Piecing Me Together by Renee Watson

Piecing Me Together by Renée Watson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What a great book!!! Jade and her friends Lee Lee, Sam, mentor Maxine, her mom are all such authentic, real characters living in a challenging world, trying to face it the best way they can. I was not a fan of the cover, but as I read the book Jade's world on the cover was one of color, brightness, showcasing her hope but also the power and beauty of art made me fall in love with this colorful cover, a mosaic of Jade's life and aspirations! I have been hearing about this book since it was published in February 2017, and after reading THUG, Long Way Down, Dear Martin, ShadowHouse Fall, The Education of Margo Sabchez, Patina & Ghost, and I am sorry it took me so long to get to reading it, but so happy I read this powerful novel about friendship, finding oneself, hardship, heartbreak, the power of love and hope and honesty---a must read for all especially those who like urban fiction, adversity, diversity, and making a difference. Such a powerful book and ending- highly recommended!

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Wishtree by Katherine Applegate

Wishtree by Katherine Applegate
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I just love the simplicity of Katherine Applegate's writing but the deep abiding love she nurtures with her characters, words, and Red's world and his animal friends. Red's simple view of life is also rich, ancient, and sometimes weary. When a Muslim girl moves into the neighborhood, Red does not see any difference, just a shy, wonderful little girl who visits each night, curls under her and befriends all the animals (loved every one of them!!!). The slur that undermines Red's world also horrifies the human world. I laughed and loved how Bongo and Red hatch their plans, will they be successful? Such a wonderful read!

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One of Us Is Lying by Karen M. McManus

One of Us Is Lying by Karen M. McManus
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Debut author, Karen McManus had me turning the pages with this spine tingling whodunit. Reluctant readers will love this mystery complete with high school drama, teens you love and teens you hate. I loved the cover and the title is perfect, because if "one of us is lying" then you have the murderer, or do you??? Highly recommended!

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Love Restored (A Gallagher Brothers Novel) by Carrie Ann Ryan

Love Restored by Carrie Ann Ryan
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is my first Carrie Ann Ryan book, and I will definitely be reading her other series books! This first in the Gallagher Brothers was right up my alley- the brothers are close, most work together in a construction company and they all stick together when trouble comes knocking, and this trouble is their client, Blake Brennan, an inker and piercer with Montgomery Ink. Both Graham Gallagher and Blake are hiding secrets and until they both reveal these secrets to each other, they will continue to have a very adversarial "relationship" which involves a lot of grumpy behavior from Graham. I liked the story, did not like the cover, but rooted for their happiness and yes there is lots of sizzle in their romance!

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Savage Drift (Book #3 Monument 14) by Emmy Laybourne

Savage Drift by Emmy Laybourne
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I LOVED this series, the narration by Todd Haberkorn was just awesome, the writing by Emmy Laybourne was thrilling and I highly recommend this series! I am just sorry it took me this long to listen to it, but what sparked it was that I read Laybourne's 2017 book, Berserker, which I thoroughly loved and recommend all read it! That inspired me to go back to her debut series and I will be thinking about these kids and what they endured for a long long time, highly recommended!!!

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Trust by Kylie Scott

Trust by Kylie Scott
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Well I just learned while reading reviews on this YA romance that it is considered "new adult" (from a Goodreads reviewer "What is the NA genre? New adult (NA) fiction, also rendered as new-adult fiction, is a developing genre of fiction with protagonists in the 18–30 age bracket!") I have never read anything by Kylie Scott but I will certainly be in the near future because this 2017 book was awesome! Edie runs into a convenience store for snacks and becomes a drug-crazed tweeker's hostage (and boy is she brutalized!) and if not for another teen (trying to save her) in the store, Edie and this guy, John, become the latest news story. How this encounter changes both of them is real, funny, gritty, and makes them both stronger (in different ways). As their friendship deepens, they realize no one can really understand what they went through and they begin to look out for one another and spend more time together. Edie and John are great protagonists, their friends Anders and Hang are supportive, while I found Edie's mom too annoying and suffocating, and I was horror filled that John's parent's aren't even around!!! As they traverse their friendship and life, with each 0ther, and their friends and supportive therapist, I rooted for them to overcome their trauma, continue their undeniable bond of trust, and become something more and deeper!

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Sky On Fire (Monutment 14 #2) by Emmy Labourne

Sky on Fire by Emmy Laybourne
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Oh boy did I love Book #2 and Todd Haberkorn's narration is just unbelievable! He does the kids voices, the adults voices and his tone is perfect. I could not stop reading, took about 2 days, I kept looking for any way to tune in to this frightening apocalypse story. I am jumping right into listening to the final book!!! A fantastic read!

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The Beauty That Remains by Ashley Woodfolk

The Beauty That Remains by Ashley Woodfolk
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Thank you to Random House Books and Delacorte Press, and NetGalley for the advance reader copy The Beauty That Remains by Ashley Woodfolk in exchange for an honest review. Woodfolk’s debut novel is a sad, sad book dealing with a trio of teens who try to make sense of the loss of three other teens (sister, friend and ex-boyfriend. The characters are well drawn, and authentic dealing with devastating grief, loss, love, and devastation. Each of the three teens narrates through chapters as they tell their stories, uncertainties, and speak to the power of friends, family, and relationships. As the book moves forward, the reader will be gripped by Shay’s, Autumn’s, and Logan’s loss, their sympathetic stories kept me turning the pages, as they use their love of music, friendship, and family to find “the beauty that remains” after their lives are irrevocably changed. This book stole my heart, teens will love this positive, affirming tear jerker. Highly recommended!

