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By: Casey (The Bookish Type),
on 11/20/2011
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A weekly feature I started to showcase the exciting new releases hitting shelves this week.
November 21
The Future of Us by Jay Asher and Carolyn Mackler
RazorbillIt's 1996, and less than half of all American high school students have ever used the Internet.
Emma just got her first computer and an America Online CD-ROM.
Josh is her best friend. They power up and log on--and discover themselves on Facebook, fifteen years in the future.
Everybody wonders what their Destiny will be. Josh and Emma are about to find out.
November 22
Saving June by Hannah Harrington
HarlequinTeenMy Review‘If she’d waited less than two weeks, she’d be June who died in June. But I guess my sister didn�
By: Casey (The Bookish Type),
on 11/15/2011
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Release Date: November 22, 2011
Series: Standalone
Publisher: Harlequin
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June was always the golden girl, with the perfect grades, perfect friends, perfect boyfriend, perfect life. Or so it seemed. Harper has always lived in her perfect sister's looming shadow -- until, suddenly, she wasn't there. When Harper finds June's lifeless body and the empty bottle of pills, all the truths she thought she knew come crashing down around her. With nothing left to lose, she sets out in search of answers, travelling cross country with June's ashes to fulfill her sister's lifelong wish -- to see California. But Harper may not like the answers that she finds. June wasn't the only one with demons, and the secrets of Harper's unlikely companions, her best friend Laney and an evasive boy with a mysterious connection to June, threaten to tear her world apart.
Saving June by
Hannah Harrington is a bittersweet but surprisingly hopeful look at loss and living. Perhaps more accurately titled "Saving Harper," readers are shown Harper's growth into her own life, forced into the spotlight by the loss of her sister's overwhelming glow. Harper is dark, edgy and cynical, a facade built to be her sister's opposite in every way, but which has grown into a second skin. Her snark is surprisingly endearing, especially after seeing the neglect of her parents and holier-than-thou criticism from her aunt that torment her at home. It's clear that Harper's brashness and rashness are a defensive mechanism, and it's easy to see the pain she tries to hide. Though she and June had the same quibbles that plague most sibling rivalries, they were still sisters and shared a bond that even their parents couldn't completely understand -- and that loss echoes to the very last page.
The road trip to California is a fun and effective, if a little unbelievable (a teenage girl taking off across the country with a guy she doesn't know -- and her parents are only mildly concerned?) method of showing Harper's lesson in living. The places they visit range from the bizarre to the beautiful, the wild to the wistful, and Harper grows as a person with each leg of their journey. Readers will find themselves itching to hit the road with each new adventure, whether it be camping at Fridgehenge and swing dancing in an underground Jazz club or throwing punches in a bar brawl before befriending an indie band.
Saving June is vicarious living at its finest.
Giving voice to the things the characters themselves can't quite express, Jake's expansive music collection sets the ever-changing tone of the novel. The music takes meaning from each experience and ties together the vast and various episodes of their journey. Jake is the perfect counterpart to Harper. He's just as damaged and abrasive, and their cons
By: Casey (The Bookish Type),
on 11/11/2011
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Release Date: September 8, 2011
Series: Witch Eyes #1
Publisher: Flux
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Braden has never been normal. Born both blessed and cursed with the mysterious Witch Eyes, he sees the truth about the world. But all that information comes at a price, and using his power for too long leaves him prey to a debilitating headache. Unfortunately, sometimes the truth has a way of sneaking in -- and when Braden sees something he shouldn't, he has no choice but to leave behind the only home he's ever known and go in search of the most dangerous man in the world: his father. Jason Thorpe has more than a few enemies in Belle Dam, but the most dangerous of them all is Catherine Lansing, head of another powerful witching family and mother of the boy Braden's falling for. The secrets Braden learns in the feuding town threaten to tear him apart, but he must open his eyes to the truth if he ever wants to save the people he's grown to love from their own destructive powers.
In
Witch Eyes,
Scott Tracey envisions a bizarre world, one both modern and mystical. The quaint town of Belle Dam houses more than a few dark secrets, but the longstanding feud between the two reigning families isn't one of them -- everyone in the town is caught up in the fallout. Their feud echoes the Montagues and Capulets in its absurdity and destructive power, and the leaders of both factions will take down anyone who stands in their way. This world of magic and mystery, blood feuds and hell hounds, is a fascinating one and something I would have liked to see further developed in the novel. The hero, Braden, is blessed (or cursed) with the mysterious Witch Eyes, an ability only one other person has possessed -- a woman apparently lost to history. The complex backstory that led to this point in the Belle Dam feud seemed fragmented at times, and though readers can get the gist of what they need to know, the reading experience would have been richer and smoother if they hadn't had to work so hard.
Nonetheless,
Witch Eyes is an exciting novel. Readers will jump from suspect to suspect alongside Braden -- it's impossible to tell who to trust in this war-torn town -- and will never see the final dizzying revelation coming. Speaking of Braden, he's a real gem. Sweet and snarky, shy but brilliantly powerful, readers will fall in love with his wry charm from the very beginning. His relationship with Trey is a tumultuous one, for more reasons than just the obvious star-crossed issues. Trey's family is more than a little dysfunctional, but unlike Braden, he can't see it. His willful blindness can be frustrating, as is his constant impulse to control and protect Braden. But Braden isn't the kind of guy to take overwrought machismo sitting down, and his rebellions against Trey's domineering tendencies are winning (many YA protagon
By: Casey (The Bookish Type),
on 9/19/2011
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Release Date: September 20, 2011
Series: Fire and Thorns #1
Publisher: Greenwillow Books
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Elisa is barely sixteen, but already she is the secret wife of a king whose country is on the brink of war and the latest in a long line of God's chosen ones -- it's a lot for a teenage princess to handle. The Godstone she bears brings her comfort and warning in times of danger, but it also places a heavy burden on her young shoulders -- a burden she's not sure she's fit to bear. As Elisa is drawn into a secret revolution, where traitors lurk at every turn and no one can be trusted, she must learn to embrace her destiny and face her fate -- even if that means an early death.
