Kazumi Reads

Plot Summary:
Karou has taken the rebellion from Thiago with the help of Ziri and walks a very thin line with the rest of her comrades. Meanwhile, Eliza's past returns to haunt her and is trying desperately to figure out why the Seraphim and Jael have come to Earth. For Akiva, he has to find a way to convince the remaining Misbegotten that by joining the Chimera they will be able to end Jael's tyranny and reclaim Astrae. For Zuzana and Mik, they remain at Karou's side to help her resurrect Chimera who were slaughtered by Thiago for defiance.  When Akiva returns with the Misbegotten, tensions are high especially when they are told that chimera and serigraphs will be fighting side be side. Although Akva and Karou are holding on to their dream with both hands, things start to fall apart when insurrections arise and allies betray them. With a plan in hand, Akiva and Karou will have to go to Earth to stop Jael from bringing earthly weapons to Eretz, but with one small catch: no more blood will be shed and that proves difficult with Liraz who wants Jael's head on a platter. What should have been a rock solid plan, turns to dust when Akiva is pushed into the Earthen portal with Karou, leaving Ziri and Liraz behind to fight off the Dominion, which leaves him devastated. However, with Karou by his side, they must sneak into the Vatican to convince Jael to leave peacefully, which doesn't exactly goes to plan. Lastly, when Eliza's past is exposed, she spins out of control and the only ones who can save her are Zuzana and Mik. Who exactly is Eliza and why is she linked to all of this. Moreover, after using Sirithat, the Stelian Queen, Scarab, is on a mission to find and destroy Akiva because his powers have the ability to not only bring an end to the Continuum, but release an evil that is laying patiently in the dark. 
 
Critical Evaluation:
HOLY COW! EPIC! Thank you jury duty for keeping me locked in a room with nothing better to do than devour this final installment. I was kinds of worried, at first, that if Taylor introduced any more characters, my head would spin. However, Eliza's story is essential in tying the series together. I will also admit that I am so unbelievably happy that Eliza, whose ancestors originated from a biblical story that's only recognized in Ethiopia, is, indeed, African. Honestly, as much as love YA fiction, it's still hard to find stories where there are important characters that are of multiple ethnicity so BRAVO Laini Taylor for including a part of biblical history that readers may not familiar with. Although the characters in this story relate to Christian mysticism (angels and demons), Taylor doesn't bash readers over the head with the idea of heaven vs. hell. In fact, what she does is pose the simple question of other realms being spliced together, unintentionally, through time and space. When readers find out about the faerers and the cataclysm, everything will make sense. More important, readers will learn the real reason why the Serpahim and Chimera loathe each other and it is a bit unsettling. Although the Stelians are seen as ambivalent and selfish, they actually bear a burden that forces them to not pick a side because they are trying to pick up the mess that the Magi started thousands of years ago. I did find myself hurrying through the book because I just wanted Akiva and Karou to have a happy ending; however, Taylor's decision to include final part of the story with the Stelians I think was a great way to not leave any loose ends. Granted, readers will be left for another installment, Taylor actually leaves enough room to begin a whole new series that could easily pick up where Akiva and Karou left off. Great story and I did tear up when Akiva and Karou finally went home together. Amazing trilogy and I can't wait to see what Laini Taylor has planned next!

Information about the Author:
According to Amazon.com:

Laini Taylor is the author of the National Book Award Finalist Lips Touch: Three Times, as well as the novels Blackbringer and Silksinger. She lives in Portland, Oregon with her husband, illustrator Jim Di Bartolo, and their daughter.

Genre:
Teen Fantasy, Teen Supernatural Romance

Reading Level/Interest:
Grades 9 & up

Books Similar to Dreams of Gods & Monsters:

• Ruin and Rising by Leigh Bardugo
• Beautiful Redemption by Kami Garcia & Margaret Stohl

Awards & Recognition:
From Amazon.com:

*In the final book of the Daughter of Smoke & Bone trilogy, Taylor revives the strong interweaving of reality and fantasy that gave the first story such cross-genre appeal."—Publishers Weekly, starred review

"[An] ambitious, gorgeously edgy drama lit up by its coruscating characters and prose."— Kirkus

"New revelations, characters, multiple love stories, and constant plot twists and suspense will not disappoint Taylor's many fans."— Booklist

"For all the well-made trappings of fantasy and horror, the patchwork amalgamation of myth and legend, the machinations of plot, and the colorful menagerie of ensemble characters, this story remains, at heart, a romance-clear-eyed, tender, and satisfying."—The Horn Book

*"Though readers will be loath to leave this world behind, the trilogy ends with a sweet buffet of just deserts; the best balm for the bereft may be to start the series again from the beginning."—The Bulletin (starred review)

Plot Summary:
After learning about the deaths of her Chimera family, Karou found the portal, with the help of Razgut, to see what remains of her home in Loremendi. Sadly, there is nothing but wasteland and death, which fills Karou with utter rage that Akiva was responsible for all of this. Unwilling to believe that Brimstone was really dead, Karou went searching for them and stumbled upon something even more upsetting: Thiago was alive and that Brimstone was working on resurrecting fallen soldiers to create an army for Thiago to lead a rebellion bent on annihilation. Upon learning that Brimstone is truly dead, Karou has aligned herself with the very creature that executed Madrigal eighteen years ago by taking resuming Brimstone's work in order to take revenge against the angels, including Akiva. Although building an army of Chimera soldiers is dangerous in their realm, Karou's human form has been quite the advantage since she is resurrecting the soldiers in the human world. Meanwhile, Zuzana is desperately trying to reach her friend and is guarding her most prized possessions (her sketchbooks) and keeping the press at bay. When Zuzana learns that a woman has been breaking into museums and taking teeth, she knows that Karou is alive. However, she is angry that Karou hasn't tried to communicate with her until she receives an enigmatic email from her filled with odd familiar phrases. What is Karou trying to tell her? As for Akiva, he returns to Eretz only to find that Hazel and Liraz have not told anyone about his predicament. However, Akiva has decided that he will atone for his sins against Karou by saving Chimera rather than slaughtering them. Granted, his angelic siblings know something is going on with him, he has yet to reveal his intentions to them. In this sequel, readers will follow the main characters through their separate journeys and meet new characters who will make this saga even more epic because the ending of this story is really just the beginning of something beautiful or tragic. 

Critical Evaluation:
Honestly, I never like sequels because they tend to be the weakest. However, Days of Blood & Starlight is literally the Empire Strikes Back of the trilogy. I absolutely appreciate the fact that all of the main characters go on their separate journeys because readers finally have the chance to get to know these characters more. Furthermore, by having each character take these necessary strides, this allows the author to fully develop the character, which is amazing because we see that Karou had to make some serious choices that she, as a human, has never had to make. For Akiva, we see a creature plagued with guilt and is desperately trying to make amends for what he did by trying to save Chimera from Joram. What is so unbelievably endearing about Akiva is the he refuses to give up on the idea of peace and Karou. Honestly, of all the characters who has endured the most suffering, he is the one who continues to cling to the promise he made Madrigal before her death. As for Zuzana, I love this girl!!! I am so happy happy happy that she has her own story because she complements Karou so beautifully it reminds me of me and my best friend. More importantly, I loved the fact that she and Mik were able to interact and communicate with the Chimera because it shows the simple truth that we can all coexist if we take the time to learn from one another. I have a strong feeling that when the chimera find out what Thiago is up to they will be more apt to protect than ravage because humans are really just naked chimera with the same capacity to love. This is probably one of the strongest things in the story, which is so utterly beautiful. Although the war between the chimera and angels is ancient, it's an necessary power struggle between to races where death becomes a never ending result.  Despite the Romeo & Juliet likeness, this is story about living and fighting to prove that in order to bring peace, everyone must embrace change otherwise everyone is doomed. I can't wait to the last one!!

Information about the Author:
According to Amazon.com:

Laini Taylor is the New York Times bestselling author of Days of Blood & Starlight, Daughter of Smoke & Bone, the Dreamdark books Blackbringer and Silksinger, and the National Book Award finalist Lips Touch: Three Times. She lives in Portland, Oregon with her husband, illustrator Jim Di Bartolo, and their daughter, Clementine. Her website is www.lainitaylor.com.

Genre:
Teen Fantasy, Teen Supernatural Romance

Reading Level/Interest:
Grades 9 & up

Books Similar to Blood & Starlight:

• Siege and Storm by Leigh Bardugo
• Scarlet by Marissa Meyer

Awards & Recognition:
From Amazon.com

Plot Summary:
Karou has no recollection of her past. She doesn't know who she is and has no idea how she inherited her special abilities. The only thing she does know is that she cannot tell anyone, even her best friend, that she has been raised by the very entities she draws: mythological creatures known as Chimera. Karou is currently an art student at one of the most prestigious academies in the Czech Republic. After breaking up with her two-timing boyfriend, Karou spends most of her time focusing on her art and running errands for her guardian named Brimstone. Although Brimstone is Chimera, he is actually known as a Wishmonger who collects teeth to make wishes. The trouble with the teeth part is that Karou is actually responsible for retrieving those items using portals that take her "Elsewhere." Although she calls them "errands" most of us would call outlandish adventures that could easily cost her her life. Despite all of the excitement, Karou is starting to realize the loneliness that resides in her heart. After Kaz, all Karou wants is to be wanted and love, but with the recent events, the only beings she loves and cares about are in grave danger. Recently, black handprints have been appearing on all of the portals that Karou uses and they are put there by other worldly creatures who are bent on cleansing the Earth of Chimera. When Brimstone summons her, in desperation, Karou notices how worried he is because his supply of teeth has run dry. On her journey to meet an old acquaintance, who was banished from the shop, Karou runs into a beautiful creature with dark eyes filled with hate until he notices the tattoos on her palms. What is it about the pair of eyes on her hands that stopped the beautiful, angelic creature from killing her? Secondly, why are all the portals closed off and what has happened to Brimstone and the rest of her Chimera family? Rather than living the life Brimstone told her to live, Karou wants answers as to who she really is and why an angel would risk his immortal soul for her.

Critical Evaluation:
This story is probably one of the most epic romances I have read in a while and I am just in awe. Not only am I drawn to Karou and Akiva (as mythical beings), but their loneliness and their reunion is what pulls at my heart strings. Once readers start learning about the Angels and the Chimera, it starts to makes sense why this war exists. In other words, the Angels thought they were civilizing a species, but, in reality, they were enslaving and oppressing the Chimera, which ended up in a bloody Civil War. The funny thing is that Angels really believed they were doing good, but, they took for granted the fact that the Chimera never asked for any of it; thus, the mess that brought Madrigal and Akiva together. In relation to Karou, readers are definitely thrown for a loop when we learn that she may be a reincarnation of a Madrigal that saved Akiva from death, which may, or may not, please readers. Karou is a strong, young woman who has her own soul (and personality) so it's a little condescending to read that Akiva is only attracted to her because she happens to be Madrigal in another form. Although Karou/Madrigal are really the same person, she was reborn with the memories, but her way of thinking has changed immensely. Personally, I think Karou and Madrigal are two separate entities, but they both represent the Chimera that shows they are not vicious monsters and that human are more forgiving and compassionate than Angels. For example, Brimstone didn't have to raise Karou as his own, but he did because he does have the capability to love. More importantly, to be human is compassionate and knowing what's true and what's now (why else would she go looking for the family she still loves despite everything). The part that I find ironic is that both both of the main characters are not human, yet the possess the will and the want to be loved, accepted, and forgiven. In essence, the question the author poses is what really makes us human or inhuman? Both Karou and Akiva love being in our world because there is so much beauty and life; for Akiva, this world has hope, which, coincidentally, is the meaning of Karou's name. For Karou, she has her art, her best friend Zuzana, and she has her childhood among the Chimera. Honestly, there is a lot going on this story that is so incredibly deep that readers can't help but to devour the pages in one sitting. Laini Taylor is truly a gifted storyteller and I am looking forward to reading the next installments.

Information about the Author:
According to her blog:

I'm Laini Taylor.

I am a writer-artist-daydreamer-nerd-person,

and simultaneously a mom-wife-sister-daughter-person.

I can do a lot of things at once, like for example: I can sleep and dream and also lie very still,

all while also breathing and ever-so-slowly growing ten distinct toenails.

* * *

I write books for youngish people, 

but they can also be read and enjoyed by oldish people, aka grown-ups.

You know grown-ups? They tend to be a little bigger and hairier than kids.

But not always.

* * *

I live in Portland, Oregon, USA

with my husband Jim Di Bartolo, who is an amazing illustrator and who I'm

always begging to draw me things,

and with our wee droll genius, Clementine Pie.

* * *

Some of my favorite things are books and bookstores

and breakfast food and mangoes and chocolate,

and cake stands and table cloths and old houses,

and going places (like libraries and other countries),

and dreaming up stories,

and making stuff (like cupcakes or peculiar dolls),

and playing with Jim and Clementine,

and taking pictures,

and falling asleep (so cozy)

and waking up (exciting!).

Genre:
Teen Fantasy, Teen Supernatural Romance

Reading Level/Interest:
Grades 9 & up

Books Similar to Daughter of Smoke and Bone:

• The Space Between by Breanna Yovanoff
• Shadow and Bone by Leigh Bardugo

Awards & Recognition:
From Amazon.com

•  YALSA Top Ten Best Fiction for Young Adults
• A New York Times Notable Children's Book of the Year
• A Publishers Weekly Best Book of the Year
• A School Library Journal Best Book of the Year
• A Kirkus Reviews Best Teen Book of the Year
• A Junior Library Guild Selection of the YearA Publishers Weekly, starred review

* "Lush description of a gothic and ghostly Prague beckons readers from the first page and fulfills its promise, leading to a star-crossed romance that spans worlds and transcends death...[Leaves] the reader both satisfied and eagerly anticipating a forthcoming sequel."—The Horn Book, starred review

* "The suspense builds inexorably, and the philosophical as well as physical battles will hold action-oriented readers. The unfolding of character, place, and plot is smoothly intricate, and the conclusion is a beckoning door to the next volume."—School Library Journal, starred review

* "National Book Award finalist Taylor (Lips Touch: Three Times) again weaves a masterful mix of reality and fantasy with cross-genre appeal. Exquisitely written and beautifully paced, the tale is set in ghostly, romantic Prague, where 17-year-old Karou is an art student--except when she is called "home" to do errands for the family of loving, albeit inhuman, creatures who raised her. Mysterious as Karou seems to her friends, her life is equally mysterious to her: How did she come to live with chimaera? Why does paternal Brimstone eternally require teeth--especially human ones? And why is she "plagued by the notion that she wasn't whole....a sensation akin to having forgotten something?" Taylor interlaces cleverly droll depictions of contemporary teenage life with equally believable portrayals of terrifying otherworldly beings. When black handprints begin appearing on doorways throughout the world, Karou is swept into the ancient deadly rivalry between devils and angels and gradually, painfully, acquires her longed-for self-knowledge. The book's final pages seemingly establish the triumph of true love--until a horrifying revelation sets the stage for a second book."—Publishers Weekly, starred review

* "Rarely--perhaps not since the author's own Faeries of Dreamdark: Blackbringer (2007)--does a series kick off so deliciously."—Kirkus, starred review

* "[A]long with writing in such heightened language that even casual banter often comes off as wildly funny, the author crafts a fierce heroine with bright-blue hair, tattoos, martial skills, a growing attachment to a preternaturally hunky but not entirely sane warrior and, in episodes to come, an army of killer angels to confront. Rarely--perhaps not since the author's own Faeries of Dreamdark: Blackbringer (2007)--does a series kick off so deliciously."—Kirkus, starred review

* "Taylor crafts both her world and her romance with meticulous care, building the first on a wealth of thought-provoking details and making the second equal parts tender and antagonistic...Fans of torturously star-crossed lovers a la those in Marr's Wicked Lovely and Black's Tithe will find much to enjoy here, but those who flock to innovative, character-driven fantasy with thematic depth will be equally enthralled."—The Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books, starred review

"[A] breath-catching romantic fantasy about destiny, hope and the search for one's true self"—The New York Times Book Review

"An adventurous story of self-identity, "Daughter of Smoke and Bone" is written with high-stakes flair and a touch of humor...[It is] well-told and well-paced, raising intriguing questions about notions of identity, expectation, trust, betrayal and belonging."—The Los Angeles Times

"Author Taylor has created a variety of worlds, time frames, and creatures with such detail and craft that all are believable...Readers will look forward to the suggested sequel to this complex, exciting tale."—Booklist

* "Lush description of a gothic and ghostly Prague beckons readers from the first page and fulfills its promise, leading to a star-crossed romance that spans worlds and transcends death...[Leaves] the reader both satisfied and eagerly anticipating a forthcoming sequel."—The Horn Book (starred review)

Plot Summary:
After making the ultimate sacrifice for the girl he loves, Ethan is not caught between two worlds. Although he is dead, he is in a place where those with unfinished business wait until they are able to cross over. Confused, and scared, Ethan did not expect to see his own mother caught in this place. However, after realizing the situation between his mother, and Macon, Ethan understands why she is there; hence, her ability to send messages through songs. For Ethan, he is not willing to accept his death and wants nothing but to return to Lena. After visiting Aunt Pru, who is also not ready to move on, he learns that there is a way to return to realm of the living and that it will be dangerous. Lila, Ethan's mother, is not happy with this idea and tries to persuade Ethan to stay, but, ultimately, Ethan must return because he was not supposed to die. Contrary to what he believes, Ethan's fate was decided for him and he has an opportunity to change everything. After visiting Obidias Trueblood, he learns that his name and death had been written in the Book of Casters and if he rips out his page, he will return to the mortal world. However, he must find his way to the Far Keep and get the book from Angelius himself. What he doesn't realize is that there is actually something worse than death--but eternal darkness. Ethan has no idea how he is going to get there, but he must if he ever wants to see Lena again. After being instructed on how to get to the Seam, which is the beginning of his journey, Ethan decides to contact Lena and Amma through the local newspaper and asks for help. Lena and Amma know that Ethan needs them, but Link and the others are not quite sure. In fact, Link, whose powers have been growing, has dedicated his life to look out for Lena even if it means that she is unwilling to accept Ethan's death. For Lena, she refuses to give up on Ethan and when she sees that he is asking for help, she is determined to get him everything he need including the Book of Moons. The problem with this request is that Abraham Ravenwood has the Book and they don't know where to look. Not to mention, how will they be able to get it to Ethan. In this thrilling conclusion, Ethan will take on all of the evil that has threatened his world and destroyed Lena's family. For Lena, this is the opportunity to bring back the boy she loves who not only restored the balance in the Caster World, but the same boy who never gave up on her. There is plenty of action and madness so get ready for an ending we may, or may not, be ready for.

Critical Evaluation:
 I can honestly say that I was not anticipating the ending of this series. As I kept reading, all I can think of was: "Wait, I am running out of pages so where is this going?" What I appreciate about these stories is that both Lena and Ethan have grown so much and it gives the readers hope that no matter what life throws at them, they will be able to overcome anything. Clearly, the bond between them can never be broken because they were destined for each other. I guess my greatest fear is what if the drift apart? I will say that I encourage the teen girls I work with to not get bogged down in relationships since they will be going off to college an experiencing new things and meeting new people. But, in this case, I am sure everything will be all right since they both defied death, imminent destruction, and the pains of adolescence. Bottom line: the authors have ended this series on a bittersweet note and we don't exactly get the happily ever after we want. Honestly, if the authors did not give us this ending than the entire series would have been ruined (aka Twilight series). The hardest part for me is not knowing if Lila moved on and the fact that Amma had to fulfill her end of the bargain. If readers don't remember, think back to the meeting with the Bokor. Like all things in life, we all need to have a little faith that everything will turn out for the best. For everyone in Gatlin, they are clueless as to what has been going on, but thanks to the bravery and perseverance of two innocent young people they can go on with their lives. For teens, this series has shown just how precious and valuable they really are whether they have magical abilities are are just plain normal. Everyone plays a specific part in life, which makes them unique, necessary, and irreplaceable. I am sad to see this series end, but am ready to move on just like Ethan and Lena and see what the future holds, especially with the upcoming movie adaptations.

Information about the Author:
According to their website:

Margaret is a veteran of the video-game industry, and after working with Activision (now Activision Blizzard) and Westwood Studios (now Electronic Arts), Margaret became a co-founder of 7 Studios with her husband, Lewis Peterson. She has previously been nominated for Most Innovative Game Design at the Game Developers Conference.

A graduate of Amherst College, where she won the Knox Prize for English Literature, Margaret earned a master’s degree in English from Stanford University and completed coursework for a doctorate in American Studies at Yale University. Margaret was a teaching assistant in Romantic Poetry at Stanford and in Film Studies at Yale. She attended the Creative Writing program of the University of East Anglia, where she was mentored by the Scottish poet George MacBeth.

Margaret loves traveling the world with her daughters, who are épée fencers, and living in Santa Monica, California, with her husband and two bad beagles.

Kami grew up outside of Washington DC, wore lots of black, and spent hours writing poetry in her journals. She has always been fascinated by the paranormal and believes in lots of things “normal” people don’t. She’s very superstitious and would never sleep in a room with the number “13” on the door. When she is not writing, Kami can usually be found watching disaster movies, listening to Soundgarden, or drinking Diet Coke.

Kami has an MA in education, and taught in the Washington DC area until she moved to Los Angeles, where she was a teacher & Reading Specialist. In addition to teaching, Kami was a professional artist and led fantasy book groups for children and teens. She still lives in LA with her husband, son, daughter, and their dogs Spike and Oz (named after characters from Buffy the Vampire Slayer)

Genre:
Teen Supernatural Romance
 
Reading Level/Interest:
Grades 9 & up
 
Books Similar to Beautiful Redemption:

• Reached by Ally Condie
• Finale by Rebecca Fitzpatrick
  

Awards & Recognition:
From Amazon.com

"The fourth and final installment picks up after the massive cliff-hanger in Beautiful Chaos and doesn't disappoint." (Entertainment Weekly )

"The Beautiful Creatures novels contain a potent mix of the gothic, the mythic, and the magical. Readers can look forward to more of what they love in the final installment, Beautiful Redemption, as they follow Ethan's compelling journey to its bittersweet close. With original characters, complex world building, and crackling prose, this is masterful storytelling." (Deborah Harkness, #1 New York Times bestselling author of A Discovery of Witches )

Plot Summary:
After learning that her grandmother was possessed by a Fury, Pierce is taken back to the Underworld with John. In order to protect her, Pierce has no choice but to leave the mortal world because the Furies have been using her to get to John. When she realized who John was, her entire world has turned upside down because not only is she hunted, she has to come to terms that she is the consort of a death deity. In other words, she will spend eternity with the man she loves while her family and loved ones live and die before her very eyes. Although she isn't happy with this idea, Pierce has finally admitted that she loves John and cannot live without him. However, when she stumbles upon her messenger bad, and cellphone, she sees a frightening image of her cousin, in a coffin, being buries alive. According to John, this could be a plot to get her to revel herself of the Furies will kill everyone she loves. Unwilling to watch her cousin die, she tells John that she will spend the rest of her life with him if she can make sure Alex is okay. What they weren't counting on is their return will not only expose Jade's, her high school counselor, murderer, but they will run into Pierce's grandmother once more. With the Furies hot on their tracks, Pierce and John set out to find Alex with a little help from the crew of The Liberty and her best, and only friend, Kayla. What was supposed to be an "epic" Coffin Night turns in a night that no one will ever forget, especially when the death deity does something impossible.


Critical Evaluation:
In this installment, Meg Cabot sheds light on the life of  John Hayden and the choices Pierce must make in order to be by his side for eternity. I won't lie when I say I couldn't wait for Underworld and I wasn't disappointed at all. The story is well written and readers won't be able to put it down. Although it is a romance story, there is quite a bit of action because the Furies are stopping at nothing to find Pierce and John. Furthermore, the ending literally leaves readers hanging because not only is there no going back, the underworld is about to get a new mortal visitors. I am really curious about Kayla because when she is around Pierce, the Persephone Diamonds gives off a bright purple glow. Pierce told john that the diamond gives off a deep black to show her they are in danger so when it gives another color something must be going on. However, when Smith tells Pierce about the Fates are spirits that are meant to bring good into our lives, I wonder if Cabot is giving readers insight into Kayla's character. For all we know, Kayla could be the fate that could bring some sort of hope or joy in this dire situation, which is desperately needed since there will be an all out war of some kind. Furthermore, with the incident involving Alex, I know his character will bring more to the next installment because now he has the proof he has been waiting for and the tenacity. Although this story focuses on the wrath of the Furies, it also exposes another sort of evil underworld that not only involves Uncle Chris, but the prominent families of Los Huesos. Bring on Awaken so Pierce and John can have the happy ending they deserve.

Information about the Author:
According to her website:

Born and raised in Bloomington, Indiana, Meg also lived in Grenoble, France and Carmel, California (the setting for her bestselling Mediator series) before moving to New York City after graduating with a bachelor’s degree in fine arts from Indiana University.

After working for ten years as an assistant residence hall director at New York University (an experience from which she occasionally draws inspiration for her Heather Wells mystery series—two new books in the series will be out in 2012 and 2013), Meg wrote the Princess Diaries series, which was made into two hit movies by Disney, sold over 20 million copies, and has been translated into 38 languages.

Meg Cabot (her last name rhymes with habit, as in “her books can be habit forming”) currently lives in Key West with her husband and two cats.

Genre:
Teen Supernatural Romance
 
Reading Level/Interest:
Grades 9 & up
 
Books Similar to Underworld:

•  Entice by Carrie Jones
•  Of Poseidon by Anna Banks
  

Awards & Recognition:
From Amazon.com:

"Cabot shows the dark side behind the bling-blingy superficial worlds.” –Teenreads.com

"[The] strong, amusing voice, the plot twists, and the possibility of romance will draw mystery and chick-lit readers alike." –ALA Booklist

“Bag the tiara and get out the gun ... Cabot delivers.” –Publishers Weekly

Plot Summary:
Two years ago, Pierce Oliveras died. While in the Underworld, she met a face she had met quite some ago. She actually met him at her grandfather's funeral when she seven years old and he did something no one could do--he resurrected a bird. After drowning in her own pool, Pierce gathered her courgae to speak with him and, although he didn't remember her at first, he gave her an option: get on the boat over the River Styx or stay by his side. Not knowing what to do, she foolishly agreed to be by his side, which meant she would be with him for an eternity. Afraid and clueless, Pierce tried to escape only to be brought back to life when the paramedics revived her. When she regained consciousness, she realized that she brought something from the Underworld with her--a rare diamond necklace that would protect her from evil. Even though she is alive and well, her life took a turn for the worse when two unspeakable things happened to her, which not only forced her to leave Connecticut, but brought an end to her parents' marriage. Now a resident of Los Huesos, Florida, Pierce is trying to regain some sort of normalcy except for the fact that her savior/captor still watches over her. John, her Hades, has never stopped looking out for her, which begs the question: why does he stick around?  Under the impression that Pierce wants nothing to do with him, he is still there. What's worse is that an invisible force has been creating trouble in Los Huesos and Pierce is forced to come to terms with her feelings. Unfortunately, her life is about to become more complicated when The Furies, themselves, descend upon her to seek revenge and John makes an incredibly rash decision. Hades and Perspehone definitely didn't have it this bad. 


Critical Evaluation:
In this re-telling of Hades and Perspehone, Meg Cabot puts an impressive twist on this classic tale. If readers are not familiar with this tale, they will get a brief insight to the ancient love story where a God fell in love with a mortal. However, the story behind John and Pierce is a lot more complicated, especially when Pierce was the pawn to kick start and long time feud. What's great about this story is that it's really easy to get into and it is hard t put down because of the narrative. Cabot uses flashbacks wonderfully where she reveals Pierce's past that not only put her in the present, but reveal her true purpose. Furthermore, the location of this novel is sheer genius because there is no better place to put the mouth of the Underworld than the steaming, unpredictable land of the Everglades. Although readers know a little about John Hayden, readers will be wanting more other than the fact that he was a victim of foul play and just happened to find the lost necklace of Hades. Honestly, I have never heard of this necklace until I read this story. After surfing the internet, I saw a great example as to what the necklace may have looked like. I am not so sure about the myth of warding of evil, but my research will have to continue. This series is definitely definitely darker than most of works, but the plot, which, in itself, is based on a classic tale of treachery and compromise that is bound to spark all kinds of interest. Bring on the sequel: Underworld.


Information about the Author:
According to her website:

Meg Cabot is a #1 New York Times bestselling author of books for both adults and tweens/teens. Born and raised in Bloomington, Indiana, Meg also lived in Grenoble, France and Carmel, California (the setting for her bestselling Mediator series) before moving to New York City after graduating with a bachelor’s degree in fine arts from Indiana University.

After working for ten years as an assistant residence hall director at New York University (an experience from which she occasionally draws inspiration for her Heather Wells mystery series—two new books in the series will be out in 2012 and 2013), Meg wrote the Princess Diaries series, which was made into two hit movies by Disney, sold over 20 million copies, and has been translated into 38 languages.

Meg Cabot (her last name rhymes with habit, as in “her books can be habit forming”) currently lives in Key West with her husband and two cats.

Genre:
Teen Supernatrual Romance
 
Reading Level/Interest:
Grades 9 & up
 
Books Similar to Abandon:

• Everneath by Brodi Ashton
• East by Edith Pattou

Awards & Recognition:

From Amazon.com:
“Cabot shows the dark side behind the bling-blingy superficial worlds.” —Teenreads.com

"[The] strong, amusing voice, the plot twists, and the possibility of romance will draw mystery and chick-lit readers alike." —ALA Booklist

“Bag the tiara and get out the gun ... Cabot delivers.” —Publishers Weekly

Plot Summary:
After claiming herself, Lena has found the solace and the relief she has been looking for ever since her sixteenth birthday. However, now that she has chosen to be both light and dark, strange things have been happening in Gatlin. Not only is is unbearably hot (hotter than usual), the fields are burned black, and the Lubber bugs are everywhere. What looks like the end of times for the mortal world is also affecting the Caster world where Casters are unable to use their magic properly and Lena's powers are more unpredictable than ever. Despite the possible end of the world, Link is getting use to his new life as an Incubus and Ridley is struggling without her powers, which makes him more confident and her more possessive and determined. Also, Ethan's father is recovering quite well and has decided to write a new book entitled Eighteen Moons, which instills great fear since Ethan and Lena know that the only person who communicates with that song is Ethan's mother, which begs the question: who is trying to communicate with Ethan's father? What's worse is that Ethan's dreams are becoming more vivid and dark and he is tarting to forget things he shouldn't.  With Abraham Ravenwood and Serafine on the loose, Ethan and Lena set out to find the truth behind Abraham's reappearance with the help of Marian and Liv. However, Ethan has other problems than Abraham Ravenwood--Marian has been accused of treason, which sets off a chain of events that reveal ever more treachery. In order to prevent the end of the world, Ethan and Lena must find the missing John Breed and find a way to bring order and balance between the mortal and caster world. The ending will leave readers speechless. 

Critical Evaluation:
In the third installment of the Beautiful Creatures trilogy, Beautiful Chaos delves into the history behind Serafine and the search for the mysterious John Breed. After her claiming, Lena's decision created a major problem where both the Caster and Mortal world are slowly falling apart; in other words, the delicate balance between Casters and Mortals has shifted where the Gatlin has turned into Moses' Egypt when Pharoh refused to let the Hebrews free. For the Caster world, their powers have be altered as if they are slowly losing their abilities to channel them properly. Although Lena chose to be both light and dark, this choice has caused a huge riff that even Abraham Ravenwood cannot fix unless he finds John Breed. The plot is literally filled with quite a few surprises that will not only add to the complexity of the story, but shed light an specific characters who have been severely misunderstood. I was very, very curious about the life of Izabel Duchannes (aka. Serafine), which, oddly enough, is quite the opposite of what we have seen thus far. It is actually possible to say that this horrible woman was once innocent and harmless; she was a person who actually loved and wanted nothing but to be a part of the Light .As Lena continues to uncover her mother's past, readers will hope that Lena will get the answers she has been longing for her whole life. However, the idea of John Breed was very perplexing simply because he is the key that Abraham Ravenwood is after. As a mutant/hybrid Incubus, John was purposely picked by Abraham for his powers. Readers don't learn a whole lot about his birth parents, but John lived a extremely unhappy life. The worst part about it is that John has no recollection of ever kidnapping Lena or hurting others; John, in many respects, has been an unwilling puppet for Abraham. What's great about John is behind the "jerk" facade, he develops a soft spot for Liv, which shows he is more than a "freak of nature." As readers get through the series, they realize that with every sacrifice, or decision, there is always a set of consequences. When Amma and Lena resurrected Ethan, they didn't realize that he would return with only one part of his soul. When Lena chose to claim herself as both dark and light, she created the rift between two worlds. When Ethan asked to Marian and Liv to help him find Lena, he didn't know that Marian would be tried for treason. It seems that no matter how noble, or terrible, our choices may be, someone is always going to suffer. However, what we also learn, is that with time, support, and love we can always get passed these decisions and find a way to make amends. This theme is constant throughout the series, which is not only hard to swallow, but very enlightening. The final installment, Beautiful Redemption,  readers may get the happy ending they are hoping for.

Information about the Author:
According to their website:

Margaret is a veteran of the video-game industry, and after working with Activision (now Activision Blizzard) and Westwood Studios (now Electronic Arts), Margaret became a cofounder of 7 Studios with her husband, Lewis Peterson. She has previously been nominated for Most Innovative Game Design at the Game Developers Conference.

A graduate of Amherst College, where she won the Knox Prize for English Literature, Margaret earned a master’s degree in English from Stanford University and completed coursework for a doctorate in American Studies at Yale University. Margaret was a teaching assistant in Romantic Poetry at Stanford and in Film Studies at Yale. She attended the Creative Writing program of the University of East Anglia, where she was mentored by the Scottish poet George MacBeth.

Margaret loves traveling the world with her daughters, who are épée fencers, and living in Santa Monica, California, with her husband and two bad beagles.

Kami grew up outside of Washington DC, wore lots of black, and spent hours writing poetry in her journals. She has always been fascinated by the paranormal and believes in lots of things “normal” people don’t. She’s very superstitious and would never sleep in a room with the number “13” on the door. When she is not writing, Kami can usually be found watching disaster movies, listening to Soundgarden, or drinking Diet Coke.

Kami has an MA in education, and taught in the Washington DC area until she moved to Los Angeles, where she was a teacher & Reading Specialist. In addition to teaching, Kami was a professional artist and led fantasy book groups for children and teens. She still lives in LA with her husband, son, daughter, and their dogs Spike and Oz (named after characters from Buffy the Vampire Slayer).

Genre:
Teen Supernatural Romance

Reading Level/Interest:
Grades 9 & up

Books Similar to Beautiful Chaos:

• Everneath by Brodi Ashton
• Shiver by Maggie Steifvater
  

Awards & Recognition:
From Amazon.com:
"This richly imagined series has all the elements of a successful Southern gothic supernatural romance....The ambiguity of good and evil adds appealing complexity....Genre fans will love it." (VOYA ) 

After burying Macon, Lena is plagues with grief and regret. Although Lena survived her sixteen moon/birthday without having to choose if she will be a dark or light caster, her powers, as a natural are growing rather quickly. For Ethan, this last year has turned his whole world upside down and it seems like he is losing everyone he loves, including Lena. Although Ethan's father was able to get the help he needed to cope with his wife's loss, everyone, and everything, is changing. In fact, Amma has even stopped doing her crossword puzzles and drowns her sorrows in her cooking. It seems that ever since that fateful night, and Macon's death, an uncertain and disturbing series of events are making their way to Gaitlin. Although their relationship is at a stand still, Ethan refuses to give up on Lena and hopes that she will eventually bounce back. However, when a new caster, and Ridley make their way back to Ravenwood, its obvious they are up to something or Lena is not in her right mind. Furthermore, the visions have returned and without Macon to decipher the mystery behind, Ethan is on his own to uncover the mystery behind the Ravenwood curse. Not only does this task seem impossible, Marian could not be directly involved and Lena was not available, or willing, to help Ethan. Unfortunately, when Lena makes a rash decision to leave Gatlin with Ridley and John, a hybrid Incubus, Ethan not only feels abandoned, but leads him to think Lena no longer loves him. Unable, and unwilling, to let Lena go, Ethan enlists the help of his best friend, Link, and Keeper-in-Training, Liv, to not only go on a deadly journey beneath the Tunnels, but find the location of the Great Barrier. What they weren't counting on is the lethal group of incubuses, Serafine, and Abraham Ravenwood and their plot to force Lena to claim herself.

Critical Evaluation:
I have been this saying this a lot, lately, but I could not put this book down. I cannot express how much I love this southern-Gothic tale where secrets, magic, and danger lurk in every corner. Compare to some sequels that I read, I was really, really frustrated with the situation, which means that this story is only going to get more exciting. Lenna's characters is so grief-stricken that she literally convinces herself to leave everything because of the death of Macon. In fact, she is heartbroken that she takes it upon herself to leave everything behind to protect those she loves. Meanwhile, Ethan, who is just falling apart, refuses to give up on Lena because he knows, deep down, that something, or someone, is trying to convince Lena that she is bad. What he doesn't realize is that she is doing it out of love, which, to him, makes him more determined to save her because she was the one who brought him back to life. Readers will find themselves angry and frustrated because, like the main characters, we want Lena and Ethan to be together because love knows no bounds. However, we do get one very unexpected surprise in regards to forbidden love, which not only makes Lena and Ethan more determines to fight for their love, but bring an end to the nonsense between mortals and casters. I will re-iterate that the reason why I love this premise so much is because not only is the Civil War engrained in the community of Gatlin, it is also going on in the caster world. Civil Wars are never, ever worth fighting in any world since all it leaves is a path of destruction where people die and misery thrives. I am very, very excited about the next installment because with the re-appearance of Abraham Ravenhood, the battle is only going to get worse. I sincerely hope Lena, who claims herself both light and dark, will learn to control her powers.

Information about the Author:
According to their website:

Margaret is a veteran of the video-game industry, and after working with Activision (now Activision Blizzard) and Westwood Studios (now Electronic Arts), Margaret became a cofounder of 7 Studios with her husband, Lewis Peterson. She has previously been nominated for Most Innovative Game Design at the Game Developers Conference.

A graduate of Amherst College, where she won the Knox Prize for English Literature, Margaret earned a master’s degree in English from Stanford University and completed coursework for a doctorate in American Studies at Yale University. Margaret was a teaching assistant in Romantic Poetry at Stanford and in Film Studies at Yale. She attended the Creative Writing program of the University of East Anglia, where she was mentored by the Scottish poet George MacBeth.

Margaret loves traveling the world with her daughters, who are épée fencers, and living in Santa Monica, California, with her husband and two bad beagles.

Kami grew up outside of Washington DC, wore lots of black, and spent hours writing poetry in her journals. She has always been fascinated by the paranormal and believes in lots of things “normal” people don’t. She’s very superstitious and would never sleep in a room with the number “13” on the door. When she is not writing, Kami can usually be found watching disaster movies, listening to Soundgarden, or drinking Diet Coke.

Kami has an MA in education, and taught in the Washington DC area until she moved to Los Angeles, where she was a teacher & Reading Specialist. In addition to teaching, Kami was a professional artist and led fantasy book groups for children and teens. She still lives in LA with her husband, son, daughter, and their dogs Spike and Oz (named after characters from Buffy the Vampire Slayer).

Genre:
Teen Supernatural Romance

Reading Level/Interest:
Grades 9 & up

Books Similar to Beautiful Darkness:

• Everneath by Brodi Ashton
• Shiver by Maggie Steifveter

Awards & Recognition:

Review quotes from Amazon.com

"The authors ground their Caster world in the concrete, skillfully juxtaposing the arcane, magical world with Gatlin's normal southern lifestyle. . . Fans will devour this latest book and plead for more." (VOYA, starred review )

"The southern gothic atmosphere, several new characters, and the surprising fate of one old favorite will keep readers going until the next book, which promises new surprises as "18 moons" approaches." (Booklist )

"This engrossing must-have sequel...will leave readers clamoring for the next installment." (School Library Journal )

"Readers eager to revisit Ethan and Lena's romantic tension and learn more about the Caster world and the Ravenwood family legacy will find satisfaction here." (Kirkus ) 

Plot Summary:
Nikki Beckett has finally returned home after 100 years in Everneath. During these 100 years, Cole, an immortal, has been feeding off of her emotions, ridding her of her availability to feel. When she finally awakes, Nikki has a choice to continue down the road to Everneath or go to the Tunnels where she will spend eternity in purgatory. However, the memories that have kept her alive all these years during the Feed, which, for most mortals is unprecedented, is the memory of her boyfriend, Jack, which gives her the will and way to return to this reality, but for only six months. Just like Persephone, who was swept away by Hades, Nikki finds herself face down in the Stop and Go mart, looking like an abandoned dog with no feeling. What Nikki doesn't realize is that during her escape, a Shade from the Tunnels has embedded itself into her, which will, eventually, bring her back to Everneath to endure an eternity of suffering. Although Nikki longs to be with Jack again, her disappearance, and re-appearance, has brought back a lot of pain and regret. However, Cole refuses to let her go. In fact, he takes it upon himself to enroll in her high school to not only taunt Jack, but to make warn Nikki that it's better to be in Everneath with him. What she doesn't know is that Cole has a secret agenda for Everneath, which involves war and rebellion and Nikki is the key to his ambitions. Knowing that her time is limited, Nikki has to make a choice: let go of her life and return with Cole or fight for the life and love she once had. The ending of this story is only the beginning.

Critical Evaluation:
I will not lie when I say that I absolutely, positively love Greek mythology. The moment I picked up Edith Hamilton's, Mythology, I have always been interested in Greek myths. When I saw that Everneath is based on the tale of Hades and Persephone, I was curious to see this played out during modern times and teenagers. Unlike the actual tale, Persephone was swept away instantly by Hades without any notice or choice. What I love about these "spins" is that readers actually get an insight into the thoughts and minds of the characters, which helps them see the thought-processes of these characters. Although Greek myths were written quite a long time ago, the modern story arc and use of prose leaving the tales rather stale. However, Brodi Ashton has managed to re-invent this story where the modern Persephone is given the opportunity to change her fate unlike the classical Persephone. Furthermore, this Persephone is much more complex, which makes her very, very human even though she is Forfeit. By intertwining another famous Greek myth (Orpheus and Eurydice), Brodi gives readers yet another alternative where Jack (aka Orpheus) chooses not to look back, but sacrifices himself to keep Nikki with her family, out of the tunnels, and free from Cole. Although the original Orpheus screwed up by looking back, Jack did the opposite by going forward. This story is about redemption, love, and courage where two young people will sacrifice everything to be together and, despite the whole gushy romance stuff, makes one heck of an entertaining story. In my opinion, Romeo and Juliet have nothing on Jack and Nikki and readers will be starving for the next installment, Everbound.

Information about the Author:
According to her blog:

Because of two parents who were Greek myth geeks, I grew up thinking the latest fashion trends were inspired by Aphrodite, and a good conversational opener was, “So, which mythological character do you most resemble?” Despite these social shortcomings, I found a great husband who’s always my first reader. We live in Utah with our two young boys, who still have no idea why I'm at the computer all the time.

I received a Bachelor’s degree in Journalism from the University of Utah and a Master’s degree in International Relations from the London School of Economics.

Genre:
Teen Supernatural Romance


Reading Level/Interest:
Grades 9 & up

Books Similar to Everneath:

• The Space Between by Breanna Yovanoff
• Matched by Ally Condie

Awards & Recognition:

Review Quotes from Amazon.com:

"I was pulled under by this bittersweet, beautiful retelling of the Persephone myth. Ashton's lovely storytelling and strong-on-her-own-terms main character set this one apart. Wonderful!"--Ally Condie, author of the MATCHED trilogy

"Ashton's debut, is complex and intriguing. Drawing inspiration from such myths as Osiris, Orpheus, and Persephone, it explores the nature of loss and longing and what it means to be alive."--Publishers Weekly

"Enthralling and suspenseful, EVERNEATH is pure indulgent escapism!"--Becca Fitzpatrick, New York Times bestselling author of HUSH, HUSH and CRESCENDO

"The author brings a fresh, innovative concept to young adult fiction with well-developed characters and a fantastic plot line .... Libraries are advised to buy multiple copies-this one will fly off the shelves."--Voice of Youth Advocates (VOYA) (Starred Review)


"The powerful emotions, moving and painful rebuilding of strained relationships, and star-crossed love story is sure to resonate with teen readers."--School Library Journal

Plot Summary:
Mara Dyer has no recollection of what happened at the old insane asylum. She remembers being woken in the middle night by Jude, her boyfriend, and has reluctantly agreed to join him and his sister, Claire, and her best friend, Rachel, to investigate the haunted building. What she doesn't remember is how she woke up in the hospital and how her friends died. After being diagnosed with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Mara convinces her family to leave Rhode Island to the sunny and tropical state of Florida. After enrolling in Croyden School, Mara has to start over, knowing that her best friend is dead. On her first day of school, she meets Jamie, who not only puts her nervousness at ease, but a her first friend who doesn't know about her past. Unfortunately, with every new school, Mara quickly learns that everyone in this school, except for a good few ones, is as dumb as a rock and ten times more vicious than a rabid lion. However, what Mara didn't count on is Noah. Known as the most hottest, and most popular guy, in school, Mara becomes the object of Noah's time and affection. After being warned that he is an all-time heart breaker, Mara does everything she can to avoid him. However, Mara still struggles with her nightmares and hallucinations that she fears she may never heal or be normal again. Although no one know this, but Mara has a very powerful gift that she cannot control, but, unbeknownst to Mara, this gift is her curse where certain people he had encountered end up dead. Mara has no clue what's going on with her head, but the last things she needs is to be humiliated by Anna and Aidan (the school's most notorious bullies and dimwhits). What Mara didn't count is that Noah was there, from the beginning, protecting her. Mara is very leery about Noah, but the more she gets to know him, the more she starts to realize that he is something all together different. Is it possible that this broken girl could finally start over? Could Mara have a happy ending? The cards say something different.   

Critical Evaluation:
Michelle Hodkin has written a thrilling account of a teen who not only has to deal with the loss of her best friend, but the very idea that she is the reason the person she cares the most for is dead. Although what happened that night was rules as a terrible accident, the events of that night slowly come back to Mara as the story progresses. By entwining flashbacks of the past with the presents, readers cannot put this book down because we have to know what Mara saw. Although this story is a very real tragedy, the idea that someone has the power to will the demise of another person without physically doing it is not of this world. Mara is convinced that the flashbacks are just hallucinations, but when it starts to literally affect her, and those around her, Mara believes something awful is happening to her. For Noah, who happens to be just as special as she is and complete opposite, has the power to heal and restore. The idea of a romance between two people who can cause and resolve catastrophe is more than romantic, it is also very dangerous and unpredictable. Although I get the feeling that Mara resembles X-men hero, Rogue, Mara has yet to make a choice: learn to control her power or let her power control her. I seriously could not put this book downs and am looking forward to the sequel!


Information about the Author:
According to the book jacket of her book, The Unbecoming of Mara Dyer:

Michelle Hodkin grew up in South Florida, went to college in New York, and attended law school in Michigan. When she isn't writing, she can usually be found prying strange objects from the jaws of one of her three pets. This is her first novel.

Genre:
Teen Thriller, Teen Supernatural Romance


Reading Level/Interest:
Grades 9 & up


Books Similar to The Unbecoming of Mara Dyer:

• Beautiful Creatures by Kami Garcia and Margaret Stohl
• Wake by Lisa McMann
  

Awards & Recognition:

Review Quotes

"Haunting and dreamlike, the intrigue and romance of Mara Dyer will inescapably draw you in." --Cassandra Clare, author of the New York Times bestselling Mortal Instruments series

"The Unbecoming of Mara Dyer strikes a rare balance of darkly funny, deliciously creepy and genuinely thoughtful. One minute I was laughing out loud, and the next, I was so scared I wanted to turn on all the lights and hide under the covers. Michelle Hodkin’s talent and range are obvious, from her chilling descriptions to romantic scenes that almost crackled on the page. I’ve never read anything quite like it."--Veronica Roth, New York Times bestselling author of Divergent

"A clever, captivating thriller, The Unbecoming of Mara Dyer is perfect for those (like me) who like their heroes dark, their heroines dangerous, and their romances seriously twisted."

--Kirsten Miller, New York Times bestselling author of The Eternal Ones

"WOW. Michelle Hodkin's debut will keep you guessing until the last page--and long after."

--Beth Revis, New York Times bestselling author of Across the Unviverse

"As spooky and twisty as it is lyrical and beautiful, The Unbecoming of Mara Dyer grabbed me and wouldn't let go. Read this one with the lights on." --Rachel Hawkins, New York Times bestselling author of Demonglass

From Amazon.com

Plot Summary:
Life for Ethan Wate is dismal. As the only "educated" person in Gatlin County (a tiny community in North Carolina), Ethan has very little in common with his classmates. Ethan is planning on leaving Gatlin the moment he graduates, but all the changes when Lena moves to town. As the niece of the resident weirdo, the students don't know what to think of her. Although she is a beautiful girl, most of Ethan's friends stay far away from her because of her family relations. Moreover, Lena is actually smart, talented, and powerful. For the last few months, Ethan has been haunted by nightmares where he is trying to save a girl with long black hair and green eyes. Ethan is convinced that this is the girl he is going to fall in love with, but he doesn't know her except for the way she smells: lemons and lavender. When he finally gets the courage to talk to Lena, he makes a shocking discovery: could this new girl in his dream? After a series of unfortunate events (i.e., a brutal thunderstorm, classroom windows shatter, etc.), Lena is starting to learn that there is something powerful growing within her and, for some strange reason, it is at its full capacity when she is with Ethan. However, Lena is about to turn sixteen years old and unlike the mortal sweet sixteen, she is bound to have a rather unsettling bitter sixteenth birthday where everything, and everyone, could disappear from her life forever. For Ethan, this is not an option and he willingly embarks on an adventure that could kill him.  

Critical Evaluation:
I have to say that I did not expect this story to be so darn good! I will admit that I was a little leery reading this story because of the Twilight-esque premise, but this is a very original story with a strong background and set of characters. Told through the eyes of a guy named Ethan, readers not only get to hear his own thoughts, fears, hopes, and dreams, he is able to capture Lena's character as well. Although these two characters are very different (one is mortal, the other not of this world), they share a set of traits that make their companionship very endearing. I seriously love the fact that they both love to read. Contrary to what most think about teenage jocks, most of them are actually very down to earth and, in this case, Ethan has bigger goals in his life other than winning the state championship. However, Ethan has something that sets him apart from the rest of the citizens of Gatlin--he was raised by two brilliant adults who refused to raise him with a small town mentality. This story is set in a tiny town in South Carolina where they refuse to admit any fault, or guilt, about the Civil War.  Moreover, this town is also very resistant to change where anyone, or any idea, that challenges the status quo is instantly rejected. In many respects, like Lena, Ethan is very different from his classmates because of his upbringing and education (via his brilliant mother), which is what brings them together. I will also admit that I LOVED the fact that the Civil War story arc is the driving factor in the outcome of this story; the Civil War, in itself, is a piece of history, packed full of mystery and secrets that not only add to the drama of Lena's story, but enshrouds readers with a sense of amazement and fear.  Once readers start this book, they will not be able to stop. I can't wait for the next installment.


Information about the Author:
According to their website, Kami Garcia has an MA in education and taught in Washington, D.C. before moving to Los Angeles:

Kami grew up outside of Washington DC, wore lots of black, and spent hours writing poetry in her journals. She has always been fascinated by the paranormal and believes in lots of things “normal” people don’t. She’s very superstitious and would never sleep in a room with the number “13” on the door. When she is not writing, Kami can usually be found watching disaster movies, listening to Soundgarden, or drinking Diet Coke.

She was an artist and actually led fantasy book groups for children and teens. She is now a full-time author and is married with two children and two dogs

Margaret Stohl,  the co-writer of Beautiful Creatures, is actually a gaming goddess. After working with Activision (Activision Blizzard) and Westwood studios (Electronic Arts), she and her husband founded seven studios that eventually landed her a nomination as Most Innovative Game Design at the Game Developers Conference. Stohl earned her BA at Amherst College, where she won the Knox Prize for English Literature, and she earned her MA at Stanford University. She also has a doctorate in American Studies at Yale University. Stohl was also a teaching assistant in Romantic Poetry at Stanford and Film Studies at Yale. Amongst her scholastic accolades, she also attended a creative writing program at University of East Anglia and was mentored renewed Scottish poet, George MacBeth. Stohl absolutely loves to travel with her daughters and lives in Santa Monica, California with her husband, children, and beagles. Stohl is the author of forthcoming novel, Icons, due out in Spring 2013.

Genre:
Teen Supernatural Romance

Reading Level/Interest:
Grades 9 & up

Books Similar to Beautiful Creatures:

• Hush Hush by Rebecca Fitzpatrick
• The Space Between by Brenna Yovanoff
  

Awards & Recognition:

• William C. Morris YA Debut Award finalist (2010)
• NYPL Book for the Teen Age (2010)
• YALSA Teens' Yop Ten Pick (2010)

Plot Summary:
Life for Nora Gray has not been easy. It's been a year since her father was mysteriously murdered and her mother has taken a full time job, leaving her alone with the housekeeper. Nora isn't popular and she is quite ordinary in comparison to her outspoken and curvaceous best friend, Vee. This year, Nora and Vee are enrolled in a class focusing on Human Reproduction and they are expecting to be partners. However, when Coach, their teacher, assigns them new seating arrangement, Nora is teamed up with a gorgeous boy named Patch. Despite his good looks, there is something about him that makes Nora uneasy. As an "ice breaker" Nora and Patch must ask one another questions about themselves, but Patch seems to know a lot about Nora without even asking her, which creeps her out. When its Nora's turn, Patch is incredibly reluctant to tell her about him, which kicks off a series of events that put Nora in incredible danger. Moreover, her life becomes even more complicated when she starts falling for Patch even though he scares her. The more Nora is around Patch, the weirder things become, especially when she gets the attention of another boy named Elliot, who is quite interested in Nora. However, when Elliot invited her and Vee to Delphic to ride the "Archangel," Nora finds herself the center of a devious plan involving the Nephilim and the Falling.

Critical Evaluation:
Although the story is intriguing, I started reminiscing about a story between and human and a certain vampire. Granted I am not into a lot of romances, I was hoping for a strong female lead and was somewhat disappointed. However, in comparison to the traditional female role, in regards to supernatural love triangles, I have a lot of hope for Nora's character, especially when she made a rather courageous decision towards the end. Since Hush, Hush is part of a saga, the opening sequence will not make a lot of sense nor will the truth behind Nora's involvement be revealed. This entire installment is very stereotypical teen romance where the main character is unsure as to why someone like Patch (i.e., dark, mysterious, and gorgeous) would be interested in them. Furthermore, Nora's best friend, Vee, in my opinion, is irritating since she doesn't do a lot for Nora other than force her to rescue her from her own ignorance when he should have listened to her best friend's warnings. Despite these flaws, the story is rather entertaining and I may actually read the next installment just so I can learn more about the Nephilim and Nora's family history.


Information about the Author:
In her website, Becca Fitzpatrick fell in love with storytelling in Kindergarten. However, she and her sister, alike, didn't like their elementary school not because they disliked learning, but the girls were mean. When she moved to Nebraska, before second grade, she started liking school and came across Nancy Drew and Trixie Belden. When her sister introduced her to Roald Dahl, she was hooked and when she saw the movie "Romancing the Stone" she knew she wanted to be an author. Although she still held onto her dream to become an author, she actually had the idea to become a spy: " I stalked the CIA website and filled out at least a dozen applications. I thought being a spy was dangerous and sexy. I didn't want to be the girl who got a degree, only to settle down and do house-ish things...like answer telemarketers' calls and choose between Spanish or Ladybug Red for the kitchen walls" (para. 6).

After marrying her husband in 2000, Fitzpatrick did not join the CIA but got her degree in Community Health at Brigham Young University where she hot a job working as a secretary at a local high school Although she loved working with the students, everything changed when her husband enrolled her into creative writing classes, which helped her to write Hush, Hush.

 
Genre:
Teen Supernatural Romance


Reading Level/Interest:
Grades 9 & up


Books Similar to Hush, Hush:

• City of Bones by Cassandra Clare
• Twilight by Stephenie Meyer
• Shiver by Maggie Stiefvater

Awards & Recognition:

• Positive review from Publisher's Weekly
• Positive review from Kirkus
  

Plot Summary:
Daphne is not the typical demon. In fact, as the daughter of Lilith and Lucifer, one would only expect diabolical things, but, alas, Daphne is far from that. Despite the taunting from her mother, and her sisters, Daphne is bored and unfulfilled. Actually, Daphne is more like her half-brother Obie, who happens to be the son of Lilith and Adam (the Adam from the book of Genesis). Unlike most demons, Obie is actually a "do-gooder" where he actually saves souls rather than reaping. In this story, Daphne learns that Obie is leaving Hell to live on Earth like a human being to be with the woman he loves; the though of Obie leaving her frightens her so much that she asks her teacher, Beelzebub, for help. However, he fear is only escalated when a Obie suddenly disappears and the only person who can help her is a boy named Truman.What she does not know is that Truman carries a dark secret that will bring them closer than she expected.


Critical Evaluation:
Again, I must admit, I rarely read romance novels, but this title actually kept me going. What I thought looked like another regurgitation of humans falling in love with demons, this story took me surprise. What readers will enjoy is Daphne's transformation. In the beginning, she really did not understand love and selflessness until she met Truman. Moreover, the relationship between her and her brother, Obie, is the catalyst to a series of changes because it is through him that she learns that there is more to life than what we are given. In fact, Yovanoff uses demons as an example that love is  not limited to human beings, but to all sentient beings that feel something special for one another. What really caught me off guard it that this story provides a very different picture of Lucifer and Lilith. I didn't really expect to read anything positive, or enlightening, about their characters, but readers will be surprised when they learned that even the King of Hell and the Mother of all Demons, share a weakness: love. The Space Between is a very heart-wrenching tale where a human and a demon learn a very important lesson, which I am totally going to steal from the movie Moulin Rouge: "The greatest thing to learn is just to love and be loved in return."


Information about the Author:
According to her website, Brenna Yovanoff:

I’m good at soccer, violent video games, and making very flaky pie pastry.

I’m bad at dancing, making decisions, and inspiring confidence as an authority figure. I suspect this is because I am short, and also terrible at sounding as though I have any idea what I’m talking about.

I was homeschooled until I was fifteen, which has probably affected my world view in ways I can’t fathom.

Also, I really, really like parentheses. (Really.)

On this site, you’ll find information about my books, answers to questions, and links to things I like. If you want to know more, you can check out my blog, where I frequently talk about zombies, high school, and dessert.

Genre:
Teen Chick Lit


Reading Level/Interest:
Grades 10 & up


Books Similar to The Space Between:

• Shiver by Maggie Steifvater
• Incarceron by Catherine Fisher

 Awards & Recognition:

•  Starred Review from Publisher's Weekly (9/26/2011)