Two Ravens, One Crow + Trapped

    I got a nice double dose of the Iron Druid Chronicles thanks to the series's publisher and Netgalley. Both the novella and the fifth book, Trapped, are now published and available. The Iron Druid Chronicles is a great urban fantasy series, especially if you love mythology.

Description (from Goodreads): Six years into the training of his beautiful apprentice, Granuaile, a large crow swoops down and transforms into none other than the Morrigan, a goddess who insists that Atticus come with her at once. He must leave his apprentice behind, along with his Irish wolfhound, Oberon—and he must also leave his sword. The Morrigan has always taken extreme pleasure in pronouncing the Druid’s mortal danger and imminent doom, so the fact that she won’t reveal the purpose of their journey makes him very nervous. Of course, any time the Celtic Chooser of the Slain drops in unannounced, it’s never good. When she does let slip that she’ll be saving his life in the near future, Atticus is left to wonder . . . will he soon be giving his legions of enemies something to crow about?

Review: Most novellas are fan service materials, things readers would love to read but overall don't really add much to the larger story arc. Thankfully, Two Ravens and One Crow moves the story along from book four, Tricked, to book five, Trapped, quite nicely. The novella gives the reader an intimate glimpse on Atticus's feelings toward his apprentice, Granuaile, as well as a closer look at the truly terrifying and captivating Morrigan.
  Atticus and Granuaile's relationship is extremely sweet. Both are clearly attracted to another yet are afraid to take the next step. While Atticus sounds like a man suffering unrequited love, not because he isn't sure of Granuaile's feelings but more of his fear of letting someone in, Granuaile is on the search for someone temporary, which is becoming more and more unfulfilling for both of them.

  The novella also does a good job in showing all the different angles to the Morrigan's personality. Personally, she scares the hell of me but I'm am drawn to her and want to know more about her. Death and dark omens cloak her like clothes, but we also see a lighter side of her that jokes and flits with Atticus. She becomes a bit more human in this novella though she bears ill news of Atticu's pending death. 

  Though reading the novella isn't required in order to enjoy the series, it is a nice bonus story filled with action, humor, and surprising tidbits about our favorite characters.

Rating: 4 stars

Words of Caution: There is strong language and violence in the book. There is also crude sexual humor and  sex is implied. Recommended for mature teens and adults only.

If you like this book try: Trapped (Iron Druid Chronicles #5) by Kevin Hearne, The Dresden Files series by Jim Butcher, Cal Leandros series by Rob Thurman,  Child of Fire by Harry Connollly


Description (from Goodreads): After twelve years of secret training, Atticus O’Sullivan is finally ready to bind his apprentice, Granuaile, to the earth and double the number of Druids in the world. But on the eve of the ritual, the world that thought he was dead abruptly discovers that he’s still alive, and they would much rather he return to the grave. Having no other choice, Atticus, his trusted Irish wolfhound, Oberon, and Granuaile travel to the base of Mount Olympus, where the Roman god Bacchus is anxious to take his sworn revenge—but he’ll have to get in line behind an ancient vampire, a band of dark elves, and an old god of mischief, who all seem to have KILL THE DRUID at the top of their to-do lists.

Review: I love the cover for Trapped. It's so nice to see Granuaile take center stage along with Atticus. Unfortunately, this was my least favorite book in the Iron Druid Chronicles so far. I had a very hard time trying to wrap my head of the plot. After twelve grueling years of training and learning, Granuaile is finally ready to become a druid. Atticus, Granuaile and the ever loving and lovable Irish wolfhound Oberon try to find a safe a quiet and place to bind Granuaile to the earth as a new Druid. The ceremony will take three months to complete (it involves extensive tattooing), so it's important to find somewhere they won't be interrupted. Easier said than done as deities bent on vengeance and hatred have caught on to the fact that neither Atticus nor Granualie are dead as they led everyone to believe, which is something a few people would like to swiftly rectify.
   I loved learning about all the intricate details of the the druid ceremony and seeing Granuaile kick some butt. Then suddenly the plot is severely interrupted by new characters and new mythologies. I know some readers have criticized Hearne by being too much of a teacher of mythology than writer, but now I can understand their concern. Hearne is undeniably a lover of mythology of all cultures and I loved learning the different myths and the Norse and Celtic pantheons, but in Trapped I felt like I was forced to sit in a classroom where the teacher droned on and on about these great tales without really experiencing it. I endured the lesson but was impatient to get back to the druid ceremony. Normally I would want to learn more about the new characters that Hearne includes in his books, but in Trapped I had very little interest about the dark elves and other beings.
   I was also very disappointed in seeing the budding relationship that teetered between romantic and partners wrap up so quickly in a matter of paragraphs. While I know that the Iron Druid Chronicles is primarily an urban fantasy where romance takes a back seat, I would have liked a little more excitement and build up. Readers have waited for 12 years in the story to have something happen between Atticus and Granuaile and what we got was very anticlimactic. I'm hoping the next book, Hunted, is much better and reminds me why I love these characters and books.

Rating: 3 stars

Words of Caution: There is strong language and violence in the book. There is also crude sexual humor and  sex is implied. Recommended for mature teens and adults only.

If you like this book try: Hunted (Iron Druid Chronicles #6) by Kevin Hearne, The Dresden Files series by Jim Butcher, Cal Leandros series by Rob Thurman,  Child of Fire by Harry Connollly

There Comes a Prophet

   Imagine a world where the age of discovery has been ruled as a deafening darkness and the very notion of dreaming is looked down upon. In the Temple City people have come to believe that the Vicar's who rule and teach them have the final say. Although some express their discontent in minor ways, most choose to exist under their rule and except their way without question. What happens when you break the chains of your confining society? Can you live a life without crippling fear and progression of any kind? These are the core questions asked in David Litwack's highly readable dystopian fantasy book called There Comes a Prophet.

Description (from Goodreads): Who among us will cast aside a comfortable existence and risk death to follow a dream?  A world kept peaceful for a thousand years by the magic of the ruling vicars. But a threat lurks from a violent past. Wizards from the darkness have hidden their sorcery in a place called the keep and left a trail of clues that have never been solved.
   Nathaniel has grown up longing for more but unwilling to challenge the vicars. Until his friend Thomas is taken for a teaching, the mysterious coming-of-age ritual. Thomas returns but with his dreams ripped away. When Orah is taken next, Nathaniel tries to rescue her and ends up in the prisons of Temple City. There he meets the first keeper of the ancient clues. But when he seeks the keep, what he finds is not magic at all.

