Poison by Bridget Zinn

Poison

by Bridget Zinn

 

Sixteen-year-old Kyra, a highly-skilled potions master, is the only one who knows her kingdom is on the verge of destruction—which means she’s the only one who can save it. Faced with no other choice, Kyra decides to do what she does best: poison the kingdom’s future ruler, who also happens to be her former best friend.

But, for the first time ever, her poisoned dart . . . misses.

Now a fugitive instead of a hero, Kyra is caught in a game of hide-and-seek with the king’s army and her potioner ex-boyfriend, Hal. At least she’s not alone. She’s armed with her vital potions, a too-cute pig, and Fred, the charming adventurer she can’t stop thinking about. Kyra is determined to get herself a second chance (at murder), but will she be able to find and defeat the princess before Hal and the army find her?

Kyra is not your typical murderer, and she’s certainly no damsel-in-distress—she’s the lovable and quick-witted hero of this romantic novel that has all the right ingredients to make teen girls swoon.

 

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What a wicked cute book! Great characters, interesting story, light hearted, fun twists and turns, both expected and not. There was also the cutest literary pig I have ever met. I thought the end was a bit rushed, but still enjoyed the sweet and quick read. The worst part of this book? This is the one and only book Ms. Zinn wrote - tragic. Her website says she thought teen readers needed more humor in their books and wanted to write a book with pockets of warmth and happiness. She did it.

Mom note: As a mother of readers, I also want to make a note to myself (and others if they care) why I would or would not have my children read this book, because honestly, sometimes I forget. This is a YA book, so everything is within YA strictures. Violence: moderate; Profanity: none; Sex: mild

The Coldest Girl in Coldtown by Holly Black

The Coldest Girl in Coldtown 

by Holly Black  

Tana lives in a world where walled cities called Coldtowns exist. In them, quarantined monsters and humans mingle in a decadently bloody mix of predator and prey. The only problem is, once you pass through Coldtown’s gates, you can never leave.

One morning, after a perfectly ordinary party, Tana wakes up surrounded by corpses. The only other survivors of this massacre are her exasperatingly endearing ex-boyfriend, infected and on the edge, and a mysterious boy burdened with a terrible secret. Shaken and determined, Tana enters a race against the clock to save the three of them the only way she knows how: by going straight to the wicked, opulent heart of Coldtown itself.

The Coldest Girl in Coldtown is a wholly original story of rage and revenge, of guilt and horror, and of love and loathing from bestselling and acclaimed author Holly Black.

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I thought I was done with vampire books. Been there, done that, over and over and over. BUT … I loved this book! Holly Black is extraordinary gifted at taking an overdone genre and injecting fresh life in it. Unique, different, reminded me a bit of The Immortal Rules but so much better. Like most of Ms. Black’s books, this is a harsh world with grim realities filled with fabulous fabulous characters.

Mom note: As a mother of readers, I also want to make a note to myself (and others if they care) why I would or would not have my children read this book, because honestly, sometimes I forget. This is a YA book, so everything is within YA strictures. Violence: heavy; Profanity: heavy; Sex: hmm … too long of a span between reading it and writing this. Innuendos for sure, can’t remember anything else.

Wanderlove by Kirsten Hubbard

Wanderlove

by Kirsten Hubbard 

 

It all begins with a stupid question:

Are you a Global Vagabond?

No, but 18-year-old Bria Sandoval wants to be. In a quest for independence, her neglected art, and no-strings-attached hookups, she signs up for a guided tour of Central America—the wrong one. Middle-aged tourists with fanny packs are hardly the key to self-rediscovery. When Bria meets Rowan, devoted backpacker and dive instructor, and his outspokenly humanitarian sister Starling, she seizes the chance to ditch her group and join them off the beaten path.

Bria's a good girl trying to go bad. Rowan's a bad boy trying to stay good. As they travel across a panorama of Mayan villages, remote Belizean islands, and hostels plagued with jungle beasties, they discover what they've got in common: both seek to leave behind the old versions of themselves. And the secret to escaping the past, Rowan’s found, is to keep moving forward.

But Bria comes to realize she can't run forever, no matter what Rowan says. If she ever wants the courage to fall for someone worthwhile, she has to start looking back.

Kirsten Hubbard lends her artistry to this ultimate backpacker novel, weaving her drawings into the text. Her career as a travel writer and her experiences as a real-life vagabond backpacking Central America are deeply seeded in this inspiring story.

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What a fun, fun book. Let’s go backpacking! Through South America! FUN!!! Seriously fabulous book. I loved Bria, and Starling, and Rowan, and honestly, those NAMES. So epic. But more than that, this book was about growing and healing and stretching beyond yourself and now let’s get going. Pack your backpacks. Seriously.