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Far From the Tree by Robing Benway

Far from the Tree by Robin Benway
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I read and loved Emmie & Oliver by Robin Benway but Far From the Tree was such a moving read (Listen) and I just loved Julia Whelan's voices (especially her tone for the men) in this raw, sad, very emotional audiobook! I fell in love with the three teens who were put up for adoption by the same mother and they now search and find each other. Each chapter is told by each teen, Maya, Grace and Joaquin - the reader comes to know their thoughts, hopes, and fears (I just kept rooting for them). Maya and Grace have been adopted by loving families, but Joaquin, the oldest, has been in the foster care system his whole life. I ached for Joaquin as his own self hatred threatened any kind of happiness for him. He has foster parents, Mark & Linda who want to adopt him and a girlfriend, Birdie, he broke up with, because he felt he could never give her what she deserved. As I listened to this book, my heart ached and I was so afraid the ending would be awful, bleak and if it was, I was really going to cry even more!!! Without giving away too much, everyone needs to read this book- family, friendship, and yes, even therapy is realistically dealt with and the result is an award winner, that speaks volumes about the fierceness of family, the depth of friendship, and the love that binds (and grows) for Brothers and Sisters (bio kids & adopted kids) .

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Two Girls Down by Louisa Luna

Two Girls Down by Louisa Luna
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Thank you to Doubleday Books and NetGalley for the advance reader copy Two Girls Down by Louisa Luna in exchange for an honest review. I love mystery and detective stories and this book did not disappoint! Alice Vega is a successful bounty hunter hired by the family of two young girls who went missing at a mall. Alice is tough to figure out, very savvy when it comes to doing things her own way and she has plenty of resources and a tech guy who can get almost any information she needs. But when it comes to Witness Statements, Alice decides to hire/approach Cap, a disgraced cop who now has his own private investigation firm with a teen daughter who is just as interested in her father’s cases. Mystery lovers will be spellbound by the many twists and turns the case takes as many clues evolve, with Cap and Alice working overtime with no sleep to win over the police department, so they can ALL share clues to find these girls. There are surprises aplenty, but together Cap & Vega keep digging, as time ticks agonizingly fast. Will they find the girls? Will they be alive? If alive, will they be emotionally stable? I also liked the element of romantic interest between Cap & Vega that grows as the tension mounts. Luna’s major characters are well drawn and minor characters in the police department and suspects, friends and families questioned are all interesting and integral. I want to see Alice Vega turn into a mystery series. This is a riveting, mesmerizing detective thriller and will keep mystery lovers turning the pages; highly recommended!

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Overturned by Lamar Giles

Overturned by Lamar Giles
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book has been highly recommended on the blogs I read and the YA reading publications I follow and Nikki Tate did not disappoint! She is one tough, resilient teen living in Vegas, dad in jail, mom and Nikki running his casino when his conviction is overturned- new evidence. Nikki has a close set of friends in Molly and Gavin- they play together (sports) and run an illegal card game (they all want to go to college together) but things conspire to upend Nikki's secret (she thinks) plans to escape Vegas with her friends. Nikki has also been crushing on new kid, Davis, who happens to be the son of the biggest casino owner in Vegas (forbidden fruit) and when she stops bullies from beating him to a pulp, he becomes friend and more. The dark underbelly of Vegas drew me in, I loved Nikki's descriptions, snarky comments and take no prisoners attitude. But when her Dad comes home from jail, he is not the same person and the life with her mom from the past 5 years gets tossed too. Lamar Giles really knows how to write mystery, spine tingling fast-paced novels with in your face teens, varied & great adult characters, and many plot complications that thrill. Another thrilling mystery from founding member of We Need Diverse Books!

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The Evolution of Mara Dyer (Mara Dyer, #2) by Michelle Hodkin

The Evolution of Mara Dyer by Michelle Hodkin
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Oh boy did I love this 2nd book in the series!!! In the first book I was not a fan of Mara but she sure did grow and become strong character in this book! With Mara & Noah against the world, I am going to root for the two of them to succeed but there was some strange goings on in this book: definitely people working against Mara, but why? Very creepy characters like Dr. Kels, Phoebe, Adam all in the institution no less! There is still the Dr Legume from the first book in the background, some chapters taking place in Egypt (haven't figured that out yet, but very interested!) with Mara as a nameless little girl, given a handmade doll by the girl she calls sister, and Jude, oh do I hate him so much! As forces conspire to keep Mara from Noah, he figures out how to be with her (LOVE HIM), and as the mysteries and secrets intensify, with Mara still being bullied, scared, and watched (that is really extra creepy) this audiobook hurtled to a spine chilling end- definitely getting the 3rd and final audiobook & I will also be getting the new series about Noah Shaw too---so excited! This is definitely a thrilling trilogy!

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Close Contact (Body Armor #3) by Lori Foster

Close Contact by Lori Foster
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I love Lori Foster books and Close Contact was super enjoyable! Miles and Maxi were strong characters, sincere, and totally into each other but only the reader is aware how much they really care about each other because they certainly aren't speaking freely to each 0ther. I loved the pace, could not stop reading this book as the heat rose, the danger increased, and the Body Armor family takes Maxi under their wing. I think that is what I like most about these books; the other series characters reappear and remain close with a united front. I can't wait for the next book in the series, because I love Sahara (owner of the agency) and since Brand is around her a lot I am sure there will be some awesome chemistry going on with them, hurry up #4!!!

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Count All Her Bones (Girl, Stolen #2) by April Henry

Count All Her Bones by April Henry
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

My students at Abington Sr Hi loved April Henry mysteries!!! Now that I am retired, I continue to read and love her books and this 2nd in the series was such an addicting psychological thriller, I could not put it down, devoured it in one day. Cheyenne was blinded from a very sharp impact to her skull, and after being found in the car that was carjacked by Griffin Sawyer, Cheyenne's life since then has been one of a bodyguard/also martial arts instructor, no friends, home and school until the trial is over, hopefully convicting Griffin's dad, Roy, with their testimony (Griffin & Cheyenne). But Roy has plans to put all the blame on Griffin and have his son serve time in prison; and that is how Plan B gets put into effect. Cheyenne rocked as a blind teen who knows how to protect herself; she is one of my fave characters; she definitely has some issues, but she is grounded enough to struggle through, keep her fiery personality (as Griffin sees her "bad ass") as a central part of who she is and wants to be in life. I rooted for Griffin and Cheyenne being able to "find each other" again - reluctant readers will love this mystery series; once again April Henry has written a quick thrilling read that will keep teens reading, guessing and fingers crossed! (Read it December 1 but Goodreads would not let me put that date in, argh!!!)

