Seraphina

Summary
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.

Afterthoughts
I was pleasantly surprised by this book. I had been skeptical about it, but, as I'd heard really good reviews about it, I gave it a chance and I'm glad I did.
Seraphina is a fun character to read and I enjoyed seeing the world through her unique view. The plot, especially the 'big twist,' was remarkably predictable, but I enjoyed the story nonetheless. The dragons were unlike any I'd read before, which was exciting, and I enjoyed learning about them and the roles they played in the story.
I don't know if I will ever re-read this book, but I am looking forward to the sequel and hoping for Hartman to shock me with something completely unexpected. We'll see...

Warnings
None.

Extras
Book trailer:

Ender's Game

Summary
In order to develop a secure defense against a hostile alien race's next attack, government agencies breed child geniuses and train them as soldiers. A brilliant young boy, Andrew "Ender" Wiggin lives with his kind but distant parents, his sadistic brother Peter, and the person he loves more than anyone else, his sister Valentine. Peter and Valentine were candidates for the soldier-training program but didn't make the cut—young Ender is the Wiggin drafted to the orbiting Battle School for rigorous military training.

Ender's skills make him a leader in school and respected in the Battle Room, where children play at mock battles in zero gravity. Yet growing up in an artificial community of young soldiers Ender suffers greatly from isolation, rivalry from his peers, pressure from the adult teachers, and an unsettling fear of the alien invaders. His psychological battles include loneliness, fear that he is becoming like the cruel brother he remembers, and fanning the flames of devotion to his beloved sister.

Is Ender the general Earth needs? But Ender is not the only result of the genetic experiments. The war with the Buggers has been raging for a hundred years, and the quest for the perfect general has been underway for almost as long. Ender's two older siblings are every bit as unusual as he is, but in very different ways. Between the three of them lie the abilities to remake a world. If, that is, the world survives.

Afterthoughts
Ender's Game was referred to me years ago, but I never read it until this past week and, wow, was I missing out.
The book focuses on Andrew (Ender) Wiggin and his journey to becoming the leader that Earth needs against alien invaders. It's fast-paced, interesting, and sucks you in. I can almost guarantee that, like me, you will be unable to put this book down. The characters are really captivating, though you only get to know two of them.
While reading, I was constantly impressed by and cheering for Ender. He is a brilliant protagonist and my heart ached for him throughout the story, mostly because of a fact that I kept forgetting: Ender is a kid. He is between the ages of 6 and 11 for most of the book, yet he is one of the most gripping POVs I've read!
Ender's Game is my favorite read from this summer and I look forward to reading some, if not all, of the sequel's in the coming months. READ THIS BOOK!!!! 'Nuff said.

Warnings
Violence

Extras
Ender's Game is being made into a movie that releases in November!
Movie Trailer:

Author's Site

Starters

Summary
In a future Los Angeles, becoming someone else is now possible. Sixteen-year-old Callie discovers the Body Bank where teens rent their bodies to seniors who want to be young again. But when her neurochip malfunctions, she wakes up in the mansion of her rich renter and finds she is going out with a senator’s grandson. It’s a fairy-tale new life, until she discovers her renter’s deadly plan.

Afterthoughts
This dystopian offered a brand new view of a post-apocalyptic world, which was one of my favorite parts. The more you read, the more common plot structures and settings become, so this book was a refreshing read.
When America is attacked by biological warfare, they vaccinate children and the elderly against the spores, but don't have time to vaccinate anyone between the ages of 20 and 60, which wipes out that portion of the population. I really liked how this scenario is pretty realistic and believable.
The characters and plot were well thought through and enjoyable to read. Callie is an interesting POV to read and I like how her situation colors the way the story is perceived. The story ends with a twist that I definitely did not see coming and I can't wait to read the sequel. This is quite a worthwhile read!

Warnings
None.

Extras
Lissa Price's Site
Book Trailer:

Mind Games

Summary
Fia and Annie are as close as two sisters can be. They look out for each other. Protect each other. And most importantly, they keep each other's secrets, even the most dangerous ones: Annie is blind, but can see visions of the future; Fia was born with flawless intuition—her first impulse is always exactly right. When the sisters are offered a place at an elite boarding school, Fia realizes that something is wrong . . . but she doesn't grasp just how wrong. The Keane Institute is no ordinary school, and Fia is soon used for everything from picking stocks to planting bombs. If she tries to refuse, they threaten her with Annie's life. Now Fia's falling in love with a boy who has dark secrets of his own. And with his help, she's ready to fight back. They stole her past. They control her present. But she won't let them take her future.