Mom note: As a mother of readers, I also want to make a note to myself (and others if they care) why I would or would not have my children read this book, because honestly, sometimes I forget. This is a YA book, so everything is within YA strictures. Violence: none; Profanity: YES, seriously, every freaking book; Sex: no, but plenty of discussion and innuendo

Better Off Friends by Elizabeth Eulberg

Better off Friends

by Elizabeth Eulberg  

 

For Macallan and Levi, it was friends at first sight. Everyone says guys and girls can’t be just friends, but these two are. They hang out after school, share tons of inside jokes, their families are super close, and Levi even starts dating one of Macallan’s friends. They are platonic and happy that way.

Eventually they realize they’re best friends — which wouldn’t be so bad if they didn’t keep getting in each other’s way. Guys won’t ask Macallan out because they think she’s with Levi, and Levi spends too much time joking around with Macallan, and maybe not enough time with his date. They can’t help but wonder . . . are they more than friends or are they better off without making it even more complicated?

From romantic comedy superstar Elizabeth Eulberg comes a fresh, fun examination of a question for the ages: Can guys and girls ever really be just friends? Or are they always one fight away from not speaking again — and one kiss away from true love?

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A truly delightful book. The last Eulberg I read was fun but too teeny for me (this IS YA. It happens occasionally.) But this book, even though it started with our main characters as 8th graders, was entertaining and engaging and real. Honestly, this book needs to be read by every teen girl - kind of a “Yes, Teenage Boys are REALLY This Idiotic” Manual. I love teenage boys - I had three brothers, now four sons. They are fabulous creatures. But they are also bizarre and testosterone-y at times. I can’t say teenage girls are better, teenagers are all equally unhinged. Sorry, tangent.

A great book, a sweet love story, and the dual authors didn’t bug me at all. I loved Adam, the appropriateness of a certain punch, and may have teared up a bit. A lovely read.

Mom note: As a mother of readers, I also want to make a note to myself (and others if they care) why I would or would not have my children read this book, because honestly, sometimes I forget. This is a YA book, so everything is within YA strictures. Violence: none; Profanity: none; Sex: none

The Moon and More by Sarah Dessen

The Moon and More

by Sarah Dessen  

 

Luke is the perfect boyfriend: handsome, kind, fun. He and Emaline have been together all through high school in Colby, the beach town where they both grew up. But now, in the summer before college, Emaline wonders if perfect is good enough.

Enter Theo, a super-ambitious outsider, a New Yorker assisting on a documentary film about a reclusive local artist. Theo's sophisticated, exciting, and, best of all, he thinks Emaline is much too smart for Colby.

Emaline's mostly-absentee father, too, thinks Emaline should have a bigger life, and he's convinced that an Ivy League education is the only route to realizing her potential. Emaline is attracted to the bright future that Theo and her father promise. But she also clings to the deep roots of her loving mother, stepfather, and sisters. Can she ignore the pull of the happily familiar world of Colby?

Emaline wants the moon and more, but how can she balance where she comes from with where she's going?

Sarah Dessen's devoted fans will welcome this story of romance, yearning, and, finally, empowerment. It could only happen in the summer.

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I love Sarah Dessen books. She brings some serious matters into the genre of YA contemporary literature and she does it in an entertaining and engaging way. I love her setting and her cameos and easter eggs. I loved so many characters in this book, none of which happened to be either of the two male protagonists. Which turned out to be fine, the focus was certainly more on growth and personal progression than on romance.

Mom note: As a mother of readers, I also want to make a note to myself (and others if they care) why I would or would not have my children read this book, because honestly, sometimes I forget. This is a YA book, so everything is within YA strictures. Violence: none; Profanity: moderate; Sex: yes, minor

Shards and Ashes by Melissa Marr and Kelley Armstrong

Shards and Ashes

by Melissa Marr (Editor), Kelley Armstrong (Editor), Veronica Roth, Kami Garcia, Margaret Stohl, Rachel Caine, Nancy Holder, Beth Revis, more…

 

Gripping original stories of dystopian worlds from nine New York Times bestselling authors, edited by Melissa Marr and Kelley Armstrong.

The world is gone, destroyed by human, ecological, or supernatural causes. Survivors dodge chemical warfare and cruel gods; they travel the reaches of space and inhabit underground caverns. Their enemies are disease, corrupt corporations, and one another; their resources are few, and their courage is tested.

Powerful original dystopian tales from nine bestselling authors offer bleak insight, prophetic visions, and precious glimmers of light among the shards and ashes of a ruined world. 

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Another fabulous anthology, though not the book to have just finished when a Facebook friend posts “You have been transported to the location in the last book you read. Where are you?” YIKES! Which horribly dystopian future should I pick? Seriously though, out of nine stories only one of them was meh.  The rest were fabulous, creative, and still satisfying, though I would love to see novels from a few of them. I especially loved to read what Carrie Ryan can come up with when her brain isn’t being eaten by zombies. An excellent collection!!

Mom note: As a mother of readers, I also want to make a note to myself (and others if they care) why I would or would not have my children read this book, because honestly, sometimes I forget. This is a YA book, so everything is within YA strictures. Violence: moderate/heavy; Profanity: yes??; Sex: some

Emerald Green by Kerstin Gier

Emerald Green 

by Kerstin Gier, Anthea Bell  

Gwen has a destiny to fulfill, but no one will tell her what it is.

