Iron Fey Book 2

IRON FEY:

The Iron Daughter by Julie Kagawa

Follow Your Heart!

Meghan may have destroyed Machina but that hasn't stopped the Iron fey. With a new Iron King the Iron fey will stop at nothing to destroy the Winter and Summer fey courts and are causing chaos in the most devastating way possible. Unfortunately the Winter and Summer fey still doubt the Iron fey's existence as only Meghan, Ash and Puck seem to be the only ones to have encountered them first-hand and are therefore the only ones who can stop the ruthless Iron fey.

However Meghan is trapped in a world of inescapable cold with no one to trust surrounded by curious and malicious fey of every sort imaginable. Ash is growing ever distant from Meghan becoming hard and cold with her, leaving Meghan to slowly doubt his love for her. And Puck is still unconscious within a tree somewhere leaving little chance of anyone knowing the truth of what has happened and returning what was stolen, preventing a war that everyone seems to want and stopping the unstoppable force that is the Iron fey from destroying the Nevernever.

The Iron Daughter is a story of love turned cold, of trust turning to betrayal and of the whole world coming down around you. But it is also a story of old friends returning and old enemies uniting in a quest to save all. This is where unexpected feelings, past secrets and old friends only complicate an already impossible situation. That of Meghan caught between two worlds and two boys, where she must make a choice knowing that someone is going to walk away with a broken heart; if she's not lucky it will be her own.

Julie Kagawa Webpage

Julie Kagawa @ Harlequin Teen

Iron Fey

On sale: 01 August 2010
Price (AU): $19.99
ISBN: 9781921685583
Recommended age: 14+
In a word: Sceptre
Re-read it: probably
Recommend: yes
Star rating: three out of five
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Zelah Green

Zelah Green by Vanessa Curtis

Alert, Alert, Alert!

Zelah's name was given to her by the place of her conception as she was told by her mother; her mother told her a great many romantic and happy stories surrounding her birth and upbringing. But Zelah learnt all too soon that these stories were just stories and that the reality of things was much different. But when that reality became too hard to cope with and Zelah's whole world shattered, Zelah began her rituals.

With so much that has happened to her, so much that has gone wrong, Zelah controls her life in the only way can, her rituals. Zelah has a number of odd rituals that she must perform daily or her day just doesn't go right. There is a proper term for what she has, what she does, but she prefers to call herself a cleanaholic then be labelled with any formal terms.

Zelah Green is a girl who through her rituals has found a way to cope with the tragedy in her life. But now her rituals are running her life and Zelah's not so sure she want a life without them, or if she can live without them. Her rituals of washing and cleaning everything around her, of not touching anything without a tissue, of not eating anything without her own cutlery or completing her day without her jumping might leave others thinking that Zelah is crazy but when it comes right down to it aren't we all a little crazy. An insightful and endearing read.

Vanessa Curtis @ Hardie Grant Egmont

On sale: 04 January 2011
Price (AU): $16.95
ISBN: 9781405255059
Recommended age: 14+
In a word: OCD
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: four out of five
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The Replacement

The Replacement by Brenna Yovanoff

'Not Murder - Sacrifice'

Mackie has spent his whole life trying to blend into the crowds, escaping the spotlight, doing whatever it takes to go unnoticed. But Mackie is a replacement, a changeling, and one look at him will tell you that he is other, that he doesn't belong. But as long as he pretends that he belongs no one will question him.

The problem is, however, Mackie doesn't feel as though he belongs despite the best efforts from his sister and a few close friends. Mackie has nothing to live for in our world, which may be just as well as our world is slowly killing Mackie and if he wants to survive he will have to enter a new and eerie world of music, death, underground domains, ancient rituals and of course magic.

The Replacement is more then just a story of faeries; it is a story of identity, sacrifice and love. The town Mackie grow up in has always dealt with his kind by feigning ignorance and looking the other way when a child was stolen, for deep down they all new that in the end it kept the town going and helped the town prosper. But when one person begins to question, Mackie must finally face what he is and decide just where he truly belongs. A brilliant urban faerie story.

Brenna Yovanoff Webpage

Brenna Yovanoff @ Simon & Schuster

On sale: 01 December 2010
Price (AU): $24.99
ISBN: 9780857071385
Recommended age: 14+
In a word: Changeling
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: five out of five
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The Little Prince

The Little Prince by Antoine De Saint-Exupery

'Matters Of Consequence!'

When a man's plane falls out of the sky to land in the Sahara Desert, the last thing he expected to find was a boy who had fallen from the stars. Like all children the Little Prince asks lots of questions and sees with his imagination. He is curious and charming and wise beyond his years, but he is also lonely and misses his home. Over a week the man and the Little Prince share stories and their lives as they form a friendship that, although only short lived, would last the rest of their lives. And neither will look at a star the in same way again.