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Long Way Down by Jason Reynolds

Long Way Down by Jason Reynolds
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I read this book for the December twitter chat with #2jennsbookclub to be held Thursday 12/14 at 8PM; please join us for what will be a timely and awesome discussion! I have read & loved all of Jason Reynolds' books and Long Way Down takes a hard look at the urban violence that has ensnared black teens & men. Will has been taught the rules of the street by his brother, Shawn. When Shawn is shot dead, Will gets his brother's gun and is on his way to honor the rules. As he descends the elevator with his brother's gun in the back of his pants; Will runs into people/family who have been gunned down and as each ghost/spirit relates the gun violence - there are things Will is compelled to think about- is Riggs really the one who shot Shawn, and "Another thing about the rules They weren't meant to be broken. They were meant for the broken to follow." What will Will do as he talks to the spirits in the elevator? I liked how Will used anagrams to help him figure things - scare=cares, ALIVE=A VEIL, FEEL=FLEE and Reynolds first hand knowledge of this life, these kids, and the failures of those older. I will be reading this again; reluctant readers will be absorbed by this urban fiction tale, and I am definitely going to listen to Jason Reynolds' narration on Audible. Highly recommended!

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Monument 14 by Emmy Laybourne

Monument 14 by Emmy Laybourne
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

After reading and loving Berserker by Emmy Laybourne I wanted to go back & listen to this audiobook very awesomely narrated by Todd Haberkorn. I have had this book listed first in my TBR so it has been on there for quite some time. I loved hearing the story from the POV of teen, Dean who is in love with Astrid (she is dating/in love with the jock) who loves to journal, has a younger, very interesting brother, Alex, and one day their lives change when the world experiences disasters one after another, requiring teens and little ones to hole up in a store and try to deal with chemical weapons in the air that make some of them very aggressive, others sexually inhibited, etc. I could not stop listening to the drama of their world but also these kids trying to figure things out, keep out bad people, and yearn for their families. I can't wait to listen to #2 in this series!!!.

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Frigid (Frigid #1) by Jennifer Armentrout

Frigid by J. Lynn
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I really love Jennifer Armentrout romance novels (both YA & adult) and her characters, Kyler and Sydney as 21 year olds who have been best friends forever (but they do not know each is in love with the other) & are snowed in during an epic snow storm- what will happen? Very enjoyable!

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A Million Junes by Emily Henry

A Million Junes by Emily Henry
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I read this enchanting romance/paranormal story for #yabookchat which we will discuss 12/3 at 9pm EST, come join us! This was such a great read; I loved Emily Henry's debut The Love That Split the World but I LOVED this even more- Henry's style of writing pulls me right in; the world of June & Saul with feuding families; the magic of her house with its ghosts (Nameless & Feathers ), Whites, coywolves who take shoes, and the all encompassing grief June still feels at losing her Dad. The characters were all fleshed out, whether they are alive (like June and Saul) or dead (like her Dad and all the O'Donnell partriarchs) strange, spellbinding and all too real. The different "loves" were powerful from friends like Hannah, to June's mom and Toddy, June & Saul and most magic- the memories of June with/and her Dad. I loved getting to know the million Junes and rooted for June and Saul to break the curse but just maybe reunite the O'Donnell and Angert families. Highly recommended.

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Worlds Afire by Paul B. Janeczko

Worlds Afire by Paul B. Janeczko
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I read this historical fiction novel in verse as part of the November chat for #yearoya focusing on books written between 2002 and 2007. I love Paul Janeczko and this spare novel was heartbreaking. A circus, lots of people, and a fire breaks out, killing 167 people in a few minutes! There are many voices each telling about the fire, the animals, the people, the circus, and how the 1944 fire affected all involved, compelling and great for reluctant readers!

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The Brimstone Journals by Ron Koertge

The Brimstone Journals by Ron Koertge
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I read this realistic fiction novel in verse as part of the November chat for #yearoya focusing on books written between 2002 and 2007. My students always loved Ron Koertge books, I never found the time to read this, I am so glad I did. With school shootings making the news, this High School in 2001 is dealing with bullying, romance, sexual abuse, and a dangerous group who are making a list of those who will not make it. The teen voices are real and span all kinds of high school kids. Thankfully teens don't shy from talking to the adults and police when they fear for their life. An ALA Notable Book in 2002.

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Kampung Boy by Lat (Mohammed Nor Khalid)

Kampung Boy by LAT (Mohammad Nor Khalid)
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I read this realistic fiction novel in verse as part of the November chat for #yearoya focusing on books written between 2002 and 2007. Lat's life growing up in Malayasia was so interesting, his fishing, adventures with friends, and his family dynamics made this an interesting look at a life in 1950 that was disappearing even then.