Review:  There Comes a Prophet introduces us to a world the potential to become good or evil is constantly hung in the balance. Fear of ruin, danger, and the unknown, is what keeps the citizens of Temple City in line and safe. Some blindly follow the rules ingrained in them by the Vicars, the rulers of the society.   Technology and other similar advancements are forbidden and the very idea of dreaming of a different future other than the status quo is dangerous and unthinkable.
 The plot revolves around three friends, all young adults, coming of age and trying to weave and understand why their society keeps its citizens from reaching their full potential. I thought the main characters were likable and I willingly joined them on their journey filled with riddles to find out the truth about the past, to inspire others from learning from their mistakes, and to regain control of their lives without living in fear. Due to the book's third person narration, however, I was unable to get closer to the characters than I would have liked. I did, however, appreciate that each character's personality stood out on their own and that they weren't clearly defined as good/bad as each had their own personal motive driving their actions. I just wished the author delved a little deeper into the complexity of the world and the character's personality. Although I liked the characters, I didn't think they were memorable. 

  While there is no violence or epic battle scenes in the book, I appreciated reading about a rebellion that was relatively blood-free and peaceful. The book lacked any sense of urgency or danger which made the progress of our main characters a bit unbelievable and unsatisfying. Brief descriptions of psychological torture used by some members of the Temple were alarming, but the tension soon fizzled out once the job was done. I was surprised on how many people knew about what this technique and did nothing about it. I would have liked the adults to stand up against the corrupt, ruling organization rather than enabling it, but that's a common trope featured in many YA dystopian novels.  

    Some readers may be a bit concerned about the religious overtones in the book, but the author doesn't specifically pick one religion. It uses the idea of a religious institution keeping the people under control while reaping the benefits of technology, which is found in many other dystopian reads. It did take me a while to figure out what it meant to be in the 'light' and 'darkness' but it soon clicked after a few chapters. 
  There Comes a Prophet is a solid read and engaging read that held my interest throughout. The book's themes could easily generate lots of interesting discussions had the author allowed the plot and characters to become a bit more darker and complex. I would recommend this book to readers who like the dystopian or fantasy genre, but want a story a bit more hopeful than gritty and realistic.
Rating: 3 stars

Words of Caution: While there is no physical violence in the book, the children do undergo a form of psychological torture as part of their conditioning. Recommended for strong Grades 5 readers and up.

If you like this book try: City of Ember series by Jeanne DuPrau, Giver by Lois Lowry

Stealing Parker (Hundred Oaks #2)

  I have been in a book rut for quite some time. I've started and dropped at least five books, all of which failed to grab my attention. When I came across Stealing Parker, I read it from front to back in a matter of a couple of days. Readers who enjoy YA contemporary romance or a well written, realistic romance should definitely pick up the book. Many thanks to Sourcebooks and Netgalley for an advanced reader's copy.

Description (from Goodreads): Parker Shelton pretty much has the perfect life. She’s on her way to becoming valedictorian at Hundred Oaks High, she’s made the all-star softball team, and she has plenty of friends. Then her mother’s scandal rocks their small town and suddenly no one will talk to her.
  Now Parker wants a new life. So she quits softball. Drops twenty pounds. And she figures why kiss one guy when she can kiss three? Or four. Why limit herself to high school boys when the majorly cute new baseball coach seems especially flirty? But how far is too far before she loses herself completely?

Review: Stealing Parker is a companion novel to Catching Jordan, a book I thoroughly enjoyed in 2011. There are many similarities between both books. They are both set in a small town of Hundred Oaks, Tennessee and feature characters who love sports. Realistic and witty dialogue coupled with endearing characters, and a tightly packed plot makes these books highly enjoyable and readable.
  Parker is our heroine and narrator. She is the high-school valedictorian and a star softball player. Her life is thrown into chaos when her mother suddenly leaves the family to move in with her girlfriend. Ostracized and bullied by many of her friends and her church members, Parker is constantly trying to prove that she is not like her mother. She quits her favorite sport, loses weight due to the "butch" label rumors. She is even taken to making out with random guys in a heartbreaking effort to prove to her point. I liked how Parker remained on the cusp of adolescence and adulthood, which is highlighted by the countdown of her 18th birthday on each chapter. Though she runs the house like an adult, she is still painfully self-aware of how others see her. For example, once she consciously knows how the hurts the boys she has playfully made-out with she stops this behavior.
  Parker's family drama cages her and prevents her from opening up to anyone, afraid that they may use her vulnerabilities as arsenal against her, which was viciously made clear by her best friend. Alone, abandoned, and hurt, Parker seeks solace from her best friend Drew and yearns for someone to understand her.  She thinks she has found the answer when she meets Brian, a hot 23-year-old assistant coach at her school. Brian seems to be a kindred spirit and is wounded by pains of his own. Though forbidden, things progress between Parker and Brian at a steady pass soon become physical. Brian seems more interested in trying to convince her to have sex than in talking. Mixed in with all this confusion is a budding and sweet romance with a longtime acquaintance, but her best friend Drew finally comes out to her and drunkenly confesses a secret crush on him. All of this drama forces Parker to identify what is most important to her and how to unload the burden of being someone else besides herself. The self-evaluation process realistically plays out. Parker begins the journey and we are left with the strong belief that her growth will continue. She doesn't have all the answers, but we can rest assure that she knows how to make the right decisions.
  Kenneally addresses important and hard hitting issues such as sexuality, religion, self-discovery, and self-love, but it never felt heavy handed to me. Like the themes themselves, the characters aren't one dimensional and leave food for thought once you finished reading the book. I really liked Parker's confessions or letters she wrote to God, revealing her most inner thoughts and emotions. It drew me closer to her as a reader. While I would have liked Parker spend more time with her mother and work out their issues, I do like how there is a starting place to mend their broken bond.

Rating: 4 stars

Words of Caution: Some language, crude humor, and strong sexual content (i.e. bases 1-3 are covered). Recommended for Grades 9 and up.

If you like this book try: The Dairy Queen series by Catherine Murdock, Catching Jordan by Miranda Kenneally

Adult Minireviews: The Greyfriar (Vampire Empire #1), The Abandoned (Graveyard Queen), and Timeless (Parasol Protectorate #5)

  In the spirit of the Something Wicked blogging event, I wanted to share with you some adult mini-reviews that about things that go bump in the night and that may be featured during this month. Today I'll be reviewing The Greyfriar (Vampire Empire #1), The Abandoned (Graveyard Queen), and Timeless (Parasol Protectorate #5).

