real princess either.

The False Princess, oh goodness gracious, I did not want to read because of the old cover cover. It had such a dark color scheme and I'm like crow--attracted to bright shiny things. The new cover made me want to read the book, but after finishing the novel I'm happy I read it either way. TThe False Princess was one surprise after another that made the book better and better. I inhaled, devoured, gobbled, whatever. The False Princess was a book that was hard to put down.

Sinda was not the cool, calm, and collective heroine. Heck I'd be as freaked out as she was to find out my entire life was a shame. What treachery! She has more class than I do as I would've done something bad with my newfound magic and would've burn a few blades of grass or houses. But she's tough on her own standards and stubborn as mule. Sinda takes action and ahold of life destiny by heading back to the city to control her magic and maybe save the day or two.

The plot may seemed simplistic, but done so right that the pieces of the puzzle came together. Almost too perfect especially the ending. Despite that I would still continue to recommend the book for new readers of the fantasy genre.

Source: ARC from Egmont/Goodman Media

Cover B

comparing the new with the old I like each for different reasons. the new cover is much more eye-catching with the colors while the old cover definitely portrays Sinda more beautifully as it rings true ethnically. the necklace on the new cover I appreciate.

Published: 2011 January 25

Amazon

Raised by Wolves

Raised by Wolves by Jennifer Lynn Barnes

Source: ARC from market firm/Egmont

Grade: 4 stars out of 5 (for the gravitational pull)

Bryn has been raised by wolves since the age of 4 when her parents were murdered by the werewolf with star scar on his forehead. Now 15, Byrn meets Chase, a newly turned werewolf, who may have more in common with than just a new sudden attraction.

I seem to love most books published by Egmont USA and Raised by Wolves is no exception. I will be lying if I don’t attempt that I was petrified to read this novel because after skimming it once, the novel just did not appeal to me. That and the fact that I never did so well with werewolf novels previously (adult and YA).

Raised by Wolves had a hypnotic narration that kept me glued to the story even if my mind told me that I should get up and do the chores that needed to be done. Nope, I wanted to sit down and devour this book like how a wolf would take down a deer. It was going to be slow and sensual and addicting. That being said, I clocked in about estimated 4 hours worth of reading in-between making meals and cleaning the house. It was as slow as I could go because it was “addicting”. Raised by Wolves was definitely a novel that caught my full attention.

Bryn is a human girl raised by wolves and for that she’s strong and tough. She can run 12 miles and throw a knife at you before you even think to utter the word ‘Uncle’. She’s trapped in two worlds and can fit into neither one yet she doesn’t break down and start bawling every chance she gets. She is a fighter, resilient, and protective. And a great heroine to read.

However I do have some remaining questions. 1) Where did Chase and Bryn meet before? 2) These knacks… 3) Random capitalization of words. Is this just an ARC thing? 4) Wilson—where did he come from? A smidge of background would be nice since apparently that some knew of him. 5) Chase—ditto as Wilson.

Cover N/A

ARC Cover: B
I actually like the pop of color with the ARC. The moon is definitely weird but the eyes are a nice touch and I love the background. It has a silkscreen effect, which I just want to touch.

Raised by Wolves has been for some time: Amazon / Indie Bound / Book Depository

Rich and Mad

Rich and Mad by William Nicholson

Source: ARC from firm/Egmont

Grade: 4 stars out of 5

Maddy decided she’s going to fall in love and nice, sweet, jubilant Joe seems to be the perfect candidate. But Joe has a girlfriend yet he is sending Maddie signals!? Maddie has a friend, Grace, who is gorgeous and well adorned by the male population at school including (but definitely not excluding) Rich. Rich is an odd one though.

Rich and Mad’s written style had a style I particularly enjoy: short, clipped sentences with plenty of dialogue. Excessively long paragraphs of descriptions detailing the things that make my eyes glaze off are not found here—yes! Amber tinted eyes, long fringes, luscious, gorgeous, honey locks? Puh-lease. We are talking about real people with real flaws: wide-set eyes, blemishes/acne, lack of breasts, chicken legs, etc.