She’s only recently learned that she is the Ruby, the final member of the time-traveling Circle of Twelve, and since then nothing has been going right. She suspects the founder of the Circle, Count Saint-German, is up to something nefarious, but nobody will believe her. And she’s just learned that her charming time-traveling partner, Gideon, has probably been using her all along.

This stunning conclusion picks up where Sapphire Blue left off, reaching new heights of intrigue and romance as Gwen finally uncovers the secrets of the time-traveling society and learns her fate.

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Another fabulous ending for a series I’ve enjoyed a ton - I think this will be the year of closure. I’ve loved the world Gier has created and enjoyed visiting it again (and I had a ton of fun rereading the first two books in preparation.) This last book made me love the first two books even more - I didn't even remember being disappointed by a few things in the 2nd book - I loved Gideon much more, Gwen finally figured out what was going on, and I love love the series as a whole. I love Gier's characters, the mysteries, the friendships and romance. It was a world I wanted to spend more time in even after the ending - I wasn’t done yet! But that doesn’t mean the ending wasn’t fabulous. Questions were answers, happily ever afters were achieved. A hugely fun series, one I will probably reread over and over. This story and characters wouldn't leave me for days - truly a sign of an excellent series.

Mom note: As a mother of readers, I also want to make a note to myself (and others if they care) why I would or would not have my children read this book, because honestly, sometimes I forget. This is a YA book, so everything is within YA strictures. Violence: moderate; Profanity: weirdly enough, a bit; Sex: no

Perfect Lies by Kiersten White

Perfect Lies

by Kiersten White 

Annie and Fia are ready to fight back.

The sisters have been manipulated and controlled by the Keane Foundation for years, trapped in a never ending battle for survival. Now they have found allies who can help them truly escape. After faking her own death, Annie has joined a group that is plotting to destroy the Foundation. And Fia is working with James Keane to bring his father down from the inside.

But Annie's visions of the future can't show her who to trust in the present. And though James is Fia's first love, Fia knows he's hiding something. The sisters can rely only on each other - but that may not be enough to save them. 

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If you are a fan of White’s Paranormalcy books, don’t be too surprised when you read this series - the genre and feel of these books are SO different, but I still love them. They are harsher and crueler and more heartbreaking but fascinating and emotionally wrought reads. I love her flawed characters and really enjoyed getting into both Fia’s AND Annie’s heads this time. The ending was gut wrenching and perfect and I really hope there is another book in the series.

Mom note: As a mother of readers, I also want to make a note to myself (and others if they care) why I would or would not have my children read this book, because honestly, sometimes I forget. This is a YA book, so everything is within YA strictures. Violence: yes; Profanity: YES; Sex: yes

Cruel Beauty by Rosamund Hodge

Cruel Beauty

by Rosamund Hodge

 

Graceling meets Beauty and the Beast in this sweeping fantasy about one girl's journey to fulfill her destiny and the monster who gets in her way-by stealing her heart.

Based on the classic fairy tale Beauty and the Beast, Cruel Beauty is a dazzling love story about our deepest desires and their power to change our destiny.

Since birth, Nyx has been betrothed to the evil ruler of her kingdom-all because of a foolish bargain struck by her father. And since birth, she has been in training to kill him.

With no choice but to fulfill her duty, Nyx resents her family for never trying to save her and hates herself for wanting to escape her fate. Still, on her seventeenth birthday, Nyx abandons everything she's ever known to marry the all-powerful, immortal Ignifex. Her plan? Seduce him, destroy his enchanted castle, and break the nine-hundred-year-old curse he put on her people.

But Ignifex is not at all what Nyx expected. The strangely charming lord beguiles her, and his castle-a shifting maze of magical rooms-enthralls her.

As Nyx searches for a way to free her homeland by uncovering Ignifex's secrets, she finds herself unwillingly drawn to him. Even if she could bring herself to love her sworn enemy, how can she refuse her duty to kill him? With time running out, Nyx must decide what is more important: the future of her kingdom, or the man she was never supposed to love.

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Loved loved loved this book. A fabulously well thought out retelling of Beauty and the Beast. Hmm, maybe not a retelling. More like Hodge used Beauty and the Beast as the backbone and was wildly creative from that point on. It was a fun world, lovely romance, and fabulous ending. Sigh. One I will probably buy someday, which is the highest praise I can give a book. I can't wait to see what else this author gives us.

Mom note: As a mother of readers, I also want to make a note to myself (and others if they care) why I would or would not have my children read this book, because honestly, sometimes I forget. This is a YA book, so everything is within YA strictures. Violence: mild; Profanity: none; Sex: yes, not descriptive

The Pledge by Kimberly Derting

The Pledge 

by Kimberly Derting  

 

In the violent country of Ludania, the classes are strictly divided by the language they speak. The smallest transgression, like looking a member of a higher class in the eye while they are speaking their native tongue, results in immediate execution. Seventeen-year-old Charlaina has always been able to understand the languages of all classes, and she's spent her life trying to hide her secret. The only place she can really be free is the drug-fueled underground clubs where people go to shake off the oppressive rules of the world they live in. It's there that she meets a beautiful and mysterious boy named Max who speaks a language she's never heard before . . . and her secret is almost exposed.