The Little Prince is a beautiful story that will touch your heart. Imagination, something that seems to fade over time as many adults do not seem to appreciate it, here is cherished and encouraged. As is the importance of the little things in life, as many of us become more easily distracted from those oh so important things in life the older we get, such as tending a flower or a friendship. This is a book that asks you to not only to believe in a Little Prince from the stars but ask why not believe in a Little Prince from the stars.

Antoine De Saint-Exupery @ Hardie Grant Egmont

On sale: 02 October 1998
Price (AU): $14.95
ISBN: 9780749707231
Recommended age: 8+
In a word: Stars
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: five out of five
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Faeries

Faeries: Deluxe Collector's Edition
by Brian Froud and Alan Lee

Do You Believe In Faeries?

Whether we are aware of it or not faeries have, for as long as can be remembered, always played a part in the daily lives of men, women and especially children. For as far back as can be remembered there have been stories, ballads and legends of faeries and their ability to connect with the nature on the planet and the nature of man. Though not always with the most desired of results, for as many stories as there are of faeries bringing messages of love and friendship there are also stories of torment and death.

It is perhaps the dualistic nature of these elusive beings that has drawn so many to them and their kind over the years. Within these pages the history, wisdom and playfulness of faeries can be explored, and hidden within each image beauty and inspiration are found. But whether your seeking wisdom, inspiration, or just a simplistic beauty in their existence, Fairies is a guide to the impossible made possible, the magic in wonder, and to a race of beings who, having always existed, are seen not through the eyes but through the heart and mind.

Faeries, thirty years after the original, has been done up all new and golden, but there is more to this book then just a new cover. Inside this deluxe edition you will find more images, more stories and more faeries to take you deeper into the world of faery then you have ever been before. This magical book has so much to offer whether you are just curious about faeries, whether you are an avid faery lover, or whether you are seeking guidance from those elusive and captivating creatures. Not only a must for Brian Froud and Alan Lee fans but also for those with a passion for the faeries and for beautiful art.

Brian Froud - World Of Froud

Brian Froud @ Thames & Hudson

Brian Froud @ Abrams Books

(includes 1 Poster + 8 Frameable Prints)
On sale: 15 November 2010
Price (AU): $49.95
ISBN: 9780810995864
Recommended age: 16+
In a word: Faeries
Re-read it: yes, many times
Recommend: yes
Star rating: five out of five
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Iron Fey Book 1.5

IRON FEY:

Winter's Passage by Julie Kagawa

Who's Afraid Of The... !

Having made a deal with Ash, the fey Winter Prince, to return with him to the palace of the Winter fey in return for his help in rescuing her brother Ethan from the Iron fey, Meghan, having had only a moment to say goodbye to her home and family, is once again entering the faery world of the Nevernever.

With Ash as her guide the journey to the fey Winter Palace should have been a simple one, however things get complicated when they find that they are being followed. One of the most ancient, feared and deadly beings to inhabit faery is after Meghan and not even Ash with all his powers will be able to stop this beast. But even if they survive Meghan may still lose the Winter Prince she loves.

Winter's Passage is non stop action from start to finish, picking up exactly where The Iron King ended. Therefore I highly recommend you read that first as this novella draws heavily from that first book in this series. Here we learn that there is more to faery land then just faeries, as ancient beasts of fairy tales are just as real and dangerous than any troll or redcap you may come across in any bar or nightclub.

Winter's Passage - click below to read

Julie Kagawa Webpage

Iron Fey

On sale: 01 June 2010
Price eBook (US): $2.99 - But Free For A Limited Time
ISBN: 9781426858321
Recommended age: 14+
In a word: Snow
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: five out of five
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Daniel X: The Manga Volume 1

Daniel X: The Manga Volume 1 by James Patterson
& Michael Ledwidge
art by Seunghui Kye

You Know Who I Am!

As a three year old Daniel witnessed the murder of his parents and although too young to have done anything to save them he still feels responsible. Twelve years later and Daniel is continuing the work his parents started, hunting aliens and protecting the earth. But always at the back of his mind are his parents and the one alien that killed them. One day he will find that alien, but in the mean time...

The list holds all the known alien threats on earth ranking them in order of most dangerous but when the list throws up an alien that is number six as the next to be handled, Daniel may have finally met his match. A new city and a new friend await Daniel in his search for a new alien, one more powerful then he has ever faced before and one that may inadvertently give Daniel the one thing he has been missing these last twelve years, that is if Daniel can live long enough to find it.

Daniel X as a graphic novel is a fresh and innovative way to introduce this exciting and comical story to a wider audience of people who, like me, have yet to read this series. As a superhero Daniel is young, vulnerable and charming, displaying a wide range of powers, exactly what you want in a main character. Daniel may always be alone in his quest against the aliens to save the earth, but he has the power to bring those he loves to him when he needs them most.

James Patterson (UK) Webpage
James Patterson (US) Webpage

James Patterson @ Hachette

Daniel X

On sale: 01 November 2010
Price (AU): $29.99
ISBN: 9781907410529
Recommended age: 14+
In a word: Aliens
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: three out of five
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Full Moon #1

FULL MOON:
Once In A Full Moon by Ellen Schreiber

Once Bitten Twice Shy!

Celeste had a life that was comfortable. She and her two best friends were dating the three most popular boys in school and although her boyfriend was handsome and popular she wasn't head over heals for him the way her friends where about their boyfriends. Truthfully she didn't think he was that head over heals for her either but the six of them did have fun hanging out together.

Brandon is new to Legend's Run, he is gorgeous and captivating and from the moment Celeste first saw him she couldn't stop thinking about him. But for as much as Celeste is drawn to Brandon there are a lot of things standing in the way, such as her boyfriend Nash, her friends' disapproval of a boy from the wrong side of town and the warnings from a supposed psychic.

Legend's Run has always been known for its stories of werewolves and as a scary story told around a campfire it was all just a bit of fun. But when that scary story begins to become reality, and psychic warnings begin to be proved accurate, Celeste begins to see the truth of what is happening more clearly and realises she is in love. Not only that but the boy she loves is changed forever and it is all her fault.

Once In A Full Moon you meet someone who changes your life. Or you change theirs. Despite the warnings Celeste acts without realising that she is bringing about the impossible and all with just a kiss. A romantic new series where fear runs rampant, lives are changed and friendships are tested all with a single kiss under the full moon. Danger may lurk everywhere but just maybe it's not the monsters you have to watch out for but the people around you that will hurt you the most.

Ellen Schreiber Webpage

Ellen Schreiber @ Murdoch Book

On sale: 01 January 2011
Price (AU): $14.95
ISBN: 9781742661445
Recommended age: 12+
In a word: Wolves
Re-read it: probably
Recommend: yes
Star rating: three out of five
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The Reformed Vampire Support Group

The Reformed Vampire Support Group by Catherine Jinks

Being Dead Is Exhausting!

Zadia Bloodstone is a fearless crime fighting heroine with superhuman strength, glamorous beauty, and the ability to turn into a bat. Zadia is altogether one powerful vampire you would not want to mess with. Unfortunately for Nina real vampires are not like that, not at all. Well except for the part about sunlight, that part's real, as is the part about a stake through the heart. But as Nina will tell you being a vampire is no way to live, especially a reformed vampire.

So much of a vampires' time is spent doing little else then watching tv or using a computer as they are too week and nauseous for anything that requires using a lot of energy. Sensitive to light and sickly looking they are in constant fear of being exposed. Nina dislikes everything about being a vampire, about being weak with no hope of living a normal life. But when her life and those of her fellow vampires are threatened she must find the inner strength to help save them all and change her life, or spend the rest of her long life in fear.

The Reformed Vampire Support Group meets ever Tuesday at 9.30pm in St Agatha's Church, and no there has yet to be a meeting involving any spontaneous combustion from its members. For thirty years these vampires have whined and complained about their mundane lives, there chronic fatigue and their stale diets of guinea pigs. But if you can believe it vampires are just like normal people, only more frail and with a lot more allergies. It just goes to show you shouldn't judge others based on stereotypes, its best to read their autobiographies first.

Catherine Jinks Webpage

Catherine Jinks @ Allen & Unwin

On sale: 01 March 2010
Price (AU): $16.99
ISBN: 9781742373225
Recommended age: 14+
In a word: Vampires
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: four out of five
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The Wardstone Chronicles Book4

THE WARDSTONE CHRONICLES:
The SPOOK'S Battle by Joseph Delaney

This Is Just The Beginning!

It has been over a year since Tomas Ward crossed Hangman's Hill leaving his home to begin his apprenticeship with the Spook. During that time Tom and the Spook have faced many dangers of the dark together and they have always done what was needed to triumph over those dangers. But this time Tom may have to pay too high a price to overcome the darkness that is about to be unleashed.

Pendle, a district of witches, has been left unchecked for far too long. It was time for the Spook and Tom to do something about the darkness growing there, but even with Alice it would be a desperate task to accomplish. However they weren't counting on what the witches would have in store for them, so even if they survived it would be to discover worse things in the world then witches.

The Spook's Battle is not just a fight against witches but against the most evil threat yet to walk the earth. Tom faces many battles alone as he struggles with personal demons as well as malevolent beings and never has he been so close to the dark that he could feel its affects so acutely. Never has there been a more real time to be afraid of the dark, not after the evil in this book has been released. A brilliant series that just gets better and better.

The SPOOK'S - map

Joseph Delaney Webpage

Joseph Delaney @ Random House

THE SPOOK'S

On sale: 01 May 2009
Price (AU): $17.95
ISBN: 9781862308541
Recommended age: 12-16
In a word: Witches
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: five out of five
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The Violet Eden Chapters #1

THE VIOLET EDEN CHAPTERS:
Embrace by Jessica Shirvington 

You Know How I Feel!

Violet was just an ordinary girl with a normal life. Raised by a single father who was a workaholic she spent a lot of time alone and if not for best friend Steph, who was always trying to get her to the mall, her social life would be almost non-existent. So there were some parts of her life that were a little less ordinary like her relationship with Lincoln, whom she spent all her time training with. Over all it was normal and it was hers.

On her sixteenth birthday however Violet makes a few discoveries about her life that are anything but normal, and the one person she had trusted to be there for her is the one person responsible for keeping secrets from her. Her normal world was shattered, with Lincoln gone and Phoenix always turning up just when he is needed, Violet must make a choice to either reject her destiny in favour of the life she had worked so hard to achieve, or embrace a life she does not want.

Embrace is more then just a story of angels, theology and good verses evil, it is a story of a girl caught between two world and two boys, struggling to discover who she is and her place in the world. It is through her strengths that she is able to find the power to save not only herself and the ones she loves but also those who have hurt her most. A lovely book that shows that you don't have to believe in the impossible, you just have to have faith that it is possible.

My Girl - a letter to Violet

Jessica Shirvington Webpage

Jessica Shirvington @ Hachette Children's

On sale: 01 October 2010
Price (AU): $24.99
ISBN: 9780734411846
Recommended age: 14+
In a word: Angels
Re-read it: probably
Recommend: yes
Star rating: four out of five
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Paranormalcy #1

PARANORMALCY:
Paranormalcy by Kiersten White

I See Right Through You!

As a sixteen year old Evie is unique in more ways then one. Not many other humans have as much knowledge about the real world as she does and no other sixteen year old in the world is employed by an international organisation whose aim it is to protect humanity against all that is paranormal. She is also unique in one other way; no other person is able to see the world quite as clearly as she can, that is her special gift.

Evie has long dreamed of a normal life away from vampires, werewolves and especially faeries, a life with parents, school, lockers and prom. However she has accepted her home in the Centre and her job within International Paranormal Containment Agreement. She actually never thought enough about her life to question it, until the break-in, the discovery of a new paranormal and the deaths that begin to haunt her every footsteps.

Paranormalcy is a thrilling mix of danger and romance. It is exciting to see a heroine who is not afraid to be girlie with her pink stiletto boots and her custom made pink weapons that allow her to still kick butt when she needs to. The villains may be misunderstood, the paranormals may have uncertain motives but Evie can see clearly through them all to their very souls. A truly imaginative read and one that is highly recommended.

Kiersten White Webpage
Kiersten White @ Harper Collins

On sale: 01 October 2010

Price (AU): $19.99
ISBN: 9780007390120
Recommended age: 12+
In a word: Paranormal
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: five out of five
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Odd and the Frost Giants

Odd and the Frost Giants by Neil Gaiman

A Long Winter!

Odd's father died when he was still young, it was also about this time that Odd had the accident that left his right leg crushed. Odd never really did fit in. So when one Winter refused to end and threatened the coming of Spring, Odd left the confines of the village for the woods, for peace. And it is there he makes some extraordinary friends.

Odd and the Frost Giants is a journey into the past where the Gods of Norse mythology come to life, only to be saved by a twelve year old boy. When a fox, an eagle and a bear seek help to defeat the frost giants whose very presence threatens an eternal winter it is an unlikely hero who comes to their aid. A timeless narrative style conveys a story that is a little Odd but has a Giant heart.

Neil Gaiman Webpage

Neil Gaiman @ Allen & Unwin
MouseCircus

On sale: 01 November 2010
Price (AU): $22.99
ISBN: 9780747598114
Recommended age: 8+
In a word: Odd
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: five out of five
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Iron Fey Book 1

IRON FEY:

The Iron King by Julie Kagawa

Lets Make A Deal!

The last thing Meghan remembers of her father is a memory of him smiling, laughing, standing by a pond in the park sending her off to get an ice cream. The next moment he was gone with only his shoes left to mark that he had ever existed at all. That was ten years ago. Since then she and her mother had moved, her mother had remarried and she now had a half brother who, despite being only four, was really quite a good kid.

When on the eve of her sixteenth birthday her brother starts acting strangely and she begins to see things that cannot possibly be, Meghan is faced with an impossible truth; faeries are real. And more startling then that, she herself is half fey. When her best friend is more then what he seems, when her brother is nothing like he was, when her whole family is placed in danger, Meghan is faced with a choice that will forever change the way she sees the world.

The Iron King blends together the familiar themes associated with faeries found in mythology and folk beliefs but twists them into a modern fairy tale that is new and sharp. This is a world where time has no meaning, love will leave you frozen and friends will get you drunk on fruit and break your heart. With vivid detail a richly imaginative journey is taken that will bring danger with every turn, obligation with every word and understanding with every new encounter. A captivating read, I promise.

Winter's Passage - click below to read

Julie Kagawa Webpage

Julie Kagawa @ Harlequin Teen

Iron Fey

On sale: 01 March 2010
Price (AU): $19.99
ISBN: 9781741168693
Recommended age: 14+
In a word: Princess
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: five out of five
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Faerie #1

FAERIE:

Bones of Faerie by Janni Lee Simner

I Saw A Light!

The War changed the world, afterwards people had to learn to live without technology, had to learn to live on only what they could grow, make or scavenge from what survived from Before. Afterwards the danger was not only from strangers, trees or stones but from themselves and the new born among them. The War with the Faeries left its mark on the world; as well as its magic.

Liza knew the rules, knew what fate awaited those who were touched by magic, saw for herself what happen to her sister, all for being born with faerie-pale hair. So when she herself starts to display signs of magic she flees from home rather then face a heartless death, but she doesn't leave alone. Liza is curtain she can find the answers she needs if she can just find her mother, but what if her mother does not want to be found?

Bones of Faerie is one of the most imaginative and rich stories of faeries and magic. A brilliant new series that seamlessly blends fairy-tales with science fiction creating a world that is tangible, wondrous and strangely attainable. Such a momentous journey undertaken for such a small book, but one you absolutely don't want to miss.

Invasive Species
(short story set in the world of Faerie series)

Janni Lee Simner Webpage

Janni Lee Simner @ Random House

On sale: 01 December 2010
Price (AU): $18.95
ISBN: 9781742750651
Recommended age: 12+
In a word: Magic
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes, read it!
Star rating: five out of five
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The Kingdom of the Lost #1

THE KINGDOM OF THE LOST:

The Red Wind by Isobelle Carmody

Go West!

Bily and Zluty live a quiet and happy life of routine, they spend the warmer months foraging, collecting and growing, baking, making and bartering all that they will need to sustain them for the cold winter months. While Bily, white furred and timid, completed the important tasks about their cottage, Zluty, yellow furred and adventurous, would setoff on long treks to gather what suppliers they need from the surrounding lands.

When one morning these two brothers woke to discover a redness in the sky nether could say for sure what that redness was. Weather a cloud, a mist or something else the only thing Bily and Zluty knew for curtain was that they had never seen it before and what ever it was it did belong. However with no answers Bily and Zluty did the only thing they could, they ignored the redness and went about with their tasks. However the red wind would not be ignored.

The Red Wind is a sweet and tender story of brotherly love, duty, kindness and courage. In the face of danger, destruction and the threat of death these two brothers demonstrate just how important all life is, whether that of a small bee or a large monster. Bily and Zluty are able to show how helping others in need is important, and that change no matter how scary or devastating is not the end of the world but can be the beginning of a new adventure.

Isobelle Carmody Webpage

Isobelle Carmody @ Penguin

On sale: 28 June 2010
Price (AU): $19.95
ISBN: 9780670074037
Recommended age: 8+
In a word: Brothers
Re-read it: possibly
Recommend: yes
Star rating: three out of five
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The Mortal Instruments #1

THE MORTAL INSTRUMENTS:

City of Bones by Cassandra Clare

Seeing Is Believing, If You Can Remember What You Saw!

In one night Clary saw people who weren't there, witnessed a murder and watched as the dead boys body disappeared. One night later and Clary found herself face to face with the invisible murderer as he saves her from a demon, her mother already gone, and her home no longer safe. It would be three days before Clary would discover where she was and what had happened to her.

Clary had never heard her mother speak of her past, indeed it was almost as though her mother didn't start existing until she was born, and Clary knew even less about her father. But all the secrets her mother kept have now left Clary confused and alone. With only the murderous strangers left to turn to will she survive long enough to find her mother and discover the truth?

City of Bones brings together the supernatural world in a new and inventive way. Where angels fight demons and half-human being roam our cities; with vampires in nightclubs, werewolves running Chinese restaurants and faeries dancing in Central Park. There are so many twists and turns in this new world to explore to keep you occupied to the very last showdown.

Cassandra Clare Webpage
Cassandra Clare @ Walker Books
The Mortal Instruments

On sale: 01 August 2007
Price (US): $19.95
ISBN: 9781406307627
Recommended age: 14+
In a word: Shadowhunter
Re-read it: probably
Recommend: yes
Star rating: four out of five
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Touch #1

TOUCH:
Deadly Little Secret by Laurie Faria Stolarz

One Touch And He Just Knew!

Camelia has had her share of experience with school rumours, and knowing just how 'truthful' they can be she is happy to ignore them when it comes to Ben the new guy at school, especially when that guy saved her life, not to mention left her thinking of little else but his touch ever since.

As the rumours escalate so to does the danger for Camelia, but as the danger grows Camelia finds her world closing in about her, her parents are preoccupied and her friends never seem to be around. Only Ben seems to be there when she need someone, but is his presence saving her from danger or bringer her closer to it. Everyone has their secrets; some are just more deadly then others.

Deadly Little Secret is not your average stalker thriller; it is also a story of unrequited love with a twist of the paranormal. Despite the fact that just about every boy in this book seems to have a crush on Camelia it is thrillingly mysterious and impossible to put down. I can't wait to lay my hands on book 2.

Laurie Faria Stolarz Webpage

On sale: 10 December 2009
Price (US): $15.99
ISBN: 9781423111986
Recommended age: 12+
In a word: Touch
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: four out of five
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Ghostgirl #2

GHOSTGIRL:
Homecoming by Tonya Hurley

With Friends Like These...!

Charlotte has moved on, literally, however the afterlife holds no pearly gates, winged harps or angels flying about. The after life for Charlotte is anything but eternal rest and peace, it is a small cubical and a phone, which is bad enough except that this phone never rings.

Scarlet has put up with a lot from her sister over the years, although Petula has put up with her fair share too, after all Scarlet is now with Petula's ex-boyfriend. But when it comes down to it Scarlet is willing to do almost anything to save her sister including putting innocent lives at risk, although that may be more from guilt them love.

Homecoming is at heart a story of friendships. No matter the distance between them, Charlotte and Scarlet seem to be constantly drawn to each other and not even death can keep them apart. Although Scarlet is willing to put her life, her relationship with Damen, a class full of Dead Ed students and her friendship with Charlottte on the line to save her sister, it is her faith in Charlotte that saves her in the end. Some friends truly are forever.

Tonya Hurley Webpage

Tonya Hurley @ Hachette

Ghostgirl

On sale: 01 August 2009
Price (AU): $24.99
ISBN: 9780755347728
Recommended age: 14+
In a word: Ghost
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: three out of five
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Bleeding Violet

Bleeding Violet by Dia Reeves

Its Normal To Be A Little Crazy!

Hanna ran away from home. To her it wasn't much of a home, being raised by a woman who dislikes you isn't at all where you'd like to live, unless of cause that woman was your mother. Then you might put up with almost anything, and hope she was willing to do the same. But Hanna had never before met her mother and to ask a total stranger for love and acceptance was not going to be easy.

Living with bipolar-disorder and hallucinations, Hanna is long used to standing out. But in the small town of Portero, all the craziness in her head has found form in the real world. In this little town her strangeness is nothing compared to the locals and what she founds is a town crazier then she is and, finally, a place where she can call home.

Bleeding Violet is the story of a maladjusted teen that, after dishing out one too many blows to the head, has to deal with the consequences of her actions, as hurtful as it may be to herself and those around her. Dysfunctional families, acts of redemption, and a whole lot of monsters come together wacky little tale that is somewhat disturbing and just a little freaky.

Dia Reeves Webpage

Dia Reeves @ Simon & Schuster

On sale: 01 January 2010
Price (AU): $24.99
ISBN: 9781416986188
Recommended age: 14+
In a word: Purple
Re-read it: possibly
Recommend: possibly
Star rating: three out of five
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Bridei's Court - Book 2

BRIDEI'S COURT:
Blade Of Fortriu by Juliet Marillier

Love Will Break Your Heart!

Five years, and a life time, have gone into this, and now after all this time King Bridei is ready to march into battle to unite his people, to drive out the invaders, to save the gods he loves. As with every war there are uncertainties, and for Bridei the north holds one of these; Alpin of Briar Wood.

As a hostage and princess of Fortriu Ana's duty compels her to agree to an arranged marriage to a man of unknown character but of fearful reputation. For Bidei's sake, and that of Fortriu, Faolan, Ana and a small party set out northward in the hopes of securing an alliance for the King. However no one could have predicted the horrors of what awaited them.

Lives are about to change through war, imprisonment, freedom, truth, love and death. Bridie faces an uncertain future where death seems the only outcome. Ana follows duty to a fault until she learns there are more important things in life. Faolan is a man unmoved by emotions but will find new strength in his weaknesses. A secret prisoner is held by bonds of blood and guilt and one very big cage until love sets him free.

The Blade Of Fortriu is a symbol of hope and courage to a people who's lives, land and religion are under threat from invaders. However the Blade of Fortriu is much more then a symbol or an idea, it is a man, the one man fated to unite a land. As people are change, loves are found, hearts are broken and lives are taken, this story, part history, part myth, part fantasy, will capture your imagination as well as your heart.

Juliet Marillier Webpage

Juliet Marillier @ Pan Macmillan

On sale: 01 February 2010
Price (AU): $24.99
ISBN: 9780330426015
Recommended age: 18+
In a word: Love
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: five out of five
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Wood Nymph Seeks Centaur

Wood Nymph Seeks Centaur by Francesca Lia Block

Find Your Perfect Match!

The dating forest can seem at times a magical place filled with happiness and love, and at other times a place to be feared, where hearts are stolen or left broken. It is not always easy to find your way, especially when the scenery keeps changing. Just who are all these creatures roaming the forests of love and heartbreak? For that matter, what type of creature am I that I dare to enter such a perilous yet hopeful place?

In this forest the first thing you must do is not to discover what creatures are about you, but what creature are you. If you can first see who you are, then you can see who you want, and who you want to avoid. There are many dangers; some more easily avoided then others as attraction can easily lead you down a stray path. But if the right path can be found, one that leads to your own handsome prince, or beautiful princess, then there is no reason why one cannot live happily ever after.

Wood Nymph Seeks Centaur is an eerily accurate, at least in my case, guide to love, life and friendships. This is no ordinary story but a cautionary guide filled with all the wisdom and enchantment that comes with blending myths, fairy tales and astrology. If you ever find yourself lost in these woods, and you will if you haven't already, then this invaluable book will be able to assist you, if not entertain you, as you make your way blindly through this world.

Francesca Lia Block Webpage
Francesca Lia Block @ Allen & Unwin

On sale: 01 January 2010
Price (AU): $35.00
ISBN: 9781596916227
Recommended age: 12+
In a word: Dating
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: five out of five
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The Land Of Elyon Book 1

THE LAND OF ELYON:
The Dark Hills Divide by Patrick Carman

If I Could Talk To The Animals!

Twelve year old Alexa has spent her whole life confined within the city walls of Bridewell longing to see more, longing to explore a world beyond the walls. But the walls were built to protect those living in the city, they were built to keep the dangers out and it was against the law to leave. But what if the real danger was not outside the walls but within?

Alexa would spend her days in the city playing as a spy, hiding in the shadows. Then when she discovered a key, a secret passageway and a magical stone suddenly she wasn't playing any more. Things were getting very dangerous, and admittedly also very exciting, when a mystery reveals a traitor in there midst. But who would be willing to risk lives and how can one small girl stop them?

The Dark Hills Divide Bridewell from its criminal past, a past that cannot be ignored any longer. Through ingenuity, circumstance and a little help from her friends Alexa is able to not only solve a dangerous mystery but also bring about a change in her city that sees a better future for everyone. At only twelve years old this little heroin has a lot more adventures ahead of her.

Land of Elyon - map

Patrick Carman Webpage

Patrick Carman @ Scholastic

Patrick Carman's Land Of Elyon

Land Of Elyon @ Scholastic

On sale: 01 March 2005
Price (AU): $19.99
ISBN: 9780439700931
Recommended age: 9+
In a word: Alexa
Re-read it: probably
Recommend: yes
Star rating: three out of five
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Thirteen Reasons Why

Thirteen Reasons Why by Jay Asher

There Is Always A Silver Lining!

When Clay returned home from school one afternoon to discover a shoebox sized package at his door, the last thing he expected was to spend the night amongst past memories with the words of a dead girl echoing through his head. No, the last thing expected was for that voice to blame him for her death. In the space of one night he will discover his part in the death of a girl he barely knew.

It seems to Hannah that ever since she moved to town things had only gone from bad to worse. It all began with the rumours that started not long after her arrival by someone she had thought she could trust. Then the list was released, an attempt at revenge but not at her, however its affect was no less hurtful. When things never got any better, when there was no relief from the darkness closing in around her, Hannah made a choice. But there were thirteen reasons, thirteen people, who played a part in that choice.

Thirteen Reasons Why is a dark and desperate tale of bullying that leads to depression and tragedy. Suicide is an important issue and one that should be discussed, but that doesn't make it any less painful to read, to experience the blame and grief within these pages. It is a powerful story that left me feeling as dejected, angry and somewhat confused as the characters within.

Jay Asher Webpage

Jay Asher @ Penguin

On sale: 16 September 2009
Price (AU): $17.95
ISBN: 9780141328294
Recommended age: 12+
In a word: Suicide
Re-read it: no
Recommend: yes
Star rating: four out of five
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Shyness

SHYNESS:
This Is Shyness by Leanne Hall

One Very Long Night!

A mysterious, beautiful boy with a scruffy appearance and tendency to howl introduces himself as Wolfboy. A fearless, captivating girl with an adventurous spirit insists on being called Wildgirl. In one night these two are drawn together with only a look. But this is no ordinary night, for in the suburb of Shyness there exists only darkness and the night, and Wildgirl has chosen Wolfboy to be her guide to this endless night.

In their separate lives Wolfboy and Wildgirl are both fighting a darkness, but in the cover of night they are able see past the cool, calm and fearless persona each have adopted to reveal the pain, insecurity and loneliness felt on the inside. After encountering wide-eyed tarsiers, sugar-crazed kids, a gang of land pirates, an enchanting gypsy and one very dangerous doctor, Wolfboy and Wildgirl are able to find in each other a light in the darkness.

This Is Shyness is an urban fantasy that explores the darkness, both literally and figuratively. In a suburb that never sees the sun it is easy to feel as though the world is nothing more then a dream, easy to believe that monsters do exist. But in the darkness there can also be found a sense of freedom, deeper understanding and total acceptance. In the darkness can also be found love. But just as every night must end, everyone will find a ray of light in this story of night.

Leanne Hall Webpage

Leanne Hall @ Text Publishing

On sale: 02 August 2010
Price (AU): $19.95
ISBN: 9781921656521
Recommended age: 13+
In a word: Night
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: five out of five
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Ghostgirl #1

GHOSTGIRL:
Ghostgirl by Tonya Hurley

She's Just Dying To Be Noticed!

Charlotte Usher is a nobody, ignored, overlooked and easily forgotten. She has spent her whole school life being invisible, never popular enough to be cool, never unpopular enough to be ridiculed. But this year is going to be different. Charlotte has spent her holidays hard at work planing, manicuring and making-over her image. This year she is determined to be noticed by all the right people, even if it kills her. Unfortunately for Charlotte that's exactly what happens.

Being dead is not so different from being alive; at least it isn't for Charlotte. However her not being seen ever is putting a dampener on her plans. That is until Charlotte stumbles upon a most unlikely, alive, ally in the most extraordinary of circumstances. What Charlotte says she needs is closure, in order to finally move on and accept her death, but what Charlotte wants is a life and more importantly a kiss.

Ghostgirl is a quirky, dark and heartfelt tale that shows that just because you're dead doesn't mean you can't be popular. In Charlotte's desperation to attain her hearts desire she resorts to extreme and forbidden actions, however those actions have consequences affecting not only herself but those around her. With poetry, maggots, cupcakes and musical references the result is a style and tone that is delightfully haunting. Charlotte may be dead but that won't keep her from love.

Tonya Hurley Webpage

Tonya Hurley @ Hachette

Ghostgirl

On sale: 01 September 2008
Price (AU): $24.99
ISBN: 9780755347704
Recommended age: 14+
In a word: Ghostgirl
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: four out of five
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Wicked Lovely: Desert Tales #1

WICKED LOVELY: DESERT TALES:
Sanctuary by Melissa Marr
art by Xian Nu Studio

You're Never Really Alone!

It has been a long time since Rika has been human, mortal, but now as a faery Rika has chosen a life away from the cities, and not just because the iron and steel makes her sick. Rika has found a home for herself out in the desert, a sanctuary quite literally in the middle of nowhere. Rika has wanted to escape the politics of the Faerie Courts, but even out here as a solitary faery she can not escape her past.

Jayce lives out in the desert, spending his days unknowingly in Rika's company. While he draws the desert she paints him. Invisible to all but the other fay, Rika has come to love her time with Jayce, even if he doesn't know she exists. But when the desert fay becomes restless and hostile Rika will risk her freedom and her visibility to save him and her heart.

Sanctuary, the first in a three part adaptation into a graphic novel, is drawn expertly and beautifully portraying the depth of Rika's emotions and rapidly changing circumstances. As her quiet life is shattered and unexpectedly invaded, albeit happily, by the artistic and good looking Jayce, Rika will soon have much to worry about. But in the mean time she can find sanctuary in the arms of the one she loves.

Melissa Marr Webpage
Melissa Marr @ Harper Collins

On sale: 01 October 2010

Price (AU): $9.99
ISBN: 9780007354979
Recommended age: 14+
In a word: Faeries
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: four out of five
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