Rich and Mad provided a different perspective of teenage hormones, love, and sex. Can love exist without sex and vice versa? Yet the novel also points out acts of homophobia where being gay is a good reason to be fired and defending your “gay” teacher only makes you a “gay loser freak”. Rich and Mad was first published in 2009 in the UK yet I wonder how far society has come in this topic. (Speaking of the UK, slang and jokes in British-English in novel. Was lost, but still happily kept going!)

I do so love the characters in this novel. I love the rapid fast dialogue and jostling and butting and the ability to communicate to friends:

“Max Heiblorn joined them. He was eating a packet of crisps.

“I’d offer them round,” he said, “but I want them all for myself.”

“Also you need feeding up,” said Cath.

“Small is beautiful,” retorted Max.

“Them you can’t join our club. Can he, Rich?”

“No, I think Max can join.”

“What club?”

“The losers club. It’s seriously exclusive. We’re going to have a T-shirt.”

“You now what?” said Rich. “I think we should have two levels in the club. Ordinary members would have T-shirts saying LOSER. But the really top losers would have T-shirts saying GAY LOSER FREAK.”

“Like a gold card.”

“Or going to first class.”

“Now wait a minute here, guys,” said Max. “I can see why me and Rich count as losers. But how’s Maddy a loser?”

“Trust me,” said Maddy. “I’m a loser.”

“You sure you’re not just saying that to impress me?”

“Hey! Hey!” said Cath. “This is all getting out of control. Back to basics, guys. How to spot a loser.” She pointed at her own face. “Ugly mug.” She pointed at Max. “Little creep.”

“That’s nice,” said Max, offended.

“The rest of you are just self-pitying phoneys.’” —pages 200/201 of ARC

Rich, in particular, is one of most interesting male characters I have read. He writes in his diary a poetry observation of the world and his inner world that shocked me:

“Unrequited love — like carrying a jug of pure cool water. I must take care not to spill it because this is what I have to give. I will give it to the one I will love forever. The jug of water gets heavier each day. My greatest fear is that I’ll let it fall and all my love drain away before I find her.”—page 40 of ARC

William Nicholson is a male author so this cannot be blamed on the female delusional mind of the “perfect” boyfriend.

Both Rich and Maddy think about sex quite often because it’s all in the hormones, but the novel provides a much different approach. In the realistic world of Rich and Mad there is the abusive relationship where some girls like to be beaten and that is what turns guys on; there is the fear of commitment and the fear of not being worthy of love at that; there are relationships much deeper than what the eye can see and only seen through the beholders. And there is Maddy and Rich, two virgins, desperately connecting love with physical connection because it is as close as close can be. I think what makes this relationship work is the level of comfort in each other’s presence that seeps through from the novel where the spoken truth is as easy as breathing. It wasn’t that instant love connection or that dark brooding nature that calls for chemistry, but a simple understanding and capability.

However, Rich and Mad packed in a lot so some parts are skimped and some parts are left in the dark (Grace anyone?). I wanted to analyze the characters and their actions yet I want to laugh out of loud. Rich and Mad is clearly not for the young as scenes can get quite graphic. Let's just say William Nicholson is not afraid of the word: cock and clitoris.

Cover B-/C+
Ka-Yam pointed out the fish-lips and now that's all I can see in the cover. Grrr you ;P

I definitely encourage you to attempt Rich and Mad: Amazon / Indie Bound / Book Depoistory

Dangerous Neighbors

Dangerous Neighbors by Beth Kephart

Source: ARC from Egmont

Grade: 3.8 stars out of 5

After Anna's death, Katherine continues to blame herself for not being there to protect Anna, for giving up on her too soon, for losing a twin that was her closest friend. She revisits old place and new wonders at the Philadelphia Centennial fair of 1876 while running away from Bennett, Anna's lover, of a message he wants to deliver for he is a dangerous neighbor that her Papa warned them about. But Katherine has to face him eventually and now is better than later.

And then there is William. 

Dangerous Neighbors has an intimate narration that conveys a deep sense of remorse and sadness like a constant rain cloud looming over the reader. Even the most cheerful scenes is told in mourning. Perhaps by reading novel on the day predicted for a thunderstorm I was already tired before reading, but something about Dangerous Neighbors had me gently lolling off every so chapters.

For a short novel, a novella really, Dangerous Neighbors manages to fill its space as well as any 300 paged novels, and compared to some, even better. It is compact for easy access and easy carry.