In
The Girl of Fire and Thorns, the starkly different realms come to life through
Rae Carson's vivid descriptions. Both the language and the landscape are influenced by Spanish culture, with the sandstone walls of Brisadulce seeming to grow organically from the vast desert of Joya d'Arena. The Spanish phrases enrich the text without confusing readers, and the lilt and rhythm of the prose is mesmerizing. This world features a rich history, mythology and religion, with only the barest echoes of our own. The mythology of the Godstones is fascinating, a history reaching back for generations and usually boding ill for the bearer. Elisa has been kept in the dark for much of her life, and readers will delight in discovering the enigmatic powers of the Godstone, and the ominous fate of God's chosen, alongside the young heroine.
Though God and the Godstone are at the heart of this story, it is not a sermon. Carson takes a thoughtful and honest look at the religion of her world, drawing insightful parallels to our own. Every faction of the war believes they are doing "God's will," and what that means depends entirely on which side of the line they stand on. Elisa is honest about her own doubts and utter lack of understanding of this inscrutable God, despite being the bearer, which prevents her from seeming self-righteous and makes it easy to cheer for her success. Though she's a princess and a chosen one, she's utterly relatable -- just the sweet and sensitive girl-next-door.
This is truly Elisa's story, and her growth is the highlight of this epic tale. The secondary cast is large, and the characters are vibrant and unique, not mere plot devices but a network of confidantes and enemies, friends and family for Elisa to depend on, who carry her to the brink of destiny. It's clear from the start that Elisa has the potential for greatness, saving the life of a king even before her journey of self-discovery -- she need only recognize it. When the novel opens, she is very young, both in age (16) and in experience. She is timid and self-conscious, always treated like
By: Casey (The Bookish Type),
on 9/15/2011
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Release Date: September 6, 2011
Series: Standalone
Publisher: HarperTeen
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Laurel is just a typical teen, studying for the SATs, worrying about French homework, talking about boys with her best friend Megan -- until suddenly, she isn't. Her world falls apart in one fell swoop, starting with the knock of a policeman at her front door. In the wake of her family's death, Laurel must rebuild from the rubble of Before, and learn to start living in the After.
In
The Beginning of After,
Jennifer Castle explores what it means to survive. Though there are many such stories in the young adult genre, this novel stands out. It examines not just the grief, but the process of learning to live again when nothing will ever be the same. Laurel is understandably a mess, and it's impossible not to cry for her as she makes it through each day on trial and error -- going back to school, breaking down at a party, staying in bed for a week, rescuing strays and almost giving up altogether. Castle's portrayal of Laurel's struggle as she figures out how to carry on is heartbreakingly raw and honest. There are ups and downs and setbacks, people who try to help but only make things worse, and those few crystallized moments where the light at the end of the tunnel briefly illuminates the darkness.
It is inspiring to see Laurel's remaining family and friends rally around her, even as she pushes them away in her depression. Unlike many YA novels, Laurel's grandmother is a steady and necessary presence in the story. She is an amazing, compassionate woman who drops everything to care for the orphaned granddaughter she fiercely loves, their twin grief making the sense of loss all the more resonant and devastating. Her presence reminds Laurel that she isn't the only one who lost her family that day, and she isn't completely alone in the aftermath. Without each other, I don't believe either of them could have survived.
The relationship between Laurel and her best friend Megan starts off strong. The girls have been best friends forever and Meg is the first one there in the wake of the accident. I was hopeful that she would be a grounding force in the novel, staying at Laurel's side through it all. Unfortunately, Megan lets her own problems make her bitter toward her best friend, whose tragedy she can't even begin to comprehend. She (understandably) doesn't know what to say or do to help Laurel, but trying would have been enough. Instead she seems rather petulant, a poor friend when Laurel needs her the most.
David is an even bigger mess than Laurel, his mother dead and his father in a coma from the accident that killed Laurel's family. He comes and goes, seeming to care for no one but himself. Yet, he's the only one who can even begin to fathom what Laurel's feeling
By: Casey (The Bookish Type),
on 9/10/2011
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Witch Eyes by Scott TraceyBraden was born with witch eyes: the ability to see the world as it truly is: a blinding explosion of memories, darkness, and magic. The power enables Braden to see through spells and lies, but at the cost of horrible pain.
After a terrifying vision reveals imminent danger for the uncle who raised and instructed him, Braden retreats to Belle Dam, an old city divided by two feuding witch dynasties. As rival family heads Catherine Lansing and Jason Thorpe desperately try to use Braden's powers to unlock Belle Dam's secrets, Braden vows never to become their sacrificial pawn. But everything changes when Braden learns that Jason is his father--and Trey, the enigmatic guy he's falling for, is Catherine's son.
To stop an insidious dark magic from consuming the town, Braden must master his gift—and risk losing the one he loves.
Today, Trey Lansing is stopping by to give us a peek at his college application essay -- and to tell us a little bit about himself and the Lansing family, one of the players in an age-old blood feud.
"Tell us about where you grew up, and how it helped shape you into the kind of person you are today."
-Washington State University essay prompt
My name is Trey Lansing, and I was born and raised in a town called Belle Dam in Washington state. Don't be surprised if you haven't heard of it, we're a quiet city on the Sound and we keep to ourselves. Belle Dam is the kind of place you go when you need a fresh start: a community that welcomes you whether you sit on the right or the left; where secrets stay buried like they belong.
My family has always been a part of Belle Dam. We were some of the first founders when the city was nothing more than a fishing outpost on the Sound. There has always been a Lansing to help shape the city, like a captain at the helm of a ship. My grandfather, and his father before him, was the mayor for nearly twenty years. Family's always been important to the Lansings - though we've gone through generations of adversity, we always persevere.
Most of what I know about my community, I learned from my mother. A lifetime advocate of education, she sits on the school board, while also running her own restaurant in town. In her spare time, she volunteers and organizes charity events, and yet still somehow managed to make every swim meet or tennis match I had growing up. My mother's dedication to her family, and to preserving our legacy, is one of the core tenets she taught me, growing up.