Afterthoughts
I really liked this book and the way it was written. The chapters flip between past and present, moving the story along while slowly revealing the sisters' backstory. The characters were quite complex, making me unsure who to support until the end, and relatable, which is always important to a good story.
The plot was intriguing and ends in a huge twist, one that I never saw coming. Fia and Annie are great POVs, dropping clues about their past without actually revealing anything until the end, which kept me hanging on!
The worst part of the book was the ending, because I was pretty sure that the book was a stand-alone and I wanted to know what would happen! Thankfully, I was wrong and I am eagerly anticipating the sequel.

Warnings
Some underage drinking, violence.

Extras
Kiersten's Blog

Falling Kingdoms

Summary
In a land where magic has been forgotten but peace has reigned for centuries, a deadly unrest is simmering. Three kingdoms grapple for power--brutally transforming their subjects' lives in the process. Amidst betrayals, bargains, and battles, four young people find their fates forever intertwined.
Cleo: A princess raised in luxury must embark on a rough and treacherous journey into
enemy territory in search of a magic long thought extinct.
Jonas: Enraged at injustice, a rebel lashes out against the forces of oppression that have kept his country impoverished--and finds himself the leader of a people's revolution centuries in the making.
Lucia: A girl adopted at birth into a royal family discovers the truth about her past--and the supernatural legacy she is destined to wield.
Magnus: Bred for aggression and trained to conquer, a firstborn son begins to realize that the heart can be more lethal than the sword...
The only outcome that's certain is that kingdoms will fall. Who will emerge triumphant when all they know has collapsed?

Afterthoughts
Magic and adventure are my two favorite story elements and, as this story had both in abundance, I was well intrigued. The story itself was good, containing enough action to keep the story going, but not remarkable. I was a bit disappointed that the twist I expected never materialized and the story was fairly predictable.
I do not feel as if this book was a waste of time, but I wasn't impressed with it. It was a bit cliche and certainly not 'The gripping New York Times bestseller that is Game of Thrones for teens.' Overall, I was disappointed.

Warnings
None.

Extras
Book Excerpt
Book Trailer:

Code Name Verity

Summary
Oct. 11th, 1943-A British spy plane crashes in Nazi-occupied France. Its pilot and passenger are best friends. One of the girls has a chance at survival. The other has lost the game before it's barely begun.
When "Verity" is arrested by the Gestapo, she's sure she doesn't stand a chance. As a secret agent captured in enemy territory, she's living a spy's worst nightmare. Her Nazi interrogators give her a simple choice: reveal her mission or face a grisly execution.

As she intricately weaves her confession, Verity uncovers her past, how she became friends with the pilot Maddie, and why she left Maddie in the wrecked fuselage of their plane. On each new scrap of paper, Verity battles for her life, confronting her views on courage, failure and her desperate hope to make it home. But will trading her secrets be enough to save her from the enemy?

Afterthoughts
Wow. I am blown away by the beauty and emotional journey this book took me through. Initially, I hated the main character. This was a completely foreign feeling for me, as I had never felt such dislike for a main character before. Verity's cowardice disgusted me, partially, I think, because cowardice is a fear of mine. The story was intriguing but confusing, because I couldn't see the point to it.
Then, it picked up pace and blew me away. Once I reached the end and everything came together made sense, I was appalled at my initial feelings. But, enough about that before I give stuff away.
The relationship between the protagonists is beautiful, warming and breaking my heart at the same time. The twist in the story was completely unexpected and I spent the last pages in tears.
Please read this book, it will never be something you regret.

Warnings
Violence (including torture) and language (including a few F-words).

Extras
Author's Site

Adjusting

Hello Readers!!

I have recently finished my past semester of college, and the class that required me to have this blog, and I am contemplating adjustments to this blog. I didn't think I would enjoy blogging, but, to my surprise, I did!
So, I've decided to keep blogging to see what becomes of it. But, instead of just doing Children's and Young Adult books and trying to blog once a week, I'm going to blog about the books I read this summer as I finish them.
Here's a preview of some of the books I'm planning to read:

• The Count of Monte Cristo by Alexandre Dumas
• The Fault in Our Stars by John Green (My first John Green read-super excited!)
• Sherlock Holmes by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle (A read inspired by BBC's Sherlock. A great show, you should check it out!)
• And many, many more...