Charlie is intensely attracted to Max, even though she can't be sure where his real loyalties lie. As the emergency drills give way to real crisis and the violence escalates, it becomes clear that Charlie is the key to something much bigger: her country's only chance for freedom from the terrible power of a deadly regime.

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I loved Kimberly Derting’s Body Finder series and was shocked she had another series I hadn’t heard anything about. New series! Yay! And better yet, one that was complete. Hallelujah, no cliff hangers. And while it was really fun to read a completely different genre from an author I really like, I still like her Body Finder series best. I liked Charlie and her cohorts but I was never sold on the love interest. Yes Max is gorgeous and amazing and so on but the instalove (on his part) was just WAY too instant. Way way too instant. There seemed to be no basis for their relationship - no build up, no commonalities, no time spent together. Weird. The subsequent books were better, once I had already accepted that they were a thing and so on and it no longer distracted me from the story line. It was the type of series that all three books could be made into a single movie - each book was pretty direct and succinct. They were quick reads and I had fun reading them.

Mom note: As a mother of readers, I also want to make a note to myself (and others if they care) why I would or would not have my children read this book, because honestly, sometimes I forget. This is a YA book, so everything is within YA strictures. Violence: heavy; Profanity: none; Sex: first book implied, subsequent books yes but mild

Evertrue by Brodi Ashton

Evertrue 

by Brodi Ashton

 

Now that Nikki has rescued Jack, all she wants is to be with him and graduate high school. But Cole tricked Nikki into feeding off him, and she’s begun the process of turning into an Everliving herself... which means she must feed on a Forfeit soon — or die.

Terrified for her survival, Nikki and Jack begin a desperate attempt to reverse the process using any means possible. Even Cole, who they expected to fight them at every turn, has become an unlikely ally — but how long can it last? Nikki needs to feed on Cole to survive, Cole needs Nikki to gain the throne in the Everneath, Jack needs Nikki because she is everything to him — and together, they must travel back to the Underworld to undo Nikki’s fate and make her mortal once more. But Cole isn’t the only one with plans for Nikki: the Queen has not forgotten Nikki’s treachery, and she wants her destroyed for good. Will Nikki be forced to spend eternity in the Underworld, or does she have what it takes to bring down the Everneath once and for all?

In this stunning conclusion to the Everneath trilogy, Brodi Ashton evokes the resiliency of the human spirit and the indomitable power of true love.

 

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Yet another ending of a fun series. The Persephone myth has been a favorite meme of late in the YA world but this has been my favorite rendition. With the last book there were SO many things left hanging, I thought there was no way she would be able to tie everything up by the end of the 3rd book. But she did! Complete and incendiary closure. The second to last chapter was heartbreaking and heart wrenching and all those hearty kinds of things. The plot twists with Cole throughout the book were perfect. And then the last chapter was just the perfect ending. Another series where my favorite characters can finally just RELAX.

Mom note: As a mother of readers, I also want to make a note to myself (and others if they care) why I would or would not have my children read this book, because honestly, sometimes I forget. This is a YA book, so everything is within YA strictures. Violence: moderate; Profanity: possibly mild?; Sex: mild

Infinite by Jodi Meadows

Infinite

by Jodi Meadows

DESTRUCTION
The Year of Souls begins with an earthquake—an alarming rumble from deep within the earth—and it’s only the first of greater dangers to come. The Range caldera is preparing to erupt. Ana knows that as Soul Night approaches, everything near Heart will be at risk.

FLIGHT
Ana’s exile is frightening, but it may also be fortuitous, especially if she can convince her friends to flee Heart and Range with her. They’ll go north, seeking answers and allies to stop Janan’s ascension. And with any luck, the newsouls will be safe from harm’s reach.

CHOICE
The oldsouls might have forgotten the choice they made to give themselves limitless lifetimes, but Ana knows the true cost of reincarnation. What she doesn’t know is whether she’ll have the chance to finish this one sweet life with Sam, especially if she returns to Heart to stop Janan once and for all.

With gorgeous romance and thrilling action, the final book in the Incarnate trilogy offers a brilliant conclusion to the compelling questions of this fascinating world, where one new girl is the key to the lives of millions.

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Another excellent ending to a fun series. I wasn’t sold on the first book - I didn’t buy into the romance, they seemed too disparate. But the second book changed my mind, and the 3rd completely clinched it. This was a very creative, completely original series. The world was well thought out and consistent from beginning to end. This book brought excellent closure, there were DRAGONS, everything ended happily ever after even after heartache and misery and misunderstanding and truly evil people. And did I mention there were dragons?

Mom note: As a mother of readers, I also want to make a note to myself (and others if they care) why I would or would not have my children read this book, because honestly, sometimes I forget. This is a YA book, so everything is within YA strictures. Violence: moderate; Profanity: none; Sex: yes

Taste of Darkness by Maria V. Snyder

Taste of Darkness

by Maria V. Snyder

She's fought death and won. But how can she fight her fears?