Description (from Goodreads): In 1870, monsters rise up and conquer the northern lands. As great cities are swallowed up by carnage and disease, landowners and other elite flee south to escape their blood-thirsty wrath. One hundred fifty years later, the great divide still exists; fangs on one side of the border, worried defenders on the other. This fragile equilibrium is threatened, then crumbles after a single young princess becomes almost hopelessly lost in the hostile territory. At first, she has only one defender—a mysterious Greyfriar who roams freely in dangerous vampire regions.

Review: I thought I'd try this book out after reading some great reviews from fellow bloggers. For the most part, I really did enjoy The Greyfriar, but I did have to find my rhythm in reading the story. There is a large cast of characters that I had trouble at first getting straight as they entered and excited very quickly. The plot had enough action to keep me occupied, but it is the slow burn relationship between the young, fiesty, and strong willed princess, Adele, and the mysterious Greyfriar that caught my attention. Readers looking for strong steampunk elements may be disappointed with this book as it's very lightly featured, but I'm guessing that these elements will become stronger in the next book of the series. By the end of the book, I wanted to know more about the world that the authors created and the characters. I'm looking forward to continuing this series.

Rating: 3.5 stars

Words of Caution: There is some strong violence, language, and disturbing images. Recommended for mature teens and adults only.

If you like this book try: The Rift Walker (Vampire Empire #2), Boneshaker by Cherie Priest


Description (from Goodreads): There are rules for dealing with ghosts. Too bad Ree Hutchins doesn't know them. When her favorite patient at a private mental hospital passes away, psychology student Ree Hutchins mourns the elderly woman's death. But more unsettling is her growing suspicion that something unnatural is shadowing her.
   Amateur ghost hunter Hayden Priest believes Ree is being haunted. Even Amelia Gray, known in Charleston as The Graveyard Queen, senses a gathering darkness. Driven by a force she doesn't understand, Ree is compelled to uncover an old secret and put abandoned souls to rest--before she is locked away forever....

Review: The Abandoned is a prequel novella to the Graveyard Queen series by Amanda Stevens. The novella can easily be read independently from the series. While it contains the similar style of her paranormal mysteries, this novella left something more to be desired. While only less than 100 pages, Stevens takes her time to plan out her plot but I couldn't connect with the characters introduced in this novella. I think part of the problem is that I liked Amelia right from the start, but I didn't really think that Ree had enough of a personality to make her a three dimensional character. The plot was decent but I thought the ending and resolution of the ending was just too quick. I would recommend picking up this novella to give you a sense of what things you could expect from the author, but you want to fully immerse in the awesome paranormal mystery storyline you can go straight to reading The Restorer, the first book in the Graveyward Queen series.

Rating: 3 stars

Words of Caution: There is some language, a small sex scene, and disturbing images. Recommended for mature teens and adults only.

If you like this book try: The Body Finder series by Kimberly Derting, Clarity by Kim Harrington, The Graveyard Queen series by Amanda Stevens.


Description: Alexia Tarabotti, Lady Maccon, must answer a mystifying summons to Egypt from the world's oldest vampire. Meanwhile back in London, beta werewolf Professor Lyall and Biffy find investigating nefarious goings-on. 

Review: Timeless may not be the best book in the Parasol Protectorate series, but I really enjoyed the conclusion of this series. Not high brow or serious by any means, Timeless reminded me why I loved this series. Full of witty and tongue-in cheek British humor, a great setting, and characters that are more like friends you would love to take out to lunch or dinner. While I didn't really care that much for the plot where Alexia was concerned, I was a bit more involved with the murder investigation that Professor Lyall and Biffy unexpectedly find themselves in. There were a few new surprises which I didn't see coming, but the highlight of this book for me is the introduction of Prudence, the little darling toddler who stole the show. While I'm sorry to see Alexia and the gang go, I can't wait to read the spin off series of the same world featuring Prudence as a young adult.

Rating: 4 stars

Words of Caution: There is some language, allusions to sex scenes, and some violence. Recommended for teens and adults only.

If you like this book try: Ministry of Peculiar Occurrences by Philippa Ballantine, The Iron Wyrm Affair by Lilith Saintcrow, Steam and Sorcery by Cindy Spencer Pape.

Pushing the Limits

  Pushing the Limits has been all around the blogosphere in the last few months. With a slew of book giveaways, author interviews, and other tidbits, it is hard to not hear about the book. I have to admit that I was skeptical about picking this book up, but after pasing a 50 page test read I eventually finished it and actually really liked it. As a note, this review is based on the advanced reader's copy provided by the publisher, Harlequin Teen, via Netgalley.


Description: Rendered a subject of gossip after a traumatic night that left her with terrible scars on her arms, Echo is dumped by her boyfriend and bonds with bad-boy Noah, whose tough attitude hides an understanding nature and difficult secrets.

Reviews: Pushing the Limits is a very unusual reading experience for me. There were many reasons why I normally would not like this book: an extreme overdose of issues (i.e. death, grief, foster care, mental illness, high school gossip, etc) along with a heavy current of teen angst, insta-attraction turned into love, a fairly predictable plot, and repetitive phrases that you would have fun counting on your fingers. Despite these flaws, I got sucked into Echo and Noah's story.
 McGarry sets up an intense contemporary romance that delves into the psychological difficulties of two teens who fall in love. Echo and Noah are desperately seeking normal, a goal they both feel is unattainable until they meet one another. Echo can't remember the night her mother apparently tried to kill her. She wears long sleeves and gloves to hide the awful scars left on her arms from that night. She has lost her brother and confidant in the Afghan war and lives with her obnoxious, controlling yet emotionally distant father and step-mother who once was her babysitter. I liked Echo right from the start. She has a good mix of flaws and strengths. She is smart but doesn't have the confidence to confront her once so-called friends after that terrible event. She knows what she doesn't want and what isn't good for her, but yet she dreams to be the girl that everyone once remembered. 
   Like Echo, Noah is also a troubled teen. Noah lost his parents in a fire but saved his two younger brothers. All three brothers all are in foster care with different families, but Noah has been separated from his brothers and is determined to gain custody of them when he turns 18. Noah is a well known player whose only interactions with girls is regulated to the back seat of a car or a bed. Normally, I would find Noah appalling but I could tell right away that his bad-boy attitude is a front. He is terrified to make connections, build relationships because in his experience they only end in heartache. His character comes to life when he talks about his brothers and his determination to get full custody of them and to become once again a family. Noah reminded me a lot of Will from Good Will Hunting and that's maybe because I pictured him to be a younger version of Matt Damon.
 Echo and Noah meet and are instantly but secretly attracted to each other. Both see Mrs. Collins, an experienced psychologist, as their school counselor, and neither wants to trust her. I applaud McGarry for making Mrs. Collins a fully realized adult who knows what she is doing. She isn't a bumbling ditz nor a clueless adult trying to regain her lost teenage years by working in a high school. She is aware of Echo and Noah's problems. She realizes what makes Echo and Noah tick and slowly works with them even though both teens view her as a hindrance.
 Told in alternating chapters for both Echo and Noah, the story slowly uncovers the teens' secrets and builds to resolutions for both. I have to say that I was more invested in Noah's story and the scenes involving his brothers made me teary eyed several times. I also was very curious to find out what really happened on that terrible night with Echo. The pacing is done quite well and it moves quickly. If it wasn't for my busy work schedule, I could have easily read it in one sitting despite its 400 pages length. I would read recommend this book to readers who enjoy contemporary romance, but some may not like the issues weighing down the story. I think readers who give Echo and Noah a chance could be easily persuaded just like me. 