So, dear readers, if you have enjoyed my reviews so far, please stay tuned and let me know what you like and don't like. I'm new at this, and know I probably have few readers, but I want to cater to those involved. Comment on anything you want: constructive criticism, memories sparked by reads, suggestions for other books, the current weather in your city, or the color of the mug you're drinking from. I welcome it all.

Adieu and God bless!
Emily

Divergent

Summary

In Beatrice Prior's dystopian Chicago, society is divided into five factions, each dedicated to the cultivation of a particular virtue—Candor (the honest), Abnegation (the selfless), Dauntless (the brave), Amity (the peaceful), and Erudite (the intelligent). On an appointed day of every year, all sixteen-year-olds must select the faction to which they will devote the rest of their lives. For Beatrice, the decision is between staying with her family and being who she really is—she can't have both. So she makes a choice that surprises everyone, including herself.

During the highly competitive initiation that follows, Beatrice renames herself Tris and struggles to determine who her friends really are. But Tris also has a secret, one she's kept hidden from everyone because she's been warned it can mean death. And as she discovers a growing conflict that threatens to unravel her seemingly perfect society, she also learns that her secret might help her save those she loves… or it might destroy her.
(Summary taken from the book.)

Afterthoughts
Hunger Games rip-off this is not, despite what some might say. Dystopians may have been given a boost after HG's success, but this book is its own.
Tris was a great character to read, giving the book a really good point-of-view. The reader is able to feel her angst over her decision and to emphasize with her struggles. I liked her relationship with Four and the mystery surrounding his character.
The ending of the this book shocked me in many ways. I felt as if each new development completely undermined my understanding of what was going on. I doubt many will anticipate the surprises at the end of this story! I really enjoyed reading it and appreciated the thought that went into this book. Definitely worth a read! (And make sure you check out the sequel, Insurgent!)

Warnings
Tris is accosted and groped at one point. It's nothing explicit and stays above the waist, but it pushes this book up to a PG-13 in my estimation.

Extras
Veronica Roth's Blog
Book Trailer:

The Book Thief

Summary

It’s just a small story really, about among other things: a girl, some words, an accordionist, some fanatical Germans, a Jewish fist-fighter, and quite a lot of thievery. . . .

Set during World War II in Germany, Markus Zusak’s groundbreaking new novel is the story of Liesel Meminger, a foster girl living outside of Munich. Liesel scratches out a meager existence for herself by stealing when she encounters something she can’t resist–books. With the help of her accordion-playing foster father, she learns to read and shares her stolen books with her neighbors during bombing raids as well as with the Jewish man hidden in her basement before he is marched to Dachau.

This is an unforgettable story about the ability of books to feed the soul.


Afterthoughts
Most World War II books that I've read have been from the perspective of prisoners and victims of the German destruction. I was pleasantly surprised when I discovered that this book is the story of a German girl during the war. It added a new perspective and allows the reader to understand the hardships that German citizens faced.
The point-of-view for this book was my absolute favorite. Instead of a main character narrating, Death told the story through words and colors. This technique blew my mind and made the book extremely interesting.
The story, the narration, and the perspective created an enlightening and captivating story that I thoroughly enjoyed. 5 stars!

Warnings
Some language and violence.

Extras

Mark Zusak's Website

The Red Pyramid

Summary

Since their mother’s death, Carter and Sadie have become near strangers. While Sadie has lived with her grandparents in London, her brother has traveled the world with their father, the brilliant Egyptologist, Dr. Julius Kane.

One night, Dr. Kane brings the siblings together for a "research experiment" at the British Museum, where he hopes to set things right for his family. Instead, he unleashes the Egyptian god Set, who banishes him to oblivion and forces the children to flee for their lives.

Soon, Sadie and Carter discover that the gods of Egypt are waking, and the worst of them--Set--has his sights on the Kanes. To stop him, the siblings embark on a dangerous journey across the globe--a quest that brings them ever closer to the truth about their family, and their links to a secret order that has existed since the time of the pharaohs.
(Summary taken from the book.)