Avry knows hardship and trouble. She fought the plague and survived. She took on King Tohon and defeated him. But now her heart-mate, Kerrick, is missing, and Avry fears he's gone forever.

But there's a more immediate threat: The Skeleton King plots to claim the Fifteen Realms for his own. With armies in disarray and the dead not staying down, Avry's healing powers are needed now more than ever.

Torn between love and loyalty, Avry must choose her path carefully. For the future of her world depends on her decision.

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A lovely ending to a fun series. This isn’t my favorite series of Snyder’s (LOVED Poison Study), but I liked it better than the last one (the Glass series). The plot was twisty and turny and amazingly enough everyone I cared about survived the twists and turns. Phew. BIG phew. I was NOT a fan of the Skeleton King plot twist (um, where did he come from?), it was disgusting. But everything ended well and hopefully my favorite characters can finally rest for a bit. Take a break. Live life. Finally RELAX. These books were a little rush rush and frankly kind of exhausting.

And by the way? Please no more leering from main characters. Only villains or nasty old men are supposed to leer. Okay? Okay.

Mom note: As a mother of readers, I also want to make a note to myself (and others if they care) why I would or would not have my children read this book, because honestly, sometimes I forget. This is a YA book, so everything is within YA strictures. Violence: heavy (ick, yuck); Profanity: none; Sex: yes

Into the Still Blue by Veronica Rossi

Into the Still Blue 

by Veronica Rossi (Goodreads Author)

The race to the Still Blue has reached a stalemate. Aria and Perry are determined to find this last safe haven from the Aether storms before Sable and Hess do--and they are just as determined to stay together.

Within the confines of a cave they're using as a makeshift refuge, they struggle to reconcile their people, Dwellers and Outsiders, who are united only in their hatred of their desperate situation. Meanwhile, time is running out to rescue Cinder, who was abducted by Hess and Sable for his unique abilities. Then Roar arrives in a grief-stricken fury, endangering all with his need for revenge.

Out of options, Perry and Aria assemble an unlikely team for an impossible rescue mission. Cinder isn't just the key to unlocking the Still Blue and their only hope for survival--he's also their friend. And in a dying world, the bonds between people are what matter most.

In this final book in her earth-shattering Under the Never Sky trilogy, Veronica Rossi raises the stakes to their absolute limit and brings her epic love story to an unforgettable close.

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An excellent ending! Yay! Closure! Hooray! Love closure. (I think I'm still a bit PTSD from Allegiant.) The 2nd book of this series made me just a wee bit annoyed about the whole series in general, I felt they kept killing off the only people I cared about. This book has redeemed the whole series and tied up loose knots and was crazy busy from beginning to end but most importantly it ended well. Phew.

Mom note: As a mother of readers, I also want to make a note to myself (and others if they care) why I would or would not have my children read this book, because honestly, sometimes I forget. This is a YA book, so everything is within YA strictures. Violence: heavy; Profanity: none; Sex: yes

Elite by Kiera Cass

The Elite 

by Kiera Cass

Thirty-five girls came to the palace to compete in the Selection. All but six have been sent home. And only one will get to marry Prince Maxon and be crowned princess of Illea.

America still isn’t sure where her heart lies. When she’s with Maxon, she’s swept up in their new and breathless romance, and can’t dream of being with anyone else. But whenever she sees Aspen standing guard around the palace, and is overcome with memories of the life they planned to share. With the group narrowed down to the Elite, the other girls are even more determined to win Maxon over—and time is running out for America to decide.

Just when America is sure she’s made her choice, a devastating loss makes her question everything again. And while she’s struggling to imagine her future, the violent rebels that are determined to overthrow the monarchy are growing stronger and their plans could destroy her chance at any kind of happy ending.

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Second Books! Gah! Second books. Good thing this month (and potentially this year) has been such an EXCELLENT month/year for closure and end or series books, or this book would have driven me even more crazy than it did. Lots of waffling, lots of “REALLY?” moments, main characters making mistakes. And I’m reminded why I think the Bachelor is a stupid show (I’m sorry, I know it’s not a popular opinion.) How can you take a relationship seriously with a man who is dating a ton of other girls?!? Seriously! I did enjoy a few things - the story progressed (a bit), we got to fall in love with America’s family again, and now I’m ready for the 3rd book to come out.

Mom note: As a mother of readers, I also want to make a note to myself (and others if they care) why I would or would not have my children read this book, because honestly, sometimes I forget. This is a YA book, so everything is within YA strictures. Violence: moderate; Profanity: none; Sex: mild

Cress by Marissa Meyer

Cress

by Marissa Meyer

In this third book in the Lunar Chronicles, Cinder and Captain Thorne are fugitives on the run, now with Scarlet and Wolf in tow. Together, they’re plotting to overthrow Queen Levana and her army.