In a small town like ours, there's always something that needs to be done. There are always people to talk to, issues that need to be put to rest, problems that need to be removed. The thing is, people don't always ask when they need help, and sometimes, you have to provide it for them anyway. You have to go beyond what people tell you what they want, and give them what they need instead.
But it's not all positive.
Most people who aren't from a small town think it's cute, or quaint, the way everyone seems to know your name, and the way that idle gossip travels faster than sound. In some ways it's nice - I still do volunteer work through one of the organizations my grandfat
By: Casey (The Bookish Type),
on 9/7/2011
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WHEN: Thursday, September 8 at 6 pm EST
WHY: Chat with Nick James and win a copy of The Pearl Wars!
The Pearl Wars has been getting great reviews and was called "a definite must-read" by James Dashner (The Maze Runner)! It hits shelves tomorrow!
By: Casey (The Bookish Type),
on 9/5/2011
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Release Date: September 27, 2011
Series: Mara Dyer #1
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers
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Mara's life changes forever the day she awakes from a coma to discover her best friends are dead and her memories of the accident that killed them are gone. Something strange happened that fateful night, but no one has any answers -- except, perhaps, a beautiful boy who is just as broken as Mara herself. As Mara struggles to piece together the events that led to her friends' deaths, she's drawn into a terrifying world of nightmares and confusion, kidnappings and hallucinations. And as the bodies start piling up, Mara begins to doubt everyone and everything -- including herself.
Dark. Sexy. Hilarious. Mysterious. Heart-pounding. Hair-raising. In short, this novel is incredible. In her unforgettable debut,
Michelle Hodkin crafts a spine-tingling tale of death and desire that will leave readers clamoring for more. Mara Dyer is the best kind of heroine -- cynical and witty, biting and deeply flawed. Her struggles with insanity are enthralling, and her search for truth gripping. In her upside down world, it's impossible to tell what's real and what's just a terrible nightmare.
Mara is sharp and sassy, refusing to let anyone walk over her -- whether it be her controlling mother, the school's requisite Queen Bee, or even snarky boys with British accents and smoldering looks. Noah Shaw had me at "British accent." He is simultaneously sexy and infuriating, a bewitching combination that will leave readers (and Mara) befuddled. Though he possesses the casual arrogance of the drop-dead gorgeous, he has more than a few secrets of his own, revealing a sweet vulnerability that makes him utterly irresistible. Noah's hauteur is a mask -- one that crumbles in the face of Mara's unflinching directness. They have both met their match, and their delicious dynamic will leave readers ravenous for more.
The Unbecoming of Mara Dyer features some of the best flirtatious banter I've ever read. Noah and Mara are intellectual equals who can keep pace with one another's rapid-fire minds (and mouths). Their smart and snappy repartee will have readers writhing with laughter even in the midst of this psychological nightmare. The back-and-forth is constant, an unexpected contrast to the hidden horrors lurking just beneath the surface. Thankfully, Hodkin steers clear of the unbelievable love-at-first sight, instead letting their love/hate chemistry burn its way into an undeniable attraction. Noah and Mara are like fire and gasoline, and Hodkin ratchets up the sexual tension until readers are ready to explode.
It's impossible to know what's coming next in this twisting, turning thriller of a romance. Hodkin keeps the answers both Mara and readers so desperat
By: Casey (The Bookish Type),
on 9/3/2011
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Release Date: August 30, 2011
Series: The Fury Trilogy #1
Publisher: Simon Pulse
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Emily and Chase aren't bad people -- they've just made a few mistakes. Everybody makes mistakes, right? A little remorse and everything will be fine. Unfortunately, some acts can't be taken back -- and three beautiful, mysterious girls are here to make sure they pay. As Emily and Chase are about to learn, sometimes sorry just isn't enough.
Fury alternates between two teens, Emily and Chase, and carefully sketches in the details of their ordinary, every day lives. It is surprising to discover that the mythological beings are not the main characters of this novel -- instead, they hover on the fringe, leaving the focus on the remarkably human and flawed leads.
Elizabeth Miles brings her cast to life, making them seem more like people than characters. The inhabitants of Ascension are not extraordinary, and that's what makes them so authentic. They are imperfect and not all that likable -- but that seems to be the point. Emily is naive and shallow, not to mention a terrible friend, and Chase seems petty and insecure. Their off-putting personalities make sense in the context of the novel, yet it also makes it difficult to invest in their fates. Miles' skill at humanizing her characters is impressive, but they would be more rounded with a few admirable traits as well.
Em and Chase are not the most despicable people in town by a long shot, yet they're the unfortunate souls singled out for vengeance. The fact that the avenging girls are not the protagonists adds to their mystique, but it also obscures the method to their madness. The first half of the novel drags, as it's impossible to tell what transgression Chase committed or what punishment Emily is receiving for her own crimes. Crucial backstory isn't introduced until late in the novel, leaving readers feeling confused for an agonizing length of time. Yet, though Emily's story line is clearest at the outset, Chase's plot ends up being the strongest as he moves inexorably toward his fate. Though neither is endearing, Chase has the most complexity -- from his love-and-hate relationship with a childhood friend, to his attempt to rise above his socioeconomic status -- readers will feel sorry for him as his punishment progresses (even if he seems to be determinedly walking into the trap).
The calculating and manipulative powers of their tormentors are made starkly and terrifyingly clear as the novel spirals toward its devastating conclusion. Miles lays a strong groundwork for her mythology, immersing readers in the fear and uncertainty of a
By: Casey (The Bookish Type),
on 9/3/2011
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For Review:
My Beating Teenage Heart by C. K. Kelly MartinThanks to Mary at Random House!Coming September 27, 2011!Ashlyn Baptiste is falling. One moment she was nothing—no memories, no self—and then suddenly, she's plummeting through a sea of stars. Is she in a coma? She doesn't remember dying, and she has no memories of the life she left behind. All she knows is that she's trapped in a consciousness without a body and she's spending every moment watching a stranger.
Breckon Cody's on the edge. He's being ripped apart by grief so intense it literally hurts to breath. On the surface, Breckon is trying to hold it together for his family and his girlfriend, but underneath he's barely hanging on.