Afterthoughts
Egyptian mythology was a subject that I knew a little about before reading this book and subsequent series. I was able to learn a lot about Egyptians and mythology and enjoy a really action packed story, too!
I'm a huge fan of the Percy Jackson series, so I was excited to pick this book up and watch Riordan work his magic. I wasn't disappointed. This book definitely has a different feel from the Percy books, but it was still really good. The characters are relatable and enjoyable and there is plenty of humor mixed in with the adventure. The book ends with a really surprising twist, which is always welcomed. Overall, a great book.

Warnings
None.

Extras
Book trailer:

Rick Riordan's Blog

Peter and the Starcatchers

Summary

In an evocative and fast-paced adventure on the high seas and on a faraway island an orphan boy named Peter and his mysterious new friend, Molly, overcome bands of pirates and thieves in their quest to keep a fantastical secret safe and save the world from evil. Bestselling authors Dave Barry and Ridley Pearson have turned back the clock and revealed a wonderful story that precedes J. M. Barrie's beloved Peter Pan. Peter and the Starcatchers is brimming with richly developed characters from the scary but somehow familiar Black Stache and the ferocious Mister Grin to the sweet but sophisticated Molly and the fearless Peter. Page after page of riveting adventure take readers on a journey from the filthy, crime-ridden port of old England across the turbulent sea. Aboard the Never Land is a trunk that holds a magical substance that amazes—just a sprinkle and wounds heal and just a dusting and people can fly.

Roiling seas and dangerous thunderstorms are the backdrop for battles at sea. Bone-crushing waves eventually land our characters on Mollusk Island—where the action really heats up.

This impossible-to-put-down tale leads readers on an unforgettable journey fraught with danger yet filled with mystical and magical things.
(Summary taken from the book.)


Afterthoughts
Peter Pan spin-offs are a bit of a favorite of mine. I loved the background info that this book and series gave Peter and the other characters. There's adventure, daring, friendship, and laughter. I was riveted by the story and loved all of the following books. It stays pretty true to the original story and also gives it a unique flair. I highly recommend this book to young and old!

Warnings
None.

Extras
Interview with the authors:

The Runaway King

Summary
Just weeks after Jaron has taken the throne, an assassination attempt forces him into a deadly situation. Rumors of a coming war are winding their way between the castle walls, and Jaron feels the pressure quietly mounting within Carthya. Soon, it becomes clear that deserting the kingdom may be his only hope of saving it. But the further Jaron is forced to run from his identity, the more he wonders if it is possible to go too far. Will he ever be able to return home again? Or will he have to sacrifice his own life in order to save his kingdom?
(Summary taken from the book.)

***SPOILER ALERT: If you haven't read The False Prince, skip this post and come back after you have.***

Afterthoughts
GO OUT AND GET THIS BOOK!!!! You will not regret it!
I'm not one for talking about sequels (I don't want to give anything away), but, since I already blogged about The False Prince, I'm sharing this one.
The Runaway King was one of the best books I've read in a long time. Most sequels are hard for me to enjoy because they lack a true beginning and ending. This one, though, was brilliant!
I really enjoyed revisiting Jaron's character and kingdom. The story kept me guessing and kept the hero believable and relatable. I loved learning more about the young king and other characters. This is a book, and series, that I HIGHLY recommend. So, grab your keys and go get it now!!

Warnings
Some mild profanity.

Extras
The False Prince Movie!

Eragon

Summary
Fifteen-year-old Eragon believes that he is merely a poor farm boy- until his destiny as a Dragon Rider is revealed. Gifted with only an ancient sword, a loyal dragon, and sage advice from an old storyteller, Eragon is soon swept into a dangerous tapestry of magic, glory, and power. Now his choices could save - or destroy- the Empire.
(Summary taken from book.)

Afterthoughts
Eragon is and always will be one of my favorite books. Paolini, who wrote the book at 15, was my inspiration to write and I love every book in the Inheritance cycle.
The plot and setting of the story are very complex and accurate. Paolini creates a believable world with heroes that have limitations, but power, which, in my opinion, is the best kind of hero.There is plenty of action, adventure, romance, and magic, forming a fantastic experience that will prompt re-reads and nerdy discussions. Read it and you won't regret it.