The past—before Anna's death—and the present—after Anna's death— eventually blurred for me. Sometimes I find it frustrating, but the majority of the time I feel it portrays what Katherine must feel. Stuck in some form of limbo. Yet the past showcases Anna in a light that I found displeasing to read. She was incredibly selfish and self-centered that I neither pity her nor like her. Yet it makes me wonder if love can make one so incredibly selfish. It was all-consuming love that was told from the sister's point of view therefore it does nothing to the reader; I did not sigh, smile, or tsk tsk the happy couple. I was not present in those moments. Anna, in my eyes, will continue to be that selfish girl and despite being a twin to Katherine, shows a level of maturity several years younger. Katherine on the other hand is middle-aged. She is the responsible type yet appears to be lost without Anna.

Dangerous Neighbors is a well-written novella that goes in-depth describing the fair as well as letting go some of the past for the future. This was my first Beth Kephart novel, but it will definitely not be my last.

Cover B+

You can order Dangerous Neighbors: Amazon / IndieBound / Book Depository

Shadow Hills

Shadow Hills by Anastasia Hopcus

Source: ARC from Egmont

Grade: 2.8 stars out of 5

Phe is having dreams, dreams exactly like the ones her sister once had. I say once because she died. And now Phe is armed with her sister’s diary to uncover the meaning of these dreams that led her to Shadow Hills. This is a town where there are more than just witches with truths that will shock you—literally.

The beginning of Shadow Hills is like Beautiful Creatures with a reoccurring dream and a hot guy when whamoo! same hot guy at 12 o’clock! But that’s mainly it for similarities except for family members that don’t see eye-to-eye. Anyway here’s the scope: I found Shadow Hills hard to read, cliché, and was left with an ending that had me rolling my eyes. (Yeah, I said it.) Collectively the novel did nothing for me. Separated I felt it could have gone somewhere.

The relationship with Zach (aka hot guy) and Phe started out too fast and too strong for me. It was instant love-connection that didn’t develop much over the passages. What you see is what you get. There are swoon-worthy passages, but it wasn’t deserved because there was no hill to climb, no obstacle to overcome, no honest-to-goodness deep emotional talking. It’s like watching a couple with their PDA instead of knowing the true story.

I appreciated the scientific explanation of the townies’ “powers” instead of going the fantasy route. I really appreciated the work, the research, and the unique approach. Did I fully comprehend the information? Not really. Did it all go through one ear and out the other? Yup. Part of me wants to clap and applaud while the other part wants to zzzzzzz.

I also failed to see the point of Phe’s heritage/family tree. Throughout the novel Phe was just a normal teenage girl with a weird mark on her hip that knows ancient chants from deep within her. Her family line did not play a role large enough in my opinion; and if it did, it was subtle enough that I did not notice.

If Shadow Hills were the perfect camera shot you would have gotten two interesting characters with unique backgrounds in a relationship that was sweet and caring and *happy sigh*. If you were to have the entire film you would notice the receptiveness, the lack of development in the novel, and a burnt end as the novel was cut short. (I still have plenty of questions left other.)

Cover D
I don’t get it. Is there a symbolism to the cover that just flew over my head?

Shadow Hills is out in bookstores: Amazon / IndieBound / Book Depository

How to Grow Up and Rule the World

How to Grow Up and Rule the World by Vordak the Incomprehensible (also known as Scott Seegert and John Martin)

Source: ARC from Egmont ("Uncorrected, but nonetheless perfect")

Grade: 4 stars out of 5

"Slip on your acid-free gloves, make sure you have a duplicate copy of How to Grow Up and Rule the World (just in case something should happen to this one) and try to follow along as the incomparable, superior-in-all-ways Vordak the Incomprehensible teaches you a thing or two about villainy.  Now you, too, can try (and fail) to attain Vordak's level of infamy....

In return for this wealth of knowledge, Vordak requests nothing more than an honored place in the evil regime of he who achieves control of the world. (And, of course, the opportunity to assume command, should things not work out.)"

Vordak the Incomprehensible is freaking mean. And I love it! He reminds me of those sergeant boot camps that get into people’s faces and starts screaming orders. Except Vordak the Incomprehensible is funnier.