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The Speaker (The Reader #2) by Traci Chee

The Speaker by Traci Chee
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Oh boy did I love this 2nd book in the Reader series!!! Traci Chee kept me turning the pages even when the horror of what Archer and his band are dealing with in memories, self-hatred, loathing, dreams, no sleep. Archer and Sefia use the book to catch, kill, and imprison the Impressors who kidnapped them and stole their lives only to have them survive by killing each other. Now they are finding the kidnapped boys, freeing them and joining Archer to free all the boys and punish the Impressors. But they are always being chased by the Guard (oh do I hate them, Tanin especially) and it is up to Sefia (they call her the Sorcerer) to read the book to lead them to the next encampment. What I found very difficult to read was how tortured Archer was; it was making the distance between him and Sefia very wide (but Sefia is not being honest with him either, is she???) I loved Traci Chee's worldbuilding, 500 pages slipped by, the words, the characters, the plot all were captivating and I thank the author for a positive uplifting ending (Sefia & Archer are together!!!) but still thrilling and exciting about Book 3; can't wait - found this book fascinating; highly recommended!!! I can't wait to find out more about past, present and future as Sefia and Archer have very decided roles they play in this world of reading, magic, Guards, and lies.

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The Book of Dust: La Belle Sauvage (Book of Dust Vol. 1) by Philip Pullman

La Belle Sauvage by Philip Pullman
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Oh did I love Michael Sheen's superb narration of La Belle Sauvage; and Malcolm and Alice and Lyra are my new favorite characters! I am going to go back and listen to the Lyra books again; such a great series!!! With the world in the throes of a flood, young Malcolm had fled with Alice and the baby, Lyra---there are people who mean to harm her and they will not ever succeed if it is up to Malcom!!! I loved his determination, his personality (he could fool people with his comments but he could also be very truthful to others) and as he plunges with eyes wide open into finding safety---he meets many interesting people. This book has it all, I was gripped with the narration, the worldbuilding, the revisiting of a character I loved, Lyra. What a thrill---I can't wait for the 2nd book; Pullman has crafted a mystery, historical fiction, and rife with spies, murderers, and fanatics. Highly recommended!

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Berserker (Berserker #1) by Emmy Laybourne

Berserker by Emmy Laybourne
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What a great, gripping, thrilling read!!! Emmy Laybourne really knows how to pull the reader in with the Norse/Viking mythology, the Nyette power that runs in certain families, and it ruins them too. When Hanne, who is a Berserker, feels her father in danger, her power comes in full and she kills 3 men, causing the family to flee from Norway to America. Her brother Knut (Nyette is strength) and Steig (Nyette is control heat/weather) are also Nytteson but not their youngest sister, Sissel. They all hope their uncle can help them understand/control their powers as they plod through the west in the 1800s. I loved this family, with their compassion for each other, the brother's aching concern for Hanne's self-loathing, and their quiet, kind acceptance of life in all the good and bad. Their meeting Owen Bennett really added to my love for this intriguing, hardscrabble tale. Owen (really nice cowboy) and his dog, Daisy (OMG, loved her!!!) has had a tough existence but he really messes up when he gets drunk and loses all his earnings. But this could also be the BEST thing for Owen because he meets this wonderful family, gets hired on as their guide (for lots of $$) and really begins to feel special when he is with them. I could not put this book down, so happy for the good advice from Rolf and Ketril's demise (what is the Baron advocating with his Nytteson???) I simply can't wait for the second book!!! Highly recommended!

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Gem & Dixie by Sara Zarr

Gem & Dixie by Sara Zarr
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I enjoy Sara Zarr's books so much and sisters, Gem & Dixie, really have a tough life but two different outlooks. Gem was the older sister, so responsible, who watches as their lives fall apart over and over again. She just can't take it anymore. When her father comes home after years away, he lies (as usual) and stashes money under a bed. When the girls decide to run away, they find this ill-begotten money and the way both sisters view this latest betrayal is just so real and sad and plain scary. Because Dixie is the youngest and always had Gem looking out for her, Dixie is able to convince herself there are good times in her future with both parents while Gem takes matters into her own hands to save her heart, her sister, and just maybe carve out a future. This was not an easy read; it reminded me of Nancy Werlin's Rules of Survival- one of my favorite books while at Abington Senior High. There are parents who should not be parents and this is true of Gem and Dixie, but while both girls survive- the damage to Gem will only get worse- what will she do??? Powerful read.

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We Are Okay by Nina LaCour

We Are Okay by Nina LaCour
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I was plunged to the depths of despair with Marin, as LaCour's main protagonist struggles with her life before, during, and now in the present, after the death/disappearance of her grandfather. Even though Marin and her grandfather have a great relationship; it was too weird- they did not go into each other's room?!? They did not relate all the time as their dynamics would suggest. And the way Marin deals with "things" after is just plain unbelievable, but then she did receive such a jolt and then she had to question everything in her life-unfortunately that ended in Marin fleeing from her best friend, Mabel and her wonderful supportive family. How she deals with her grief is so awfully lonely, I can't imagine- why would she not answer any of Mabel's endless texts? Why would she flee the police station knowing Mabel's parents were waiting? But the visit from Mabel at her college, the 3 days they spend together, gave me hope and such a wonderful feeling that with Mabel's love, help, and the support of her parents, Marin would heal, find answers and become hopeful once more.

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The Upside of Unrequited by Becky Albertalli

The Upside of Unrequited by Becky Albertalli
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I read this book for the #2jennsbookclub twitter chat to be held 11/9 at 8PM. Molly was such a likable character; she was shy but always positive, such a uniquely creative person and very aware she is considered "large" or "chubby." She has a twin sister who is thin, blond, gay and I think too harsh with Molly and then gets too secretive when she starts seeing a new girl (she has never been like this before!) as well as trying to overzealously set Molly up with new guy, Will. I loved the family dynamic with the two moms, their upcoming plans for their nuptials, and Molly's new job with coworker, Reid who is funny, nerdy, into Tolkein and super nice. Albertalli really knows how to craft a story; I loved her first book and I think I like this one even more. She gets teens, their dramas, their relationships, and pulls the readers in with the honesty, humor, and ultimate happiness of a really great book.

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Warcross (Warcross #1) by Marie Lu

Warcross by Marie Lu
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Since I am not into gaming at all, I absolutely loved the narration by Nancy Wu; her voice had just the right amount of tension, yes there is lots of that in this high stakes gaming competition that has someone trying to destroy the game. Emika Chen hacks into the initial Warcross game and that has her meet the creator, Hideo, who hires her as a hacker to find who is hacking into Warcross. There was so much going on, I loved the narration, I would have been lost because I am not familiar with all the terms used but I loved the artificial worlds, the ins and outs of the games, the way the games were set up using bots, virtual weapons, Ash in a wheelchair but he runs in the game, and bounty hunters!!! I can't wait for Book 2 because the ending really surprised me- I think Emika is such a bold, fierce, amazing and strong female main character- I can't wait to see what happens.

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The Empress (Diabolic #2) by S.J. Kincaid

The Empress by S.J. Kincaid
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Well I have to say I loved the book for the first 80%, but the last 20% really hurt---still could not stop turning the pages! I know Kincaid writes a thrilling book, I could not put it down!!! There was so much going on with the politics in the court, the trip to see the Interdict, Pasus is evil to he core (I could not put it down, but as I read what he made Tyrus and others do I was truly sickened...) I will definitely read the 3rd book but I realize, the ending of this book, has spelled out a death knell that I should have seen coming...I love Nemesis and Tyrus together but the world is against them and when Nemesis makes a decision that takes her away from Tyrus for 4 years, well you can only guess the worse happens---but like Nemesis, I hoped for a great homecoming, never seeing that her decision and all its implications- was too long and painful for Tyrus. That darn drug, Tyrus having to make Pasus family, all culminate in a Tyrus so changed I hated him to the core. Now I am left with waiting for the 3rd book, knowing there can be no coming back for Nemesis and Tyrus, so Kincaid better come up with some whopper for the 3rd book. This book has so many plot twists and turns, my heart was up and down, my aggravation knew no bounds, and my wishes are dashed- so it was amazing but I can't get over the Tyrus/Nemesis debacle, but I guess I understand, but I don't like it at all...

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Girls Made of Snow and Glass by Melissa Bashardoust

Girls Made of Snow and Glass by Melissa Bashardoust
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I loved Jennifer Ikeda's brilliant narration of this reimagining of the Snow White Tale in this 2017 release. The voices, the inflection and the feelings and inner monologues of Mina and Lynet were wonderful to listen to; Mina's feeling of entrapment by her father, her husband the king, and being told by her father she would/could never be loved by anyone because of her glass heart, plunged Mina into a life of harsh insecurity believing only her beauty would garner her success. Lynet, the princess was such a special, strong, capable character- even though her father, the king, kept her away from playmates, she found love and acceptance with Mina. I especially enjoyed Felix and his transformation over time; it was just so good, since everything was so calculated by Mina. It was always tough to listen to Gregory, he was such an evil heinous character. But the ending, oh the ending- it made me so so happy with this new re-imagining; Highly recommended!

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Turtles All The Way Down by John Green

Turtles All the Way Down by John Green
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Wow, this was an awesome book to listen to, Kate Rudd nailed Aza's obsessive compulsive mental illness-BUT it was tough to listen to (I ached for Aza) but a book teens need to read and will resonate with as mental illness, friendship, loss, families, are all explored and not easily resolved. Green is such a great writer and the fact that he himself suffers from OCD, it brought immediacy and urgency to Aza's story. She is naturally weird, so her obsessions don't help, making her shy and aloof. She has a very capable therapist, but Aza won't take her medicine as prescribed, doesn't always tell the whole truth and as she devolves--- fights the part of her illness that is obsessed with germs and microbes, breaking open a scab on her hand and compulsively cleaning and re-bandaging it- I asked myself, is it because she is a teen and doesn't know any better that she drinks hand sanitizer, and shirks the healing effects of taking her medicine? This book was a journey - Aza's friendship with Daisy and her romance with Davis saddened me; I wished a happy outcome and life for Aza, but I guess we need another book about an older Aza, don't we?

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House Arrest by K.A. Holt

House Arrest by K.A. Holt
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Oh do I love K.A. Holt's novels in verse- they stop my heart with Timothy's house arrest, problems with hit little brother, his mother who won't accept help (so Timothy won't accept help either), and a father who fled because he couldn't handle the medical burden of his baby son. Once Timothy makes a very well intentioned but BAD attempt at theft to help pay for his brother's medicine- he must see a parole officer and therapist and journal for the year about his feelings and oh did I ache for him. This was a tough book to read but so relatable to what kids endure, their feeling of being alone, with no help, and not being able to do anything about it. I really love Jose's family, thank God for them. Holt's ability to use verse to tell this story was just so real, I could not put it down, everyone needs to read this book! Adults, kids, teens, teachers, health providers- a must read!

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Haven by Mary Lindsey

Haven by Mary Lindsey
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Thank you to NetGalley and Entangled Publishing and Entangled Teen for the ARC, Haven by Mary Lindsey in exchange for an honest review. I could not put this book down! I immediately loved Rain; he was a tough teen with a tenacious heart of gold for anyone he cared about. After living in shelters most of his life due to his mom’s drug addiction, Rain and best friend, Moth, use their fists to handle most problems. When his mother dies, an aunt he did not even know existed, brings him to the small town of New Wurzburg and his life is turned upside down. I was sucked into Rain’s intense feelings for Freddie, a strong girl who seems to be from the wrong side of the tracks. For fans of Maggie Stiefvater fantasy series, this book will hook you, drag you into a world of shape shifting, bullies, evil, lies, and secrets. As Rain learns more about Freddie, her father’s death, and her hidden world, he becomes such a hero in my book. He is all in when it comes to protecting those he loves- Rain is willing to die to help Freddie and she fights his offers to help (she is so afraid he will be killed). I loved both Rain and Freddie’s intensity, their romance was sizzling, and their combined skills made this a super thrilling paranormal read. Highly recommended!