Warnings
Some mild language and violence.

Extras

Marvelous fansite: shurtugal.com

The False Prince

Summary
In a faraway land, civil war is brewing. To unify the kingdom's divided people, a nobleman named Conner devises a cunning plan to find an impersonator of the king's long-lost son and install him on the throne. Four orphans are recruited to compete for the role, including a defiant and clever boy named Sage. Sage knows that Conner's motives are more than questionable, yet his life balances on a sword's point — he must be chosen to play the prince or he will certainly be killed. His rivals will be devising their own plots as well, so Sage must trust no one and keep his thoughts hidden.

As Sage moves from a rundown orphanage to Conner's sumptuous palace, layer upon layer of treachery and deceit unfolds, until finally, a truth is revealed that that may very well prove more dangerous than all of the lies taken together.

Afterthoughts
I LOVED this book. Every character is written strongly and brilliantly. The book, written from Sage's perspective, quickly and easily slips readers into Sage's skin and projects his feelings and thoughts into them.
The story was well-written and devious. I thought I had figured out the twist just a few chapters in, but I was soon second-guessing my deductions. By the end, I had no idea about what was going to happen and the ending was surprising and perfect. I recommend this book to anyone interested and I cannot wait to read the sequel!

Warnings
None.

Extras

Jennifer A. Nielsen's Blog

Michael Vey: The Prisoner of Cell 25

Summary

To everyone at Meridian High School, fourteen-year-old Michael Vey is nothing special, just the kid who has Tourette’s syndrome. But in truth, Michael is extremely special—he has electric powers. Michael thinks he is unique until he discovers that a cheerleader named Taylor has the same mysterious powers. With the help of Michael’s friend, Ostin, the three of them set out to discover how Michael and Taylor ended up with their abilities, and their investigation soon brings them to the attention of a powerful group who wants to control the electric teens—and through them, the world.

(Summary taken from the book.)

Afterthoughts

I was drawn into this book very quickly and stayed interested through the end. The characters are well developed and, for science fiction, it was fairly believable. I really enjoyed Michael's character and identified with his desire to protect his family at all costs.

I didn't like the convenience that accompanied nearly every dangerous situation. Solutions and coincidences were abundant and the characters were able to escape from almost every danger, which diminished its believability. Other than that, it was a very enjoyable book.

Warnings

None.

Extras

Rogue Crew

Summary

Redwall Abbey has never seen a creature more evil or more hideous than Razzid Wearat. Captain of the Greenshroud, a ship with wheels that can sail through water as well as the forest, this beast is a terror of both land and sea, traveling Mossflower Country, killing nearly everything-and everyone- in his path. And his goal? To conquer Redwall Abbey.

From Salamandastron to the High North Coast, the brave hares of the Long Patrol team up with the fearless sea otters of the Rogue Crew to form a pack so tough, so rough, only they can defend the abbey and defeat Razzid Wearat once and for all.
(Summary taken from the book.)


Afterthoughts
The Redwall series has fascinated me since I was a child. For those who haven't read any, Redwall books are categorized as animal fantasy. The characters are all talking and clothed animals who live in Mossflower wood and usually have adventures that involve protecting Redwall Abbey from vermin. So, for those who find this strange, be fore-warned but don't completely write the books off. They are really good.
Back to the book.
I was excited to read the book because the 'featured animals' in the book are otters. Otters have always been my favorite characters in these books. Unfortunately, they were not featured as much as I wanted, which was disappointing. The pace was fast and there was plenty of adventure and heartbreak, but the plot was very similar to other Redwall books and predictable.
Rogue Crew was the last book written by Jacques before his death last year. I am glad I read it, but I was disappointed overall. It's worth a read, especially if you haven't read any others, but not one I will probably read again.

Warnings
Some violence, but nothing explicit or gory.

Extras
Fun activities for Redwallers

Waterfall

Summary

Gabriella has never spent a summer in Italy like this one.
Remaining means giving up all she’s known and loved … and leaving means forfeiting what she’s come to know—and love itself.

Most American teenagers want a vacation in Italy, but the Bentarrini sisters have spent every summer of their lives with their parents, famed Etruscan scholars, among the romantic hills. In Book One of the River of Time series, Gabi and Lia are stuck among the rubble of medieval castles in rural Tuscany on yet another hot, boring, and dusty archaeological site … until Gabi places her hand atop a hand print in an ancient tomb and finds herself in fourteenth-century Italy. And worse yet, in the middle of a fierce battle between knights of two opposing forces.
         