Rating: 4 stars

Words of Caution: Strong language, drug use, underage drinking, crude humor, and heavy make-out scenes. Recommended for Grades 9 and up.

If you like this book try: Breaking Beautiful by Jennifer Shaw Wolf, Leaving Paradise by Simon Elkeles, Along for the Ride by Sarah Dessen

Tricked (Iron Druid Chronicles #4)

  Iron Druid Chronicles by Kevin Hearne is a series that you should definitely check out if you are in the mood for a humorous, action-packed thrilled ride filled with mythological and paranormal creatures.  Many thanks to publisher and Netgalley for allowing me to read an advanced copy of the book so I can provide my readers with an honest review.

Description (from the publisher): Druid Atticus O'Sullivan hasn't stayed alive for more than two millennia without a fair bit of Celtic cunning. So when vengeful thunder gods come Norse by Southwest looking for payback, Atticus, with a little help from the Navajo trickster god Coyote, lets them think that they've chopped up his body in the Arizona desert. But the mischievous Coyote is not above a little sleight of paw, and Atticus soon finds that he's been duped into battling bloodthirsty desert shapeshifters called skinwalkers. Just when the Druid thinks he's got a handle on all the duplicity, betrayal comes from an unlikely source. If Atticus survives this time, he vows he won't be fooled again. Famous last words.

Review: Now that Atticus and company have complete one plot arc, we are now poised for the next one. We switch our focus from Norse mythology to Native Amerian mythology in Tricked, where Coyote as you might have guessed plays a very large plot of the book. I know some readers complain that Hearne veers off from his plot and does a crash course in mythology, but as someone who loves mythology I don't mind it a bit.
  Tricked is filled with a series of consequences after the major turning events that transpired in Hammered. The book is not as heavy on the gods or action, but strengthens the relationship between teacher, lovable dog/sidekick, and Druid apprentice. The humor as always is top notch and one of the best things that I love about this series.
 As the series progresses, we gain insight as to what it must feel like to live several millenias like Atticus. His vulnerability shows which is not to say makes him weak, but reminds us that his life isn't all fun and games. He too has suffered loss and is hesitant to move forward especially with building relationships to anyone in fear that he would lose them. I thought it was interesting that Atticus didn't always save the day, but his trainee and Oberon, his adorable dog, also pitch in and even help save Atticus's life.
 In an interview, which took place at the "Kiss Me, I'm Irish" read-along, Hearne mentioned that there is a start of a love interest for Atticus. There is a glimpse of this new budding relationship, but it is very subdued. I'm guessing as these characters grow, there may be more development in this aspect of the story. So readers looking for a full blown romance will be disappointed. As a fan of Atticus, I'm happy to know that the potential of romance is there. Overall, Tricked is a solid continuation of Iron Druid Chronicles and I'm looking forward to reading the next book, Trapped, very soon.

Rating: 4 stars

Words of Caution: Strong violence, some disturbing scenes, and language. Recommended for mature teens and adults only.

If you like this book try: Trapped (Iron Druid Chronicles #5) by Kevin Hearne, The Dresden Files series by Jim Butcher, Cal Leandros series by Rob Thurman,  Child of Fire by Harry Connollly

Seraphina (Seraphina #1)

 I've always had trepidations when it comes to reading high fantasy. I often get too overwhelmed by the rich, complex world building and a wide variety of characters from different backgrounds which why I had to pause and wait to watch the Lord of the Rings trilogy as a film before diving back into the books. While Rachel Hartman's debut fantasy series is high fantasy, I can't help be drawn to the characters and the world.

Description (from the publisher): Four decades of peace have done little to ease the mistrust between humans and dragons in the kingdom of Goredd. Folding themselves into human shape, dragons attend court as ambassadors, and lend their rational, mathematical minds to universities as scholars and teachers. As the treaty's anniversary draws near, however, tensions are high. Seraphina Dombegh has reason to fear both sides. An unusually gifted musician, she joins the court just as a member of the royal family is murdered-in suspiciously draconian fashion. Seraphina is drawn into the investigation, partnering with the captain of the Queen's Guard, the dangerously perceptive Prince Lucian Kiggs. While they begin to uncover hints of a sinister plot to destroy the peace, Seraphina struggles to protect her own secret, the secret behind her musical gift, one so terrible that its discovery could mean her very life.