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Rebel Seoul by Axie Oh

Rebel Seoul by Axie Oh
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I read this book on my kindle because I loved the review Rich in Color posted August 4 by Audrey. With a militaristic society of New Seoul and Old Seoul, Jaewon (LOVED him!!!) is a character raised in the streets (and was involved with a gang) after his father disappears and dies (for some higher good?!?) and is familiar with both worlds- he works a few jobs and is an elite soldier who got a scholarship and totally excelled becoming assigned to the Tower and partnering with Tera (a girl who has been raised/injected with Enhancers (along with her sister Ama) and is a killing machine. What I loved about this book was the worlds, I could not stop turning the pages, and Jaewon was tough but was as empathetic (he didn't believe it) as he was the perfect soldier. I hated his best friend, Yeoung, who abandoned him because it continued to cause him heartache and pain years later. Even more, I hated his best friend's father, oh was he evil, and I wished the worst for him. I was totally unimpressed with his friend at the academy whose father is The Director- he is rich, unfeeling, but also being abused by his father. I rooted for Jaewon and Tera-they were very strong characters who wanted better things for themselves in life. I really hope this is the beginning of a series because there is so much more I want to dive into with Jaewon and Tera's world!

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Short by Holly Goldberg Sloan

Short by Holly Goldberg Sloan
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Just as I have loved and continued to think about Willow Chance in Holly Goldberg Sloan's Counting by 7s, I am so in love with hilarious Julia Marks and will continue to think about her as such a special individual (her love and continued sorrow over losing her beloved dog, Ramon tore me us), thoughtful but also inwardly thinking about herself (what middle school child doesn't think self-centeredly about themselves?), funny, honest, and likable youngster who is a mover and a shaker. Julia is small, don't dare call her short, and now her mom has gone and signed her (and brother, Randy) up to audition for The Wizard of Oz. Thinking her summer was going to be a bust; Julia and Randy thrive as munchkins, Julia really takes to the director, Shawn Barr, who is always excited about everything to do with the show. Julia enjoys Olive, a self assured dwarf who partners with Olive for the show. Even more surprising, Julia becomes enthralled with neighbor, Mrs. Chang- her house is unbelievable- she has "cool stuff" an animal puppet collection, a coffee table made out of silverware, and a life-size buffalo made out of buttons...and Mrs. Chang has been in theatre and offers to make the munchkin and flying monkey costumes, as long as she can also be a flying monkey. As Julia becomes immersed in this summer theatre, her world changes, she changes, and the people she meets become role models re-shaping Julia. LOVED this book, just like I LOVED Counting by 7s. I can't wait for more impressive Holly Goldberg Sloan books, kids, teens, adults must all read -laugh and love the irrepressible Julia Marks!

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Patina (Track: Book 2) by Jason Reynolds

Patina by Jason Reynolds
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I loved this 2nd book in the Track series by Jason Reynolds. Once again I was immersed in the world of track, the competition, the comraderie, and tough young protagonists. Like the first book, Ghost, Patina is dealing with the loss of her father, becoming "adopted" by her father's brother and his wife, and moving to a new school. As she continues to deal with taking care of her cute little sister, Maddy- Patina also has to deal with a new elite school and the fake girls who go there. But the good thing is- she is still on The Defenders Track team and the kids and coaches help her deal with life, a new school, her mom needing dialysis, and her new parents. Jason Reynolds is the best author, both in middle grade and YA books (I have read and thoroughly loves ALL his books) - they speak to the guts and glory of the underdog, they root for their characters, and they show us, the reader- the pain of being in a tough world but finding a sport that helps them deal, can't wait for Book #3!

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Genuine Fraud by E. Lockhart

Genuine Fraud by E. Lockhart
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I read this book a part of the #yearofya twitter chat on trends in YA and this book did not disappoint. Loved the cover! Told from Jule's POV who I did not like at all- she was an unreliable narrator (once again, I do not like these kinds of characters) who finds her parents murdered when she is 7- she begins a life of being a genuine fraud and oh is she the best! The book goes in reverse chronological order as she tells of her many outfits, hairdos, and details the places where she finds her marks and sets to work. I really like Imogen and wished she had never crossed paths with Jules. She was rich, loved animals, loved her parents but did not like school or who she was and so ditches life and goes on the run with none other than Jules, who has been asked by Imogen's mom to find her and bring her home---so not happening! Loved Lockhart's writing, her characters were well drawn, and the jet setting places were so interesting. The ending is pure Jules "4 passports, 4 driver's licenses, 3 wigs, several thousand dollars in cash & a credit card belonging to Forrest Smith-Martin that would do for buying plane tickets." Jules was moving on.

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This Darkness Mine by Mindy McGinnis

This Darkness Mine by Mindy McGinnis
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Oh boy, I could not put this book down, Sasha Stone is not someone I never want to know- she is the unreliable narrator dealing with some major problems (sister absorbed in womb, mental illness, bad girl) and as she spirals out of control, I kept turning those pages but boy did I dislike Sasha Stone as each chapter got darker and darker and more mysterious. Sasha is the one in control from page one, don't let her convince you of anything less- she does not love anyone but herself, even though she may have the perfect boyfriend, a few girlfriends, supportive mom and dad- this psychological thriller is controlled by Sasha and her belief she has her sister's heart and her sister loves having sex with bad boy Isaac and Sasha wants to get her control of her body and self back. Boy did I feel sorry for the men in her life, but the girls did not fair well at all either (especially in the cardiac hospital) Sasha just kept spinning and striking out in her world- read this book to find out who wins, good girl Sasha or bad girl Sasha?

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Into the Bright Unknown (The Gold Seer Trilogy #3) by Rae Carson

Into the Bright Unknown by Rae Carson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

OMG, loved this last in the Gold Seer Trilogy!!! The characters have become my family and friends as I listened to the awesome narration by Erin Mallon- the Glory family of Lee, Jefferson, Becky and her children, the Major, Tom, Jasper, etc were all such well defined characters with Carson's wonderful way of building the suspense and keeping it going, the whole story...I could not stop listening. How were Lee & her friends going to deal with the nasty likes of Hardwick and Dilly? Leaving Glory & traveling with her fiancé Jefferson (so so happy for them), Becky and her kids, the Major and the 3 college men to San Francisco puts them immediately into trouble once more as Hardwick is so much worse than Uncle Hiram and so much more powerful. All of his dealings are underhanded and he has and associate who seems to have some magical powers too- all helping Hardwick dupe people out of their money. I just loved how much Lee grew, she was a strong strong female who would stop at nothing to help her friends, but she also had so much compassion for the kids on the street, Indians, Chinese that she worked/magicked tirelessly to form a plan to get justice for all those wronged... Such a great ending to a thrilling trilogy.

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Into the River Glorious (Gold Seer Trilogy #2)

Like a River Glorious by Rae Carson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Oh did I love this 2nd book in the Gold Seer Trilogy by Rae Carson, but it was not an easy read. The treatment of the Indians, Chinese, even Lee was awful, heinous, and tough. I hated Lee's Uncle Hiram and his treatment of Lee and his Hiram Gulch gold mine workers which he treated worse than animals. I loved the settlement of Glory by Lee, Jefferson, Tom, Jasper and the Major- the working together, their belief in one another and their unwavering support. Lee has no family, Jefferson is her only friend but as they make their way toward CA -what they endure together and how they help one another was/is so important and welcome compared to the harshness of the gold miners, the foremen, and many of the white men who hated the Indians (always blamed them first) and Chinese, denigrating them (murdering them too) whenever they can. I know Lee was a captive too and the psychological (and physical) abuse at her uncle's hand will follow her (because she blames herself for those who suffer bc of something she did) for the rest of her life. Already downloaded #3, caa't wait to start listening, oh do I love Erin Mallon- her tone, her voices are perfect for this story.

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Disappeared by Francisco X Stork

Disappeared by Francisco X. Stork
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I have read & loved all of Stork's compelling book, Disappeared has me wanting more-I hope Stork continues with the story of Sara and Emiliano. Juarez, Mexico really scared me; it was good to see the home of Sara & Emiliano from their viewpoint, but you would never find me living there and loving it. Sara is an investigative reporter for the newspaper, El Sol, but she has been following, researching, and broadcasting the disappearance of girls from their community, especially once her best friend, Linda vanishes. The injustice in the system of law seems overwhelming but when Sara and her family are targeted to stop looking into Linda's disappearance, they do find a few people they can trust-it is the strength of Sara's convictions, her family & friend support network that keep her continually investigating. The parallel story of her brother, Emiliano, breaks my heart because he is a good kid (star soccer player, part of a youth group that helps others, falling for a girl that is rich and too far out of his reach. I hated when Emiliano began to be drawn into the world of lies (because he cherishes truth so much) and easy money, and that is when he begins to have an inner war with himself. Paco his friend keeps telling him his choices will not get him what he wants, but Emiliano does not tell his friend anything while continuing to reach for the impossible. I really think Stork should continue this story, I want to follow Sara and Emiliano as they run for safety, into an unknown world.

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Shadowhouse Fall (Shadowshaper Cypher Book 2) by Daniel Jose Older

Shadowhouse Fall by Daniel José Older
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Oh boy did I get drawn into Sierra's world once again of shadowshapers and her spirit world, where she and her friends fight to keep the Shadowhouse world intact as other spirits threaten to destroy them and their families. Sierra is one strong Shadowshaper who is not afraid to use her tongue (she is a tough talker) and friends (Juan, Bennie, Izzy, Anthony, Robbie, Mina) to thwart the overthrow of her world. I rooted for her as her friends were thrown in jail or mental institutions, and she still rallied her troops to fight against the Deck of Cards, The Sorrows, and the Hound. I loved Older's world of urban Brooklyn, the spirits (the good and the bad) the shapeshifting and their clashes with the other houses- I could not stop reading---loved the beauty, magic, and urban feel of this urban fantasy- can't wait for #3!!!

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Walk the Earth a Stranger (The Gold Seer Trilogy, #1) by Rae Carson

Walk on Earth a Stranger by Rae Carson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Listened to and loved Erin Mallon's intense narration of this first in a series of the Gold Rush and a girl, Lee Westfall who has "witchy powers" and can sense/feel the presence of gold. She has a very happy family life with her mother and father and best friend, Jefferson until one day she comes home and finds her parents murdered! Lee is set to stay at home in her parent's home until her Uncle Hiram comes to claim Lee & the house as his own. It seems her father told his brother trustingly about Lee's powers & Uncle Hiram wants to use her. Jefferson follows the call of the gold and tells Lee he will wait for her at a certain spot and once Lee can't escape her uncle she rides as a guy to dodge her uncle and keep safe. Loved this audiobook & am now listening to #2, yay!!!

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Wrongful Death by Robert Dugoni

Wrongful Death by Robert Dugoni
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I love Robert Dugoni's legal thrillers; the mystery is gripping, I just keep turning the pages, loving David Sloane and Jenkins and the way my heart beats as I read at break neck speed to find out how this mystery ends and the courtroom with judge, jury and Sloane doing what he is the best at. Can't wait to jump into #3!!!

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Refugee by Alan Gratz

Refugee by Alan Gratz
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Wow, what a must read for all; Alan Gratz crafts a heart stopping, gripping read about 3 young teens and their families as they become refugees trying to escape Nazi Germany in 1939, Cuba in 1995, and Syria in 2015- all devastating times in history where people are/were persecuted, preyed upon, murdered and desperately searching for freedom, acceptance, and a place to call home. I ached as I read Josef, Isabel and Mahmoud's courageous struggles with their close knit families as they fled homes they loved because of persecution and war. Gratz's use of different time periods to show how history keeps repeating itself in it's discrimination of cultures, genocide, and violence shows the refugee/immigrant plights keep continuing; wiping out families, communities, and homelands; this should be required reading for all students, teachers, parents, and leaders. Readers will not be able to put this book down; there is so much to discuss; things need to be remedied - this should not happen; the dangers are all too real; countries can't/won't handle the influx of refugees and people/families are disintegrating, suffering, losing hope. The Author's Note is essential, and What you Can Do just as important to read at the end of this book.

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Alex & Eliza by Melissa de la Cruz

Alex and Eliza by Melissa de la Cruz
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Melissa de la Cruz nailed this historical fiction book about the love story of Alexander Hamilton and Elizabeth Schuyler and oh was there drama!!! Not only is the American Revolution just around the corner, but the 3 daughters of the famed Schuyler family are looking for husbands with money to marry. Their father has suffered some setbacks and the girls need to marry well to help their family. Enter Alexander Hamilton, who has no family, no title, no money -but he is famous as Colonel Hamilton integral aide to George Washington, who meets and falls for Eliza Schuyler. Eliza is so different from her 2 sisters- she wants to marry for love and does not care about money, clothes, or station but she desperately loves her family too. As the world conspires to keep Alex & Eliza apart, the reader falls in love with these 2 characters who detest slavery, help soldiers with uniforms, inoculate soldiers against small pox, care intensely about soldiers, their growing love for each other will have readers turning the pages, falling for this important part of our history and the epic love story too.

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A Short History of the Girl Next Door by Jared Reck

A Short History of the Girl Next Door by Jared Reck
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This audiobook read awesomely by Michael Chamberlain nails the Wow what a tear jerker, heart breaking story of best friends viewed from Matt's POV ( I would have loved to gotten Tabby's POV) as they enter high school. Matt & Tabby have been inseparable since they were babies (Matt's family helps raise Tabby because she has single Dad, no other family), lived across the street, played, and laughed. Matt loves basketball, has such an insecure brain (it does more harm than good) and fell in love with his best friend when they were 12 years old and they were being bullied and Tabby came to the rescue. Matt never tells Tabby about his feelings but hopes she knows. Mistake #1 because Tabby is a very special girl and as 9th graders, senior Liam Branson falls for her. Matt hates him (but Branson is nice, nice, nice) and after seeing Branson pick her up Matt stays up all night fighting jealousy and make a "do list" of the girls in the school. When Tabby finds this list and takes Matt to task- does he come clean and admit his feelings? No he makes it worse and so begins a few weeks of them avoiding each other. Reviews call this book funny, I never saw anything funny about it. Matt is a typical boy who does not confide in anyone- just us readers and what good does that do him. When life takes an even crueler turn, Matt may not be able to survive his crushed feelings, may not be able to relate to his family, and lose his coveted spot on the basketball team. What will Matt do? Reck's debut tore me up and will be one teens talk about and pass around for the authentic voice of flawed, insecure, yet lovable Matt Wainwright (his poetry is an added perk to the book).

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Rhyme Schemer by K. A. Holt

Rhyme Schemer by K.A. Holt
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What a great novel in verse! Bully Kevin has it tough with being a bully, a family of mean brothers, trouble in school, teacher issues, and family misconceptions. Once his notebook is stolen, he is discovered as The Poetry Bandit, then Kevin gets bullied, gets detention in the library, and as life gets tougher, maybe Kevin gets tougher in a good way too. Bad boy Kevin maybe is not what everyone thinks - through his words, poems, thoughts and dreams, the reader will root for Kevin as life begins to give him nice things in the form of a teacher, a librarian, a girl, a band and a poetry slam. Highly recommended!

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Eliza And Her Monsters by Francesca Zappia

Eliza and Her Monsters by Francesca Zappia
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Oh boy did I love this book, it was gripping, Eliza is the author/creator of wildly famous fanfic, The Monstrous Sea but very few people know because that is what Eliza wants. Because Eliza is very quiet, very insecure, has no friends except her online world (she does not read comments!!!) but all that begins to change with new student, Wallace who does not speak, writes everything slowly, perfectly on paper and is a wild fan of Monstrous Sea. As he is being bullied (Wallace is huge, tall, football player-ish) by 2 nasty guys about Monstrous Sea; surprise of surprises---Eliza jumps in and defends Wallace!!! And so begins the unlikely friendship of Wallace and Eliza. They both have baggage but they share a love of The Monstrous Sea (of which Eliza never tells him she is the creator...) and as Eliza lets him in (he is funny Rainmaker in the forums- she is MirkerLurker) and her world grows bigger - but at what price??? I loved Zappia's characters, The Monstrous Sea world of fanfiction, Eliza's online friends and the new fanfiction friends Wallace introduces her to, Eliza begins to hope. I was crushed by Wallace's heartfelt email to Eliza and wished wished wished Eliza could have responded differently to him, but her reading it everyday and telling Wallace, "It doesn't change anything between us." was typical for geek Eliza. Read this book and fall into Eliza and Wallace's world and you will love their shared interests, friendship, and kinship.

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The Lord of Shadows (The Dark Artifices #2) by Cassandra Clare

Lord of Shadows by Cassandra Clare
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

As this series continues I am enthralled by Julian's love for his family and Emma. his parabatai. Their world of Shadowhunters, downworlders, Nephilim just continue to grip me as their world is plunged toward war because of Cold Peace rancor. I love the introduction of new and different characters - Kit and Mark, Christina and Hymie, Annabelle and Diana- so much is going on but they (Jules and Emma) continue to try to solve their problem... and keep the secrets of their world from the Clave and others who would judge them. Cassandra Clare's characters and worlds are multi-layered, deep and authentic. Can't wait for the next book in the series because I was crushed by the ending in this book.

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