Their best hope lies with Cress, a girl imprisoned on a satellite since childhood who's only ever had her netscreens as company. All that screen time has made Cress an excellent hacker. Unfortunately, she’s just received orders from Levana to track down Cinder and her handsome accomplice.

When a daring rescue of Cress goes awry, the group is separated. Cress finally has her freedom, but it comes at a high price. Meanwhile, Queen Levana will let nothing prevent her marriage to Emperor Kai. Cress, Scarlet, and Cinder may not have signed up to save the world, but they may be the only hope the world has.

 

 

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Marissa Meyer! I simply adore your writing. With your third (THIRD!) installment I was again swept away by your world and your characters and all the craziness happening to them. Four books? You mean this is a FOUR book series instead of a trilogy? Oh YES please. (I knew this previous to reading Cress. If I hadn't, MAYBE I wouldn't be so happy about the 4th book.) I love Cinder, still, and the cast of characters surrounding her continues to get better and better. Iko and Thorne and Cress oh my! Fun characters. But despite this being the third (THIRD!) book, the plot still (STILL!) progresses. I KNOW. Amazing. Plots progress, characters grow, crazy shenanigans take place - I just simply love this series. It's rare for me to love subsequent books even more than I enjoyed the first offering, but this series definitely succeedsin improving each time. Can't wait to delve into the craziness that will be Winter.

Mom note: As a mother of readers, I also want to make a note to myself (and others if they care) why I would or would not have my children read this book, because honestly, sometimes I forget. This is a YA book, so everything is within YA strictures. Violence: moderate; Profanity: none; Sex: none

Ignite Me by Taherah Mafi

Ignite Me

by Tahereh Mafi

The heart-stopping conclusion to the New York Times bestselling Shatter Me series, which Ransom Riggs, bestselling author of Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children, called “a thrilling, high-stakes saga of self-discovery and forbidden love.”

With Omega Point destroyed, Juliette doesn’t know if the rebels, her friends, or even Adam are alive. But that won’t keep her from trying to take down The Reestablishment once and for all. Now she must rely on Warner, the handsome commander of Sector 45. The one person she never thought she could trust. The same person who saved her life. He promises to help Juliette master her powers and save their dying world . . . but that’s not all he wants with her.

The Shatter Me series is perfect for fans who crave action-packed young adult novels with tantalizing romance like Divergent by Veronica Roth, The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins, and Legend by Marie Lu. Tahereh Mafi has created a captivating and original story that combines the best of dystopian and paranormal, and was praised by Publishers Weekly as “a gripping read from an author who’s not afraid to take risks.” Now this final book brings the series to a shocking and satisfying end.

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Sigh. I loved this book. I have friends who are not fans of Taherah Mafi's writing, I also have friends that were swept up and spit out by her intense writing, just like I was. To each her own. I also know many fans of her books will be LIVID about where she took her characters, but I LOVED IT. In my secret heart of hearts it's where I thought they needed to be, though I wasn't brave enough to admit it. And for fans that DON'T love this ending? SERIOUSLY? How could you not? Have you READ the novellas? I think Ms. Mafi realized many of her fans may not have read said novellas, because she kind of hit us over the head with important concepts we discovered there, like the possible nobleness of a previously despised character, as well as the condescending oafishness of a previously beloved character. So there was that. But I still loved this series. I loved Juliette's journey and growth and strength and final acceptance of who she was and who she wanted to be. As always, I would have loved an epilogue. A Ten Years Later kind of thing. Or some such. But I was still happy with how this series ended and now want to reread the whole thing over again with the end in sight. Can't wait.

Mom note: As a mother of readers, I also want to make a note to myself (and others if they care) why I would or would not have my children read this book, because honestly, sometimes I forget. This is a YA book, so everything is within YA strictures. Violence: YES; Profanity: YES; Sex: YES, way way too much for a YA

 

Independent Study by Joelle Charbonneau

Independent Study

by Joelle Charbonneau

 

In the series debut The Testing, sixteen-year-old Cia Vale was chosen by the United Commonwealth government as one of the best and brightest graduates of all the colonies . . . a promising leader in the effort to revitalize postwar civilization. In Independent Study, Cia is a freshman at the University in Tosu City with her hometown sweetheart, Tomas—and though the government has tried to erase her memory of the brutal horrors of The Testing, Cia remembers. Her attempts to expose the ugly truth behind the government’s murderous programs put her—and her loved ones—in a world of danger. But the future of the Commonwealth depends on her.

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A great second book! We delved deeper into the machinations and cover ups of the government and it was fun to meet another cast of characters and try to figure out who the good guys and bad guys were. I'm still not sold on the romance - still seems a little simplistic and cheesy. Cia seems to be able to think outside the box in every situation except for Tomas. Sigh. But I love how strong and determined she is throughout the series so far, no wishy washy moping. Hooray for unteenage-like teenager! I look forward to the next book.

Mom note: As a mother of readers, I also want to make a note to myself (and others if they care) why I would or would not have my children read this book, because honestly, sometimes I forget. This is a YA book, so everything is within YA strictures. Violence: moderate; Profanity: probably none?; Sex: mild

The Testing by Joelle Charbonneau

The Testing

by Joelle Charbonneau

Keep your friends close and your enemies closer. Isn’t that what they say? But how close is too close when they may be one in the same?

The Seven Stages War left much of the planet a charred wasteland. The future belongs to the next generation’s chosen few who must rebuild it. But to enter this elite group, candidates must first pass The Testing—their one chance at a college education and a rewarding career.

Cia Vale is honored to be chosen as a Testing candidate; eager to prove her worthiness as a University student and future leader of the United Commonwealth. But on the eve of her departure, her father’s advice hints at a darker side to her upcoming studies--trust no one.

But surely she can trust Tomas, her handsome childhood friend who offers an alliance? Tomas, who seems to care more about her with the passing of every grueling (and deadly) day of the Testing. To survive, Cia must choose: love without truth or life without trust.

 

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This book felt like a mix between Maze Runner, Taken, and Hunger Games. A typical YA dystopian, full of government machinations and clueless populations and endearing (and enduring) teens. I enjoyed the setting and the world building, I liked the two main characters. So interesting to see the different facets of human nature. The romance seemed a bit cheesy and at times simplistic, especially compared to the rest of the story, but this is definitely a series I'll continue. 

Mom note: As a mother of readers, I also want to make a note to myself (and others if they care) why I would or would not have my children read this book, because honestly, sometimes I forget. This is a YA book, so everything is within YA strictures. Violence: moderate to heavy; Profanity: ??; Sex: mild

 

The Selection by Kiera Cass

The Selection

by Kiera Cass 

 

For thirty-five girls, the Selection is the chance of a lifetime. The opportunity to escape the life laid out for them since birth. To be swept up in a world of glittering gowns and priceless jewels. To live in a palace and compete for the heart of gorgeous Prince Maxon.
But for America Singer, being Selected is a nightmare. It means turning her back on her secret love with Aspen, who is a caste below her. Leaving her home to enter a fierce competition for a crown she doesn't want. Living in a palace that is constantly threatened by violent rebel attacks.
Then America meets Prince Maxon. Gradually, she starts to question all the plans she's made for herself and realizes that the life she's always dreamed of may not compare to a future she never imagined.

(summary from goodreads.com)

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I heard this was a book similar to Hunger Games, so I kept waiting for the deaths to start. I figured it was a game show similar to this episode of Doctor Who, but then it NEVER HAPPENED. So … um … NOT Hunger Games, but a very fun take on reality shows in a dystopian setting. There are mysteries surrounding the country and the rebels that I can't wait to delve into, and I appreciated the extra facets of this book. Not JUST a dystopian Royal Bachelor. I loved the characters, I love America's family as well as the royal family, I'm not a huge Aspen fan and hope he drops off the face of the earth. Lame-o. But a fun book and now I need to get the next from the library ...

Mom note: As a mother of readers, I also want to make a note to myself (and others if they care) why I would or would not have my children read this book, because honestly, sometimes I forget. This is a YA book, so everything is within YA strictures. Violence: mild; Profanity: none; Sex: steamy but no sex

Where the Stars Still Shine by Trish Doller

Where the Stars Still Shine

by Trish Doller

 

Stolen as a child from her large and loving family, and on the run with her mom for more than ten years, Callie has only the barest idea of what normal life might be like. She's never had a home, never gone to school, and has gotten most of her meals from laundromat vending machines. Her dreams are haunted by memories she’d like to forget completely. But when Callie’s mom is finally arrested for kidnapping her, and Callie’s real dad whisks her back to what would have been her life, in a small town in Florida, Callie must find a way to leave the past behind. She must learn to be part of a family. And she must believe that love--even with someone who seems an improbable choice--is more than just a possibility.

Trish Doller writes incredibly real teens, and this searing story of love, betrayal, and how not to lose your mind will resonate with readers who want their stories gritty and utterly true.

 

(summary from goodreads.com)

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This was an unexpected book - much harsher than I was expecting, more reminiscent of Elizabeth Scott than a typical YA book. It dealt with some heartbreaking realities, but I loved the characters and the progression of the characters and the healing. (Warning, this book deals with some serious issues like mental illness and kidnapping and molestation and child abuse. Generally in a palatable way, but certainly evident and key points of the book.)

Mom note: As a mother of readers, I also want to make a note to myself (and others if they care) why I would or would not have my children read this book, because honestly, sometimes I forget. This is a YA book, so everything is within YA strictures. Violence: yes; Profanity: yes; Sex: yes

 

Black Heart by Holy Black

Black Heart

by Holly Black 

 

In a world where Magic is illegal.

Cassel Sharpe has the most deadly ability of all. With one touch, he can transform any object - including a person - into something else entirely. And that makes him a wanted man. The Feds are willing to forgive all his past crimes if he'll only leave his con artist family behind and go straight. But why does going straight feel so crooked?

For one thing, it means being on the opposite side of the law from Lila, the girl he loves. She's the daughter of a mob boss and getting ready to join the family business herself. Though Cassel is pretty sure she can never love him back, he can't stop obsessing over her. Which would be bad enough, even if her father wasn't keeping Cassel's mother prisoner in a posh apartment and threatening not to let her leave until she returns the priceless diamond she scammed off him years ago. Too bad she can't remember where she put it.

The Feds say they need Cassel to get rid of a powerful man who is spinning dangerously out of control. But if they want Cassel to use his unique talent to hurt people, what separates the good guys from the bad ones? Or is everyone just out to con him?

Time is running out, and all Cassel's magic and cleverness might not be enough to save him. With no easy answers and no one he can trust, love might be the most dangerous gamble of all.

 

(summary from goodreads.com)

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Holly Black is not one of my favorite authors. She is an excellent writer, just generally a little dark for my tastes, but for some reason I can't stop reading this series! I like it much better than her Modern Fairie Tale series, which I never finished. (Of course, I just remembered she also writes the Spiderwick books, which are fabulous and my kids adore them, so maybe it's JUST the Modern Fairies I'm not a fan of. Who knew.) This book is an awesome continuation of the story. Cassel is a fabulously flawed main character, as is Lila. I love the newest reincarnation of Barron, as well as Cassel's friends. And the ending? So so fabulous.

Mom note: As a mother of readers, I also want to make a note to myself (and others if they care) why I would or would not have my children read this book, because honestly, sometimes I forget. This is a YA book, so everything is within YA strictures. Violence: yes; Profanity: yes (?? probably); Sex: yes

 

Kissed by Cameron Dokey

Kissed: Belle; Sunlight and Shadow; Winter's Child 

by Cameron Dokey

 

Absence makes the heart grow fonder—and love grow stronger—in three romantic fairy tale retellings from the author of Once.Belle lacks her sisters’ awe-inspiring beauty, so she withdraws from society to focus on her art in Belle. But when her father is held captive by a terrifying Beast, Belle is the only one with the courage and creativity to save him...though she must first believe in herself.



In Sunlight and Shadow, Princess Mina is kidnapped. Desperate to be reunited with her daughter, the Queen of the Night promises Mina’s hand in marriage to the prince who can rescue her. Yet as Mina and her prince encounter trials of love and fate, Mina must summon the strength to find her own happiness.



In Winter’s Child, Grace’s best friend is lured from home by a dazzling Snow Queen. Grace sets out on a dangerous, mystical journey to find him, and along the way, she discovers the meaning of true love.

 

(summary from goodreads.com)

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Another set of Dokey fairytales. This set seemed a little cheesier than the last set, more cliched. Belle was cute, I love a great Beauty and the Beast retelling, but I couldn't help comparing it to my favorite of all times retelling, which it didn't measure up to (but no B&B ever has, so no big surprise.). Sunlight and Shadow and Winter's Child were both interesting, especially since I wasn't familiar with the original stories/myths they came from, but the love stories were a little too cheesy for me and not as convincing. But all three were still fun, light reads.

Mom note: As a mother of readers, I also want to make a note to myself (and others if they care) why I would or would not have my children read this book, because honestly, sometimes I forget. This is a YA book, so everything is within YA strictures. Violence: none; Profanity: none; Sex: none

 

These Broken Stars by Amie Kaufman and Meagan Spooner

These Broken Stars

by Amie Kaufman, Meagan Spooner  

It's a night like any other on board the Icarus. Then, catastrophe strikes: the massive luxury spaceliner is yanked out of hyperspace and plummets into the nearest planet. Lilac LaRoux and Tarver Merendsen survive. And they seem to be alone.

Lilac is the daughter of the richest man in the universe. Tarver comes from nothing, a young war hero who learned long ago that girls like Lilac are more trouble than they’re worth. But with only each other to rely on, Lilac and Tarver must work together, making a tortuous journey across the eerie, deserted terrain to seek help.

Then, against all odds, Lilac and Tarver find a strange blessing in the tragedy that has thrown them into each other’s arms. Without the hope of a future together in their own world, they begin to wonder—would they be better off staying here forever?

Everything changes when they uncover the truth behind the chilling whispers that haunt their every step. Lilac and Tarver may find a way off this planet. But they won’t be the same people who landed on it.

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A timeless love story, THESE BROKEN STARS sets into motion a sweeping science fiction series of companion novels. The Starbound Trilogy: Three worlds. Three love stories. One enemy.

(summary from goodreads.com)

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Lovely book! Fun fun fun. Space travel and aliens and two worlds colliding in so many different ways - this book was a conglomerate of a ton of what I love to see in books. Huge crazy twist (um, WHAT happened?) and fabulously fleshed out characters. I'll definitely read the next book, especially since it looks like it's based on two new people, which means Lilac and Tarver can rest for a bit. Phew. They deserve it.

Mom note: As a mother of readers, I also want to make a note to myself (and others if they care) why I would or would not have my children read this book, because honestly, sometimes I forget. This is a YA book, so everything is within YA strictures. Violence: moderate; Profanity: none; Sex: yes but not descriptive