Review: Dragons have always been fascinating fantasy creatures that have captured our imaginations for quite some time. Hartman proves dragons are more than flying beasts who can spit fire. The Kingdom of Goredd has had a rocky peaceful treaty amongst between human and dragon kingdoms for forty years. The defamed treaty is on the verge of collapse and  tensions are high with an influx of dragons, who reluctantly shape-shift to their lessen human forms, arriving for their ruler Ardmagar Comonot’s anniversary. The anniversary comes at an ominous time when Prince Rufus is found murdered in the fashion of dragons (i.e. his head has been bitten off) and things reach a fever pitch as dragons and humans being pointing figures at one another.
    I was absolutely enthralled with Hartman's world building in Seraphina. The world seems to be heavily influenced by the Renaissance. The arts, philosophy, learning, and religion are given great importance in the society. Instead of believing in one deity, the people of Goredd believe in a variety of saints. There is a rigid social hierarchy amongst the citizens of the kingdom. Humans are the rulers while dragons are second class citizens, and the quitl are virtually the untouchable.
  In addition to the social order, the dragonlore of Seraphina is very tangible and easy to understand. The dragons only understand logic and order. Emotions are considered one's greatest weakness. Love, in particular, is viewed as a disease that must be avoided at all costs. I loved how throughout the book humans and dragons are trying to understand one another though they refuse to work together as each believes they are the superior creature who ought to rule.
  Our heroine Seraphina, a gifted and secretive court musician, bridges the gap between humans and dragons. I found Seraphina extremely likable. She desperately tries to go unnoticed as the investigation of Prince Rufus's murder draws close. Seraphina knows that her real identity must never be revealed since she is considered an abomination by her society. Her plight throughout the book is finding her own place in her world and trying to educate people about their prejudices to the different races without revealing herself. Some readers have called Seraphina cold, but I thought she was very resourceful (one can argue manipulative), smart, courageous yet vulnerable at the same time. Her emotions made sense to me after learning about who she is. 
  In addition to Seraphina, the secondary characters are important and fully realized as they represent different parts of society. Out of the many secondary characters, my favorite is Orma who reminds me in some ways as Snape from the Harry Potter series. Though he has no malice towards Seraphina, he struggles to identify with his human emotions, especially when he shape-shifts from dragon to human.  
  Though marketed as a fantasy, Serphina could work as a political thriller, murder mystery, bittersweet romance, and coming-of-age story. Since Seraphina is the daughter of high esteemed lawyer and a worker at the court, she is fully aware of the investigation. When Prince Lucian Kiggs asks for her help with the murder investigation, she has no choice but to become involved, even if Kiggs’ acute perceptiveness is a danger to her. The romance is slow burn and for once I didn't want to hit the love interest with a frying pan for being overly alpha.
  The only flaw that I can see preventing readers from fully enjoying Seraphina is its slow plot. The first hundred pages moves very slowly but I didn't mind too much as Hartman establishes her intricate world, but I know I was a bit surprised by the lack of action in the first half of the book. Once political intrigue started to develop, I though the book moved much faster. Soon I found myself involved with the characters and waiting to know what would happen next. Though this is the first book in a series, I'm happy to say there isn't a cliffhanger but I'm eagerly awaiting to see how the story progresses.

Rating: 4 stars

Words of Caution: There is some language and disturbing images. Recommended for Grades 7 and up.

If you like this book try: Dragondrums by Anne Caffrey, Daughter of Smoke and Bone by Laini Taylor, Dragon's Bait by Vivan Velde Vande, Dragonswood by Janet Lee Carey, Alanna series by Tamora Pierce

Hallowed (Unearthly #2)

  Just a quick note: I will be on vacation when this review posts. I may not or may not have internet access during vacation, but I will play catch-up with your blogs and comments when I get back. 

 Readers of my blog know that I'm extremely picky when it comes to reading books that feature angels. Most of these books feature a similar plot with generic characters, but Cynthia Hand's Unearthly series stand out from the crowd with great writing, intriguing characters, and a different spin on the age old debate of free will versus fate.

 Description: For months Clara Gardner trained to face the fire from her visions, but she wasn't prepared for the choice she had to make that day. And in the aftermath, she discovered that nothing about being part angel is as straightforward as she thought. Now, torn between her love for Tucker and her complicated feelings about the roles she and Christian seem destined to play in a world that is both dangerous and beautiful, Clara struggles with a shocking revelation: Someone she loves will die in a matter of months. With her future uncertain, the only thing Clara knows for sure is that the fire was just the beginning. In this compelling sequel to Unearthly, Cynthia Hand captures the joy of first love, the anguish of loss, and the confusion of becoming who you are.

Review: Hallowed beings a few months after the world altering events of Unearthly. I highly suggest reading the first book to become familiar with the characters and the setting before jumping into this sequel. For the most part Hand deftly avoids the middle book syndrome with Hallowed and adds a complex layer to her characters, plot, and tone of the book. Hallowed is a much darker, somber read than Unearthly but I still enjoyed it.
 The likable Clara Gardner faces her senior year with a new set of problems. She is beginning to have nightmares. Each dream ends the same way with the death of a person who is close to her. With the help of some friends, Clara tries to piece together clues and a new purpose from the dreams. At first glance, the person in danger seems to be obvious but I was a bit surprised when the big reveal came and it turned out to be someone completely different. Along with solving the mystery as time ticks away, Clara must also be on constant watch for the evil fallen angel (known as a Black Wing) Samjeeza.
  Unlike most middle books in the paranormal/supernatural romances where nothing new is added, we learn a lot about the lives of angels and Clara's own angel qualities. We meet new and fascinating characters along with surprising revelations. Although it's clear which direction Clara's increasingly petulant younger brother, Jeffrey, is heading, I wanted to learn more about him. He really does seem to have a minor role in this book and I'm wondering if he will play a large part in the third book.
 As in the first novel, the incessant conflict between destiny and free will drives Clara's actions and heart. In Hallowed, Clara receives tough love in coming to terms of being powerless in certain situations. It's a wake-up call for her and it once again makes he wonder if she'll ever have an ordinary life. She begins to question how she's living her life including who she is allowed to love.
  While there is a love triangle in Hallowed, it doesn't present itself in the ordinary ways we seem them in books. Yes, the charming and adorable Tucker Avery is still present but his appearance is limited due to the focus on angels and their lifestyles. Christian, who I thought wasn't a fully developed character to form an opinion of, is fully fleshed out in Hallowed. He doesn't worm his way into Clara's heart and cause a rift with Tucker, but becomes Clara's sounding board when she needs someone to talk to as he has first hand experience of what she is going through. I'm definitely still on Team Tucker, but I can't label Christian as the bad guy nor can I discredit his allure. I'm very anxious to read Boundless to see how everything ends.

Rating: 4 stars

Words of Caution: There are some disturbing images and suggestions of underage drinking. Recommended for Grades 7 and up.

If you like this book try: Embrace by Jessica Shirvington, Kiss by an Angel series by Elizabeth Chandler, Halflings by Heather Burch, A Temptation of Angels by Michelle Zink

Vampire Academy (Vampire Academy #1)

  One of my reading goals for last year was to finally read the popular Vampire Academy series by Richelle Mead, which I've been told by several people is a great series. I read the first book of the series, Vampire Academy, back in January and have managed to avoid writing a review until now. Why? I had reader's guilt for not liking the book, which put me in a reading slump for about a month or so before I could myself out of that hole.

Description: Two years after a horrible incident made them run away, vampire princess Lissa and her guardian-in-training Rose are found and returned to St. Vladimir's Academy, where one focuses on mastering magic, the other on physical training, while both try to avoid the perils of gossip, cliques, gruesome pranks, and sinister plots.

Review:  I really don't have to tell you that the Vampire Academy series is extremely popular. It's heralded by some as the best YA paranormal romance series featuring a great, exciting story that stars a strong female protagonist. It's even got a spin off series that is doing remarkably well on the bestseller's list.
 With all of the numerous glowing reviews I read of this book, I was expected to be blown away, to be reminded of why I ventured into the paranormal genre in the first place. My expectations were high and I was incredibly saddened when it didn't meet them. I actually felt I was either reading the wrong book or completely missed what everyone seemed to love about it. I just wasn't connecting with this book at all.
  Since the book has been reviewed by many others, I won't spend time on the plot of the story. In fact, I actually had a problem in finding the book's plot. All throughout the book, I felt like a third person listening into a conversation while Rose and Lissa talked. They were the A and B in the conversation while I saw my way out- constantly. I understood that the girls had a strong connection to one another, but hints to huge plot developments stumped me as they weren't explained at all and when they were, it was more like an afterthought. It was as if the author wrote down all the big plot points and then be told by an editor that the holes needed to be filled with explanations, except these didn't come until about 20 pages or so after the event happened. I quickly grew bored and frustrated. I even fell asleep on numerous occasions when there were action sequences.
    I know that Rose is prized amongst many readers as an incredibly strong female character. Unfortunately for me, I didn't see her that way at all. I thought Rose was abrasive, obnoxious, over-the-top, and to be completely honest a bit hypocritical. She constantly tries to defend herself from being labeled promiscuous, yet falls into random make-out sessions with guys. I didn't really find many redeeming things about her besides her strong loyalty to Lissa. Sure, she had some great snarky lines but that's about it. I know that there's a reason behind her personality, but I don't have the patience to read about it for half of the series (there are five) to find out the answer and for her to change as I've been told by other friends who enjoyed this series. Rose gave me a headache and I just wanted to put her on pause.
   As for the other characters, none of them stuck out for me. I thought they were your average paranormal romance characters- the aloof love interest with a hard exterior but with a heart of gold, the suck-up, the upper class who whines about being in the upper echelon and facing the pressure of meeting other people's expectations, etc. I did, however, find it interesting to incorporate some issues such as depression, gossip/slander within the book. Too bad these weren't expanded and dealt with in the book.
   The worst part of my reading experience is feeling guilty for not having one ounce of excitement. Guilty for falling asleep during the 'exciting' moments. Guilty for not wanting to know what happens next or heck, even look up spoilers online. Guilty for setting aside time to read all five books in this series when I had to force myself to finish the first book while desperately trying to find what made this book so popular. As I said, I felt so downtrodden that it took me a good month to get out of my slump and get back to this genre.
 So tell me, am I being too harsh? Should I give the series another shot? Have you ever had reader's guilt and if so, how did you overcome it?

Rating: 2 stars

Words of Caution: Strong language, heavy make-out scenes with some nudity, underage drinking, and disturbing scenes. Recommended for Grades 9 and up.

If you like this book try: House of Night series by P.C. and Kristin Cast, Blueblood series by Melissa DeLa Cruz, Evernight series by Claudia Gray

Scary School

   I've heard great things about Scary School, a new children horror/comedy series from HarperCollins. As an adult, I know I appreciate a bit more tongue in cheek humor and Scary School totally delivers. Perfect for kids who like scary books that feature monsters but who aren't terrifying. Think Pixar's Monster, Inc. meets Lemony Snicket. For full disclosure, I was given a copy of the book by the author in exchange for an honest review. 

Description (from publisher): You think your school's scary? Get a load of these teachers: Ms. Fang, an 850-year-old vampire Dr. Dragonbreath, who just might eat you before recess Mr. Snakeskin?science class is so much more fun when it's taught by someone who's half zombie Mrs. T?break the rules and spend your detention with a hungry Tyrannosaurus rex! Plus Gargoyles, goblins, and Frankenstein's monster on the loose The world's most frighteningly delicious school lunch And The narrator's an eleven-year-old ghost! Join Charles "New Kid" Nukid as he makes some very Scary friends?including Petunia, Johnny, and Peter the Wolf?and figures out that Scary School can be just as funny as it is spooky!

Review: Snarky, funny, and smart, 11 year old Derek the Ghost (it was a chem experiment gone wrong, don't ask) takes us inside Scary School where "learning, horror, and mayhem" go hand in hand where at humans and monsters attend the same school. This short and extremely enjoyable chapter book features  linking vignettes and character profiles that lead to the overall story arc of describing the school’s preparation for the annual Ghoul Games. The teachers, mostly made up of monsters, are familiar with their tough rules and classroom expectations.
  With clever titles and asides, Derek makes frequent allusions to events in later chapters and even to unwritten books, which enhances not only the humor but would work as a great tool to demonstrate foreshadowing to young readers. Odd events are thrown in for good measure and cleverly resolved in unexpected ways, which will never bore readers. Writing a funny book is hard as it is, but Kent makes it look very easily as the puns and over the top scenarios glide smoothly across the page. I think Scary School would make a great read-aloud, especially during Halloween time.
   Besides the fun, funny, action filled plot, I also really enjoyed the artwork in Scary School, which is a mixture of full page drawings and spot sketches, that reflected the book's tone quite nicely. Comical, sometimes gross, but never frightening, the pictures illuminate the strange yet familiar monsters and the susceptible human who is bound to be in trouble. I'd definitely recommend this book for those who are looking for a new exciting chapter book series for young readers.

Rating: 4 stars

Words of Caution: None. Recommended for Grades 3 to 6.

If you like this book try: Wayside School series by Louis Sacher, The Zack Files by Grosset and Dunlap, Ghostville Elementary by Marcia Thorton Jones

YA Minireviews: Body at the Tower (Agency #2) + Traitor in the Tunnel (Agency #3)

  If you like historical mysteries be sure to check out Y.S. Lee's Agency series. It's got a strong female lead along with interesting historical details of the Victorian period, mystery, and of course a little dash of romance. There are currently three books in the series with more on the way. I've enjoyed all of them. Today I'll be reviewing book two, The Body at the Tower, and book three, Traitor in the Tunnel, respectively.

Description (from the publisher): Mary's second adventure as an undercover agent forces her to relive some harrowing childhood experiences as she seeks the identity of a murderer. Mary Quinn is back, now a trusted member of the Agency, the all-female detective unit operating out of Miss Scrimshaw's Academy for Girls. Her new assignment sends her into the grimy underbelly of Victorian London dressed as a poor boy, evoking her own childhood memories of fear, hunger, and constant want. As she insinuates herself into the confidence of several persons of interest, she encounters others in desperate situations and struggles to make a difference without exposing -or losing -her identity. Mary's adventure, which takes place on the building site of the clock tower of the Houses of Parliament, offers a fictional window into a fascinating historical time and place.

Review: After passing her first trial case, Mary Quinn begins her real assignment with The Agency, a secret all-female detective agency in Victorian London. Her latest case requires her of disguising as a male while quietly gathering information about issues impeding the progress on building the clock tower of the Houses of Parliament. The mysterious death of a workman seems to be the impetus of the delay; however, there have been rumors of widespread corruption. Once again Mary is forced to confront her less than stellar past as her disguise brings memories of her difficult childhood to the forefront. While tries to battle her own personal demons she is also trying to sort out an intricate web of theft that may have led to murder. Adding an additional layer of complication is the delectable James Easton, who caught Mary's eye during her first case. Mary and Jame's roads cross as James turns out to be the safety inspector for the building site. James has returned from India, weakened by a bout with malaria but still attracted to Mary. Like the first book in the series, Lee's attention to the lifestyle of Victorian England is impeccable. We are put in the shoes of poor workers who barely are making ends meet. Mary is a reflective and admirable character, who grapples many issues yet seems to keep her head straight. Though she routinely finds herself in hard places and doesn't make the right choices, you can't help but root for her.

Rating: 4 stars

Words of Caution: There is some language and crude humor. There are scenes of beatings and punishments. Recommended for Grades 7 and up.

If you like this book try: Ruby in the Smoke by Philip Pullman, Enola Holmes mysteries by Nancy Springer, Secret Letters by Leah Scheier


Description (from the publisher): Mary Quinn is assigned to the Queen's case and sets out to identify a petty thief at work in Buckingham Palace and finds herself fending off the advances of a feckless prince, but a larger scandal looms when the prince witnesses the murder of a friend in an opium den.

Review: In the first two books of the Agency series, we've seen Mary take part of the upper middle class and the low, poor, working class. This time Mary finds herself at the upper crust, solving a mystery at the Buckingham Palace. Unlike the first two books, there is more of an emphasis on Mary's personal storyline. We get more details about her past including her mixed ethnicity. The mystery, which evolves from a simple case of thievery turns to a much more personable one as the Prince of Wales, heir to the throne, witnesses a murder at an opium den. The switch of the case was a bit abrupt. Lee flirts with the idea of racial tensions in this book, but I wished it was explored a bit more. It comes off kind of haphazardly. In this book Mary is forced to make some serious, life changing decisions which will put her comfort, trust, and heart at risk.
 I love the chemistry between Mary and James, which I think gets stronger with each book. Both characters complement each other really well and they both mutually admire, respect, and love one another. Though there is no cliffhanger per se in this book, there are many questions left wide open as to where Mary will head to next. Despite the minor flaws and the uneven pacing, I had a big smile on my face when I finished it and enjoyed it enough to recommend it to others.

Rating: 4 stars

Words of Caution: Opium and alcohol use is mentioned. There is some language and a few, brief sexual suggestions mentioned. Recommended for Grades 8 and up.

If you like this book try: Ruby in the Smoke by Philip Pullman, Enola Holmes mysteries by Nancy Springer, Secret Letters by Leah Scheier, And Only to Deceive by Tasha Alexander, Silent in the Grave by Deanna Raybourn.

The Prophet (Graveyard Queen #3)

 I don't know about you, but I'm barely hanging on this week. I just have to get through today and Friday. The beginning and ending of the school year completely stresses me out. Large projects loom and I'm terrified I'll a) never get things done on time, b) I'll screw up majorly causing a ripple effect of "oh noes" and c) everything will go horribly wrong. *Takes deep breath* I guess I share the same anxiety and fear as Amelia Gray, the heroine of the wonderful, Gothic, paranormal mystery series called the Graveyard Queen, but I think she has it a lot worse than I do.  

Description: My name is Amelia Gray. I am the Graveyard Queen, a cemetery restorer who sees ghosts. My father passed down four rules to keep me safe and I've broken every last one. A door has opened and evil wants me back. In order to protect myself, I've vowed to return to those rules. But the ghost of a murdered cop needs my help to find his killer. The clues lead me to the dark side of Charleston--where witchcraft, root doctors and black magic still flourish--and back to John Devlin, a haunted police detective I should only love from afar. Now I'm faced with a terrible choice: follow the rules or follow my heart.

Review: The Prophet is by far my favorite out of the The Graveyard series thus far. Amanda Stevens amps up the romantic tension, mystery, and suspense. Despite my busy schedule, I had a hard time to put this book down. If you pick up this series, I suggest you begin at the beginning with The Restorer followed by The Kingdom (the first and second book respectively) in order to get a better grasp on the character development and relationships in the book. 
   When we last visited Amelia, she was on her way back to Charleston after receiving a cry from help in the form of a text from her tortured love interest, John Devlin. Amelia has turned into a new person in The Prophet. She is no longer afraid of nor ignores her abilities like we first met her in The Restorer. After gaining her knowledge about who she is in The Kingdom, she is now working on using her talents in her favor, drawing power and confidence while harnessing and not be afraid of it. Unfortunately, her re-entry into her life isn't as easy as her new outlook on life. She is back at working the old cemetery filled with hidden secrets. She is surrounded and haunted by the same ghosts and not to mention in love with a man who should be avoided at all costs. 
  My heart ached and raced right along with Amelia's when Devlin reappeared. They've been apart for months without any clear explanations of what happened the last night they were together. Gone is the comfort and familiarity of working together as they avoid the big elephant in the room. There are even questions now about whether new relationships have been formed. The ghosts that haunt Devlin become stronger and more aggressive as they hold onto him with both hands, causing drastic physical effects on Amelia as she spends time with him. The distance and concealed secrets between Devlin and Amelia kept me tense and wondering if their happiness is even possible. I wanted them to be together and waited with baited breath as they got closer. Their romantic tension crackled and sizzled on the pages. 
  Not only did the turbulent romance enthrall me, I was also highly invested in the murder mystery in this book. The ghost of former cop Robert Fremont is haunting Amelia, pushing her to solve his murder. What turns out to be a simple 'whodunit' mystery is a tangled web that wraps quite nicely to Devlin's past. Unlike the previous two books that identify the ghosts and describe their attachments to Devlin, they become full finalized in The Prophet. Each new detail uncover a new layer to their true personality, forcing us to reshape our impressions of them multiple times. The mixture of treachery, blackmail, betrayal, obsession, and the occult makes it super creepy. It was hard for me to pinpoint who is responsible for Fremont's murder since there were many people who had the motive and means to do so. The final reveal behind his murder as well as the truths behind Devlin's past is truly shocking. I was really sad for Devlin when I first met him, but now I feel like his burden which carried around so heavily in the first two books now rest on my shoulders. There are some huge twists in the book that I took me completely unaware. And the ending? Wow. Not a cliffhanger but more of what happens now? 
  I feel like the first story arc is now complete and I'm really excited to see where Ms. Stevens takes her characters next. I can't wait for book four to come out. So far the only information that I know is that there will be an online novella to help curve our craving for book four, which is tentatively called The Keeper. Ms. Stevens also plans on writing two more books for a total of six books in the Graveyard Queen series. Yay!