Even though she didn't know him in life, Ashlyn sees Breckon's pain, and she's determined to find a way help him. As her own distressing memories emerge from the darkness, she struggles to communicate with the boy who can't see her, but whose life is suddenly intertwined with hers. In alternating voices of the main characters, My Beating Teenage Heartpaints a devastatingly vivid picture of both the heartbreak and the promise of teenage life—a life Ashlyn would do anything to recover and Breckon seems desperate to destroy—and will appeal to fans of Sarah Dessen, John Green, and David Levithan.
The acclaimed auth
By: Casey (The Bookish Type),
on 8/31/2011
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Hi. I’m Christine Seifert, author of The Predicteds. When I’m not writing, you’ll probably find me at my day job as a professor at Westminster College in Salt Lake City, Utah, where I teach classes in rhetoric and professional writing.
Here are eleven other things about me:
11. I have a PhD in English.
10. I’m terrified of bees.
9. I’m represented by Alyssa Eisner Henkin of Trident Media Group.
8. I’m from Fargo, North Dakota, and I used to have the tell-tale Fargo accent until people mocked me.
7. I’m on a bowling league, but I’m a terrible bowler.
6. I go nuts if I can’t read every single day for at least a few minutes.
5. I’ve published articles about both Twilight and the Jersey Shore.
4. Popcorn is my favorite food. I’d eat it every day if I could. (Let’s be honest: I do eat it almost every day).
3. I abhor large social events because I’m shy and fairly introverted. Having to go to a big party is the worst thing I can imagine.
2. I would walk everywhere if I could. I love to walk.
1. I think Saved by the Bell is an underrated show.
Christine's Favorite Dystopian Novels
I’m glad to see the resurgence of dystopian novels lately. Who wants to read those pie-in-the-sky utopian novels, right? It’s much more fun to think of a totally messed-up future than to think about one filled with unicorns and rainbows. For whatever reason, we seem to be attracted to thinking about our potential dark sides.
One of the reasons I love dystopian narratives so much is that they remind me that things could always be a lot worse. So here’s my top ten favorite dystopians and the reasons why I wouldn’t want to live in those worlds (even though the books are terrific):
10. Wither by Lauren DeStefano—I’d make a rotten polygamist wife. As soon as I figured out how to get my sister wives to do all the cooking and cleaning, I’d willingly give up all rights to the husband in return.
9. The Leftovers by Tom Perrotta—This one’s a bit of a cheat because I haven’t read it yet, but it’s high on my list. Post-rapture living could be pretty depressing, especially when you’re among the ones left on Earth.
8. Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury—Any world where they burn books is not a world I want to live in.
By: Casey (The Bookish Type),
on 8/30/2011
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Today's Top Ten are the books at the top of our TBR for Fall 2011. This is going to be hard -- a ton of great books are coming out this fall! This year, the Fall Equinox is
September 23 and the Winter Solstice is
December 22, so I'll be listing books released between those dates.
1.
Clockwork Prince (Infernal Devices #2) by Cassandra Clare (December 6): Clockwork Angel is one of my favorite books, and it ended on a total cliffhanger. I'm lusting after
Will er-- the sequel so hard.
2.
The Space Between by Brenna Yovanoff (November 15): I loved the dark vibe of Brenna's debut The Replacement, and this book sounds even more AMAZEBALLS.
3.
Lola and the Boy Next Door by Stephanie Perkins (September 29): OBVIOUSLY! Who didn't love Anna?
4.
Darker Still by Leanna Renee Hieber (November 1): "The Picture of Dorian Gray meets Pride and Prejudice, with a dash of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde." Sold!
5.
The Faerie Ring by Kiki Hamilton (September 27): Victorian London + Faeries = Love.
6.
My Beating Teenage Heart by C. K. Kelly Martin (September 27): I find books about the afterlife fascinating and, more often than not, heartbreaking. This book sounds beautiful.
7.
The Always War by Margaret Peterson Haddix (November 15): War always provides a lot of subject matter, and this sounds like a very different kind of dystopian.
8.
The Scorpio Rac
By: Casey (The Bookish Type),
on 8/27/2011
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A weekly feature I started to showcase the exciting new releases hitting shelves this week.
August 30
Dust & Decay (Benny Imura #2) by Jonathan Maberry
Simon and Schuster Children's PublishingSix months have passed since the terrifying battle with Charlie Pink-eye and the Motor City Hammer in the zombie-infested mountains of the Rot & Ruin. It’s also six months since Benny Imura and Nix Riley saw something in the air that changed their lives. Now, after months of rigorous training with Benny’s zombie-hunter brother Tom, Benny and Nix are ready to leave their home forever and search for a better future. Lilah the Lost Girl and Benny’s best friend Lou Chong are going with them.
Sounds easy. Sounds wonderful. Except that everything that can go wrong does. Before they can even leave there is a shocking zombie attack in town. But as soon as they step into the Rot & Ruin they are pursued by the living dead, wild animals, insane murderers and the horrors of Gameland –where teenagers are forced to fight for their lives in the zombie pits. Worst of all…could the evil Charlie Pink-eye still be alive?
In the great Rot & Ruin everything wants to kill you. Everything…and not everyone in Benny’s small band of travelers will make it out alive.
By: Casey (The Bookish Type),
on 8/26/2011
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Eyes in the Mirror by Julia MayerThanks to Audrey at Sourcebooks!
Every teen girl fantasizes about having a double and best friend rolled into one-an alter ego with whom she can trade places, allowing her to disappear. Samara is a troubled and lonely adolescent, prone to cutting, who desperately craves both intimacy and escape from her unfulfilled life...until she meets her reflection, Dee, the seeming answer to all her problems.
With dual and dueling points of view, Eyes in the Mirror provides a perspective on one girl's life never before seen in YA fiction: her own and from her freer, wilder reflection.
The Pledge by Kimberly DertingThanks to Simon and Schuster!Coming November 15, 2011!In the violent country of Ludania, the language you speak determines what class you are, and there are harsh punishments if you forget your place—looking a member of a higher class in the eye can result in immediate execution. Seventeen-year-old Charlaina (Charlie for short) can understand all languages, a dangerous ability she’s been hiding her whole life. Her only place of release is the drug-filled underground club scene, where people go to shake off the oppressive rules of the world they live in. There, she meets a beautiful and mysterious boy who speaks a language she’s never heard, and her secret is almost exposed. Through a series of violent upheavals, it becomes clear that Charlie herself is the
By: Casey (The Bookish Type),
on 8/25/2011
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Victoria is the product of a British mother, a Beverly Hills father, and a southern upbringing. Because of this, she has been known to say "tom-ah-toes," "like," and "y'all."
She also tells stories.
She loves fairy tales, and folklore, and stories that make her wonder if the world is really as it seems.
What has been the most surprising thing about being a debut author? It’s a tie between how much work there is to do besides writing, and how wonderful and supportive the community is! Honestly, both things completely knocked me off my feet.
Is the legend of The Near Witch that Lexi recites in the novel inspired by any real-world fairy tales? Elements in NW were inspired by the WAY fairy tales are written and told, their archetypes and flavor, by the oral nature of folklore, etc. But I didn’t draw on any specific fairy tales when writing the story of the Near Witch.
It is clear that Lexi adores her little sister Wren (and who wouldn’t?). Do you have a little sister? Did that relationship influence the way you wrote Lexi and Wren? I am actually an only child! But sibling relations have always fascinated me (they are really important in NW...Magda and Dreska, Lexi and Wren, Otto and Lexi’s father, etc). I’ve always wanted to have a sibling. As an only child, I spent half my time delighting in being the center of my parents world, and half the time wishing I had a brother or sister in that world with me. So I think my want of a sibling and my awareness of the lack of one made me want to write them even more.
What inspired you to make Lexi such an adept tracker? Is that a skill you also possess? Not exactly. But I’ve always been, I think, a very observant person. My father is a Type1 diabetic and I grew up hyper-attentive to his tells (signs he was low in sugar). I learned to read him, and eventually others. Reading people and spaces are overlapping skills, I think, in that the require an ability to look at the details and the whole at the same time.
Witches in the world of Near control different elements. Given the choice, which element would you like to be able to control? What would you do with that power? I would like to be able to control water, because it can be hard or soft, running through the land or falling from the sky. It is, in my opinion the most diverse of the elements, used to nurture but also incredibly dangerous. I like to hope I’d use it for good ;)
I have to ask, with your English heritage and the strong presence of the ghostly moor – are you a fan of Wuthering Heights? Hahahahaha. It’s...um...not my favorite. I am a huge fan of The Secret Garden though, which I feel has a closer connection to Near and the nature o
By: Casey (The Bookish Type),
on 8/24/2011
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Amber Argyle grew up with three brothers on a cattle ranch in the Rocky Mountains. She spent hours riding horses, roaming the mountains, and playing in her family’s creepy barn. This environment fueled her imagination for writing her debut novel.
She has worked as a short order cook, janitor, and staff member in a mental institution. All of which has given her great insight into the human condition and has made for some unique characters.
She received her bachelor’s degree in English and Physical Education from Utah State University.
She currently resides in Utah with her husband and three small children.
Today Amber's stopping by to tell us about what we might find in a garage sale from her teen years.
Teenage Garage Sale:
I had to pull out my scrap book and cedar chest to compile this list. Why do I still have some (some as in not all) of this crap? Anyway, here’s what I came up with:
Sony Walkman CD Player for those of you who still don’t have an iPod: $1
Saddle blankets and halters (I won a lot at 4-H Horsemanship competitions): $3 a piece
Barrel racing saddle. It has the revolutionary flexible tree: 5K
Barrel racing horse: 25K
By: Casey (The Bookish Type),
on 8/22/2011
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Bridget Liu is just a typical teen -- when she's not banishing demons, that is. As if hearing the voices of hellspawn isn't bad enough, her mysterious new powers appeared not long after her father's brutal murder. All Bridget wants is to reclaim her normal life, one without exorcisms or murder trials, visits from the Vatican or annoyingly persistent sons of the local police sergeant. Unfortunately for Bridget, that's not going to happen anytime soon -- because the forces of Hell have a message for her, and they'll stop at nothing till she heeds their call.
In
Possess, debut author
Gretchen McNeil blends ancient legend with unearthly horror to create a striking demonic mythology -- a fresh look at the other side of the angel coin. Bridget's adventures in exorcism are spine-tingling, and every chilling encounter will leave readers trembling -- especially the particularly hair-raising scene in a doll shop (shudder). Her strange new powers and a string of unnerving warnings from demonic messengers give the novel a streak of mystery, and readers will eagerly piece together the puzzle -- trying to stay one step ahead of Bridget as she learns the truth about the legions of Hell.
Bridget is an admirably independent heroine, determined to fight her own battles and carry her own crosses. Though she's more than a little damaged by the loss of her father and the discovery of her alarming new abilities, her flaws give her an honest, raw edge that will resonate with readers. Many of her relationships are rough around the edges, but the mutual adoration between Bridget and her little brother Sammy jumps off the page. Bridget is like a mother to Sammy, and her never-ending patience with his 8-year-old antics is endearing -- showing a softer side to balance her usual tough-as-nails veneer. Bridget tends to be one of the guys, and I would have loved to see more attention given to her best friend Hector, who is the perfect storm of sass and snark and insecurity.
This paranormal horror story is part murder mystery, part romance -- but unfortunately, the romance falls a little flat. Matt is a nice enough guy, if a little cliche -- the All-American, popular jock who falls for the school outsider. Yet, his constant "caretaker" attitude is cringe-inducing, especially since Bridget can clearly hold her own (probably better than Matt can). The fact that Bridget finds his overbearing behavior appealing is rather disappointing after her robust determination to remain a lone wolf. If ever there was a heroine who didn't need a hero, it's Bridget Liu. There is something not quite right about Matt -- but only time will tell if this is intentional foreshadowing by the author, or just a lackluster love interest.
Possess is a dark and edgy paranormal thriller, and McNeil doesn't shy away from creepy blood rituals or crazed demonic victims. There are clearly unknown depths to explore in this eerie new world, and readers will be eager for more of its infernal history and lore.
Rating: 
Disclosure: I received an ARC from the publisher for an honest review.This novel hits shelves today! Click here to purchase Possess by Gretchen McNeil.Part of the
8 Comments on Review: Possess by Gretchen McNeil, last added: 8/25/2011
I grew up in Mammoth Lakes, CA where stunning scenery and a few very special teachers inspired me to write. As soon as I graduated high school, I made for the beach and eventually ended up in Orange County with a happy little family and a job as an English teacher.
And then by luck, or coincidence, or some cosmic force, things lined up for me to take a shot at my dream. I moved to a little gem of a beach called Crystal Cove, which is the setting for MOONGLASS; I had the opportunity to go from working as a full-time English teacher to working as a part-time librarian; and...I was about to turn 30 (more on that in the FAQ section too.) Long story short: after deciding to go for it and putting in a lot of hard work, I finished MOONGLASS, which is my first novel.
Moonglass is your debut novel. When was the first moment that you really felt like an author? Oh, that’s a tough one because I still have to remind myself that it’s perfectly reasonable to call myself that! If I had to pin down a moment though, it would have to be when I saw Moonglass on the shelf for the first time. I started to get all teary-eyed and then my five year old daughter brought me back to reality. She said “Mama, can we go now? We have a whole box of those at home.”
In a market overwhelmed with paranormal, what drew you to contemporary? Do you think you’ll continue to write in that genre, or branch out into others?
I don’t think I ever consciously thought ‘I want to write contemporary.’ Contemporary stories are the ones I’m most drawn to as a reader because I feel the strongest connection to them. They’re also the stories that inspire me as a writer so I think it was a natural, if subconscious, choice. I don’t see myself straying from that.
I saw in your bio that you live at the beach. Since that’s the typical vacation spot, where do you like to go when you want to get away?
I don’t get away too much, but I think the perfect place to do that is the mountains. I grew up in Mammoth Lakes, CA so I have a special place in my heart for towering peaks and crisp air. There is something so peaceful and inspiring about that environment. It’s magical like the beach, but in a totally different way.
Do you collect sea glass? Have you ever found a piece of moonglass? I don’t think I’ve ever seen sea glass at the beach – am I just not looking closely enough, or is it only found in certain areas of the coast?
Yes! I have a huge collection of seaglass and can’t seem to stop searching for more. It’s seriously addicting. I’ve never found Moonglass, though every time the moon is full I say I’m going to go look. But I did find a red piece (my one and o
By: Casey (The Bookish Type),
on 8/6/2011
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Possess by Gretchen McNeilThanks to Allison at Balzer + Bray!Coming August 23, 2011!Fifteen-year-old Bridget Liu just wants to be left alone: by her mom, by the cute son of a local police sergeant, and by the eerie voices she can suddenly and inexplicably hear. Unfortunately for Bridget, it turns out the voices are demons – and Bridget has the rare ability to banish them back to whatever hell they came from.
Terrified to tell people about her new power, Bridget confides in a local priest who enlists her help in increasingly dangerous cases of demonic possession. But just as she is starting to come to terms with her new power, Bridget receives a startling message from one of the demons. Now Bridget must unlock the secret to the demons' plan before someone close to her winds up dead – or worse, the human vessel of a demon king.
In the Forests of the Night (Goblin Wars #2) by Kersten HamiltonThanks to Kersten Hamilton and Clarion Books!Coming October 3, 2011!Teagan, Finn, and Aiden have rescued Tea's and Aiden's father and have made it out of Mag Mell alive, bringing a few new friends with them. But The Dark Man's forces are hot on their heels. Back in Chicago, Teagan soon realizes that she is not the target of the goblins. In fact, the goblins call her princess, and call her to come out and play. Something is happening to her, and she suspects it’s an infection
By: Casey (The Bookish Type),
on 8/4/2011
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When I was a kid, I wanted to be a wizard. Or a paleontologist. Maybe both.
I’m neither now, but magic and monsters are still my favorite things.
Born in Okinawa, Japan while my Dad was on duty with the US Navy, I moved around throughout my childhood and traveled even more. Reading and theater were the two things that got me through it all.
After graduating from the University of Kansas in 2003 with a degree in Gender Studies, I went on to graduate school for a Master’s in the same. Halfway through, I ditched my advisor in favor of Anglo-Saxon and Germanic epic poetry, because the blood, tragedy, and violence were much more civilized than academic in-fighting. I don’t have a graduate degree, but I did translate my own version of Beowulf!
Despite having traveled all over the world, I settled in Kansas (where the flying monkeys live) with my partner, two cats, and a mutant mutt named Grendel.
Because I was raised on fairy tales and dinner-time conversations about emergency room patients (thanks, Mom and Dad!) I tend to mix magic and blood whenever possible.
Originally, Blood Magic was about Silla and Reese and their ability to trade bodies with some vague magic – there was also Josephine, who was a witch who’d been body-snatching to stay alive for decades. Nick and his back-story was a later addition when I realized I wanted more kissing.
Why did you decide to tell the story in alternating points-of-view? Which voice did you find easiest to write?Josephine’s voice was the easiest to write, because she’s wild and melodramatic. I decided to use both points of view when I decided that the story belonged to both Silla and Nick. They both change, and without one or the other of them, the novel doesn’t work. Plus, I like being able to see them from the outside as well as from the inside – so from their own POV but also from the other POVs.
Silla is very into theatre, and I noticed in your bio that you were also a drama kid as a teen. What is it about the stage that appeals to both you and Silla? What role have you always wanted to play?I love the stage because of the words – taking someone else’s words and making them my own, making another character a part of myself, is immensely appealing. Silla likes it because she’s naturally empathetic and very good an putting herself in other’s shoes. She can use it to escape. I’ve always wanted to play Macbeth!
What inspired Silla’s mask collection, and the way she uses them to control her emotions?It started out as just a metaphor for the way that everybody puts on different faces and different selves of whatever situation they�
By: Casey (The Bookish Type),
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Silla Kennicott's life hasn't been the same since that night -- the night her parents died, and she found them lying in a pool of their own blood. The local police blame the murder-suicide on her father, but everything in Silla's blood rebels against the damning accusation. Unfortunately, the truth may be even more horrific than the lies. When an ancient book arrives on her doorstep, calling for blood and magic, she's got nothing to lose -- but when the spells actually work, Silla quickly finds herself tangled in a web of obsession, murder and blood that spans a century.
In
Blood Magic,
Tessa Gratton weaves together fantasy and sorcery to create an utterly original story -- a mythology of magic and sacrifice, betrayal and death. One of the most bewitching aspects of the novel was its lore, the history and the mysteries of blood magic, the double-edged sword of sacrifice and the seduction and destruction of power. Just when readers think they've got it all figured out, Gratton sweeps them away on a tide of uncertainty. The world Gratton creates isn't black or white, the magic neither good nor evil. There's darkness inside them all -- be it sadness or madness -- and the intoxicating allure of the magic has the potential to go horribly awry, but ultimately it's all about choice. There's a beautiful symmetry to this world, a terrible price for power.
Silla is an unusual heroine, a faded, bereaved version of someone once bursting with life. In the wake of the terrible tragedy that cost both her parents' lives, Silla lives behind masks and roles, slipping into another skin on stage to escape her own tattered life. It's a relief to see a heroine with a passion (theatre), and more to her life than a boyfriend. Silla doesn't obsess over Nick when he's gone -- in fact, he seems to be the more enamored one.
Unlike many orphaned heroines, Silla's pain feels raw and authentic, coloring her whole world. Fortunately, she has family to lean on. Her brother Reese seems solid even on paper, stoic in the face of pain. It is clear that he loves his sister, even if he takes the big brother attitude a little too far at times. Their sibling bond is portrayed with strength and subtlety, an anchoring presence at the heart of the novel. Then there's fluttering Aunt Judy, who took on two troubled teens in their time of need. Though she flits in and out of the house like a social butterfly, she's an important fountain of advice for her niece, who's still trying to find her way back from the brink.
The only character who isn't entirely winning is Nick. From the outside he seems self-satisfied and entitled, almost a melodrama hero with all his slick suavity. He is more sympathetic once the reader gets inside his head, revealing the scars that made him who he is. His snarkiness is even amusing when he's not cruelly lashing out. Yet, his hypocrisy makes him rather unsavory at times -- I was outraged when he attacked Silla for behavior identical to his own. Nick has a lot of maturing to do, but his chemistry with Silla is undeniable. Their attraction is sexy and sweet, if lightning fast. Gratton knows how to write a kiss -- instead of seeming like hormone-driven lust, their unabashed awe of one another strikes a romantic chord.
The alternating perspectives, both past and present, give this novel a rich, layered texture. Gratton carefully controls the flow of information, tantalizing the reader without giving the game away. The author slips effortlessly between the widely diverse narrative voices, from Silla and Nick to Josep
By: Casey (The Bookish Type),
on 7/31/2011
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There are no strangers in the town of Near -- until now. When a ghostly boy appears outside Lexi's bedroom window and the children of Near start disappearing from their beds, the entire village is on the verge of a witch hunt. Yet, though the smoky stranger refuses to talk, Lexi's instincts tell her to trust him. To clear his name, Lexi and the stranger must go in search of a secret known only by the wind, a legend older than Near itself -- but what they find might just tear their world apart.
In
The Near Witch, debut author
Victoria Schwab creates an original, haunting fairy tale that will capture readers imaginations -- and hearts. Her lyrical prose reads like a lullaby, with a rhythm and cadence bewitching to the senses, and sets the scene for a tale of children lured from their beds to vanish across the moonlit moor. The world Schwab constructs is richly atmospheric, with its own history and customs and bedtime stories, blending a coming-of-age story with the myth and magic of folklore. The town of Near will feel as familiar as the reader's own neighborhood, its inhabitants as endearing and frustrating as family.
Lexi is everything a heroine should be, unhindered by the archaic constraints of custom or the close-minded disapproval of society. Her father raised her to be independent and maybe a little bit wild, part of the natural world around her. She is brave and compassionate, defiant and intelligent -- unwilling to sit idly by and let mistrust and panic take its course. She won me over from the start.
One of my favorite aspects of the story is Lexi's family. The love between Lexi and her family is unconditional, their faith in her unwavering. Though her mother is broken in the wake of her father's death, echoes of the strong, commanding woman she once was peek through and give readers hope that the sun will shine on them again one day. Wren is Lexi's bubbly and birdlike little sister, and Lexi's adoration of the spirited sparrow is palpable on the page. Wren is a bright spot amid the eerie, misty moor, and gives passion to Lexi's drive to save the children of Near.
Then there's Cole -- enigmatic, elusive Cole. He is the stormy center of the story, alluring Lexi (and readers) with his mystery, and winning their sympathy with his tempestuous past. Though this sounds like the same old story, it's not. There's an ethereal, untamed quality to Cole that likens him to the wind-tossed moor -- more than just a brooding, beautiful boy. He is bowed by secret trials beyond his years, an old soul to keep pace with Lexi's own spirit. Though the novel is more folklore than love story, the streak of romance gives an edge of softness to an otherwise ominous tale.
Magda and Dreska -- the gnarled, weathered witches that lurk on the outskirts of Near -- were two of the most fascinating characters in the novel, their commanding presence demanding attention even on the fringes of a scene. Their wisdom, hidden behind riddles and half-formed phrases, gave the novel its air of mystery and impugned the town's hate and fear. The rest of the village is infuriating. Their small-minded prejudice creates the drama and emotional tension that drives the plot, and will keep readers fuming with the injustice of it all. Yet, they are just one of the evils Lexi must face. Though the villain may be foreseeable, the outcome is not -- there is no promise of happily-ever-after in the town of Near, and readers will be up until the wee witching hours to discover whether justice prevails or beloved characters ta
By: Casey (The Bookish Type),
on 7/27/2011
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When Ashline's sister rolls into town, it's rarely a good sign -- but this time Eve's more out-of-control than ever. In the aftermath of her visit, Ash leaves town to escape the tragedy she left in her wake. Blackwood Academy is supposed to be a fresh start, free from chaos and pain. Unfortunately, a mystical force has drawn Ash -- and others like her -- to this secluded school among the redwoods, and Eve may not be the nastiest thing stalking them from the imposing forest.
This debut is eerie and intense, steamy and mysterious. From page one,
Wildefire flies into action, sucking readers up in a vortex of legend and imagination.
Karsten Knight draws together strands from a smorgasbord of different mythologies, spicing things up with a few invented creatures of his own. These are not run-of-the-mill supernaturals, and their variety and scale give the novel an epic feel. The forces at play are as deadly as they are majestic -- shown in stark detail through flashbacks and visions. This tale is dark and dangerous, in a delicious, edge-of-your-seat kind of way. From the first explosive page to the final astonishing revelation, just when readers think they know where this story is taking them,
Wildefire yanks them away in another startling direction.
The high-octane energy is due in large part to Ash. Ashline Wilde is hardcore and sarcastic -- and maybe more than a little angry. Her larger-than-life personality and razor sharp repartee jump off the page and grab readers by the throat. Though she's got the typical teen drama -- cheating boyfriends and ill-timed detentions -- her family dysfunction really steals the show. When her motorcycle-riding, hell-raising, runaway sister blows through town, she stirs up more than just trouble. Ash and Eve take sibling rivalry to a whole new level, and their struggle fuels the emotional core of the novel. Though it's easy to villainize Eve, Knight takes care to show the ties that bind the two sisters -- making their choices less black and white, and Ashline's struggle more wrenching.
Unlike so many heroines, Ashline has more than a studly boyfriend on her side (though she has one of those too). The group of friends she gathers at Blackwood is diverse and dynamic -- from aloof but alluring Raja, spooky and ethereal Serena, roguish but romantic Rolfe, to nerdy but loyal Jackie. Though they may initially seem like stereotypes, the ragtag gang will steadily grow on readers as they face their demons (both real and psychological). The characters feel so alive, like real teens -- even though they're so much more.
Knight's style is effortless and unobtrusive, painting vivid scenes without getting in the way of his story. The novel's irreverent wit and brisk pace never give readers a moment's boredom, carrying them along on the smooth surface of its prose -- which stands in sharp contrast to the cosmic consequences hanging in the balance.
Wildefire will draw readers in with its otherworldly opening, pull them along through midnight monsters and would-be mercenaries, straight into surreal psychics and smoldering romance -- and leave them begging for more.
Rating: 
Disclosure: I received an advance galley of this novel from the publisher for an honest review.This novel
By: Casey (The Bookish Type),
on 7/7/2011
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Kate Mercier has come to Paris in order to escape a past of death and tragedy. After weeks of burying her thoughts and her pain within the pages of a book, things start to look up when Kate meets the mysterious and charming Vincent. But Vincent is a revenant, which means he's got his own crosses to bear -- like ancient enemies and a deadly compulsion -- that will bring Kate face to face with her worst nightmare.
In
Die for Me,
Amy Plum creates a complex, original mythology that stands out among modern paranormal romances. This story is centered around sacrifice, and the myriad variations on that theme are impressive in their imagination and variety. The past lives and deaths of the revenants add richness and shade to the narrative, and Plum takes a special interest in the wars of the past -- times rife with personal sacrifice and national tragedy. Each revenant's story will earn readers' respect even as it breaks their hearts. The Parisian atmosphere provides the backdrop for the tale, and is strikingly vivid, almost another character in the story -- setting the tone for this tale of myth and romance.
I wanted to like Kate. She starts off as bookish and pensive, and there are several times throughout the novel when she doesn't hesitate to do what's best for her or speak her mind. However, at other times, she can be melodramatic and self-blaming, when she is clearly not at fault. This tendency to be a martyr for love is a personal frustration with several modern heroines, and Kate seems to fall into that mold. Kate repeatedly claims that she pushes people away out of self-defense after the pain of losing her parents, but the fact that she tells rather than shows these feelings makes them appear less genuine and the ups and downs in her relationships seem forced.
Unfortunately, the romance also falls flat. Vincent is the typical mysterious, supernatural bad boy who starts out arrogant but quickly becomes the doting boyfriend. Their relationship moves at a breakneck pace, with both of them willing to die for the other within a month and claiming to have "never felt like this about anyone before." They become extremely co-dependent and possessive, and their utter infatuation with one another is occasionally overwrought in its mushiness.
In fact, it is difficult to connect with most of the characters, as they tend to behave inconsistently and unbelievably. Jules is an over-the-top Casanova, while Charles acts like a petulant child. Thankfully there's Ambrose, the playful, big brother bear, and Charlotte, the other girl among the group with whom Kate can bond. Charlotte is definitely the best of the bunch, and I would have liked to see her play a stronger role in the story to counteract the overwhelming testosterone in the revenant household. Nonetheless, the playful, brotherly bond between the boys is endearing. The plot thickens when all is revealed, and the final pages kick up the pace and excitement, leaving readers on the edge of their seats as Kate fights for all she holds dear.
Rating:
Disclosure: I received an advance e-galley from the publisher for an honest review, and won an ARC in a contest hosted by Good Choice Reading. This did not affect my review in any way.
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good review, i will check this one out!
here's my review of catching jordan! stop by?!
http://lindsaycummingsblog.blogspot.com/2011/11/arc-review-catching-jordan-fun-read.html
Very nice review, I really loved this book too. I like how you touched on the different relationships - I loved the dynamic between between Harper and Laney as well.
I can't wait to see what Hannah Harrington writes next!
Okay, that does it! I'm adding Saving June to my TBR right this instant. I can't believe I was thinking of passing it up! It sounds amazing. Thanks for the review, Casey! :)
Casey! I did like the book. I saw it as a grief book, and from that perspective I was let down. Since personally, it's no 'the sky is everywhere'. So yeah, liked it but didn't love it. Good to know that you enjoyed it more :)