Slayers

by C.J. Hill

Summary:   Tori has always had a fascination and fear of dragons.  When she learns about a dragon camp, she decides to give it a try.  Maybe she'll find some others who share this strange obsession.  But, the discoveries she makes are beyond her wildest imagination.       

Thoughts:  This book was a huge surprise to me!  I wasn't too intrigued by the cover and so kept moving it to the bottom of my reading stack.  I finally picked it up, read a few pages, and was totally hooked!  Tori has led a privileged life as the daughter of a senator, and the other campers have low expectations for her when she arrives.  Her development is interesting and believable; the challenges she faces and the other plot twists and turns keep the reader reading!  This novel has a unique premise and offers a bit of everything ... action, fantasy, suspense, and romance.  
 
Read Slayers if you: 

• enjoyed Firelight by Sophie Jordan or Oh.My.Gods by Tera Lynn Childs
• like paranormal romance but are looking for something other than vampires
• are interested in dragons
• like your fantasy light and blended with the modern world   

C.J.Hill is a pseudonym for author Janette Rallison, a realistic fiction author.  She is writing under the new name since she is now writing in a different genre.  I love that!  Visit her websites to read more about her and her writing as C.J. Hill or as Janette Rallison. 


    

Icefall

by Matthew J. Kirby

Summary:  Solveig, her little brother, and her beautiful older sister are forced to live in a hidden fortress with a band of warriors while their father, the king, is away at war.  As winter drags on and supplies dwindle, it becomes clear that there is a traitor among them.  Solveig is determined to discover the truth before the treachery is the demise of them all. 

Thoughts:  Icefall is an engrossing tale told by Solveig, a smart, interesting character.  She has always felt inferior in her family (her sister is the object of everyone's affection and her little brother is the heir to the throne), but through the course of the novel she discovers a talent for storytelling and a new confidence.  I really enjoyed her development from insecure middle child to strong, capable young lady.  The story is an atmospheric Nordic tale complete with action, intrigue, and mystery .... a great choice for a hot summer day!      

Read Icefall if you:  

• like Norse mythology and ancient tales of vikings and berserker warriors
• have ever felt insignificant or unable to stand out in a crowd (even your own family)
• enjoyed Sea of Trolls (Nancy Farmer), the Ranger's Apprentice series (John Flanagan), or Heroes of the Valley (Jonathan Stroud) 
• believe in the power of a good story 

Click here to visit author Matthew J. Kirby's blog and read more about this icy adventure. 

The One and Only Ivan

by Katherine Applegate


Summary:  Ivan is the only gorilla in his "domain", a glass enclosure in the run-down Exit 8 Big Top Mall and Video Arcade.  Ivan's friends are Stella, a wise elephant, and Bob, a feisty little stray dog.  When Ruby, a baby elephant, comes to live at the mall, Ivan decides something must be done to ensure that she finds a better home and a better life.  

Thoughts:  I fell in love with Ivan as soon as I opened the book.  He is a wild gorilla who has had to learn to live in captivity.  Through his years, he has come to understand humans: 

Humans speak too much.  They chatter like chimps, crowding the world with their noise even when they have nothing to say.  It took me some time to recognize all those human sounds, to weave words into things.  But I was patient. Patient is a useful thing to be when you're an ape.

Ivan tells this touching story about friendship, art, dreams, and finding your spot in the world.  His tender point-of-view is fully believable and adds to the charm of the story.  The layout of the book - it feels almost like a novel in verse - and the gentle illustrations add to the special appeal.  This is a book for readers of all ages, a reminder that humans leave a lasting footprint on the earth and that doing the right things makes a difference for every life.  I loved Katherine Applegate's Home of the Brave, and she triumphs again with another memorable story sure to touch the heart of all who read it.  


Read The One and Only Ivan if you ...

• are an animal lover
• enjoyed Applegate's Home of the Brave
• like stories about the power of hope, friendship, and/or art
• enjoy tearjerker, "tissue" books
• like novels-in-verse 
• enjoy illustrated novels
• appreciate beautifully-crafted writing
• are looking for a heartwarming story you won't soon forget

Click to read more about the book, the author, and the real Ivan, the gorilla who inspired this tale.    

Grave Mercy 

by Robin LaFevers

Summary:  Ismae, a peasant girl, is sold in marriage to a horrible man.  She narrowly escapes and finds her way to the St. Mortain Convent.  As it turns out, Ismae is the daughter of Mortain himself, the god of death.  He has plans for her to serve him as a trained assassin in a dangerous destiny. 