Rating: 4.5 stars

Words of Caution: There is some strong language, violence, and disturbing scenes. There is also a brief sex scene that it's too graphic. Recommended for mature teens and adults.

If you like this book try:  Deadly Night by Heather Graham, Bodyfinder series by Kimberly Dertling, Grave Sight series by Charlaine Harris, Rebecca by Daphne DuMaurier

YA Mini-reviews featuring Sisters of Glass, The Secret Sisterhood of Heartbreakers, and Cross My Heart

  This is the high school's last week of school. I'm currently buried with end of the school year projects, but I didn't want to let you guys down. Today I'll be featuring a few YA mini-reviews that coincidentally all share the themes of sisters and romance. I'd like to thank publishers Knopf, Delacorte Press, and Netgalley for advanced copies of Sisters of Glass and Cross My Heart. All of these books are now available in print.

Description: Maria is the younger daughter of an esteemed family on the island of Murano, the traditional home for Venetian glassmakers. Though she longs to be a glassblower herself, glassblowing is not for daughters-that is her brother's work. Maria has only one duty to perform for her family: before her father died, he insisted that she be married into the nobility, even though her older sister, Giovanna, should rightfully have that role. Not only is Giovanna older, she's prettier, more graceful, and everyone loves her. Maria would like nothing more than to allow her beautiful sister, who is far more able and willing to attract a noble husband, to take over this role for her. But they cannot circumvent their father's wishes. And when a new young glassblower arrives to help the family business and Maria finds herself drawn to him, the web of conflicting emotions grows even more tangled.

Review: Sisters of Glass is a clean, romantic read where destiny, fidelity, and true love are nicely placed in the fourteenth-century Murano, Italy, a city renowned of glassmaking. Told through verse, the is a book is a really quick read, but looking back now I kinda wished it was told as a novel where we could spend some more time with the characters. Maria and Vanna are sisters who have complete opposite personalities. Maria is anything but ladylike and has no desire to become a society woman. She yearns to spend time with her art. Vanna, in comparison is the older and more marriageable material both by societal standards and how women ought to feel. She resents Maria for her destiny. The story is focused on how the two sisters work out their problems and create their own destinies. The romance is chaste and sweet, told mostly through hidden glances and silent moments. I really liked how the author focuses more on the sisters' relationship than have it overshadowed by their respective love stories. The book ties up nicely and quite cleverly in the end. I'd recommend this standalone if you're in the mood for a light yet thought provoking romance.

Rating: 4 stars

Words of Caution: None. Recommended for Grades 6 and up.

If you like this book try: Song of the Sparrow by Lisa Ann Sandel, Keeping the Castle by Patrice Kindl



Description: When her boyfriend ends their relationship, high school sophomore Lucy thinks she will never recover from the heartbreak until she meets three magical girls who say they can heal her, but at a cost.

Review: The Secret Sisterhood of Heartbreakers is not what I expected from the book's description. When I picked this book up I thought it would be a fluffy chick lit where the girl is heartbroken but grows a spine and gets better. Yeah..not really. Lucy is a bland, generic girl who annoyed me at the start. Her entire life orbits around her boyfriend, except well, a) he doesn't know he's her boyfriend and b) shows zero interest in her whatsoever. So when Lucy and her so-called boyfriend 'break up', she is beyond devastated. But wait! Lucy meets three stunning yet freaky girls who claim to have magical powers and can reverse her heartache. There's only one problem:  Lucy has to get a guy to fall in love with her in the next seven days and then break his heart. If she does, she’ll become part of an ancient, magic sisterhood, and never have to suffer from a heartbreak again. I had warring feelings about this book. The book paints a shallow picture of what makes a 'desirable girl', gives us something to think about but it's portrayal of the guys in the book are one dimensional. Magical realism, yes. Some food for thought about self conception, but do you have to put down the opposite sex to get to that destination? Not sure. The ending is kind of open ended, which has me to believe it might become a series, which I plan on skipping.

Rating: 2 stars

Words of Caution: Strong language, underage drinking, and allusions to sex. Recommended for strong Grade 8 readers and up.



If you like this book try: Jinx by Meg Cabot



Description: Venice, 1585. When 16-year-old Laura della Scala learns that her older sister, Beatrice, has drowned, she is given no time to grieve. Instead, Laura's father removes her from the convent where he forcibly sent her years earlier and orders her to marry Beatrice's fiance, a repulsive old merchant named Vincenzo. Panicked, Laura betrays a powerful man to earn her way into the Segreta, a shadowy society of women who deal in only one currency-secrets. The Segreta seems like the answer to Laura's prayers. The day after she joins their ranks, Vincenzo is publicly humiliated and conveniently exiled. Soon, however, Laura begins to suspect that her sister's death was not a tragic accident but a cold-blooded murder-one that might involve the Segreta and the women she has come to trust.

Review: Mystery, romance, scandal and political intrigue is what Laura della Scala finds when she is released from the convent where she's lived for five years. Her beloved sister Beatrice has drowned, but all signs of the scene scream foul play. Her father who uses his daughter as a social ladder tries to marry her off to her sisters beau Vincenzo. Still grieving for Beatrice, Laura feels powerless to disobey her father, moving her family closer to financial ruin. 's pulled into the gossip and rivalries of Venetian society, in which everyone is "part of a scheme or a plot." When Laura realizes her future husband is an old, crotchety, repulsive ninety something year old, Laura betrays a confidence to join the Segreta, a powerful secret society of masked women who arrange for Vincenzo's disgrace and exile. Saved from the marriage, Laura feels indebted to the Segreta, but she also suspects they may be involved in her sister's death. The book follows Laura on her search to find her sister's murderer and to find love at the wrong place. I really enjoyed this fast paced novel that made me itch to attend a masquerade ball or at least own a fan. I definitely recommend this one for readers who enjoy a smart historical fiction with a bold heroine who isn't afraid to attack murder, betrayal, scandal, and revenge head on.

Rating: 4 stars

Words of Caution: Some minor language and disturbing images. Recommended for Grades 8 and up.

If you like this book try: The Girl with the Pearl Earring by Tracy Chevalier, The Book of Shadow and Blood by Robin Wasserman