How to Grow Up and Rule the World is a multiple step instructional guide on, you guessed it, become a supervillain and conquer the world! MWHAHAHAHAHA! (Look I’m already one-step there :D) There is the chapter that talks pros and cons of masks, goggles, various helmets; a chapter on choosing your personal villainy name; Chapter 3: Superheroes—Noble Upholders of Justice or Big, Fat, Stupid Jerks; and loads more!

How to Grow Up and Rule the World (what a mouthful) is an interactive book with mini-puzzles, pictures, and diagrams. It’s also written in second person point of view so it sounds like Vordak the Incomprehensible is constantly yelling at you :) (though it can get kind of tiring).

Cover A

Order Vordak the Incomprehensible: How to Grow Up and Rule the World

The Rise of Renegade X

The Rise of Renegade X by Chelsea M. Campbell

Source: ARC from Egmont (but it's already released!)

Grade: 4 stars out of 5 (but my brother who happened to have also read the book might give it 4.8 stars)

The Rise of Renegade X is a novel of wicked humor that gives its own unique spin of heroes vs. villains through an unexpected crass narrative. This ain’t your average Marvel Comics kids.

Damien Locke has been waiting his entire life for the appearance of the mighty V on his thumb to signify that he is a true supervillian. Yet on his sixteenth birthday he discovers that he is not in fact a supervillian, he’s…actually he’s not sure what he is because on this thumb it lays an X. Not a V for villain nor even an H for hero, but an X! It turns out his mother, a supervillian, made error of judgment in her younger years and now sixteen years later Damien discovers that he’s the birthchild of a supervillian and a superhero. Now that Damien knows he’s determine to find out who his father was, but maybe he wished he hadn’t.

Damien finds himself stuck with a six-week crash course on how to be a superhero when his mother and his ‘father’ agreed to expose Damien to the life of a superhero. This change from his daily life is because any time from 1 year to up to 5 years Damien’s X will turn into a V or even an H depending on his choices and actions. But Damien is sure that he’s meant to be a supervillian and will do everything he can to turn that X into a V!

But what does having your half-sister’s lace sock in your pants, being pushed off extremely tall buildings (when he’s deathly afraid of heights), being the experiment of the school’s ‘freak’ and a Mr. Wiggles have to do with any of that!? Apparently a lot it seems.

The Rise of Renegade X will leave its reader snorting with laughter sometimes garnering looks from peers and strangers. But it’s fine because you’ll be too busy laughing your butt off and enjoying this sarcastic wit and humor and rollercoaster scream fest to care.

Chelsea Campbell’s character Damien Locke is your typical and atypical teenage boy with his own troubles of hormones and an ex-girlfriend before dealing with the whole family issue. He has frenemies, a mom that’s currently dating the president of a school that he’s dying to attend, and a dad who saves kittens from trees as a career—what’s not to love about his life? (Well maybe we can love it all because it spells en entertaining read, but for Damien not so much.)

Damien’s life is the perfect scenario of a modern-day single home family; even more so with only his mother in his life for the first sixteen years. Campbell weaves current issues such as that, weight (overall appearance) and the pursuit of higher level of education stress into the novel while mixing in ‘comic-book’ sense of flair that impacts a much greater deal than one might assume.

Readers may find The Rise of Renegade X fulfilling yet unfulfilling. There are certain details of the book I wished I could have more clarification on, but as a whole this laugh-out-loud induced novel will please both genders and leave them continually checking to see if there will be a sequel.

Cover A

Nice butt ;)

P.S. Shoving the book under people's noses and screaming "Read it! It's amazing and funny and so so good! And oh my God, read it!" does not result in the way you may want it to be. For one thing they give you this pitying 'you're so crazy' look. I am completely sane pft.

The Tension of Opposites

The Tension of Opposites by Kristina McBride

Source: ARC from Egmont

Grade: 4 stars out of 5

It’s been 2 years since Noelle has been kidnapped and since then Tessa has cut herself from what she deemed the normal life: a social life. But now Noelle’s back and wants to be called Elle. Has anything else changed aside from her name? And now Tessa wonders where her best friend has gone and whatever happened to her while dealing with this constant beating of her heart whenever Max, the new kid in school that happens to be in her life photography class, is around.