And thus she comes to be rescued by the knight-prince Marcello Falassi, who takes her back to his father’s castle—a castle Gabi has seen in ruins in another life. Suddenly Gabi’s summer in Italy is much, much more interesting. But what do you do when your knight in shining armor lives, literally, in a different world?


Afterthoughts
I loved this book for its mix of fantasy and historical accuracy. The time travel is enough to capture the imagination, but the world is believable and realistic.
Gabi is a fun protagonist and a joy to read. The story's fast-paced and contains emotional angst, the core of any good story. There are a lot of moments that made me hold my breath in anticipation and I was never bored with it.
My only complaint is that bad things seem to only happen to Gabi or the narrator. In one of the sequels (which are all really good!), the story is told from Gabi's sister's point of view and bad things only happen to her. This frustrated me a bit, but didn't draw from the story too much. I really, really enjoyed this book overall and give it a thumbs up!

Warnings
None.

Extras
Book Trailer:

The Lightning Thief

Summary
Twelve-year-old Percy Jackson is on the most dangerous quest of his life. With the help of a satyr and a daughter of Athena, Percy must journey across the United States to catch a thief who has stolen the original weapon of mass destruction – Zeus’ master bolt. Along the way, he must face a host of mythological enemies determined to stop him. Most of all, he must come to terms with a father he has never known, and an Oracle that has warned him of betrayal by a friend.
(Summary taken from back of the book)

Afterthoughts
Greek mythology has always fascinated me and I love the way that Riordan has blended the ancient stories with a new one. Each mythological character is well-written and stays true to the historical character while also blending modern characteristics. The demigods powers and traits are also believable and consistent with mythology.
The story is pretty fast paced and keeps your attention. It's a great tool for learning about mythology and a great read, as well. Riordan's other books are also fun to read. I highly recommend it.

Warnings
None.

Extras
Movie Trailer:

Grave Mercy

Summary


Seventeen-year-old Ismae escapes from the brutality of an arranged marriage into the sanctuary of the convent of St. Mortain, where the sisters still serve the gods of old. Here she learns that the god of Death Himself has blessed her with dangerous gifts—and a violent destiny. If she chooses to stay at the convent, she will be trained as an assassin and serve as a handmaiden to Death. To claim her new life, she must destroy the lives of others.
     Ismae’s most important assignment takes her straight into the high court of Brittany—where she finds herself woefully under prepared—not only for the deadly games of intrigue and treason, but for the impossible choices she must make. For how can she deliver Death’s vengeance upon a target who, against her will, has stolen her heart?
(Summary taken from the book)


Afterthoughts
I could barely put this book down once I had started it. It was captivating and fast-paced and I couldn't wait to see what would happen next.
That said, it was also a bit cliche and stale. LaFevers did a good job of taking an over-used storyline and making it interesting, but there were a few moments when I was rolling my eyes in exasperation.
Despite this, I did enjoy the book and was surprised by many of the plot twists and developments. I loved the historical aspect of the story and I'm very interested to see what happens in the sequel.
Warnings
Would definitely restrict this book for older teens. Part of Ismae's training includes the art of seduction and this results in some PG-13 content. Some mild language and sexual innuendos. One implied sexual encounter, nothing explicit but still present.
Extras
Book Trailer:

Legend

Summary
What was once the western United States is now home to the Republic, a nation perpetually at war with its neighbors. Born into an elite family in one of the Republic's wealthiest districts, fifteen-year-old June is a prodigy being groomed for success in the Republic's highest military circles. Born into the slums, fifteen-year-old Day is the country's most wanted criminal. But his motives may not be as malicious as they seem.

From very different worlds, June and Day have no reason to cross paths - until the day June's brother, Metias, is murdered and Day becomes the prime suspect. Caught in the ultimate game of cat and mouse, Day is in a race for his family's survival, while June seeks to avenge Metias's death. But in a shocking turn of events, the two uncover the truth of what has really brought them together, and the sinister lengths their country will go to keep its secrets.