Thoughts:  Grave Mercy is a dark, historical novel full of intrigue, treason, and murder.  It is also a captivating romance between Ismae and the very swoon-worthy Duval.  I really enjoyed this novel.  It's unique and well-written, complete with interesting characters, a rich setting, and many intriguing plot twists .... and worth mentioning again, plenty of scenes with the dashing Duval. ;)  Grave Mercy is a sophisticated read, however, and likely not right for all young adult readers.  It's the first volume in the new His Fair Assassin series, and I cannot wait for book 2! 


Read Grave Mercy if you ... 

• are a fan of Graceling by Kristin Cashore or the Rebel Angels series by Libba Bray
• enjoy historical fiction rich with lush detail
• like strong, brave heroines
• enjoy stories about high courts full of betrayal and struggles for power
• are looking for an interesting new fantasy

Click here to learn more about Grave Mercy and author Robin LaFevers or here to learn more about the author's books for a younger audience including the popular Theodosia series.          

Chitty Chitty Bang Bang Flies Again

by Frank Cottrell Boyce

Summary:  When Mr. Tooting loses his job and his car is repossessed, he and son Jem decide to rebuild an old camper van.  They find an engine in a junkyard to rev up the old van.  This engine is no piece of junk, however; it is the engine from the original Chitty Chitty Bang Bang and whisks the family away on an unexpected, unbelievable adventure. 

Thoughts:  What a fun sequel!  The talented Frank Cottrell Boyce, with the permisison of author Ian Fleming's family, has created a new Chitty Chitty Bang Bang adventure featuring a quirky, contemporary British family.  The Tootings are a hoot and their escapades wildly ntertaining.  This is a fresh take on the original; a humorous romp with the charm and feel of a classic tale.  I particularly enjoyed the Author's Note at the end of the book where Mr. Boyce describes his love for the Chitty Chitty Bang Bang film and Ian Fleming's novel that inspired it and the delight in creating a modern sequel.  He says, "It felt strange at first writing a new installment of someone else's story.  But in the end, isn't that what we always do when we tell stories - take something old and give it something of ourselves in the hope that it will fly once more?"  And, fly one more it does! 

Read Chitty Chitty Bang Bang Flies Again if you ... 

• enjoyed the original novel or film 
• like Frank Cottrell Boyce's previous novels such as Framed or Cosmic 
• are an Anglophile (one who likes all things British ... like me!) 
• like novels with engaging illustrations throughout
• are looking for a fun, lighthearted adventure to sweep you away

Click here to read more about author Frank Cottrell Boyce and this new Chitty Chitty Bang Bang adventure.  You can even build your own Chitty!  :)  

Cinder
by Marissa Meyer

Summary:  Cinder lives in a futuristic, war-ravaged world.  This cyborg (half-robot, half-human) is one of the most talented mechanics in New Beijing, but is living a grim life.  She knows nothing about her past, is hated by her step-mother, and is now being blamed for her sister's illness.  Her life takes a turn, however, when she meets the alluring Prince Kai and becomes involved in an intergalactic battle.    

Thoughts:  Author Marissa Meyer reimagines the classic tale of Cinderella in this surprising, sci-fi retelling.  I was pulled in from the fabulous cover and completely engaged until the last page.  There is a lot going on - robots, cyborgs, plagues, evil lunar villains - but the author craftily knits it together creating a cool, clever, fast-paced novel.  The tough, smart Cinder and the handsome prince are interesting characters that give the techy story heart and humanity.  I can't wait to see what the author does in the upcoming volumes of the four-part series!  


Read Cinder if you: 

• like creative retellings of the classic fairy tales.
• enjoy sci fi novels with cool technology and gadgets.
• are looking for a futuristic story with a twist.
• like your novels with smart, strong heroines.
• enjoyed The Uglies series by Scott Westerfeld.   

Visit Marissa Meyer's blog to learn more about this young, anime-loving author and the Lunar Chronicles.  If you're an aspiring writer, be sure to read her posts about the writing and publishing processes.    

The Scorpio Races
by Maggie Stiefvater

Summary:  Every year on the island of Thisby, the capaill uisce, beautiful but deadly sea horses, emerge from the waves. Brave souls attempt to tame them and to race in the annual Scorpio Races. Former champion Sean Kendrick will race again with more on the line than ever. And, Puck Connolly will enter this year as the first female rider in a desperate attempt to save her family.   

Thoughts:  Killer sea horses?  Yes!  Talented author Maggie Stiefvater has borrowed a phenomenon from Celtic legends to spin a completely original, captivating tale.  What I liked best:  It's so different!  Admittedly, I am a horse lover, so I was immediately drawn to the idea (even if they happen to be deadly!).  But, I was then pulled into the compelling story of the feisty Puck and the quiet, alluring Sean. These two characters plus villains, suspense, fast action, and romance make for one exciting tale!  Stiefvater capably builds a magical yet wholly believable setting that celebrates the beauty of exquisite horses and breathtaking coastal islands.  If you are looking for something different from dystopia or paranormal romance, this is the book for you!  

Click here to visit author Maggie Stiefvater's website, to view a cool animated trailer, or to hear the author read the first chapter.        

Entwined
by Heather Dixon

Summary: Princess Azalea and her eleven younger sisters love to dance; it reminds them of their mother who has recently passed away.  But, dancing is strictly forbidden during the year of mourning.  Then, the girls discover a magic passageway in the palace that leads to an enchanted pavilion where they can secretly dance throughout the night.  The alluring world is ruled by the handsome, mysterious Keeper who welcomes them nightly but has plans of his own for the twelve princesses.      

Thoughts: Entwined is a vivid retelling of Grimm's "The Twelve Dancing Princesses" (also called "The Worn Out Dancing Slippers") with clever allusions to "The Spider and the Fly."  Author Heather Dixon skillfully combines magical elements with realistic experiences in this gothic tale of loss, grief, family relationships, betrayal, and romance.  The sophisticated writing is lush and descriptive and pulls the reader right into the darkly-imagined, suspenseful world.  The audio format is particularly captivating.  Lovers of dark fantasy, fairy tales, royalty, and romance, Entwined is for you! 

Click here to watch a book trailer of this magical novel.

Click here to learn more about author and storyboard artist Heather Dixon or visit her blog.

Daughter of Smoke and Bone
by Laini Taylor

Summary:  Karou, an art student in Prague, creates amazing drawings of chimera in her sketchbook.  Her classmates assume the mythological creatures come from Karou's imagination.  But, the chimera are actually real ... the only family Karou has ever known.  And, now they are threatened.  The doorways that lead to their enchanted world are being scorched with a single hand print from winged strangers - a warning of what is to come.  When Karou locks eyes with one of these breathtakingly handsome strangers, she begins on a journey that leads to the revelation of many secrets ... secrets she may not have been ready to learn.

Thoughts:  Author Laini Taylor immediately pulled me into this fiercely original novel.  Through her eloquent writing, Ms. Taylor builds a vivid, magical world and also beautifully describes the fascinating city of Prague.  The reader wants to catch the next plane to the Czech Republic that surely brims with the magic the author describes!  I loved the characters as well as the Ms. Taylor's fresh take on angels & demons.  I also liked the gradual unveiling of the character's secrets and back stories throughout the novel.  Daughter of Smoke & Bone is not just another paranormal romance. It is clearly in a class of its own.  

Visit Laini Taylor's website to learn more about this talented, pink-haired author!  :)       

Paranormalcy
by Kiersten White

Summary:  For as long as she can remember, Evie has lived and worked at the International Paranormal Containment Agency.  Her unique talent of seeing beneath a paranormal's "glamour" to what lurks below makes her a valuable asset to the agency.  Then Lend, a handsome shape-shifter, is captured at the IPCA while trying to find information about the mysterious murders taking place around the world.  Evie is immediately drawn to Lend, a paranormal who leads a normal, teen life, the kind of life Evie has always wanted.  Together they set out to solve the mystery of the killings and encounter a lot of unexpected surprises along the way.

Thoughts: Paranormalcy is a clever novel that stands out in the myriad of paranormal romances being published today.  The tone is light and sassy, the pace quick and engaging.  The star of the show, main character Evie, is a spunky, fun heroine with a big heart.  I found her longing for a normal life (with things like a locker, a driver's license and the prom!) very endearing.  It creates an interesting contrast to the high-tech, fantasy world where she lives.  Paranormalcy is a creative blend of adventure, mystery, supernatural, and romance.  A must-read for paranormal fans as well as realistic fiction readers who like a touch of magic in their romances.  It's the first in a trilogy with the sequel Supernaturally coming out later this summer; both installments are the perfect addition to your beach bag!  

Visit Kiersten White's website to learn more about this debut author.  You can also follow her on Twitter.  She's definitely one to watch!         

Small Persons with Wings
by Ellen Booraem

Summary:  When Mellie was young, her best friend was a Small Person with Wings (never to be called fairies!). She made the mistake of telling others about him and became the laughing stock of the school.  And, then suddenly her friend disappeared.  From then on, Mellie kept to herself, always wondering if she just imagined him.  Her grandfather dies leaving Mellie's family an inn.  She is overjoyed at the chance to move and have a fresh start, but she is in for a lot of big (or make that little!) surprises!      

Thoughts:  Small Persons with Wings is a delightful fantasy.  It is original, funny, and full of the unexpected.  Mellie leads the cast of quirky characters as a smart, spunky girl with an amusing outlook on life.  There are gentle lessons to be learned, but mostly this is a fun story for those who love fantasy, magic, and wouldn't mind knowing a Small Person with Wings themselves!  

Visit author Ellen Booream's website to learn more about her and her writing.

Ruby Red
by Kerstin Gier

Summary: Gwen’s perfect cousin Charlotte has been preparing her whole life for time travel; so the family is shocked when it’s Gwen, not Charlotte, who inherits the time travel gene.  With no warning or training, Gwen is launched into the mysterious past with only the accompaniment of the arrogant, annoying, but breathtakingly handsome Gideon. 

Thoughts:  I was completely captivated by this fantasy, mainly because of the main character Gwen.  She is a "normal" kid with a hilarious sense of humor used to taking a back seat to her perfect cousin Charlotte.  Her observations and reactions to her changing circumstances are believable and amusing.  The quirky family, their strange house, the fast-paced adventure, the intriguing mystery... all are well-imagined and absorbing.  The book (soon to be a trilogy) was written by a German author and, after its huge popularity in Germany, was translated into English this year.  I am delighted that it was and can't wait for book two, Sapphire Blue! 

Firelight
by Sophie Jordan

Summary:  Jacinda is draki - a shapeshifter descended from dragons - and her mother uprooted the family from the pride where Jacinda grew up, where she fit in, where she was valued.  Now, she is trying to live a "normal" life in a new town and a new school, and she is doing anything but fitting in.  But, when Jacinda lays her eyes on him, she comes alive.  Could there be hope for her after all away from the pride?  Or, does the secret he is keeping threaten her very existence?

Thoughts:  Firelight is a sizzling, romantic fantasy. It offers a unique twist on the paranormal romance, stars interesting characters, and ends with a cliff-hanger that leaves you wanting more!  Luckily we don't have to wait long; the sequel Vanish will be released in September 2011.  The love story between Jacinda and Will is intense and mysterious.  I was captivated from the beginning and couldn't help but wish I had an inner-dragon too!  :)  

Interesting note:  Firelight has already been optioned for a movie!  Be sure to check out this mesmerizing novel before it hits the big screen. 

Click to read more about author Sophie Jordan, Firelight, and upcoming sequel Vanish.   

White Cat
The Curse Workers, Book 1
by Holly Black

Summary: Cassel is the only “non-worker” in a family of “workers” (magic-users).  He feels like a misfit not only in his family but also at his boarding school.  Things go from bad to worse when he wakes up on the roof of his dorm with no idea how he got there.  His life is becoming as terrible as his nightmares.  

Thoughts: White Cat is an absorbing, edgy fantasy. The mood is dark and puzzling as secrets are cautiously revealed and Cassel starts to put together the pieces of his past.  He is a perfect narrator: clever, cynical, and totally teen.  I listened to the audio version of the novel.  It's read by Jesse Eisenberg, star of The Social Network, and he provides an excellent voice for Cassel.  In White Cat, Holly Black creates a fascinating world full of mobsters, magic, family drama, danger and enough reality to satisfy non-fantasy fans; I can't wait to return in Book Two, Red Glove!

Click to read more about author Holly Black and The Curse Workers series.
  

Unearthly
by Cynthia Hand

Summary:  Clara is one-quarter angel.  She begins to see visions that provide glimpses of her purpose on earth and lead her family to the mountains of Wyoming.  Who is the boy in the forest fire?  And, how can she save him?  

Thoughts:  Unearthly is a slice of heaven!  It's a creative novel full of intrigue, excitement, romance, angels, mountains, and cowboys... what more do you need?  I was captivated from page 1. And, the minute I closed the back cover, I was online to discover if there is sequel (There is, thank heavens!).  If you like romances set in beautiful landscapes and sprinkled with the supernatural, check out Unearthly!  It's divine. 

Click here to view book trailers for Unearthly and learn more about the novel's author Cynthia Hand.

Forgive my Fins
by Tera Lynn Childs

Summary: Lily is a typical high school girl.... except she happens to be half-mermaid and the daughter of the Sea King.  She has fallen head-over-tail for Brody, star of the swim team, and has big plans for him to one day rule with her over the ocean kingdom.  That is, if bad-boy Quince, her annoying (but oh-so-cute!) next door neighbor, will stop getting in the way.

Thoughts:  Forgive my Fins is frothy fin-tastic fun!  Just look at that cover!  Mermaids, cute boys, hidden undersea kingdoms, and real-world feelings of wanting to fit in and be loved are blended together into a light-hearted fantasy that is well worth the plunge.  Fans of Meg Cabot and author Tera Lynn Childs' other Oh.My.Gods novels should definitely dive in.  And, good news for those wanting more fishy tales:  the sequel Fins are Forever hits land this summer!  

Click to read more about author Tera Lynn Childs.      

Scumble
by Ingrid Law


Summary:  When Ledger Kale turns thirteen and inherits his unique talent (known in the family as his “savvy”), it’s not at all what he or anyone else expected.  And, if Ledge can’t learn to tame it, he and the family may be headed for destruction.  

Thoughts:  I LOVED Ms. Law's first novel Savvy, so I couldn't wait to dive into this companion.  And, it didn't take long for me to fall head-over-heels for this one as well.  Ledge, the cousin of Mibs from Savvy, is so endearing as is his tumultuous journey to come to terms with his savvy.  I liked the focus on a male character and the eccentric family ranch where Ledge spent the summer.  Ms. Law is a true wordsmith and paints lovely characters and storylines with her exquisite use of language.  I can't wait to see what she does next! 

Click here for more information about Scumble, Savvy and author Ingrid Law.

Are you over-vampired and tired of werewolves?  Or, are you dying for more?  Either way, these two novels offer fresh takes on the supernatural and are worth checking out! 

Alex Van Helsing: Vampire Rising
by Jason Henderson

Summary:  Alex is surprised to discover that he doesn’t simply share the name of a legendary vampire hunter, he might actually become one too.

Thoughts:  I admit I have been a little over-vampired.  I was a huge Twilight fan when it was first published, but I've grown weary of the vampire mania.  So, I wasn't that excited to read this new novel by first time novelist Jason Henderson.  But, I heard a lot about it and decided to give it a try.  Boy, am I glad I did!  I loved it!  Mr. Henderson's vampire storyline is fresh & new and filled with delicious literary & historical references.  I just ate it up!  It's a an exciting, suspense-filled adventure that is anything but a Twilight copycat.  One review calls it a "modern-day spin of James Bond meets Dracula" which sums it up perfectly!  Fans of Vladimir Tod, Alex Rider, Alfred Kropp, the Young Bond series, or anyone who likes good adventure, try this new series by Jason Henderson.     

Click here for more info about the Alex Van Helsing series and author Jason Henderson!
 

Claire de Lune
by Christine Johnson

Summary:  Claire, a seemingly normal 16-year-old, is thrilled when she finally catches the attention of handsome, popular Matthew.  But, she soon discovers a family secret and realizes she is anything but normal.   

Thoughts:  Again, I wasn't thrilled about another werewolf novel, but was pleasantly surprised with Claire de Lune.  The mother-daughter relationship and the concepts of self-acceptance are explored in this suspenseful, intriguing fantasy. I really liked Matthew, the boy who captures Claire's heart, and liked that he is the son of Claire's mother's arch enemy.  Lots of tension, intrigue, and romance.  I am hoping for a sequel to this fun, alpha-female fantasy!  :)     

Click here for more details about Claire de Lune and author Christine Johnson.

The Grimm Legacy
by Polly Shulman


Summary:  When Elizabeth’s teacher suggests she take a job at the library, she is excited about the chance to earn some money.  But, she quickly learns that the New York Circulating Material Repository is no ordinary library.  

Thoughts:  Since I love anything about NYC and anything about libraries, I couldn't wait to read this new novel!  It's a creative story that intertwines classic fairy tale elements with the modern Manhattan world.  I loved the idea of a library that checks out magical objects and wish they were hiring!  :)  Author Polly Shulman effectively blends fantasy, intrigue, mystery and a touch of romance in this delightful novel.  

Click here to find out more about The Grimm Legacy and author Polly Shulman.    

Eon: Dragoneye Reborn

by Alison Goodman

Summary: Eon is in a fierce competition to be chosen as the apprentice to the Rat Dragon. Each year one of the twelve dragons that rule the Empire selects an apprentice from the young candidates who have spent years training and preparing. Crippled and small, Eon has little change of being selected. Futhermore, this candidate holds a dangerous secret, that, if revealed, will surely result in death.

Thoughts: Fantasy is not my first love, so I can be a tough critic. This one, however, gets high marks from me! I thoroughly enjoyed Eon's Chinese-inspired setting, the dragon lore, the richly-developed characters, and the exciting plot twists & turns. I highly recommend this novel for fantasy lovers and for anyone looking for an exciting adventure.