I really did enjoy this novel don’t get me wrong, but I think it missed the mark when dealing with emotional trauma of Noelle’s kidnapping. I expected something gritty, chaotic, and painful but it felt more of a self-identity novel.

Looking at it from a different angle, Kristina McBride did create something different. She created this confinement for Noelle after her kidnapping. A scenario where even after she finally escaped she’s still trapped in this invisible cage where everyone just watches her: fragile, Stockholm Syndrome, drug-addict, victim?—words that constantly float around her. And Elle wants out. She may not be the most likeable character but she’s fire and passion and you just cannot help but look and stare. Every so often McBride lets the reader peek into the emotional chaos that I was looking for in Elle in the journal she keeps. I found that voice addicting, raw, and real that I needed more. Preferred more actually.

But the majority of the growth is through Tessa. Tessa is so used to constantly thinking about Noelle that once Elle comes back, it’s been hard to live her own life again. Her fire is smaller than Elle’s but just as intense when it comes to Max and it comes through the writing. The relationship the two share is endearing and heartwarming and feels like stomach with butterflies. It’s tender without becoming too sweet and cheesy; it creates an involuntary grin on the reader’s face.

Through photography, Tessa begins to let herself go. She begins to open herself. And maybe the friendship she had with Noelle has ended, but there is a new friendship between her and Elle that can bloom. Kristina McBride does a splendid job with this reader paying closer attention to her than ever.

And okay, this is my first time watching the book trailer for The Tension of Opposites, but it is kick-butt! That synopsis tramps my synopsis to the ground. The book releases next week and don't wait until later to get it!

I would recommend this novel for people who liked:

The Sky is Everywhere

It is not the same thing but there are similar (good) elements.

Mini-Reviews

The Cinderella Society by Kay Cassidy

Information overload—hoping the sequel will delve deeper into the plot. Great promise though.

Geektastic: Stories from the Nerd Herd edited by Holly Black

Half liked, half ehh.

After by Amy Ewaf

Really, really liked the beginning—great voice, intriguing plot—but then I got stuck halfway. It was like with The Cinderella Society, information overload, situation lost control (opps sorry, song stuck in my head).

Suite Scarlett/Scarlett Fever by Maureen Johnson

Weee. That was fun! Defintiely something to pick up when bored or looking for a good read. There is a big Spencer-favor in Scarlett Fever, which is good for the people who love him! I kind of grew tired/annoyed by him later.

The Season by Sarah MacLean

It’s sort of this separation of romance and mystery. Like with The Body Finder it goes back and forth fighting for dominance. The mystery aspect really lacked. Easy read with lots of giggling :)

Brightly Woven

Brightly Woven by Alexandra Bracken (March 23rd 2010—Egmont)

Grade: 4.8 stars out of 5

Summary: “Sydelle Mirabil is living proof that, with a single drop of rain, a life can be changed forever. Tucked away in the farthest reaches of the kingdom, her dusty village has suffered under the weight of a strangely persistent drought. That is, of course, until a wizard wanders into town and brings the rain with him.

In return for this gift, Wayland North is offered any reward he desires—and no one is more surprised than Sydelle when, without any explanation, he chooses her. Taken from her home, Sydelle hardly needs encouragement to find reasons to dislike North. He drinks too much and bathes too little, and if that isn’t enough to drive her to madness, North rarely even uses the magic he takes such pride in possessing. Yet, it’s not long before she realizes there’s something strange about the wizard, who is as fiercely protective of her as he is secretive about a curse that turns his limbs a sinister shade of black and leaves him breathless with agony. Unfortunately, there is never a chance for her to seek answers.

Along with the strangely powerful quakes and storms that trace their path across the kingdom, other wizards begin to take an inexplicable interest in her as well, resulting in a series of deadly duels. Against a backdrop of war and uncertainty, Sydelle is faced with the growing awareness that these events aren’t as random as she had believed—that no curse, not even that of Wayland North, is quite as terrible as the one she herself may carry.”

Review: If you know me then you would know that anything pass 3.5 stars is good. Anything pass 4 stars is wow. Brightly Woven was just shy off of 5 stars but too good to just be 4.5. This was a fantasy, action, adventure, romance novel that blew me away leaving me demanding/yelling for more towards an inanimate object.

Several weeks ago I read Once a Witch Carolynn MacCollugh and months ago I read Fire by Kristin Cashore. Brightly Woven reminded me of these two books.

North Wayland reminded me so much of Howl from Diana Wynne Jones’s Howl's Moving Castle. He has this pretend narcissus, pompous upturned-nose attitude but always a complete tease. You just can’t help love North and forgive him. He was an utter joy to read at times and other times I just wanted to hit him where it hurt—that’s how much I got into these characters. And then there’s the chemistry between North and Sydelle, can you not see me swooning!?

*deep breath* I am prepared to go all fangirlish on you but I’m refraining (even though it’s quite hard). Action—check; romance—check; pacing—check, characters—check; plotline—check; ending—ehhh; Overall—is ubercheck an option because it should be!

I think one of the things that I love the most about this book was how it actually went “there”. Bracken’s characters were not these indestructible beings that no man can harm! Ha! It was refreshing and only added to the character depth.

My only regret is that I wanted another epilogue or a sequel prehaps. There were elements in the book that I felt needed more clarification on, more explanation, or just a better resolution. I also had some trouble following the narration early in the beginning but managed to find a good pace later on.

Overall: “ubercheck”

Cover B-

I kind of miss the ARC version of the cover. It just started to grow on me--the vibrancy--where the final cover seems dull in comparison (sorry for the blinding flash.)

Little Black Lies

Little Black Lies by Tish Cohen (September 13th 2009—Egmont)

Grade: 3.5 stars out of 5

Summary: “Sara and her father are moving to Boston from small-town Lundun, Massachusetts. She is going to attend the very elite Anton High School-- crowned "North America's Most Elite and Most Bizarre" by Time magazine, harder to get into than Harvard. As the new girl, Sara doesn't know anyone--better yet, no one knows her. And that means she can escape her family's checkered past and her father can be a surgeon instead of "Crazy Charlie" the school janitor.

What's the harm of a few little black lies? Especially if it transforms Sara into Anton's newest popular girl. But then one of the It girls at school starts looking into Sara's past, and her father's obsessive compulsive disorder takes a turn for the worse. Soon, the whole charade just might come crashing down...”

Review: Little Black Lies start out a bit dull for me but developed into something interesting towards the end. In the end this was a good book with a few twists and adorable scenes. We can say this entire book does a great job on the word “karma”. Karma is a bitch isn’t it?

A few white lies, turning to black, and bam, all hell goes loose. This is what Sara goes through. One thing that I really found refreshing is that the main character (Sara) didn’t get away scot free. There are consequences for every action and Tish Cohen did an excellent example of that through this book.

I also loved how the author incorporated random facts here and there.

“In South America, army ants are actually used as sutures. Doctors squeeze the gaping wound shut and deposit ants long the gash. In defense, each ant grabs hold of the edges of skin with its mandibles, or jaws, and locks it in place. Doctors then slice off the head, leaving the mandibles in place to secure the cut until healed. I’m not saying I’d lop off this guy’s head, but if his squared-off jaw were to clamp down on my flesh, I’m pretty sure I’d heal in half the time.”

Overall: A nice debut book. Would have liked something more.

Cover A-
I happen to really like this cover. Something just sparkles for me.

Scones and Sensibility

Scones and Sensibility by Lindsay Eland (December 22nd 2009—Egmont)

Grade: 3.5 stars out of 5

Summary: “Polly Madassa is convinced she was born for a more romantic time. A time when Elizabeth Bennet and Anne of Green Gables walked along the moors and beaches of the beautiful land, a time where a distinguished gentleman called upon a lady of quality and true love was born in the locked eyes of two young lovers.

But alas, she was not.

This, however, does not stop our young heroine from finding romance wherever she can conjure it up. So while Polly is burdened with a summer job of delivering baked goods from her parents bakery (how quaint!) to the people in her small beach town, she finds a way to force…um…encourage romance to blossom. She is determined to bring lovers, young and old, together…whether they want to be or not.”

Review: Scones and Sensibility when first revealed is a charming book with an equally charming main character. The novelty soon dies in the middle of the book where I suggest that the reader set the book down for a few hours.

Polly Madassa is someone who believes in true love but her idea of finding love comes from a novel. This is where things go downhill. Love cannot be dictated by an outside source just as Polly finds out at the end of the book when every blind date she’s prepared turns out disastrous. From kites running amok, to getting your best friend’s dad’s date handcuffed, to making your sister hate your guts, Polly risks it all to find the “perfect” match for her love ones—even at the cost of their own love interest. Her heart’s in the right place but she sometimes takes things just too far as Polly’s bosom friend lets her know.

Polly’s interference at love starts out charming even adorable but takes on an annoying tone later on. That was where the book lost some of its novelty. I thought the little slip ups with Polly’s speech from Jane Austen to modern day 12 year old gave the reader insight how Polly is just a regular girl. And Polly’s own little love trouble makes the book more squealish. I enjoy the terms of affection that she used, I mean “boson friend” how cute is that? (My friend uses the term butt buddy (which makes me think of bubble buddy from Spongebob Squarepants) so I like to squish the two terms together to make bosom buddy.) The antics of Polly were sweet but grew frustrating when Polly would not listen to sound advice. The ending, of course, was a bit to be expected with Polly finally deciding that love cannot be messed with but ending with at least one good match that Polly had made. It was a happy ending for all as everyone found some kindling of love even if Polly did not help set up.

Overall: Cute as a Danish. But sometimes too many Danishes can have its faults.

Cover B-

Candor

Candor by Pam Bachorz (September 22nd 2009—Egmont)

Grade: 3 stars out of 5

Summary: “Oscar Banks has everything under control. In a town where his father brainwashes everyone, he's found a way to secretly fight the subliminal Messages. He's got them all fooled: Oscar's the top student and the best-behaved teen in town. Nobody knows he's made his own Messages to deprogram his brain. Oscar has even found a way to get rich. For a hefty price, he helps new kids escape Candor, Florida before they're transformed into cookie-cutter teens. But then Nia Silva moves to Candor, and Oscar's carefully-controlled world crumbles.”

Review: I wanted to lavish the book with compliments, with praise, with excitement on my face about how freaking much I love this book. Of course though, there’s a but (there’s always a but). I had some annoying frustration on my end when I first read Candor.

I guess my biggest reluctance would be Oscar. Oscar at some point seemed childish to me. His attraction to Nia may have resulted to the fact that she represents everything Oscar abhors. Does he only love her because he hates this town, hates his father? Is it because she is “different” than what he knows? I’m going to do a loose (very loose) interpretation to the Oedipus/Oedipal complex. The Oedipus complex is mother-fixated which I connect Oscar with. His mother was different from Candor, his mother loved art, his mother left. That can also describe Nia—Nia leaves Candor with the help of Oscar. Maybe it’s just me (I’m thinking 99.99% it’s just me). Some think just seemed off about Oscar, but I guess it takes two to tango. Perhaps it was a combination of Nia and Oscar that dulled the book?

Onto to happy thoughts now. Candor provokes the inner battle of how much can you control someone until the person is no longer one actually. Get rid of the need to breathe, eat, and sleep and you have yourself a town full of robots. There are those who understand this and run, but sometimes it’s too late. It’s the perfect paradise whether you want it or not. It’s quite a gripping idea to never have the ability to think for yourself, leave this imprisonment, and gain any sort of freedom. And those that do leave suffer the side effects from the messages. Forever they have to live off these messages or face with the withdrawl from hell.

I didn’t get the intensity that many others had. I didn’t get the sense of awe that others had. I just had the sense of oh, okay feeling. However this did change toward the last few chapters of Candor. The desperation was palpable, the conflict was strong, and the disdain was tangible. Oh how I wanted to kill some of the characters.

The ending was the most marvelous attribute to the story! I dare not say a peep but just that Candor's ending may have sold me to Pam's next book (should she write one).

Overall: A plotline that was faltered by some of the characterization from its great potential.

Cover B+

Little Black Lies

Little Black Lies by Tish Cohen (September 13th 2009—Egmont)

Grade: 3.5 stars out of 5

Summary: “Sara and her father are moving to Boston from small-town Lundun, Massachusetts. She is going to attend the very elite Anton High School-- crowned "North America's Most Elite and Most Bizarre" by Time magazine, harder to get into than Harvard. As the new girl, Sara doesn't know anyone--better yet, no one knows her. And that means she can escape her family's checkered past and her father can be a surgeon instead of "Crazy Charlie" the school janitor.

What's the harm of a few little black lies? Especially if it transforms Sara into Anton's newest popular girl. But then one of the It girls at school starts looking into Sara's past, and her father's obsessive compulsive disorder takes a turn for the worse. Soon, the whole charade just might come crashing down...”

Review: Little Black Lies start out a bit dull for me but developed into something interesting towards the end. In the end this was a good book with a few twists and adorable scenes. We can say this entire book does a great job on the word “karma”. Karma is a bitch isn’t it?

A few white lies, turning to black, and bam, all hell goes loose. This is what Sara goes through. One thing that I really found refreshing is that the main character (Sara) didn’t get away scot free. There are consequences for every action and Tish Cohen did an excellent example of that through this book.

I also loved how the author incorporated random facts here and there.

“In South America, army ants are actually used as sutures. Doctors squeeze the gaping wound shut and deposit ants long the gash. In defense, each ant grabs hold of the edges of skin with its mandibles, or jaws, and locks it in place. Doctors then slice off the head, leaving the mandibles in place to secure the cut until healed. I’m not saying I’d lop off this guy’s head, but if his squared-off jaw were to clamp down on my flesh, I’m pretty sure I’d heal in half the time.”

Overall: A nice debut book. Would have liked something more.

Cover A-
I happen to really like this cover. Something just sparkles for me.

Food, Girls, and Other Things I Can’t Have

Food, Girls, and Other Things I Can’t Have by Allen Zadoff (September 8th 2009--Egmont)

Grade: 4.5 stars out of 5

Summary: “Life used to be so simple for Andrew Zansky—hang with the Model U.N. guys, avoid gym class, and eat and eat and eat. He’s used to not fitting in: into his family, his sports-crazed school, or his size 48 pants.

But not anymore. Andrew just met April, the new girl at school and the instant love of his life! He wants to find a way to win her over, but how? When O. Douglas, the heartthrob quarterback and high school legend, saves him from getting beaten up by the school bully, Andrew sees his chance to get in with the football squad.

Is it possible to reinvent yourself in the middle of high school? Andrew is willing to try. But he’s going to have to make some changes. Fast.

Can a funny fat kid be friends with a football superstar? Can he win over the Girl of his Dreams? Can he find a way to get his Mom and Dad back together?

How far should you go to be the person you really want to be?

Andrew is about to find out.”

Review: Can we just say how funny this book is? This is laugh out loud, rolling on the carpet floor getting a 3rd degree burn. Allen Zadoff gave the perfect balance of an emotional wrenching book and a hilarious outspoken book.

While this book is more towards the male audience with talks of football, blenching, how to lay a girl, there’s a bit for us ladies as well…that is if you enjoy cooking…or eating actually.

Andrew, Andy, is not the fattest kid in school but the second which makes it way worst. He tries but falls at trying to find his place in school. He’s kind good at being a diplomat in the Model UN but when April catches Andy’s eyes he’s determined to reach it to the top of the high school pyramid—football player. Which it turns out, Andy’s actually good at. But Andy can only pick one side, the Model UN and his skinny best friend Ethan or the football players and April the cheerleader. Andy embarks on a journey of self finding, and weight issues that seems to be a selective generic trait in his family.

This book gives the reader an addiction that you cannot be contained until the entire novel is devoured. It touches the bases of weight issues, family problems, little sister phobia, high school crushes, high school lessons all with an incredulous feeling that Andy cannot believe he’s actually popular…sort of. While Andy doesn’t lose like 100 pounds in the book, he becomes healthier with the help of football and learns to use his largeness to the fullest potential.

The family issues are the result of a nasty divorce from an equally nasty affair. Andy tries to reconnect with the dad and through football he does. His father admits that whichever he chooses, to quit or to continue, he’s proud of Andy.

Andy learns that to not put so much faith on just one man especially when it comes to love as he finds out with April…and O. Douglass. He grows, develops, understands, and lives on.

Overall: An amazing novel that tackles the issue of weight like never before.

Cover C+