Full of nonstop action, suspense, and romance, this novel is sure to move readers as much as it thrills.
(Summary taken from the book)

Afterthoughts
Hunger Games and dystopian-genre fans will absolutely love this book. It is fast-paced, heartbreaking, full of mystery, and leaves you gasping for the next book!
The story is told from two perspectives, Day's and June's. Lu flawlessly switched between the two and convincingly portrayed them both. They both had their own voices and the transitions weren't confusing.
 I read this book post-Hunger Games and loved every moment of it. I was brought to tears and even had to put the book down in anxiety a few times. Lu's post-disaster America was believable and created questions that will hopefully be answered in the sequel. Highly recommended!

Warnings
A bit of mild language.

Extras
Book Trailer:

First chapter of Prodigy, the sequel to Legend

Book of a Thousand Days

Summary
When Dashti, a maid, and Lady Saren, her mistress, are shut in a tower for seven years for Saren’s refusal to marry a man she despises, the two prepare for a very long and dark imprisonment.
As food runs low and the days go from broiling hot to freezing cold, it is all Dashti can do to keep them fed and comfortable. But the arrival outside the tower of Saren’s two suitors—one welcome, and the other decidedly less so—brings both hope and great danger, and Dashti must make the desperate choices of a girl whose life is worth more than she knows.
With Shannon Hale’s lyrical language, this forgotten but classic fairy tale from the Brothers Grimm is reimagined and reset on the central Asian steppes; it is a completely unique retelling filled with adventure and romance, drama and disguise.
(Summary taken from the book.)

Afterthoughts
Reading the journal of a girl locked in a tower for 7 years sounds boring. But, surprisingly enough, this book kept me interested and even surprised me at points. The story was a bit predictable and the beginning was slow, but Hale did a masterful job of making Dashti a strong and enjoyable character. She was definitely the best part of reading the book.
The imagery was very strong and easily built the scenes in my mind. I enjoyed reading about the mucker culture and songs and Dashti's life. These were the highlights of the book for me.
Overall, while I enjoyed the book, it's doubtful that I would pick it up again. The story is well-written, but not for readers who like fast-paced action.

Warnings
None.

Extras
Original Brothers Grimm Story

Tiger Lily

Summary

Before Peter Pan belonged to Wendy, he belonged to the girl with the crow feather in her hair...

Fifteen-year-old Tiger Lily doesn't believe in love stories or happy endings. Then she meets the alluring teenage Peter Pan in the forbidden woods of Neverland and immediately falls under his spell.

Peter is unlike anyone she's ever known. Impetuous and brave, he both scares and enthralls her. As the leader of the Lost Boys, the most fearsome of Neverland's inhabitants, Peter is an unthinkable match for Tiger Lily. Soon, she is risking everything—her family, her future—to be with him. When she is faced with marriage to a terrible man in her own tribe, she must choose between the life she's always known and running away to an uncertain future with Peter.

With enemies threatening to tear them apart, the lovers seem doomed. But it's the arrival of Wendy Darling, an English girl who's everything Tiger Lily is not, that leads Tiger Lily to discover that the most dangerous enemies can live inside even the most loyal and loving heart.

(Summary taken from the book)

Afterthoughts

Honestly, this book left me wanting and a little angry. Because the book had the same basic plot line of the traditional Peter Pan story but also had small differences, I was hoping that the author would allow Peter to stay where he belonged with the person he belonged. But she didn’t. And I can’t say any more without ruining the story (if I haven’t already. Sorry!), so I will stop grumbling about it.

Overall, I really liked this book. I am a huge fan of telling stories from the perspectives of unlikely characters and Anderson did a brilliant job of writing Tiger Lily’s story. The book is written from the viewpoint of Tinker Bell, which gives the reader a great insight into her mind.

I’ve never really liked Tink’s character and was a bit uncertain at the start of the book, but I quickly grew to love and cheer for her. This book explains Tink's actions towards Wendy and portrays her as less of a brat and more as a loyal friend.

Tiger Lily's character took some getting used to (her emotional displays are comparable to a rock's), but she quickly became a beloved character. By the end, I only wanted her to be happy, no matter the outcome.

Any fans of Peter Pan, Tinker Bell, or classic remakes will like this book. It's well-written, easy to follow and an altogether enjoyable read.

Warnings

Some implied rape. 

Extras

Book Trailer: