i read therefore i am

The Brookehaven Vampires Book 2

2012-02-03T22:10:00.000+11:00

THE BROOKEHAVEN VAMPIRES:
Darkness by Joann I. Martin Sowles

Desire In Darkness!

After surviving the most frighting and dangerous night of her life she now finds herself housebound in a home that is not her own with vampires and not all of them are friendly. If she thought his family were a problem before she had never tried to live them. But hers is not the only life in danger.

As death and destruction rain down around her she is realizing more and more just how little she knows about the boy she has fallen for and his deadly world she is now a part of. But more and more she is realizing she doesn't care, she loves him and is ready to be with him. Forever.

Darkness overshadows her world as the deeper she falls for her vampire the more she wants him. Although there is grief, betrayal and a drunken night of stupidity there is also lust and desire as this star crossed couple can't seem to keep their hands of each other. If you are a fan of Laney, then Darkness is for you.

Joann I. Martin Sowles Webpage
Paperback @ Brookehaven Publishing
eBook @ Smashwords

On sale: 01 December 2011
Price (US): $15.99
ISBN: 9780984486748
Recommended age: 16+
In a word: Darkness
Re-read it: possibly
Recommend: to those reading the series
Star rating: three out of five
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The Scariest Thing of All

2012-01-31T18:15:00.000+11:00

The Scariest Thing Of All by Debi Gliori

I'm Not Afraid!

When a scared little rabbit one day finds himself all alone in a scary place hearing scary sounds, he makes a most shocking discovery. The scariest thing of all is not a gobbler blowing bubbles, not a vast hisster weaving its web, not even a giant wood troll thumping its teeth. The scariest thing of all is not at all what you'd expect.

The Scariest Thing Of All is a fun and exciting children's tale that will enchant it's young readers not only with it's tale of scary critters but also with its cute and shadowy images. This sweet and haunting little story will show that no matter how little one is, there is nothing scary about 'things'. A scary little tale that isn't really that scary at all.

Debi Gliori Webpage

Debi Gliori @ Bloomsbury Australia

On sale: 01 December 2011
Price (AU): $22.99
ISBN: 9780747599692
Recommended age: 2-6
In a word: Scarry
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: four out of five
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The Scorpio Races

2012-01-27T13:25:00.000+11:00

The Scorpio Races by Maggie Stiefvater

"Today, Someone Will Die"

The sea can be both beautiful and deadly, indiscriminate in the lives it takes and the ones it spits out, just like those creatures who stumble from its watery depths onto the sandy shores. And just like the sea, those creatures cannot be held down, bent to our will, nor tamed in any way. But once a year, many men seek to do just that, many men die to achieve just that, and all for the glory of wining The Scorpio Races.

She is the first girl to compete in the races and the first girl expected to die in the races. Many believe her a fool for competing and she can't argue that with them. She doesn't want to race, she doesn't want to die, but she has her reasons for racing and no one can talk her out of it. Though many will try.

Having already won the races four years in a row, there is little doubt from anybody that he won't do so again. But when everything he cares for is riding on the outcome of this race, with the pressure mounting and the competition more important then ever, suddenly he will find that he has more to lose then he ever thought possible.

The Scorpio Races are a deadly tradition held once a year on a tiny island that for the rest of the year is all but forgotten to the out side world. As a story of family, friendships and life it is written in a way that is at once both bluntly realistic and fancifully charming, beautifully blending humor and hardship. At it's core is a love story that builds so naturally starting as someone you see everyday and becoming someone you cannot go a day without seeing. A compelling and unforgettable read.

Maggie Stiefvater Webpage

Maggie Stiefvater @ Scholastic

On sale: 01 November 2011
Price (AU): $24.99
ISBN: 9780545224901
Recommended age: 15+
In a word: Water Horse
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: five out of five
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Lily Bard - The Lily Bard Mysteries Omnibus

2012-01-18T11:24:00.000+11:00

LILY BARD:
The Lily Bard Mysteries Omnibus by Charlaine Harris

Life In A Small Town Can Be Murder!

Shakespeare's Landlord.

Lily Bard is trying to keep a low profile, stay invisible, but she soon learns that is an impossibility in a small town. With a shattered past and a fear of discovery, the last thing Lily wanted was to be implicated in a murder, however she reluctantly finds that if she is to prove her innocence she is going to have to solve this murder on her own. But in retrospect the death of Shakespeare's landlord could have been the best thing to ever happen to Lily.

Shakespeare's Champion.

When Lily unwittingly steps in to break it up a public fight, she also puts herself in the middle of the towns growing tensions. Not long after she discovers a murder victim. When all she wanted was to be left in quiet, she is again drawn into the lives of those in this small town discovering she is losing more friends then she realised she ever had. If Lily is to survive this race war with her life she is going to have to get to the bottom of this murder.

Shakespeare's Christmas.

Christmas isn't Christmas without family, food and a murder or two. As Lily heads home for the holidays, and also for her sisters wedding, Lily is facing up to some old demons. However someone has kidnapped a child and is desperate enough to kill any who would dare take that child from them. Unavoidably Lily becomes involved, but this time she is not alone. With Jack by her side Lily will uncover a devastating truth and discover a new side of herself.

Shakespeare's Trollop.

When Lily discovers the body of the town trollop in a compromising position she, as with everyone else in town, must assume that the murderer is one of her lovers. Meaning that just about every man in town is a suspect. However as the clues are gathered Lily must admit that things are not adding up. But in a case where little makes sense and where one death leads to another, discovering the truth will not be easy.

Shakespeare's Counselor.

The time has come for Lily to face her past if she is to embrace her future. Very reluctant to join but determined to do so, Lily begins attending meetings for rape survivors. Unfortunately after only a few weeks someone has decided to send a message to her group in the form of a murdered rape victim. As the bodies pile up in this dangerous game of cat and mouse, Lily experiences great loss, abuse of her trust and ultimately a new future.

Lily Bard Mysteries Omnibus is a great series of Who-Done-It tales centred around a strong, independent, intelligent women with a dark past and no future. Written without any supernatural influence by a skilled author of the genre, these in-depth and well thought out murder mysteries will keep you guessing just as much its well developed and colourful characters will keep you entertained.

Charlaine Harris Webpage

Charlaine Harris @ Hachette

On sale: 01 January 2011
Price (AU): $35.00
ISBN: 9780575096448
Recommended age: 18+
In a word: Lily / Murder
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: five out of five
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Delirium Trilogy Book 1

2012-01-10T17:02:00.000+11:00

DELIRIUM:
Delirium by Lauren Oliver

Love Sick!

Love is violent, dangerous, unpredictable, and painful. Love hurts. Anyone is capable of love, that's the scary part, that this disease can capture anyone at anytime without warning. That's not entirely true, there are warning signs, but once a person is infected with love there is only one cure. The Cure. At eighteen years of age all citizens are given the cure, it's too dangerous to perform the cure before that age, but until that age all are susceptible.

Her whole life she has known the dangers of delirium, of love. In the past people would die for love, they'd kill for love, they'd beg, lie, cheat and steal for love. But without love there has been less chaos, less fighting and crime. Yet with only months, days left until her own cure, she is discovering all the things they don't tell you. That without love, without the pain, there is no joy, no happiness and nothing to connect you to those around you. Nothing to connect you to the world.

Delirium is a world where love is outlawed; a disease that can be cut out and removed leaving behind a shell of a life, compliant, unquestioning and uncaring. But as one girl begins to question all that she knows, all that she has been taught, she learns the hardest lesson of all. That love is all that matters. An interesting and intriguing story that may take a little too warm up, but once it gets rolling sets up a most compelling beginning to a new series.

Lauren Oliver Webpage

Lauren Oliver @ Hachette

On sale: 01 February 2011
Price (AU): $27.99
ISBN: 9780340980927
Recommended age: 15+
In a word: Love
Re-read it: probably
Recommend: yes
Star rating: four out of five
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2012 Reading Challenge: Horror & Urban Fantasy Challenge

2012-01-01T17:39:00.000+11:00

Book Chick City is also hosting the Horror & Urban Fantasy Challenge which sounds like fun.
I'm attempting the 24 Books Read.

Objective: No audio books or non fiction books are permitted however any other fiction book is accepted.

Challenge Levels:
24 Books Read - 24 horror & urban fantasy novels read in 2012
48 Books Read - 48 horror & urban fantasy novels read in 2012

The challenge begins January 1st and continues through the end of December, 2012

Books read so far:
1.

2012 Reading Challenge: New Authors Reading Challenge

2012-01-01T17:21:00.000+11:00

Book Chick City is also hosting the New Authors Reading Challenge which should be quite exciting.

For this I'm attempting 25 New Authors.

Objective: I'm not quite sure if the challenge is meant to be new authors in 2012 or just new authors to me so I think for myself I will just assume it is new authors in 2012.

Challenge Levels:

15 New Authors

25 New Authors

50 New Authors

The challenge begins January 1st and continues through the end of December, 2012

Books read so far:

2012 Reading Challenge: Australian Women Writters Challenge

2012-01-01T17:14:00.000+11:00

AustralianWomenWritters.com is running another Aussie Author Challenge that I thought might be fun.

Any book is accepted as long as the author is a women and Australian.

I am attempting the Franklin-fantastic and hope to discover some great new authors in the process.

Objective: This challenge hopes to help counteract the gender bias in reviewing and social media newsfeeds that has continued throughout 2011. It actively promotes the reading and reviewing of a wide range of contemporary Australian women's writing throughout 2012, the National Year of Reading.

Genre Challenges:

Purist: one genre only
Dabbler: more than one genre
Devoted eclectic: as many genres as you can find

Challenge Levels:

Stella (read 3 and review at least 2 books)

Miles (read 6 and review at least 3)
Franklin-fantastic (read 10 and review at least 4 books)

The challenge begins January 1st and continues through the end of December, 2012

Books read so far:

2012 Reading Challenge: Aussie Author Challenge

2012-01-01T16:44:00.000+11:00

Booklover Book Review is running the Aussie Author Challenge again this year and again I had to join in.

Although I pasted last years True Blue challenge by reading over 12 books I failed my own personal challenge of 24 books read. So this year there will be no tampering with the challenge for me, I am simply hoping to complete the Dink-Di challenge.

Objective: Read and review books written by Australian Authors - physical books, ebooks and audiobooks, fiction and non-fiction!

Challenge Levels:

Tourist - Read and review 3 books by at least 2 different Australian authors.

Dinky-Di - Read and review 12 books by at least 6 different Australian author.

The challenge begins January 1st and continues through the end of December, 2012

Books read so far:

2012 Reading Challenge: 100 Books In A Year Reading Challenge

2012-01-01T16:41:00.000+11:00

Another year, another 100 books read. At least I hope.

Book Chick City is hosting 100 Books In A Year Reading Challenge.
If you're going to attempt a challenge, this is the challenge to attempt.

Objective: No Audio Books are included in this challenge just Fiction and Nonfiction books.

Challenge:
The challenge is simple to read 100 books within the year. .

The challenge begins January 1st and continues through the end of December, 2012

Books read so far:
1. Delirium by Lauren Oliver
2. Lily Bard Mysteries Omnibus by Charlaine Harris
3.

2011 Challenges - The Results

2011-12-31T15:49:00.000+11:00

2010 was such a good year for me challenge wise that for 2011 I decided to aim a little higher.
For most of the year I seemed to be doing quite well, unfortunately towards the end life seemed to get in the way some and as a result I managed to fail every challenge I set myself in 2011, as you can see below.
At least there is always next year...

100+ Challenge

98/100 books read. 98%done!

Aussie Author Challenge

16/24 books read. 67%done!

Short Story Challenge

Nemesis - Book 2

2011-12-08T15:07:00.000+11:00

NEMESIS:
Nemesis and the Troll King

by Ashley Du Toit

Seeking Redemption To Save A Life!

Yarg, the Troll King, was shocked one day to discover that be had a brother, a brother who was human, and that he too was human. As a proud Troll, Yarg had trouble believing that he could be human, but deep down he thought it must be so. So he set of to find Nemesis, the one dragon who could tell him once and for all if it could be true, that he could be human.

With one thoughtless act of cruelty, Yarg was responsible for a fairy becoming lost, frozen in time, and as punishment was stripped of his memories and turned into a troll. Now with only seven day remaining, Yarg must remember all the harm he has caused and find redemption for himself if he is to save a fairies life, and return to his human form.

Nemesis and the Troll King returns to the magical realms where amazing beings call home. A dangerous and fun filled adventure that is full of werewolves, witches, centaurs and nuffins. This charming story will delight and entertain all children, and although it is not necessary to have read Nemesis and the Fairy of Pure Heart to understand this book, children will find it just as enchanting as this exciting tale.

Ashley Du Toit Webpage

On sale: 01 June 2009
Price (AU): $19.95
ISBN: 9780980611205
Recommended age: 5-11
In a word: Rescue Mission
Re-read it: possibly
Recommend: to children
Star rating: three out of five
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Shift

2011-12-04T19:05:00.000+11:00

Shift by Em Bailey

A Friendship You'll Die To Have!

Ever since the incident, and since her father left, Olive has looked at the world differently and has not liked what she saw, especially about herself. Cutting herself off from her former friends, from Alison, and throwing out everything about her old self, her old life, she has replaced it all. From new friends to a new wardrobe and a bedroom makeover, she has finally found a new version of herself that she is happy with. Unfortunately so has someone else.

When she first discovered the shapeshifter she feared no one would believe her until it was too late. But when her life was shattered and her perceptions changed she realised that believing in shapshifters was something only a crazy girl would do, and she was not crazy, at least not anymore. So when the so called 'shapeshifter' befriends her she no longer holds the crazy fear of losing her identity or her life. However she may be crazy not to fear.

Shift mingles together all aspects of friendship from loyalty, acceptance and encouragement to misunderstandings, manipulation and malaise. Not all friendships are healthy, and while some are only fleeting and created out of need, others can be down right dangerous. However it is a true friend who will stand by you when you need them most. A genuinely engaging story that surprises and leaves you wondering.

Em Bailey Webpage

Em Bailey @ Hardie Grant Egmont

On sale: 01 September 2011
Price (AU): $22.95
ISBN: 9781921564390
Recommended age: 14+
In a word: Shifters
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: four out of five
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The Night Creatures - book two

2011-11-30T12:29:00.000+11:00

THE NIGHT CREATURES:
Angel Arias by Marianne de Pierres

A Song Of Freedom, A Call To Danger!

Naif has spent her whole life following the rules, restricted in her thoughts and actions. All that changed however during her stay on Ixion, she changed, but she was not the only one. Not only had she discovered freedom on Ixion, she had discovered a horrifying secret. But to uncover its meaning she first has to discover the link that exists between Ixion and Grave. Only then will she find the truth behind the Night Creatures.

Torn between a her greatest fear and a desire to save those she loves, Naif finds herself back in the place where she grew up and, like herself, nothing is the same. With only two days to find a way to stop a war, save her friends and discover a pirates traitor, Naif goes deep undercover and underground as she uncovers more then she ever bargained for. But discovering the truth is just the start, what she does with that truth with change her world.

Angel Arias sing out through the air waves calling to all who are lost, restless or looking for escape. With an ever present threat of danger, non stop action and endless excitement is found new horrors and tragic revelations. Grave robbing, secret meetings, alliances, betrayals and constant threats from wardens are just the beginning in a tale that continues to impress and capture those who are drawn to the dark.

Marianne de Pierres Webpage

Marianne de Pierres @ Random House

burn bright

On sale: 03 October 2011
Price (AU): $18.95
ISBN: 9781742751016
Recommended age: 16+
In a word: Grave
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: four out of five
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Lady Cottington's Pressed Fairy Journal

2011-11-27T17:54:00.000+11:00

Lady Cottington's Pressed Fairy Journal by Brian Froud

A Place Where Dreams Are Stored And Fairies Are Squashed!

When Angelica Cottington shocked the world with her fairy squashing ways, not to mention her proving once and for all that fairies exist, she did it through a dairy not too dissimilar from this journal. As one of the greatest fairy related finds in history, Lady Cottington's story has entertained, enchanted and engaged all who have been lucky enough to read it. Now with this journal is an opportunity to create some magic of your own.

Lady Cottington's Pressed Fairy Journal is beautifully bound with a ribbon page marker and antiqued pages. Pre-lined and littered with squashed fairies throughout, this is the perfect home to store your dreams, wishes, stories, random thoughts, or anything you care to jot down. Filled with the promise of endless possibilities this exquisite book would make a perfect gift for that someone special, or a charming treat for yourself.

Brian Froud - World Of Froud

Brian Froud @ Thames & Hudson

Brian Froud @ Abrams Books

On sale: 01 July 2003
Price (AU): $20.86
ISBN: 9780810985438
Recommended age: 16+
In a word: Fairies
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: five out of five
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Far From The War #1

2011-11-05T17:14:00.000+11:00

FAR FROM THE WAR:
Far From The War by Jeffrey David Payne

All's Fair In Love And War!

As a seventeen year old she has always been confident in what she wants from life and where her future will take her. What she wasn't ready for was the harsh reality of politics, where truth is sacrificed for loyalty, power is all important and money is the only thing that matters. Wars have been started over less; however the start of this war was still a surprise to a country suddenly thrown into civil turmoil.

It began with a military presence. It seemed peaceful enough at first, taking up position in Washington D.C.. By the time shots were fired she was ready to leave her position in the capital and head home to the safety of Orcas Island. But by then the war was well underway and at every turn she was met with the dangers of the front line. However no matter where she went, how far she travelled, she was never far from the war.

Far From The War is a griping and intelligent read that takes you on a journey across country and into the heart of a war that, depending on who you talk to, is being won and lost with each passing day. Although our heroine maybe young and somewhat naive, she shows great strength and determination as she experiences firsthand the horrors, heartbreak and hope that is felt by those touched by war. An accomplished story about one girl who never gives up, or gives in, until she finds her way back home.

Jeffrey David Payne @ Roche Harbor Books

On sale: 17 September 2011
Price (US): $16.99
ISBN: 9780983732204
Recommended age: 16+
In a word: War
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: four out of five
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After Obsession

2011-10-28T22:35:00.000+11:00

After Obsession by Carrie Jones & Steven E. Wedel

After Obsession Comes Possession!

Aimee's greatest fear is that her mother was crazy and like her mother she is crazy too. At night her dreams are filled with warnings, visions of things to come. Her touch has the power to heal others wounds. But is it all real or all in her head? Is she really being haunted by her dead mother, is her best friend really being possessed, does The River Man really exist?

Alan's worst nightmare was moving to a town where football was all but none existent. But thing just went from bad to worst when the girl he liked already had a boyfriend, his cousin acted increasingly out of character and his athletic abilities were causing more problems then they were solving. But he soon realizes that there are more important things to worry about, like the man in the river.

After Obsession comes possession and with that the end of all. A dark presence has always existed in the river, it was The River Man that took Aimee's mother all those years ago, The River Man who now threatens the life of Alan's cousin. But with an evil so ancient, what chance do a couple of teens have to save a loved one when no one else in town is willing to believe The River Man exists?

Carrie Jones Webpage
Steven E. Wedel Webpage

Carrie Jones & Steven E. Wedel @ Bloomsbury Australia

On sale: 01 October 2011
Price (AU): $15.99
ISBN: 9781408818275
Recommended age: 12+
In a word: Possession
Re-read it: probably
Recommend: probably
Star rating: three out of five
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How To See Faeries

2011-10-24T18:30:00.000+11:00

How To See Faeries by Brian Froud and John Matthews

I Can See A Faerie!

It's not hard to see faeries, not really if you try. Though you may only see them if your looking, it may not be with your eyes. There are many ways and means to Faerie, through games and rhyme and art. But the best way to spot a faerie is to use your own true heart. So keep your mind open and taken time to listen, for if you're very lucky you may see a faerie too.

But a warning to all who venture here, for time is not the same. And with each page a lifetimes lived, treasured moments to be relived again. Watch for the symbols and follow the clues, be ready to step through the gate. Just remember, though they are tricksters, meeting faeries is up to fate. When strolling through Faerie, slow down and take your time, after all you're just a visitor and you're only passing through.

How To See Faeries is more then just a beautiful guide book to the fey, this is a portal to another world not all that far away. Here you are guided by the hand, into a strange and wondrous Faerie Land. A place of hidden messages and magical devices, staying close to your heart it more then suffices. But just remember, although you may seek to see a faerie, it may just be a faerie that is seeking to see you.

John Matthews Webpage

Brian Froud - World Of Froud

Brian Froud @ Thames & Hudson

Brian Froud @ Abrams Books

On sale: 01 April 2011
Price (AU): $44.95
ISBN: 9780810997509
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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The Dutchess Of Whimsy

2011-10-22T18:32:00.000+11:00

The Duchess Of Whimsy by Randall & Peter de Seve

Never Judge An Earl By His Sandwich!

The Duchess of Whimsy has always been whimsical in her love of all things, well, whimsical. She surrounds herself with strange pets and intriguing people, she wears the most extravagant of dresses and talks of all things peculiar. But the one thing she can not stand is boring normal. Or so everyone thought...

The Earl of Norm has always been quite sensible in his liking of everything normal. He has the most ordinary of pets and dresses in typical clothing. He talks only to the most level-headed of people on the most drab of topics. But the one thing he can not be is extraordinarily whimsical. Or so everyone thought...

The Duchess Of Whimsy and the Earl Of Norm are two people who know very little about each other except for what they see on the outside, but once they get to really know each other they discover that they have more in common then either could have imagined. A perfectly charming story illustrated in dreamy watercolour.

Peter de Seve Webpage

On sale: 29 October 2009
Price (AU): $25.95
ISBN: 9780399250958
Recommended age: 4+
In a word: Whimsy
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: five out of five
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Taken Away

2011-10-20T20:24:00.000+11:00

Taken Away by Celine Kiernan

'Into The Grey'

It all started after the fire had consumed their home, their possessions, everything in the world they had but each other. At least they all still had each other. That is they did have each other, until the goblin boy showed up. He was there waiting for them, he had always been there, had always been waiting and now he had thought he had found what he was waiting for. Only he was wrong, and his mistake was going to cost a life.

The nightmares were vivid and all consuming. Upon waking the horrid dreams would become nothing more then a phantom memory, a vague recollection of something unpleasant leaving only an all mighty hunger in its wake. After food and the bright light of day those bad dreams could almost be forgotten, almost be dismissed, that is until the nightmare became a reality.

Taken Away is a contemporary story of the bonds of brotherly love, it is a haunting ghost story that will send shivers down your spine, it is compelling mystery of the past affecting those in the present. Whatever way you approach this story you will find a well written, entertaining and intelligent read that will stay with you long after you have finished this book. A story that all ages will enjoy.

Celine Kierman Webpage

Celine Kiernan @ Allen & Unwin

On sale: 01 October 2011
Price (AU): $16.99
ISBN: 9781742377520
Recommended age: 13+
In a word: Brothers
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: four out of five
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Goddess Test #1

2011-10-16T22:02:00.000+11:00

GODDESS TEST:
The Goddess Test by Aimee Carter

A Life For A Life!

Kate is not your average eighteen year old, she doesn't shop, gossip, hangout with friends or date. Her life for the past three years has been on hold while she has cared for her sick mother, all the time waiting for her to die. Even after three years it is not something she is ready to accept, she is not yet ready to say goodbye and she will not let her mother go without a fight.

It is her mother's wish to die in the small town where she was born, a town so small it doesn't even exist on any maps. But upon entering Eden, Kate is soon face with some hard choices, however if there is any way to save her mother from death, if only for a short while, then there is no choice, she will do whatever it takes, even if it means risking her own life.

The Goddess Test is more then a test for immortality, it is a test of honour, sacrifice and love. With everything to lose Kate repeatedly risks her life for those around her, but it is more then her life at risk when she starts to fall for a guy who has all but given up on life and love. A heart warming romance that turns myth into reality and brings the gods of ancient Greece to life.

Aimee Carter Webpage

Aimee Carter @ Harlequin Teen

On sale: 01 August 2011
Price (AU): $19.99
ISBN: 9781742901343
Recommended age: 14+
In a word: Love
Re-read it: probably
Recommend: yes
Star rating: three out of five
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Fury Trilogy #1

2011-10-12T11:36:00.000+11:00

FURY TRILOGY:

Fury by Elizabeth Miles

An Eye For An Eye!

She never meant for it to happen. It's not like you can choose who you fall in love with, right? And this was true love, they both felt the same. It was just too bad he already had a girlfriend, a girlfriend who also happens to be her best friend. She should have known it could never have ended well, for anybody. She should have fought against her desire to be with him. She should have known there would be a price to pay.

He learnt early on how to fit in, how to play the social game that was so crucial to being popular. He had learnt this lesson the hard way and in turn had given as bad as he got. But there is such a thing as going too far. In the heat of the moment he will make a rash decision that will bring one life to end. He might not have meant for things to go so far, but sometimes there is just no saving others, or yourself.

Fury brings its own brand of twisted justice wielded through three ancient and powerful beings hell bent on punishing those who have done wrong. Everyone knows every choice has a consequence but sometimes those consequences can be deadly. And while not every situation is a matter of life and death, some are a matter of the heart, and others just require your soul. So let this story be a warning, if karma doesn't get you, the furies will.

Elizabeth Miles Webpage
Elizabeth Miles @ Simon & Schuster

On sale: 01 August 2011
Price (AU): $24.99
ISBN: 9780857074867
Recommended age: 16+
In a word: Justice
Re-read it: probably
Recommend: yes
Star rating: three out of five
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Secrets of Carrick Book 2

2011-10-08T19:58:00.000+11:00

SECRETS OF CARRICK:
Tantony by Ananda Braxton-Smith

This Is What I Am For!

Fermion and Bolson were twins, but despite there sameness they were very different. Though they shared the same face and the same heart, it was Fermion who was older, always in a rush, never believing what she couldn't see and always working for others. Bolson on the other hand always took his time with things, he saw whole worlds were others saw only a drop of water; he believed the birds spoke to him and he worked only towards fulfilling their wishes.

But when Fermion found her brother, the life drained from his cold body, her life was suddenly changed as was that of her whole family. Losing Bolson meant losing a piece of herself, but it was also a loss to everyone at home. Everyone in her family was changed by his absence and for Fermion nothing could make sense again until she could discover the reason why he had died and accept that he was never coming back.

Tantony is a journey through grief and loss, a journey across land and sea, a journey to find your own path in life and what you believe. As one girl struggles with her life, her loss and what she believes she learns to accept others for who they are and herself for who she needs to be. Written with a raw and edgy language that reflects the uniqueness of this country and the quirkiness of its people, this down to earth story is one that settles deep within you and refuses leave.

Ananda Braxton-Smith @ Walker Books

On sale: 01 May 2011
Price (AU): $18.99
ISBN: 9781742031668
Recommended age: 13+
In a word: Monsters
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: four out of five
xx

In The Arms Of Stone Angels

2011-10-04T20:30:00.000+11:00

In The Arms Of Stone Angels by Jordan Dane

'Darkness Is My Blanket'

Two years ago when a girl died, she betrayed the boy she loved and she lost everything. Although cleared of any involvement in the murder by the police, that didn't stop her small town of assigning her the guilt. After all it was well known that she was close with the Indian boy who had committed the crime. A white girl should have known better then to get involved with an outcast half-breed Indian, so any trouble she got she brought on herself.

Having spent the past two years in Carolina she had done her best to run from her past, from what had happened to her and what she had done. Now with her grandmother's death she is forced to return to the small town that was once home, that was once hell. Returning she has found many ghosts from the past waiting for her and without facing her fears, without her willingness to sacrifice for those she loves, she will never escape her past and nor will the boy she loves.

In The Arms Of Stone Angels Brenna has always found a peace, a second home where she can lay her head and find comfort amongst the dead. A girl who has always felt like an outsider, shunned and scorned will find strength in her uniqueness and an ability see what others can not. A dark mystery of murder, betrayal and jealously that is emotionally charged and completely absorbing. A must read for all ages.

Jordan Dane Webpage

Jordan Dane @ Harlequin Teen

On sale: 01 May 2011
Price (AU): $19.99
ISBN: 9781921793110
Recommended age: 14+
In a word: Acceptance
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: five out of five
xx

Birthright Book 1

2011-09-30T21:13:00.000+10:00

BIRTHRIGHT:
All These Things I've Done by Gabrielle Zevin

It's Was Not Her Choice, But Her Birthright!

She may have been the daughter of a police woman but it was her father who people remembered most, who she remembered most. It was his name she carried after all, and with it his reputation. It didn't matter that he had been dead for years, it didn't matter that he was a good man, it only matter that he was in a business that was illegal. A business that produced and sold an illegal substance; chocolate.

There was nothing more important in her life then her family, her brother and sister were her responsibility and she took that very seriously. There was nothing she wouldn't do for them, nothing she wouldn't do to keep them safe; however she never guessed at the lengths she would go to do just that. But when her heart interferes with her responsibilities she finds more trouble them she can handle and her only way out is to give up the boy she loves.

All These Things I've Done were done to keep her family safe and to keep her family together. However with a family like hers that was harder then expected. With criminal activity, mob wars, family politics, a vindictive ex, poisoning, attempted murder, betrayal, love and chocolate, this story literally has a bit of something for everyone. An engrossing and engaging story that is as bitter as it is sweet. A brilliant introduction to an exciting new series.

Gabrielle Zevin Webpage

Gabrielle Zevin @ Pan Macmillan

On sale: 06 September 2011
Price (AU): $16.99
ISBN: 9780330537896
Recommended age: 16+
In a word: Chocolate
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: four out of five
xx

Coffee at Little Angels

2011-09-26T20:02:00.000+10:00

Coffee at Little Angels by Nadine Rose Larter

There Is More Then One Side To Each Story!

In high school they were the best of friends; growing up in a remote country town they had little other choice. Now, years later, they had all grown up and gone their separate ways, at least most had. There were some who were still clinging to the past, unable to change or move on from events long ago, others however tried outrunning the memories of the past that still haunted them. None of them had expected to meet up so soon, there were some who would have rather not at all, but death has a way of bringing people together, weather they want to or not.

Coffee at Little Angels brings together seven people who were once close high school friends but now have nothing more in common then the death of a mutual friend. While for most of them it had been years since they last meet up, for others there had barely been a day between visits. All had been affected by the friendships they once had, all were hurting from the secrets, betrayals and broken hearts of the past. Now however over one weekend and numerous cups of coffee these strangers will reconnect, and rediscover what brought them together in the first place.

Nadine Rose Larter Webpage
eBook @ Amazon

On sale: 26 May 2011
Price eBook (US): $9.99
ASIN: B005HFK7UG
Recommended age: 18+
In a word: Reunions
Re-read it: probably
Recommend: yes
Star rating: three out of five
xx

Haunting Violet

2011-09-24T20:22:00.000+10:00

Haunting Violet by Alyxandra Harvey

I Don't Believe In Ghosts!

Violet always knew there was no such thing as ghosts, a fact that she could never admit with her mother being a medium. Mediums were another thing she never believed in, after all the years she spent assisting her mother in seances and readings she had just assumed that all mediums were frauds like her mother. But then one day Violet saw a ghost and everything she believed changed.

This was to be the most important reading of her mothers career with only the most important people in attendance. Who knew that a real ghost would show up to spoil everything. However it's not just the dead who are causing mischief and keeping secrets. There is a murder afoot and the one person who knows their identity is a girl made mute by her brutal murder.

Haunting Violet are a number of spirits, some more friendly then others, a guilty conscious, an unknown future and a new love. With a few well chosen words and a handful of parlour tricks, Violet and her mother have made a living at comforting and consoling the wealthy of London, and all at a price. A trip back in time to when propriety and social standing were all important and catching a murder could be scandalous. A great romantic ghost story.

Alyxandra Harvey Webpage
Alyxandra Harvey @ Bloomsbury Australia

On sale: 01 August 2011

Price (AU): $15.99
ISBN: 9781408811313
Recommended age: 12+
In a word: Spirits
Re-read it: probably
Recommend: yes
Star rating: three out of five
xx

Ultraviolet

2011-09-20T19:02:00.000+10:00

Ultraviolet by R J Anderson

I Can Taste A Rainbow!

When she woke it was to a bare room, alone with no memory of how she came to be there. Soon however she realised she was in a hospital. However her stay was a short one, or so it seamed, for upon waking she was soon escorted by police to a new destination. A place where she is told she will be with patients her own age, a place where she will be able to get the treatment she needs. And the handcuffs, she is told, is just a formality.

Being abandoned by her mother to a place like Pine Hills should not have come as such a shock to her. Her mother had always been a little wary of her, a little to quick too judge her insane. Now however she had to try to prove to others that not only was she not insane, even though she could taste words and see sounds, but that she was innocent, even though she had no other explanation for a girls disappearance other then the fact that she disintegrated.

Ultraviolet is more then just a story of a girl coming to accept herself for who she is, forgiving her family for what they have done and gaining new understanding of others. It is a story of a girl falling in love, a girl discovering she is stronger then she thought she was, a girl who although different is no longer alone. A compelling and engaging contemporary read with a delightful sci-fi twist.

R J Anderson Webpage

R J Anderson @ Hachette Children's

Ultraviolet

On sale: 01 June 2011
Price (AU): $16.99
ISBN: 9781408312759
Recommended age: 14+
In a word: Synesthesia
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: five out of five
xx

Tova Gallagher #1

2011-09-16T19:31:00.000+10:00

TOVA GALLAGHER:

Ecstatic Evil by Amanda McNeil

It's Good To Be A Little Bad!

Tova would be your average country girl moved to the city to own and run a book store with her best friend if it wasn't for a few small but crucial details. Her father was a demon making her a half-demon, or halvesies as they are known, and for her whole life she has been visited by two guides, one her cousin Bartleby who also happens to be a demon and the other a fairie named Fay.

It has been Bartleby and Fays' job to convince Tova to choose a side and the time has come for Tova to make a decision. Either join the side of 'good' and let the fairies help her suppress the demon within or join the 'evil' demons and embrace her dark side, denying her humanity but still getting to keep her demonic powers. With not just her own soul at stake but the future of all humanities, Tova had better make the right decision.

Ecstatic Evil is the first in a new series of serial books that is to have new entries published ever few months. An exciting, sexy, short story that easily fits into your day. Full of demons, fairies, werewolves, magic and a hot, steamy romance, this little tale will leave you wondering just what is in store next for this devilish new heroine.

eBook @ Amazon

On sale: 07 July 2011
Price eBook (US): $0.99
ASIN: B005C1AMK0
Recommended age: 18+
In a word: Tova
Re-read it: probably
Recommend: probably
Star rating: three out of five
xx

Siren's Storm #1

2011-09-14T22:02:00.000+10:00

SIREN'S STORM:

Siren's Storm by Lisa Papademetriou

The Tempest And The Fury!

Last summer was the worst of Will's life. A year later he is now beginning to deal with the events of last summer that took his brother from him. With no memories of the night his brother disappeared, Will has been haunted by what could have happened. But it's not until the arrival of a mysterious new girl does he beguine to understand just what did happen to his brother, and what may yet still happen to those he cares for.

Gretchen has always been prone to sleep walking, however recently it has been becoming more and more prevalent and each time she wakes it is to find herself closer and closer to the perilous sea. Closer to the place where one year ago Will was found unconscious and his brother not found at all. The secrets kept inside her can not remain secret for long, not from those she loves most, not now with the arrival of a mysterious new girl.

Siren's Storm is a blend of history, myth, mystery and the supernatural all rolled into one. A tale of fear, guilt, confusion and loss that begins in a storm and slowly builds into a furious tempest that is full of sea maids and fire and an unbreakable friendship. For Will and Gretchen, they must first live through their present danger if they are to heal from their stormy past.

Lisa Papademetriou Webpage

Lisa Papademetriou @ Random House

Siren's Storm

On sale: 01 August 2011

Price (AU): $18.95
ISBN: 9781742751276
Recommended age: 16+
In a word: Siren's
Re-read it: possibly
Recommend: probably
Star rating: three out of five
xx

Haunted Heart

2011-09-10T21:32:00.000+10:00

Haunted Heart by Tania Donald

What I Did For Love!

Eloise was a simple village girl whose life was consumed by her rose garden, her dear friends Georgiana and Miriam, and the possibility Mr Jones, a very amiable man whom she could grow to care for over the years they might spend together as man and wife. Although this was the future she could expect, somehow Eloise couldn't help wanting more, more then her little village, more then an agreeable marriage. What she dreamt of was a deep romance, but the price for such love does not come cheap.

With the newly arrived Mr White comes new possibilities for Eloise. With his alluring presence in her life, Eloise is awakening to a passionate love filled with the joy of possibilities and the pain of neglect. However if Eloise is to survive this new love and her lovers demands she is going to have to survive a transformation that will lead her through dark and beguiling ways. But even if she survives this transformation she may still yet fall pray to a darker end.

Haunted Heart tells the tale of love, passion, danger and a life lived through any means with only one goal; survival. As one young girl crosses the threshold into womanhood, she steps between the boundaries of her moralistic society and into a world of dark seduction, a world that brings life with death, a world of loneliness and of great love. In this mixture of a Jane Austen character let loose in the world of Dracula, what follows is a provocative tale of romance, where in the end one woman will sacrifice all for her love.

Tania Donald @ Penguin

On sale: 27 June 2010
Price (AU): $29.95
ISBN: 9781921518706
Recommended age: 18+
In a word: Hearts
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: four out of five
xx

The Narrow Escapes of Ves Asirin #1

2011-09-06T22:23:00.000+10:00

THE NARROW ESCAPES OF VES ASIRIN:

Tower Of Parlen Min by Matt Xell

Can He Escape 'The Shadow'?

Ves is a boy with no past and no memory. Before the orphanage there is no record of his life or where he came from. He himself has no memories of his life before the orphanage, nor has he any memories of the previous years, months, weeks or days. Ves suffers from a rare condition that wipes his mind clean every 10 to 15 hours. Without his scrapbook to remind him of who he is, where he is, he would not remember anything at all.

With the opportunity of a life time to visit the Tower of Parlen Min, Ves finds himself thrown into a world of new friends, extreme challenges, werewolves, witches, ghosts, murderers and a chance to win twelve million dollars in the Sword Challenge. However surviving the Sword Challenge will be nothing compared to surviving the serial killer stalking the inhabitant's surrounding the Tower.

The Tower Of Parlen Min is an epic children's story with violence, death and a lot of history lessons. For a story of a boy with a faulty memory who happens to be somewhat of a daredevil, he has no trouble remembering when he needs too. Through all the danger Ves faces and puts himself through he comes through little scathed but in a curious position. A very long and jam-packed story that's not too bad for a self published story.

eBook @ Smashwords
Ves Asirin

On sale: 23 July 2010
Price eBook (US): $2.99
ASIN: B0058EALC0
Recommended age: 14-18
In a word: Ves
Re-read it: possibly
Recommend: possibly
Star rating: two out of five
xx

The Tower Of Parlen Min GIVEAWAY

2011-09-03T16:51:00.000+10:00

Before I post my review for The Tower Of Parlen Min by Matt Xell, an epic 1096 page children's eBook that I am still working my way through, I thought I'd give you all the chance to read a copy of this story for yourself.
So, for a chance to win a copy of this eBook simply fill in the form below.
All winners will be notified by email on September 24th.
Good Luck.
xx&lt;p&gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;Loading...&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&lt;/p&gt;

The Story Of Solomon Bear

2011-09-02T21:31:00.000+10:00

The Story Of Solomon Bear by Phillip Laird

All You Need Is Love!

On the edge of a magical forest sits a lonely house that is under a spell. A spell of forgetting. All who dwell within this house have fallen under its spell, all that is but one girl and her teddy bear, Solomon. While the others living in the house have forgotten kindness, happiness and most importantly the power of love, one girl and her bear have promised to keep love alive.

The others living in the house pay little attention the girl and Solomon. Although left alone the girl is never lonely, not like the others, for the girl and Solomon are bound by an unbreakable bond of unconditional love. But when the worse happens and the girl leaves the house, something that no one must ever do for it is far too dangerous, Solomon is left alone to find a way to bring home the girl he loves.

The Story Of Solomon Bear is a short romantic fable of the courage of one special bear and his ability to love. The greater complexities of love, belonging and friendship are explored through the tender and heartfelt relationship of a girl and her bear. Although the in-depth look at these themes may be a little over the heads of smaller children, they and adults alike will enjoy reading this tale over and over, each time taking away something more and something precious.

eBook @ Smashwords
Beloved Teddy Bear

On sale: 14 June 2011
Price eBook (US): $3.95
ASIN: B0053ZMPJ6
Recommended age: 6+
In a word: Love
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: five out of five
xx

The Mall

2011-08-31T22:12:00.000+10:00

The Mall by S. L. Grey

Shop Till You Drop, Literally!

It was supposed to be a quick trip to the mall, make the deal, score a hit and get back before anyone noticed that she, and the kid she was looking after, were missing. But after returning from her dealer to Only Book, the store she left the kid waiting in while she made her transaction, she discovered the kid had disappeared.

A run in with mall security should have been just what she needed, they would find the kid and she could leave, however they are not as helpful as she hoped. Worse still they are threatening to call the cops and with the stash in her pocket there is no way she is going to risk getting taken in. To find the kid she is going to have to take matters into her own hands.

When he left for work that morning he never imagined his day would end being held at knife point by a drugged up girl, forced to search behind the scenes at the mall for a kid that has probably already been found is long home by now. But as the detour through the mall becomes more and more dangerous and surreal, he realises he has more important things to worry about.

The mall became a labyrinth, it shouldn't have been possible, he knew the mall and none of these turns and corridors existed. But here they were being chased by monsters in the dark, stumbling over dismembered mannequins and being confronted by a distorted version of reality. Suddenly getting out is not a question of how by why.

The Mall is a gritty, raw and provocative story that turns society inside out and strips it down to expose its discarded, scared and rotting core. Through drugs, violence, consumerism and days spent in a nightmare world on the run for their lives, Rhoda and Dan discover that the life they once had is no longer the life they wish to lead. A thought provoking and chilling read.

S. L. Grey @ Allen & Unwin

On sale: 01 August 2011
Price (AU): $29.99
ISBN: 9781848878860
Recommended age: 18+
In a word: The Mall
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: four out of five
xx

Sookie Stackhouse - The Sookie Stackhouse Companion

2011-08-27T21:37:00.000+10:00

SOOKIE STACKHOUSE:
The Sookie Stackhouse Companion by Charlaine Harris

'A Complete Guide To The Sookie Stackhouse Series'

Welcome to Bon Temps, a cosy little town where a freakishly high number of supernatural's call home and where life is anything but easy and laid back. For Sookie, a telepath, life has drastically changed since the vamps came out of the coffin a few years back. More specifically her life changed the night she met her first vampire, Bill, and ever since then she has never looked back.

Several years, and books, later Sookie is still solving, plotting and uncovering murders in her own unique corner of the south. However just because Sookie is a mind reader does not necessarily gain her access to every secret hidden within the minds of those she encounters, such as the private dialogues between Eric and Bill that are now revealed. Nor had she any idea that the Chocolate Cake Caroline Bellefleur is famous for is a scandalously easy recipe to follow.

The Sookie Stackhouse Companion is a comprehensive peak into a small southern town and the people who call it home. While Charlaine Harris sits down to a q&a, Sookie gives up all her knowledge on the supernatural beings that have had a great impact on her once simple life. This is a perfect way to rediscover the books, test your knowledge on the events in Sookie's life and enjoy something new in a bonus short story.

Charlaine Harris Webpage

Charlaine Harris @ Hachette

Sookie Stackhouse

On sale: 01 September 2011
Price (AU): $32.99
ISBN: 9780575097537
Recommended age: 18
In a word: Sookie Stackhouse
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: to those reading the series
Star rating: four out of five
xx

Mommy, Where Do Baby Unicorns Come From?

2011-08-23T17:29:00.000+10:00

Mommy, Where Do Baby Unicorns Come From?

by Renee Adams

But Unicorns Don't Exist!

It is the one question that she could ever dread coming from the mouth of her daughter, the one question that she was hoping to avoid, and the one question she never wanted her little girl to discover the answer to. But when her five year old daughter asked this question her heart froze, "Mommy, Where Do Baby Unicorns Come From?"

When she first spotted the horse, the horse that had a horn on it head, she was enchanted. It was beautiful and magical and for some reason no one else seemed to notice it there on the other side of the fence; no one believed it to be real. But here it was, the brightest white with a horn on its forehead, and it made her wonder. If there exists a grown unicorn it must have once been a baby. But just where did it come from?

Mommy, Where Do Baby Unicorns Come From? is a short and bittersweet tale of one mothers anxiety to explain, or avoid explaining, to her innocent daughter the dark and heartbreaking truth of where baby unicorns come from. A story of one girl learning just how it is unicorns can exist and how in a heartbeat life can change forever. Not so much a story for children, this powerful and beautifully haunting short story is one that will stay with you.

Mommy, Where Do Baby Unicorns Come From? - click for FREE ebook

Renee Adams Webpage
eBook @ Smashwords

On sale: 28 March 2011
Price eBook (US): $- Free
ISBN: 2940011254734
Recommended age: 9+
In a word: Innocense
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: five out of five
xx

The Wolves of Mercy Falls #3

2011-08-20T19:29:00.000+10:00

THE WOLVES OF MERCY FALLS:
Forever by Maggie Stiefvater

The Beginning Of The End Of A Love That Will Last Forever!

For years he had watched her from afar, waiting for her to join him in the woods as a wolf, but she never did. Years later he finally found her as a human and they thought they could finally be together. Now however, it is she that watches from the woods, torn away from him by winter and a wolf's coat.

His greatest fear was losing himself to the wolf inside, but now he fears he has lost the girl he loves to the woods and is being accused of murdering her. Her life now in the woods is filled with the longing for something more and the waiting for the winter to be over, as her future is lost to the uncertainty of the cold.

Meanwhile a former rock star is rediscovering life and love only now after he has given up on both. And a broken princess, whose brother's death has instigated the hunt for the wolves, will rediscover a meaning to life that was lost when she lost her brother.

Forever is a story of werewolves and love, but more then anything it is a story of Sam and Grace. The heart of this story is a couple who will never give-up on each other and never stop loving each other. A tender, heart pounding and unforgettable end to a series that has been so engrossing it will make you Shiver with longing when it's over.

Maggie Stiefvater Webpage

Maggie Stiefvater @ Scholastic

The Wolves of Mercy Falls

On sale: 01 August 2010
Price (AU): $29.99
ISBN: 9780545259088
Recommended age: 13+
In a word: Goodbyes
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: five out of five
xx

Imaginary Girls

2011-08-17T22:09:00.000+10:00

Imaginary Girls by Nova Ren Suma

'If You Want Something Badly Enough, It Can Come True'

When Ruby said something I may not have always listened to her, but I always believed her. When Rudy said it was impossible for me to ever drown, I believed her. When Ruby said she would never leave me, I believed her. When Ruby said the impossible, I believed her. I had no reason not too. Everything she said always had a way of coming true. That was the magic of Ruby.

Being Ruby's little sister meant always being seen as Ruby's little sister, but I never really minded. Although everyone loved Ruby, would do anything for Ruby, in the end she only loved me. My sister practically raised me; she was the only one who ever cared for me. But after that night at the reservoir, the attempted swim across, I realised just how far she was willing to go to save me.

Imaginary Girls is a tale of love, sacrifice and the bond shared between two sisters. While the captivating and magical Ruby is the centre of Chloe's world, it is the reserved and awkward Chloe who is the centre of this story. A poignant, raw and fantastic story where girls rise from the dead, people live in underwater towns, balloons bring midnight messages of love and one sister will never stop believing.

Nova Ren Suma Webpage
Nova Ren Suma @ Murdoch Book
Imaginary Girls

On sale: 01 July 2011
Price (AU): $19.99
ISBN: 9781742665221
Recommended age: 16+
In a word: Sisters
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: five out of five
xx

Forgotten

2011-08-14T11:51:00.000+10:00

Forgotten by Cat Patrick

'I Remember Forwards, And Forget Backwards'

She had no warning for the day ahead and she should have, it should have been in her notes. He should have been in her notes. Instead she was blind sighted by a new boy she has no memories of ever meeting, and since she can only remember the future she has to assume he is not a part of her future.

Reading through her notes she realises she had seen this boy before, both yesterday and the day before. It is evident that she will most likely see him again tomorrow, but for some reason he does not appear in her memories. However the presence of a new memory, one dark and foreshadowing death is about to turn her life upside down.

Forgotten is a past scribbled on notes and a future remembered before it is lived. While her mother is not around, her father is not in her life and her best friend is not speaking to her, the one person there for her is the one person she can't remember. A simple yet touching story of a girl who, although having no past, can see the future bright and clear. However despite her uniqueness she is just an ordinary girl falling in love and finding hope for the future.

Cat Patrick Webpage

Cat Patrick @ Hardie Grant Egmont

On sale: 01 June 2011
Price (AU): $22.95
ISBN: 9781921690624
Recommended age: 14+
In a word: Forgotten
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: three out of five
xx

When We Have Wings

2011-08-11T21:54:00.006+10:00

When We Have Wings by Claire Corbett

'Flight Is A Powerful Dream
But Sometimes Dreams Should Stay Dreams'

When private detective Fowler took a kidnapping case from a flier client, already he realised he was in over his head. But not until he was bugged, followed, ransacked, threatened and maimed did he finally realise just how over his head he really was. What started out as a simple kidnapping, a nanny disappearing with her charge, soon turns into a flight for survival and a search for the truth.

From the start Fowler knew there were secrets being kept from him by his new employer, too many things just didn't make sense. How did a poor girl from RaRA-land end up working for a prominent family in the city? How did a nanny afford the impossibly expensive operation to gain her wings? Why would a girl with everything to lose just up and leave with someone else's child?

When We Have Wings is the story of Peri's determination to obtain her lifelong dream of flight. A dream she gave everything to achieve, only to realise too late just what she really gave up for it. With amazingly vivid imagery and a cast of characters you can't help but care for, this absorbing story will have you dreaming of flight while simultaneously questioning the ethics, morals and evolutionary repercussion of such a dream turned reality. Peri is an extraordinary girl, although you won't know just why until you have experienced her story.

Claire Corbett Webpage

Claire Corbett @ Allen & Unwin

On sale: 01 July 2011
Price (AU): $32.99
ISBN: 9781742375564
Recommended age: 18+
In a word: Flight
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: five out of five
xx

The Steampunk Chronicles 0.5

2011-08-08T20:42:00.002+10:00

THE STEAMPUNK CHRONICLES:

The Strange Case Of Finley Jayne by Kady Cross

'Normal Girls Don't Have Something Inside Them That Makes Them Capable Of Remarkably Violent Things'

Being thrown unceremoniously out of a house closely followed by your carpetbag is no way to be fired. Although when you hit a governess so hard she's sent flying across the room without half of her teeth, well one can hardly blame others for thinking her the spawn of Satan and dismissing her without a reference. And so left on the streets with nowhere else to go Finley returns home to her mothers.

Finley is hardly home a day when a job opportunity lands in her lap. However why Lady Morton, a friend of her former employer, is happy to take her on knowing the circumstances of her termination is beyond her. But despite her reservations and the mystery surrounding her new employment, Finley is happy working for Lady Morton. That is until she discovers the sinister reasons behind a Lord Vincent's actions.

The Strange Case Of Finley Jayne is a compact yet feisty story of a girl who is unlike other girls. Finley is intelligent, bold and strong. Incredibly strong. She also has an other self that takes her over in times of stress and anger. As an introduction to the world of automatons, high society and mad scientist, this is the perfect prequel to the Girl in Steel Corset and if it's any indication of things to come, the Steampunk Chronicles should every bit as dark and exciting as this.

The Strange Case Of Finley Jayne - click for FREE ebook

Kady Cross Webpage

On sale: 01 May 2011
Price eBook (US): $2.99 - But Free For A Limited Time
ISBN: 9781459204140
Recommended age: 16+
In a word: Finley
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: four out of five
xx

The Skychasers Trilogy #1

2011-08-06T15:52:00.002+10:00

THE SKYCHASERS TRILOGY:
GLOW by Amy Kathleen Ryan

A Destiny Written In The Stars!

Earth has increasingly become uninhabitable, acid rains from the sky, fertile lands give way to barren deserts and people starve. For Kieran and Waverly and the other children aboard the space ship Empyrean they have no recollections of the harshness that Earth has become, but nor have they ever experienced sunshine, wind or the sea. Being born in space headed for a New Earth these children are humanities hope for a future.

Life aboard the Empyrean was simple and apart from living in a metal ship flying through space Waverly was just an average girl. That is until Kieran proposes to her. Waverly knows it is her duty to marry and have children of her own, being almost sixteen many would say she is old enough for such responsibility, but Waverly is not so sure. Although Kieran is kind and in truth she does love him, she can't help being drawn to another.

However when the Empyrean's companion ship the New Horizon approaches, Waverly discovers there are more important things in life besides love, there is survival. Separated from everyone she loves, surrounded by lies, deception and harsh truths, Waverly endures abuse, violence and kindness at the hands of these strangers that have captured her. Kieran, on the other hand will undergo torture, responsibilities and transformation with those who have been left behind.

Glow is just the beginning of this exceptional space adventure that will hold you captive. A brilliantly complex story that allows for heroes to make mistakes and the villains to act with the best intentions. This is a tale of two children growing up too soon, experiencing their world irrevocably changed and learning home will never be the same again. More then a story of humanities quest for a future, it is a dark and unvarnished look at how far people will go to survive. Simply a great read.

Any Kathleen Ryan Webpage

Amy Kathleen Ryan @ Pan Macmillan

On sale: 01 October 2011
Price (AU): $16.99
ISBN: 9781742610320
Recommended age: 16+
In a word: Survival
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: five out of five
xx

The Brookehaven Vampires Book 1

2011-08-03T22:02:00.000+10:00

THE BROOKEHAVEN VAMPIRES:
Laney by Joann I. Martin Sowles

'This Is Just The Beginning'

When she first laid eyes on the hansom new guy she couldn't help but fantasise what it would be like to be held in his arms. However it was not her but her best friend that first had that honour, albeit under the most undesirable of circumstances. She had never felt for anyone what she felt for him and it seems he fells the same way. So why then was her aunt, who is more like a best friend, so against the one person she could possibly love?

The more time she spends in his presence the more time she wants to spend with him. She could happily spend forever staring into his beautiful emerald green eyes and if she had her way she would. However there is more to this gorgeous boy them meets the eye. He is older then her, he never seems to eat, he avoids direct sunlight and makes numerous reference to the past. Luckily for him she has an open mind when it comes to relationships.

Laney is a love story between a mortal human and an immortal vampire. However it is neither his blood drinking nor her desirable blood that is standing in the way of these star crossed lovers, but his family and hers. Although the vampire romance has been done before this story has a way of sucking you in, and along with the romance there is danger, blood and a mystery left unsolved. If you thought Twilight was good then you'll love this series.

Joann I. Martin Sowles Webpage
Paperback @ Brookehaven Publishing
Paperback @ Amazon
eBook @ Smashwords

On sale: 01 January 2010
Price (US): $15.99
ISBN: 9780984486717
Recommended age: 16+
In a word: Vampires
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: three out of five
xx

POD 1

2011-07-31T22:14:00.010+10:00

POD:
POD by Stephen Wallenfels

Pearls Of Death!

When they arrived he was asleep in bed and besides his dog Dutch the only other person in the house was his over obsessive father. He was expecting to sleep for at least another hour before he had to drag himself out of bed and get ready for school. He expected to meet up with his best friend Alex. Instead he was dragged from his sleep by a head splitting screech and the presence of black spears in the sky.

When they arrived she had just said goodbye to her mother. She was awoken early by her mum leaving for work, she would be back soon and then they would head to the beach. She had never seen the beach before. She was left alone while her mother was gone. She was left alone when they arrived. All around her people were in a panic while she sat alone and waited her head exploding with noise and the sky fill with blinding flashes.

POD is a tale of two people facing a world in chaos. Josh is trapped in his home with only a father slowly driving him crazy, spending his days watching the world outside his window slowly fall apart. Megs is left alone in a hotel car park amongst strangers spending her days struggling to survive, watching as her world falls down around her. When an alien force takes over the skies it is the threat from those on the ground that is the greatest. An absorbing and stirring read that is original, frightening and a little heartbreaking.

Stephen Wallenfels Webpage

Stephen Wallenfels @ Allen & Unwin

On sale: 01 July 2011
Price (AU): $19.99
ISBN: 9781742375663
Recommended age: 12+
In a word: Pearls Of Death
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: four out of five
xx

The Iron Witch Trilogy Book 1

2011-07-28T21:24:00.009+10:00

THE IRON WITCH TRILOGY:
The Iron Witch by Karen Mahoney

An Iron Grip On The Heart Of A Fey!

Being dragged to a party she never wanted to attend filled with people who don't want her there should have been the worst night of her life. It easily would have been too if not for the tall handsome guy she meets while hiding out on the roof. Suddenly with this one meeting she will realise that she is not the only one who is different, not the only one with secrets. But now her secrets are all coming out.

When a chance encounter with a rogue wood elf leads to the abduction of her best friend, a choice must be made. Either save her best friend and turn against the secret society that has raised her, or follow the rules of a society that she is beginning to question and allow the one person who was always there for her to be lost to the vicious fey that destroyed her family.

The Iron Witch brings a new twist to the fey genre introducing an ancient society of alchemists. Growing up amongst these alchemist Donna has many secrets, as do the alchemists who healed her after a childhood attack that took her parents left her marked as different and her arms tattooed with iron. Despite the distinct lack of dragons, this is a fast paced and fascinating story of an ancient secret society, a centuries old fey war, an elixir of life and a new romance with a handsome half-fey.

Karen Mahoney Webpage

Karen Mahoney @ Random House

On sale: 01 February 2011
Price (AU): $18.95
ISBN: 9781864718270
Recommended age: 16+
In a word: Alchemy
Re-read it: probably
Recommend: yes
Star rating: three out of five
xx

Robopocalypse

2011-07-25T22:27:00.016+10:00

Robopocalypse by Daniel H. Wilson

I Have To Live!

Twenty minutes after the war ended Brightboy squad made a discovery that was as disturbing as it was inspiring. This discovery was literally little more then a black box, but what made it so monumentious, so compelling, was that this was The Black Box of the war. Every human to have an impact on the outcome of the war, no matter how small their part, were monitored and recorded, their actions forever replaying within the black box. These are the heroes of mankind, these are their stories.

Deep underground a scientist is bringing the most sophisticated machine ever built online; this is the beginning of the end for mankind. A solider in Afghanistan is reporting on an event that should never have happened, could not have been possible. A little girl is awoken by a nightmare, only it wasn't a dream. A technician in Japan is watching the one person he loves squeeze the life out of him. A Texas driller and his crew will take a job in remote Alaska, it will be their last.

Robopocalypse is a story of the enduring nature of mankind, but more then just a story of survival it is a story about life. Within these pages are the very best and worst of mankind, for even as adversity brings out he best in some, it brings out the worse in others. But ultimately this is a story of people who have become heroes through their everyday actions of survival. A brilliantly thought-out story that is told in the most engrossing and compelling of ways. A story that is all the more chilling because it tells of a future that is all too possible.

Daniel H. Wilson Webpage

Daniel H. Wilson @ Simon & Schuster
Robopocalypse

On sale: 01 June 2010
Price (AU): $29.99
ISBN: 9780857204134
Recommended age: 16+
In a word: Robot War
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: five out of five
xx

Raven Finch Book One

2011-07-21T22:27:00.013+10:00

RAVEN FINCH:
The Curse Of The Dead Woods by Samantha Jillian Bayarr

I'm Not A Witch!

A lonely girl sits atop a tower kept prisoner by an evil witch. A witch that just happens to be her mother. When not cooking, cleaning and singing, Raven would spend her days watching the forest from her tower window as far below children she will never get the chance to meet, run and play. While she dreams of friendships with children her own age in reality her only friend a ghost who was originally called forth to frighten her but instead is afraid of sunlight.

A dangerous fall leads to a discovery that Raven has long dreamt about, but has never believed possible. So as the evil Agatha's powers are weakening, Raven decides set off to discover just what it is her witch mother is hiding from her. Through a secret passageway she finds the paths to new friendships, a magical realm and the fearful Dead Woods and it is there that she will uncover the greatest secret of all, that is if she can survive long enough.

The Curse Of The Dead Woods is a fairytale full of ghosts, kittens and fairies. While there are magical spells and treasure hunts there are also hidden secrets from the past that must be uncovered. What started out as an intriguing story soon turned into a lot of running back and forth and Raven herself spends much of the time denying the painfully obvious. Accompanied by some enchanting illustrations throughout this story there are also a few errors that could not be ignored but overall this not a bad read as a children's book.

Samantha Jillian Bayarr @ Livingston Hall Publishers
eBook @ Smashwords

On sale: 22 November 2010
Price eBook (US): $0.99
ISBN: 9781453805190
Recommended age: 9+
In a word: Dead Woods
Re-read it: possibly
Recommend: to children
Star rating: two of five
xx

The Hero Chronicles Book One

2011-07-18T14:23:00.033+10:00

THE HERO CHRONICLES:
The Hero Of 1,000 Years by Christine E. Schulze

A Hero Of Destiny!

Starting at a new school is not so bad when you have familiar faces waiting to great you, and not so familiar faces just waiting to be your friends. Chasmira is happy to be reunited with her old friends Tiffany and Aaron, but soon realizes how much they have all changed when Tiffany constantly disappears without question and Aaron is shown to be a mean bully. However Chasmira's many new friends assure her that all this is nothing new.

After repeatedly finding himself the victim of several deadly incidences, out of no where Arron is flung into the past and is again under attack but this time by dark warriors on black horses carrying black weapons. For some reason these warriors have decided that Aaron and his new friend Alyssa Liv are threats to their cause, that is until it is revealed that Arron is a hero, but not just any hero, he is the Hero of 1000 years, the Hero of Destiny.

The Hero Of 1,000 Years is a story of a large group of friends who also happen to be fairies and elves. A dark and evil man is out to rule the world and only Arron as the hero, along with the help of his brave friends, stands a chance at stopping this great evil. Along the way there are dances to attend, a dragon to slay and a school to save. This self published story has some errors and forgotten story threads that I assume will be picked up in the following books, but as a story of magical teens it reads more like a children's book and I think it will be more appreciated by a younger audience.

Christine E. Schulze Webpage
Paperback @ Amazon
eBook @ Smashwords

On sale: 18 September 2009
Price (US): $6.99
ISBN: 9781448689880
Recommended age: 6-12
In a word: Hero
Re-read it: possibly
Recommend: to children
Star rating: two out of five
xx

Iron Fey Book 3.5

2011-07-16T16:56:00.002+10:00

IRON FEY:

Summer's Crossing by Julie Kagawa

Puck's Tale!

Grimalkin may be cunning, conceited and hold a good many favours over a large number of fey, but that has only succeeded in creating a good many enemies among the fey for himself. Now as Grimalkin has gone missing it has fallen to an annoyed Ash and, to his dismay, an annoying Puck to find the wayward cat. However before they can get started duty, and deceit, calls them to action.

Leanansidhe has promised to assist Ash and Puck in finding Grimalkin but only at a price. On what may well be a suicide mission for Ash, and a way to rid a love rival for Puck, these two fey will have to pull of the biggest prank ever, and they will have to do it right under the nose of Queen Titania herself. Succeed and they will be one step closer to finding Grimalkin, not to mention one favour down, fail and it will cost then their very lives.

Summer's Crossing takes immortal enemies Puck and Ash on a dangerous detour through the summer court to retrieve that which has been stolen. The love hate relationship between these two once friends has never been more predominant, especially now when one must place his life in the hands of his sworn enemy. A fun, clever and witty little tale that cautions against giving favours to the fey and being wary of deals made. Just because the fey can't lie doesn't mean they always speak the truth.

Summer's Crossing - click below to read

Julie Kagawa Webpage

Iron Fey

On sale: 01 June 2011
Price eBook (US): $2.99 - But Free For A Limited Time
ISBN: 9781459206403
Recommended age: 14+
In a word: Violin
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: four out of five
xx

The Flight Of The Silver Vixen #1

2011-07-14T21:39:00.003+10:00

THE FLIGHT OF THE SILVER VIXEN:
The Flight Of The Silver Vixen by Annalinde Matichei

An Action Of Impulse, Or Divine Intervention!

These are not your average teen hoverbikers. These blondes and brunettes are tougher, smarter and more fearless, though some might argue reckless, then your average hoverbikers. Determined to pull of the biggest jink ever these joy-riders have decided to swoggle the Navy's new and experimental space-craft the Silver Vixen. However when a simple turn into orbit becomes a speedy getaway through an aethyr crease these seven simple hoverbikers soon find themselves changed.

Far from home these teens are no longer an anonymous gang of misfits; the crew of the Silver Vixen have, through necessity, established order into their ranks. Most notably is the newly appointed Captain Antala who is as dashing as she is fearless, but more importantly is Mela, the wise and regal Princess of the Blood Imperial. However these titles are little more then formalities until a life preserving action taken by this crew leads to far flung consequences on a strange, yet oddly familiar new world.

Flight Of The Silver Vixen is more then just an intemorphic space odyssey, it is an epic adventure of danger involving space pirates, corrupt politics, demons and a band of teens who find themselves accidental heroines. An all girl aethyr adventure on a planet where both sexes are female, this unique and compelling story holds alien terms, spiritual beings, philosophical thoughts and an appearance by a strange race of beings who possess both female and males sexes. This rare and exhilarating book is undeniably a must read.

Annalinde Matichei @ The Sun Daughter Press
Paperback @ Amazon
eBook @ Amazon

On sale: 24 March 2011
Price (US): $14.99
ISBN: 9780615464794
Recommended age: 16+
In a word: Daughter-Knights
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: five out of five
xx

Faeriewalker Book 0.5

2011-07-11T13:16:00.000+10:00

FAERIEWALKER:

Remedial Magic by Jenna Black

Teddy Bears With Bite!

As a teen genius who has skipped grades ahead to become a college student while her older and magically talented brother is still stuck in high school, Kimba may in any normal family be considered the favoured child. But Kimba is a faerie and her family is not normal. Kimba has always lived in the shadow of her scarily talented older brother Ethan and despite her impressively high academic scores she is seen as the family embarrassment due to her lack of magical abilities. However Kimba is determined to change all that.

Remedial Magic steps back into the life of Kimba, Dana's faerie best friend, to a time before Dana had ever step foot into Avalon and discovered her Faeriewalker ways. As an attempt at making a new friend, as well as an experiment in magic, Kimba engages a classmate to assist with a spell, however when things go terrible wrong, Kimba is given yet one more reason to detest/admire her brothers abilities. An enlightening short story looking at sibling rivalry, the practice of magic and a collection of teddy bears.

Remedial Magic - click to read FREE

Jenna Black Webpage

On sale: 17 December 2010
Price eBook (US): $2.99
ISBN: 9781429990790
Recommended age: 14+
In a word: Teddy Bears
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: four out of five
xx

Secrets of Carrick Book 1

2011-07-09T22:43:00.010+10:00

SECRETS OF CARRICK:
Merrow by Ananda Braxton-Smith

A Sea-Girl's Story!

She is a wild girl, full of stories and covered in scales, growing up without a mother or a father. Although her aunt raised her it is the stories surrounding the island of Carrick that she lives on, stories of Other Ones, changeling's, the honey-tongued and cave people. But the stories she craves most are the stories of her own family, her great-grandfathers merrow wife, her fathers search for a sea wife, her mother's watery end.

With her affinity for water the long hot summer has driven her to the seabed for respite and answers, however it is through a hidden cave of hands, a man washed ashore in a net and an encounter with an ancient one that brings about the answers she so desperately needs. But when the truth is revealed it is not the story she had been hoping for, but with the truth she is finally able to find peace in her own story.

Merrow brings a young girls dreams of hope, magic and merrow's to life only to have those dreams transformed with the truth into memories of a woman who loved and was loved, a woman who was her mother. Neen's summer is one filled with stifling heat, enchanted stories, hidden truths, uncovered pasts and a new found affinity for bees. A notable story that is as wondrous as it is fulfilling.

Ananda Braxton-Smith @ Black Dog Books

On sale: 01 May 2010
Price (AU): $18.99
ISBN: 9781742031361
Recommended age: 13+
In a word: Merrow
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: four out of five
xx

Before I Go To Sleep

2011-07-06T21:45:00.012+10:00

Before I Go To Sleep by S. J. Watson

Who Am I?

When she woke it was to a room she had never seen before, to a man she didn't remember and to a version of herself that she believed could not exist for at least another twenty years. Every morning she would have to be told her name, Christine, that the man beside her was her husband, Ben, and that over twenty years ago in an accident she had lost all her memories. Every morning she would have to be told who she was and where she was, and then she would sleep and lose another day of her life.

When she woke it was to a room she had never seen before, to a man she didn't remember. Every morning she would have to be told who she was and where she was, every morning was the same. But recently things had been changing. Little things she remembered told her she had a past, a history. However these memories would conflict with what she was being told. Was she being lied to, was her mind playing tricks on her? In the morning she wouldn't remember, but right now she needed to remember before she goes to sleep.

Before I Go To Sleep is a psychological thriller that questions what it is to be, what it is to love and what it takes to survive. As it looks at how our memories shape us and our ability to interact with the world around us, it also plants seeds of doubt in the gapes left behind between what we know to be true and what we have been told to believe. A chilling mystery of lost memories, hidden truths and enduring love that has to be read to be remembered.

S. J. Watson Webpage

S. J. Watson @ Text Publishing

On sale: 02 May 2011
Price (AU): $29.95
ISBN: 9781921758157
Recommended age: 18+
In a word: Memories
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: four out of five
xx

The Body Finder #2

2011-07-03T22:10:00.002+10:00

THE BODY FINDER:
Desires Of The Dead by Kimberly Derting

Her Secret To Tell, Or Not To Tell!

One little well meaning act, in a moment of indecision, can change your life as Violet is discovering. She knew it was mistake. She know she shouldn't have placed the call let alone been there in the first place, but she was sure there was no way she would be connected to the crime, could be connected to body she found. She was wrong, though she didn't know this until it was too late, until the FBI was calling her to explain how she knew.

Someone was watching her, sending her messages, trying to frighten her and they were succeeding. But as long as Violet had Jay by her side she felt reassured that things would be alright. That is until even the one person she thought she could count on, the one person she trusted to trust her in return, no longer believed her. As her relationship with Jay changes Violet finds she has some tough decisions to make, not the least of which involve the FBI.

Desires Of The Dead begins with danger and ends in intriguing. A paranormal mystery that is full of secrets, echoes and double dates. Like most people her age Violet is finding her way in life, but she is also dealing with her strange gift and is beginning to accept it as a part of who she is. As a heroine Violet is fragile, tough, impulsive, determined and in love. This is a sequel every bit as sweet and captivating as the first.

Kimberly Derting Webpage
Kimberly Derting @ Hachette

On sale: 01 April 2011
Price (AU): $14.99
ISBN: 9780755378968
Recommended age: 15+
In a word: Echoes
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: four out of five
xx

Winter Flings

2011-07-01T10:55:00.002+10:00

Winter Flings is back!

Starting from the first of July Winter Flings is back with all new daily giveaways!

Winter Flings is your opportunity to spend the next 31 days of winter with a hot new date (and some flashbacks). Run through the Date A Book Facebook page, there is more information about the competition and titles up for grabs at the Date A Book webpage.

Join the fun and make your 'date' today.

http://www.facebook.com/datebooks

Gnomes

2011-06-30T21:47:00.004+10:00

Gnomes: Deluxe Collector's Edition
by Wil Huygen and Rien Poortvliet

Who Is This Little Man?

For hundreds of years gnomes have watched, listened, advised, assisted and inspired us. Known for their wisdom, patience and kindness to small animals, gnomes have always been there as an essential part of nature. At times they have even been known to assist those in need, council those with difficulties and on occasion teach the unpleasant among us a hard lesson.

Elusive and cunning, these happy little men with their affinity for animals and knowledge of plant life run about the night on their secret duties, while at home the females are busy tending the children and completing domestic chores. Their sworn enemies, besides animals of prey, are trolls who are disliked for their foul odour and general badness; in turn trolls detest gnomes for their beguiling ways and quick feet.

Gnomes is a charming and comprehensive guide into the world of these amazing and astonishing little people. Known mostly for their full beards, rosy cheeks and nose rubbing ways, within these pages you will discover just what it is to be a gnome. Which according to any gnome would be his cap, for a gnome is just not a gnome without his pointy red cap. With physiology, remedies, courtship, legends, songs and personal accounts, Gnomes is a book for anyone with a inquisitive mind and an open heart.

Wil Huygen @ Thames & Hudson

Wil Huygen @ Abrams Books

(includes 8 Frameable Prints)
On sale: 01 May 2011
Price (AU): $49.95
ISBN: 9780810998469
Recommended age: 16+
In a word: Gnomes
Re-read it: yes, many times
Recommend: yes
Star rating: five out of five
xx

Fallen Grace

2011-06-27T18:01:00.004+10:00

Fallen Grace by Mary Hooper

Grieved, Mute And All Alone!

Grace and her older sister Lily lost their mother at a young age, before that they had lost their father. Alone in the world the girls had been sent to an orphanage and when older to a workhouse, but now they were living on their own making what they could selling watercress in one of the poorest areas in London.

It had always been Grace's responsibility to look after Lily, who now almost seventeen was still as unable to care for herself as she was when a child. Grace and Lily had left the workhouse and all it's horrors behind them, or so they had thought until Grace could no longer deny what was to be the outcome of her short stay there. And so, grieved and emotional, Grace found herself at Brookwood Cemetery with two business cards placed into her hands.

When the worst came to worst and Grace and Lily were forced from their home, Grace determined not to see her sister or herself resorting to living in the streets. She tried unsuccessfully to contact Mr Solent, the man who had given her the first business card. When that had failed she reluctantly took up the second black edged business card. She had been offered a job once, working for a funeral business.

It was not a position Grace was comfortable with but the Unwin family had agreed to take in Lily also, and although the sisters were to be separated Grace was only pleased they would both have food, clothing and shelter for the quickly approaching winter. However unbeknownst to Grace, the Unwin's had motives of their own for taking in the young girls.

Fallen Grace is a historical novel depicting life in London for both the poor and the wealthy, discriminating against neither as a poor beggar on the streets could be as much a thief as the wealthy in their posh houses, or worse. Amongst death, grief and greed Grace shines as a strong and vulnerable character able to tell a story that is fast paced, well thought out and all her own. A story full of deceptive actions, heartbreaking decisions and, if she's lucky, happy endings.

Mary Hooper Webpage

Mary Hooper @ Bloomsbury Australia

On sale: 27 June 2011
Price (AU): $15.99
ISBN: 9780747599128
Recommended age: 14-18
In a word: Grace
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: four out of five
xx

Solid #1

2011-06-24T18:29:00.005+10:00

SOLID:
Solid by Shelley Workinger

'I'm Invisible'

With the government's new 'open-book' policy about its past dealings, it has come to light that eighteen years ago a hundred pregnant women were exposed to a chemical that has altered the DNA of their children. In order to discover just how these children have been affected a program has been set up to bring these children together and over the course of a few short week, test and observe these children for any abnormalities. So far the results are inconclusive.

Apart from the fact that every teenager affected by this chemical is good looking, there seems to be nothing too out of the ordinary about the group. At least as far as Clio and her new friends are concerned. That is of course until the 'stars' are exposed and a number of sinister and dark secrets about the campus staff is revealed. With so many questions and strange abilities presenting themselves, Clio and her friends go looking for answers but what they get is a deadly stand-off.

Solid brings together a hundred seventeen-year-olds to a secret and secure campus where they can be informed, monitored and tested on any abnormal traits or abilities they may possess. The cause of all this, a drug known as C9x that has affected the very 'solidity' of these teenagers' beings. As a result superhuman abilities are experienced as is rule breaking, secrets, lies, dancing, stars, romance, murderous soldiers and unshakable friendships. A series debut that's unique subject matter makes this a highly engrossing read.

Paperback @ Amazon
eBook @ Smashwords
Solid novels

On sale: 09 July 2010
Price (US): $7.99
ISBN: 9781453624821
Recommended age: 14+
In a word: Solid
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: three out of five
xx

The Goblins Of Labyrinth

2011-06-21T23:00:00.003+10:00

The Goblins Of Labyrinth by Brian Froud
captured and cataloged by Terry Jones

'Stranger! If You Would Know The Goblins Of The Labyrinth, Seek...'

When a small, impossibly ancient, earthenware pot was first discovered in remote Olduvai Gorge its significance was such that it was promptly ignored and abandoned. Luckily it was later discovered and destroyed by Brian Froud. However before its destruction Mr Froud was able to discover a message hidden within this pot. And when that message was eventually deciphered he began a journey that would lead to the greatest goblin related discovery in history.

The Labyrinth, created by a goblin king, was built as a refuge to goblins from those in the world not of goblinkind. Over the years the Labyrinth has become one of the only places in the world where goblins can be found, however until now little has ever been known of their daily lives let alone their appearances. But when one goblin artist decided to thrown down his images of goblins, images that were later enhanced or butchered depending on who you talk to, finally the world was introduced to the goblins of Labyrinth.

The Goblins Of Labyrinth is a unique look at a species that has eluded, beguiled, teased, tormented and terrorised many a human over the course of history, a time honoured goblin pastime that is still alive and well today. There is much to read, see and ponder within these pages, the least of which not being the story, and goblins, behind the well known movie Labyrinth. Aside from this however there are plenty of legends, tales and poems, not to mention recipes, games, philosophies and sacred days to uncover. All in all a very beautifully presented book of not so beautiful beasts.

Brian Froud - World Of Froud

Brian Froud @ Thames & Hudson

Brian Froud @ Abrams Books

On sale: 1 October 2006
Price (AU): $49.95
ISBN: 9780810970557
Recommended age: 16+
In a word: Goblins
Re-read it: yes, many times
Recommend: yes
Star rating: five out of five
xx

Faery Rebels #3

2011-06-18T23:06:00.004+10:00

FAERY REBELS:
Arrow by R J Anderson

'We Are At War'

Timothy and Linden left the Green Isles with more then a stone and a few good men of the Children of Rhys, they left with the means of protecting themselves and their fellow faeries against the all conquering Empress. Returned home to the Oak the real work is now to begin. At any time the Empress would descend on the Oak she has vowed to destroy with her many hundreds of follower, willing or otherwise. But would the faeries of the Oak be ready?

When the Stone of Naming was taken from the Green Isles, the Children of Rhys were left confused, frightened and desperate to have their most precious possession returned to them. But as faeries of peace, the Children of Rhys have little chance of surviving on the mainland against the Empress and her faeries to take back the stone from the rebels, unless they are willing to break their most sacred law.

As a Child of Rhys and daughter of one of the most esteemed elders, Rosemary is shocked to discover her mother plans to invade the mainland and break this sacred law. With little choice to save her people, Rosemary leaves home in an effort to reclaim the sacred stone and restore peace to her homeland. However the mainland is nothing like the sheltered home she left behind and Rosemary soon finds out how tricky faeries can really be.

Arrow sees a new heroine take the spotlight in this charming yet dangerous series. Rosemary is a faery who is learning about life the hard way, but she is not the only one. As her innocence and naivety are turned against her, Rosemary is able to find inner strength in her beliefs. Even after being betrayed, humbled, dominated, kissed, forgiven and exiled she is still strong, smart and brave in the face of all. A delightful and endearing continuation of a wonderfully enchanting series.

R J Anderson Webpage

(cover art) Brian Froud - World Of Froud

R J Anderson @ Hachette Children's

On sale: 01 March 2011
Price (AU): $16.99
ISBN: 9781408312629
Recommended age: 10+
In a word: Faeries
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: five out of five
xx

Banana Kiss

2011-06-15T13:24:00.006+10:00

Banana Kiss by Bonnie Rozanski

Crazy In Love!

There are voices in her head, voices no one else can hear. They tell her not to believe Whitecoat, not to believe anyone but them. They tell her she is God and they are right. She is God. She created the world, by observing the world she allows it to exist, and yet people do as they please without her commanding them. But this too is her doing for she created free will.

Whitecoat tells her that the voices in head are not real, that they do not exist. But if they do not exist, if they are not real, then how can she hear them in her head? Whitecoat tells her that she should trust him, that he is here to help her. But being asked 'how she feels' about everything does not feel like help, waking up in a fog and being strapped to a bed does not feel like help.

Sometimes when the voices in her head contradict the voices without it is difficult at times to know who to listen to, who to believe. With medication the voices in her head quieten but she does not feel herself. Without medication she is free to be herself but finds it difficult to know who she is with so many voices in her head telling her who she should be.

Banana Kiss is a story of Robin, a girl who has lost herself amongst the voices in her head, a girl who converses with her long dead father on visits he makes into her mind. Robin has had to deal with a number of losses in her life. Disappointments and heartaches have left her broken, despondent and disenchanted with those who have claimed to love her. Through betrayal, love, death and pills Robin must find a way let go of her past if she is to have hope for the future.

eBook @ Amazon

On sale: 08 December 2010
Price eBook (US): $2.99
ISBN: 9780889842762
Recommended age: 18+
In a word: Voices
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: four out of five
xx

Mermaid Magic

2011-06-12T10:42:00.005+10:00

Mermaid Magic
by Lucy Cavendish & Serene Conneeley

'Connecting With The Energy Of The Ocean
And The Healing Power Of Water'

The oceans have long drawn people to its shores to marvel at its wonder and beauty, its ability to provide and its power to destroy. For thousands of years people have taken to the seas to find food, fortune and adventure. Those who meet the waters find themselves moved by its music, mystery and depth and few can turn their back on it without leaving behind a piece of their heart. As the personification of these waters Mermaids carry with them a magic and intrigue that has captured our imaginations for thousands of years.

Mermaid Magic is more then just a history of mermaids and the legends that have sustained them; it is a book of healing, hope and magic. A catalogue of spells, stories and knowledge on a number of sea creatures that are as majestic as they are inspiring. Even as land animals we rely on the power water has to sustain us, provide for us and heal us. Mermaids are the embodiment of water and of life, and it is impossible for us to deny that which makes up a significant part of who we are, after all it's in our blood.

Lucy Cavendish Webpage

Serene Conneeley Webpage

Paperback @ Mermaid Magic

Paperback @ Amazon

Mermaid Magic

On sale: 13 May 2011
Price (AU): $34.95
ISBN: 9780987050533
Recommended age: 16+
In a word: Mermaids
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: five out of five
xx

Winter's Shadow

2011-06-09T17:41:00.004+10:00

Winter's Shadow by M. J. Hearle

Cats, Keys and Soul Collectors!

She first saw those piercing green eyes, that saw deep into her soul, only minutes before her world came crashing down around her. He was nothing more then a shadow through her camera lens before he became her saviour and she was indebted to him more then she would know.

He spent his life on the run, moving about from place to place, running from those who chased him, running from the danger he possessed. Now, however, he was running out of time, her life was over before she knew it, but he would make it right, or at least he would try to. But you can't out run death.

Winter's Shadow is a love story that takes you through history revealing a past of family betrayal, passion, murder, monsters, magic and love. Blake makes the intimate sacrifice for love and in return Winter has the rest of her very long life to morn his gift. A dark, dangerous and original story of demon's and love that is a brilliant debut novel.

M. J. Hearle Webpage

M. J. Hearle @ Pan Macmillan

On sale: 01 June 2011
Price (AU): $19.99
ISBN: 9780330404471
Recommended age: 14+
In a word: Monsters
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: four out of five
xx

The Folk Keeper

2011-06-06T18:23:00.005+10:00

The Folk Keeper by Franny Billingsley

'There Is A Price You Pay For Power.'

As Corin, Corinna has been able to trade her time and chores for skills and spells. This was essential to her plans, for only as a boy could she become educated and only with education could she become a Folk Keeper. At a young age Corinna learnt that only through power over others could she obtain what she wanted and what she wanted was the cold and dark place where she belonged.

For years Corinna kept her secrets; her secret knowledge, her magic abilities, her convictions that kept her through the tough times. Everything that made Corinna who she is was hidden behind the façade of Corin. But then one day a Lady arrived at the orphanage to fetch her and take her to a new home, here the hard and disciplined Corin is stripped away and only the vulnerable and stubborn Corinna is left behind.

The Folk Keeper is a beautifully unique story of a girl searching for her place in the world. Written with poetic language and a descriptive style, this complex story is full of vivid characters, mystery, charm and charms. A tale of transformation, homecoming and murderous plots; this story is just another reason why Franny Billingsley is fast becoming one of my favourite authors.

Franny Billingsley Webpage

Franny Billingsley @ Bloomsbury Australia

On sale: 01 April 2011
Price (AU): $15.99
ISBN: 9781408813195
Recommended age: 12+
In a word: Corinna
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: five out of five
xx

Wings #3

2011-06-03T22:31:00.007+10:00

WINGS:
Illusions by Aprilynne Pike

How To Tell A Faerie By Their Illusions!

When Lauren made the choice to stay with her human parents, and to stay with her human boyfriend David, she wasn't sure when, or if, she would ever see Tamani again. Making that decision was the hardest of her life but how could she choose to leave them knowing without her they could all be in very real danger. She loved them all too much for that, and yet when she said goodbye to Tamani she was also saying goodbye to a piece of herself, to something she wanted but could not let herself have.

After nearly a year Tamani has come back into Laurels life, unexpected but not unwelcomed, at least not to all but David who really could have lived happier the rest of his life never seeing him again. Tamani is on a mission, not just for the faerie land of Avalon but also a mission of the heart, he is determined to win Laurel's heart and no human, not even David, will stand in his way. However when a wild faerie enters their lives all bets are off and all hearts will be broken.

Illusions continues Laurel's story where now, in her senior year, Laurel has more to consider then just her weekend plans. Laurel is facing either a future in hiding among the humans she loves or a future as herself in Avalon and away from the only world she knows. But before a decision can be made there is a threat to vanquish. With disappearing trolls, a wild faerie and a love triangle that is quickly becoming a complicated mess, this story is has a little of everything for everyone.

Aprilynne Pike Webpage
Aprilynne Pike @ Harper Collins

Wings

On sale: 01 June 2010

Price (AU): $19.99
ISBN: 9780007358403
Recommended age: 11+
In a word: Wild
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: four out of five
xx

Touch #2

2011-05-27T23:50:00.005+10:00

TOUCH:
Deadly Little Lies by Laurie Faria Stolarz

Untouchable!

Ben has been out of Canelia's life for the past few months but he has never been far from her thoughts. However, along with her broken heart Camilia has been dealing with some very strange occurrences. This has led Camelia to wonder if it is at all possible that Ben's gift of psychometry could of been somehow transferred to herself, the alternative being that she going crazy. But at this point she is not sure which is worse.

Finally Ben has returned and Camelia could not be more happier, even if others are less then pleased to see him. But things between Ben and Camelia do not go smoothly and while Ben is doing his best to keep his distance from Camelia, someone else is doing there best to get her attention. The notes have started again, along with the phone calls. Camelia is assured that Matt is far away and to her dismay it is looking more and more likely that Ben is responsible.

Deadly Little Lies is a pacey mystery that mixes the paranormal with romance and dangerous stalkers. Camelia's story of broken hearts, new romances, creepy death threats and voices that exist only in her head, is bisected with the diary entries of an aunt who all believe crazy but who has more in common with Camelia than anyone would believe. This second Touch story is just as thrilling as the first and equally as impossible to put down.

Laurie Faria Stolarz Webpage
Laurie Faria Stolarz @ Disney Publishing

On sale: 06 November 2009
Price (US): $15.99
ISBN: 9781423111993
Recommended age: 12+
In a word: Psychometry
Re-read it: probably
Recommend: to those reading the series
Star rating: three out of five
xx

Sookie Stackhouse #11

2011-05-23T22:27:00.004+10:00

SOOKIE STACKHOUSE:
Dead Reckoning by Charlaine Harris

If You Had Just One Wish!

Sookie is a girl who over a short period of time has managed to collect many enemies, but while some will go all out to get her or die trying, others are already dead. Living in this state of constant danger, knowing that at any moment someone could strike her down, is taking its toll and as Sookie's enemies move against her and those she loves, Sookie and the gang decide it time to take matters into their own hands.

As a telepath Sookie is used to keeping secrets, many of them not even her own; however she is not so used to having secrets kept from her. Now it seems that all those closest to her, all those whose thoughts she can't hear, are keeping things from her. But meanwhile Sookie is distracted with the discovery of the truth of her past, her realization of her true feelings for her vampire husband and her admitting to herself what she truly wants from her life.

Dead Reckoning is less the murder mystery that we have come to expect from this series and more a murder plot, with the one exception of a spur of the moment killing. There is plenty to sink your teeth into in this book, killers on the loose, vampire politics, treasures revealed, fairy plots and a baby showing to throw. But underneath it all is the continuing story of Sookie that is just as amazing, horrible and addictive as ever. Also look out for an appearance from Charlaine's other heroine Lily Bard.

Charlaine Harris Webpage
Charlaine Harris @ Hachette

Sookie Stackhouse

On sale: 01 May 2011
Price (AU): $29.99
ISBN: 9780575096530
Recommended age: 18+
In a word: Secrets
Re-read it: probably
Recommend: to those reading the series
Star rating: four out of five
xx

Books of Faerie #2

2011-05-17T18:28:00.000+10:00

BOOKS OF FAERIE:
Ballad by Maggie Stiefvater

'A Gathering Of Faerie'

It was a song of the dead and for the dead; a lament played over and over again calling to the damned. While on the breeze a slow ballad played of dancing, belonging and the end of a life. This ballad was hers, but to him she gave the sounds of golden music to fill his dreams and the promise of greatness whispered in his ears. It was intoxicating the way the notes filled him yet still left him unfulfilled with a longing that tormented him.

For James music is his life, but for Nuala music is life. A leanan sidhe is a muse living on the years of those she inspires and no one has ever said no to a muse. James however is determined to have nothing to do with the leanan sidhe haunting him, despite the wanting and the anguish it is causing him. But it is not possible to accept a deal with a faerie without selling a piece of yourself.

Ballad is a tale of death shaped by moments of tenderness, enchantment and song, a sweet yet humorous poetic romance that is sentimental and at the same time perilous. This urban story of music, magic and mayhem is threaded through with the traditionalism and timelessness of faeries creating a world that is wondrous, dark and truly a delight to read. A stunning squeal to the beautiful Lament.

Maggie Stiefvater Webpage

Maggie Stiefvater @ Scholastic

On sale: 01 May 2011
Price (AU): $19.99
ISBN: 9781407121123
Recommended age: 14+
In a word: Leanan Sidhe
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: five out of five
xx

the dead I know

2011-05-12T17:31:00.005+10:00

the dead I know by Scot Gardner

'Another One Bites The Dust'

Aaron Rowe has just started his first day at his new job as a funeral director. He is grateful for the job in more ways then one, primarily because it gets him out of going to school but the bonus is he'll get payed. There are some obvious draw backs to the position, though it is not the dead bodies as one would expect, it is the living that are left behind and their grief that has stirred something in Aaron.

It has been years since Aaron has had trouble sleeping, but now the nightmares have returned. But just as bad as the dreams is the sleepwalking. So now it's not only the dark disturbing images that fill his sleeping mind that frighten him, it's the fear that he could wake anywhere, at the beach, outside a cafe, at the lookout. But scarier is the possibilities of what Aaron has done in his sleeping state.

the dead I know is about a tough yet vulnerable boy who is struggling with his hidden past and his current circumstances. Although a book about death the meaning behind its pages is life. A story that speaks to all those who have been left behind to pick up the pieces in the wake of a death of a loved one. Aaron's tale is an urban mystery that is shaded in tragedy, death, dreams and crustless sandwiches.

Scot Gardner Webpage

Scot Gardner @ Allen & Unwin

On sale: 01 May 2011
Price (AU): $19.99
ISBN: 9781742373843
Recommended age: 14+
In a word: Death
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: four out of five
xx

The Birthmarked Trilogy

2011-05-08T21:38:00.003+10:00

THE BIRTHMARKED TRILOGY:
Birthmarked by Caragh O'Brien

'Life First'

At only sixteen Gaia is following in her mothers footsteps as a midwife. There are parts of her job that are secret, such as the freckles and the tea, then there are parts of the job that are necessary, such as the advanced babies that are handed over to the Enclave to which all serve. Gaia has always blindly followed the rules of her society, never once questioning her part. That is until the night she delivers her first baby unassisted, the same night her parents are taken from her.

Inside the walls of the Enclave people live in luxury, a stark contrast to those living outside like Gaia. Only those born within the walls, or those advanced, are permitted among the privileged and for an outsider to enter is suicide. Gaia however is determined to enter the walls to save her parents, but what she finds under the surface of this idealistic society is dark and dangerous and try as she might she cannot escape without leaving someone she loves behind.

Birthmarked is a terrifying look into a future where the individual is insignificant when compared to the needs of society, where even babies are traded for resources and where among the elite love is only allowed to those genetically compatible. An outsider, a girl marked as undesirable, will create chaos in a dystopian society, waking people from their complacencies and getting them thinking about just what it means to serve a 'greater good'. Very excited to discover this is just the first in a series, with a lot more adventure to come.

Caragh O'Brien Webpage

Caragh O'Brien @ Simon & Schuster

On sale: 01 May 2011
Price (AU): $16.99
ISBN: 9780857071392
Recommended age: 14+
In a word: Gaia
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: five out of five
xx

Entangled

2011-05-04T22:08:00.006+10:00

Entangled by Cat Clarke

He'd Be A Great Boyfriend, If Not For The Kidnapping!

Grace is impulsive, reckless, selfish and a flirt. Just your typical seventeen year old with a fiery temper and hair to match. She doesn't believe in turning down a drink or a kiss from a boy if he's not half bad looking, actually there isn't much she wont say no to, except her mum of course. But while on the outside Grace is doing her best to hide the hurt, on the inside she is desperately trying to hold on to the only two people who mean anything to her.

When Grace left home for the park with a knife in her bag and bottle under her arm she wasn't expecting to ever return, but nor was she expecting to wake, especially not to a white room with white furniture and dressed in a strange white surgical gown. With an abundant of pens and paper available Grace finds little else to do with her days then write. As her story flows the reason behind her kidnapping becomes clear, but when it comes to her life, can she find anything that's worth living for?

Entangled is a unique and intriguing story of a girl struggling with the tangled mess her life has become. A raw yet vibrant story that pulls you in, all the time wondering how a girl could come to be trapped in a white room and how it will ever be possible for her to ever escape. Through the complexities of life, where friendships are destroyed by secrets and relationships are broken by betrayal, the lies holding her life together begin to unravel leaving behind a girl with nowhere left to hide from the truth or from herself.

Cat Clarke Webpage

Cat Clarke @ Pan Macmillan

On sale: 01 March 2011
Price (AU): $16.99
ISBN: 9781849163941
Recommended age: 14+
In a word: Grace
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: five out of five
xx

Genesis

2011-04-30T10:29:00.006+10:00

Genesis by Bernard Beckett

Identity Shaped By History!

In 2075 one girls survival triggered events that were to change the course of history. But it is not the girl that history remembers, it is Adam Forde, the boy who defied society to save her. But there is more to this event then the famous actions of one afternoon in 2075, of the one life taken and another saved, it is the consequences of those actions and the choices made afterwards that have had the greatest impact on the world and on the future.

Anaximander has spent the last three years studying those events in 2075 and the consequences that followed. She has spent three years studying her hero Adam Forde, his life and the impact his actions have had to her present, in preparation for her exam into the Academy. But there is more to these events then history remembers and the impact this will have on Anaximander will change her life forever.

Genesis is a complex and thoughtful tale about how history shapes the future and about the changing face of society. A stimulating story on consciousness, identity and the individual. But more then this it is a story of how ethics and morals shape who we are and how technology and human evolution impact what we are meant to be. A simple yet brilliant science fiction story that is a powerful and deeply philosophical look at humanity and what it is to be human.

Bernard Beckett @ Text Publishing

On sale: 31 January 2011
Price (AU): $19.95
ISBN: 9781921758034
Recommended age: 16+
In a word: Thought
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: five out of five
xx

The Twilight Saga: The Official Illustrated Guide

2011-04-27T12:34:00.005+10:00

The Twilight Saga: The Official Illustrated Guide
by Stephenie Meyer

'It Started With A Dream'

From its first inception as a dream, expanded and plotted out into the now well known romance of Edward Cullen and Bella Swan, there is no denying that their story has a little of everything, romance, action and the supernatural. More then a series on vampires and werewolves it is a story of love. A supernatural romance that has swept the world up in its embrace.

This is the guide that takes you behind the books and inside each character offering you more then you could ever have wanted to know about the Twilight series. Not just an offering on the influences and background of the series but also an in depth look at vampire covens, werewolf tribes and the humans that have played a part in this series, as each character mentioned whether they are human, vampire or werewolf are given a personal bio of their history and personality.

The Twilight Saga: The Official Illustrated Guide is not just for the hardcore Twilight fans, but for anyone who has shared in the romance of Edward and Bella. It is surprising just how much detail and background information is offered on practically every aspect of this series. Not to mention a whole bunch of extras including a section on cars, listed play lists for each book and outtakes from the series. This guide has everything Twilight you could have ever wanted, and then some.

Stephanie Meyer Webpage

Stephanie Meyer @ Hachette

On sale: 13 April 2011
Price (AU): $32.99
ISBN: 9781905654437
Recommended age: 14+
In a word: Twilight
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: four out of five
xx

Tantalize #1

2011-04-22T11:34:00.008+10:00

TANTALIZE:
Tantalize by Cynthia Leitich Smith

Blood Suckers!

Quincie's family restaurant has become all the more important to her since her parents death, the restaurant is a second home, its staff a second family. So with the restaurant failing it is given a makeover, a vampire theme, but not everyone is happy with the theme nor the type of people a theme like that will attract. But Quincie has other worries, head chef and surrogate grandfather Vaggio has been murdered.

Kieren, Quincie's best and only friend, not to mention first love, is about to embark on a werewolf right of passage, the outcome of which being Keiren's absence from Quincie's life, forever. With so much loss in her life it is little wonder that Quincie soon makes friends with Henry, the newly hired head chef of her family restaurant.

Tantalize offers a smorgasbord of murder, mystery, unrequited love, vampires, wine and deliciously seductive food that will change the way you eat forever. An exciting story of a girl changed by her experiences, and yet still determined to hold on to who she is. A story where the good guys don't always win, the bad guys are able to destroy everything and sometimes not everyone gets a happily ever after. This is one supernatural series with bite.

Cynthia Leitich Smith Webpage
Cynthia Leitich Smith @ Walker Books

On sale: 01 April 2007
Price (US): $27.95
ISBN: 9780763627911
Recommended age: 14+
In a word: Vampire Chief
Re-read it: possibly
Recommend: yes
Star rating: three out of five
xx

The Body Finder #1

2011-04-18T22:48:00.006+10:00

THE BODY FINDER:
The Body Finder by Kimberly Derting

Warning Bells Are Ringing!

For Violet finding the dead was nothing new, however the dead bodies usually consist of murdered birds, rabbits and other small animals that had all been killed by other animals. So stumbling across the murdered body of a girl, a human, teenage girl was a shock for eight-year-old Violet. And when at sixteen Violet again discovers a murdered girl, things become very interesting and very dangerous very quickly.

But as much as Violet is consumed by thoughts of the dead, and murderers, she is also distracted by her best friend Jay. She and Jay have always been best friends, ever since they were six-years-old they had been inseparable, however over the summer something had changed, at least it had for Violet and now she finds herself wishing for something with Jay that is more then just friends.

The Body Finder is a new paranormal series that is funny, frightening and very sweet. Both a compelling thriller and a tender love story, these elements of a murder mystery and young love combine successfully to create an exciting paranormal story with a strong and likeable heroine. Violet's world may be one filled with the dead however it still manages to capture a heartfelt story of an, almost ordinary, sixteen year old girl.

Kimberly Derting Webpage
Kimberly Derting @ Hachette

On sale: 01 March 2011
Price (AU): $14.99
ISBN: 9780755378951
Recommended age: 14+
In a word: Murder
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: four out of five
xx

Yellowcake

2011-04-15T12:53:00.006+10:00

Yellowcake by Margo Lanagan

Short And Sweet!

The smell of a rose brings back a lost past; golden strands lead a prince to rescue his lover; two sisters are given an icy reception; a mother ascends to angelic status in front of her sons eyes; a daughter takes over the family business; a boy will discover the brutally in the workplace. This is just a taste of some of the tales that are waiting to be consumed within this delicious book.

This offering of short stories is an interesting mix of something's sweet, something's sour and other things bittersweet. For within these ten stories are weaved a wide variety of ingredients including elements of fairy tales, Bible stories, myths, fantasy and science fiction. But while some stories may leave you felling unsatisfied, others are a delight to devour, standing out for their slices of originality, their quickly capturing taste and their shore fire recipes of timeless themes.

Yellowcake is a collection that clearly highlights the differing forms of a short story, accentuating a wide variety of themes, subjects and styles. Each story presented is as unique in its language as it is in its writing style and is recommended for more mature readers due to its complexity in both. With the nature and form of short stories being here expand there is plenty to contemplate, however there is work to be done in drawing out each stories meaning, but easily grasped in each story is the emotional reactions they evoke.

Margo Lanagan Webpage

Margo Lanagan @ Allen & Unwin

On sale: 01 March 2011
Price (AU): $19.99
ISBN: 9781742374789
Recommended age: 15+
In a word: Short Stories
Re-read it: possibly
Recommend: possibly
Star rating: three out of five
xx

Girlwood

2011-04-11T15:04:00.009+10:00

Girlwood by Claire Dean

With Spring Comes New Life!

Bree and Polly had always felt at home in the woods playing at their games, Bree as the princess in need of rescuing and Polly as her woodland fairy always the one there for her, that is until Bree decided she was too old to play such childish games, too old to be running about the woods. But when Bree ran away to the woods leaving behind a broken family and a lost little sister, Polly was a little jealous that she had not thought to flee into the woods first.

With her sister missing, her parents separated and her best friend abandoning her when she needs a friend the most, Polly turns to the one person in her life who is always there for her, her grandmother Baba. It was Baba who first taught Polly about the woods and its magic, but it was not until Bree left that Polly discovered the secret hidden away at the heart of the woods, a place of enchantment and hope. Only in Girlwood could Polly hold onto her belief that things would work out. But then the chainsaws moved in...

Girlwood is a story of the woods; a story of family and friendships; a story of two sisters, the one who left to save herself and one who was left behind to save everyone else. Polly's world is full of the impossible, auras, faeries, wolves and an old witch whom she loves very much. But she is struggling to hold on to all the magic of childhood that she so strongly believes in in the face of cold reality that comes with growing up. A blend of fairytale, contemporary fiction, botany and magic, Girlwood has a unique charm that will pull at your heartstrings.

Claire Dean Webpage

Claire Dean @ Peribo

On sale: 20 December 2010
Price (AU): $22.95
ISBN: 9780618883905
Recommended age: 12+
In a word: Girlwood
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: four out of five
xx

Thyla

2011-04-06T12:51:00.005+10:00

Thyla by Kate Gordon

Her Story Is Still Being Written!

When you place a girl, who only days earlier was found wild and battered in the bush, a girl who doesn't even know what waffles are and who is irrationally afraid of the television, amongst a group of spoiled and stuck up daughters of the wealthy in an exclusive all girls boarding school, is it really any wonder that she doesn't quite fit in?

The world has changed, what Tessa remembers does not match what is before her. How is it she is able to remember names and dates from the past but nothing from the present? But it is more then just facts she is remembering, it is memories of a life lived long ago. But what has any of that to do with where she came from and how she came to be alone in the bush with such injuries?

Thyla is about a girl desperate to remember who she is, but the more she remembers the harder she is finding it to not believe she is crazy. On the surface this is a mystery filled with lost memories, dark secrets, heartbreak and loss; a tale of Tasmania's unique fauna, Australia's convict history and the supernatural. But at its core this is the story of Tessa, a girl who is discovering her identity, forming friendships and falling in love. Definitely one to read.

Kate Gordon Webpage

Kate Gordon @ Random House

On sale: 01 April 2011
Price (AU): $17.95
ISBN: 9781864718812
Recommended age: 16+
In a word: Tasmania
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: four out of five
xx

the Waters & the Wild

2011-04-03T20:07:00.006+10:00

the Waters & the Wild by Francesca Lia Block

'You Are Me'

Bee felt different from the others, out of place. Everyone felt that way at some time, she understood, but somehow this was different, she could feel it. She felt displaced in the world, but it wasn't until she saw herself standing at the end of her bed claiming that she was an impostor did she really start to believe that maybe she really didn't belong.

Hayze and Sarah were just as different as Bee, just as strange. Yet somehow they still belonged. One by one Hayze and Sarah are drawn to Bee and her acceptance of their differences; one by one Hayze then Sarah begin to find that their differences are what makes them unique. But in order to gain this wisdom something must be lost.

the Waters & the Wild brings together three outsiders forming a bond of friendship through understanding where magic is created. A girl who sings like and angel, a boy who quotes poetry and a doppelganger make up the heart of a story about fitting in, standing out and being who you were born to be. A story that will charm and enchant with a fairy hand in hand.

Francesca Lia Block Webpage
Francesca Lia Block @ Harper Collins

On sale: 01 August 2009
Price (AU): $29.99
ISBN: 9780061452444
Recommended age: 12+
In a word: Changeling
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: five out of five
xx

The Violet Eden Chapters #2

2011-03-31T22:48:00.006+11:00

THE VIOLET EDEN CHAPTERS:
Enticed by Jessica Shirvington

It's All In Your Imagination!

There are angels that walk amongst humans on Earth, however they are not the kind that bless your soul but rather rip your bleeding heart from your chest and watch as you suffer into death. Angels do not belong on Earth but as Violet is finding out, you can't kill them all.

Violet and Lincoln have made a promise to each other, no more secrets, however it soon becomes evident that Lincoln is hiding something. Lincoln is never around when Violet needs him and when Phoenix returns Violet is in need of Lincoln now more then ever, however his secret is tearing them apart. Meanwhile the Grigori are running out of time, the Scriptures are close to being discovered and without Lincoln, Violet is in very real danger of losing her life.

Enticed by the only one she can truly love but never have, Violet must make a heartbreaking choice. Ever since Violet embraced her inner angel becoming Grigori to save Lincoln's life Violet has had second thoughts. Now more then ever she is lost, unsure of who she is, but when she is with Lincoln there are no second thoughts. That is until even he is almost lost to her forever. A charming tale of love, loss and hope that maybe someday, somehow, love will find a way.

Jessica Shirvington Webpage

Jessica Shirvington @ Hachette Children's
The Violet Eden Chapters

On sale: 01 March 2011
Price (AU): $24.99
ISBN: 9780734411853
Recommended age: 14+
In a word: Secrets
Re-read it: probably
Recommend: yes
Star rating: four out of five
xx

Chime

2011-03-28T17:02:00.008+11:00

Chime by Franny Billingsley

'Witches Are. Witches Do.'

Briony is not like other girls, the things she has done, the secrets she is hiding. Her sister Rose also has her fair share of secrets despite what people may think of her. Rose is special, different, people may look at her and think her simple, but they don't know her. They don't know that underneath she is perceptive and bright, they don't know that there is a reason Rose is the way she is and that reason is Briony.

Briony has done things, wicked things, things she is not proud of but being a witch wicked things will happen. When a flood swept through her home, when a fire destroyed her library it was all her doing, as is what comes next. Even though in some ways Briony's life has changed, including the arrival of Eldric, nothing can save Briony from being what she is, a murderess and a witch.

Chime Child offers the only hope of saving Briony from the gallows, but a witch has no chance of survival. Briony is a girl lost in who she believes she is and who she wants to be, as she struggles with her identity she also struggles to find a place where she belongs. This is a story of a girl that subtly blends Old Ones, danger and love in an engrossing tale of mysteries, memories and murder. A uniquely memorable and thoroughly enjoyable tale that is a must read.

Franny Billingsley Webpage

Franny Billingsley @ Bloomsbury Australia

On sale: 01 April 2011
Price (AU): $22.99
ISBN: 9780747583813
Recommended age: 12+
In a word: Witch
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: five out of five
xx

Quantum Encryption - Book One

2011-03-24T12:50:00.008+11:00

QUANTUM ENCRYPTION:
Path Of The Stray by Kim Falconer

Back To The Start!

21st Century Earth is a stark and depressive place where the airs polluted filled with smog, the seas are filled with death and the lands are barren, tainted. Despite this Luka Paree and Janis Richter are discovering that together they are able to create new life and a hope for the future of Earth, however their actions will affect worlds.

It seems the only way to survive on this changing Earth is to work for ASSIST, but working undercover Ruby must live with the fear of discovery, if her Lupin heritage were to be exposed, if her witchcraft were to be found out, even her womanhood places her in danger. However with little animal life left on Earth the newly born Lupins are in danger of discovery, but even on Gaela their presence has not go by unnoticed.

Jarrod has also been left alone in a new world with only instructions to wait, they would come for him when it was safe, someone would come, but that could take days, years or centuries. So while in Gaela Jarrod might as well make the most of it. However his encounter with Tryn and her mysterious familiar will set of a chain of events that will lead Jarrod farther then he expected while changing Tryn's life forever.

Path Of The Stray leads to self discovery, a new home and a willingness to risk everything to save Jarrod and with him Earth. For those who have followed Rosette through the corridors between worlds and navigated the portals of time this story will take you back to where it all began. An epic story that seamlessly mingles science and technology with sociology, environmentalism, philosophy, and magic. A unique series that must be read.

Gaela - map

Kim Falconer Webpage
Kim Falconer Astrology

Kim Falocner @ Harper Collins

On sale: 01 August 2010
Price (AU): $22.99
ISBN: 9780732291396
Recommended age: 18+
In a word: Ruby
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: five out of five
xx

The Good Neighbors Book Two

2011-03-19T17:38:00.003+11:00

THE GOOD NEIGHBORS:
Kith by Holly Black
art by Ted Naifeh

A Heart Of Wood!

The revelation that Rue's mother still lives brings more questions and more danger. As her grandfather plots against the humans his faeries are praying on Rue's friends causing mayhem through trickery, temptation and seduction. With one friend missing, her boyfriend acting strangely and people disappearing as part of her grandfather's schemes, Rue can't save all the humans in town from the faeries. She can however save those she cares for, or at least she can try too.

Rue is not human, as much as she'd like to think she is, and even as she fights her own kind to save her friends, she is tempted by music and dance and Tam. Meanwhile, Rue's grandfather is increasing his power by sacrificing humans. But as Rue delves deeper then ever before into the realm of faerie and into the secrets of the past in an effort to stop her grandfather and save those she loves, will it be enough to save them or is it already to late?

Kith see lives lost and hope fade as Rue and her friends make a last stand against Rue's grandfather, if they loose all human life in town will be forfeit, lost to the world, and the faeries will be unstoppable as they stake there claim over the town. As we delve deeper into this story we find a plot as rich in history and magic as the images are haunting, a tale full of depth and darkness and faeries. As A graphic novel it is the ideal format for this faerie tale.

Holly Black Webpage
Ted Naifeh Webpage

Holly Black @ Scholastic

The Good Neighbors

On sale: 01 February 2011
Price (AU): $16.99
ISBN: 9780439855662
Recommended age: 12+
In a word: Friends
Re-read it: probably
Recommend: yes
Star rating: four out of five
xx

The Good Neighbors Book One

2011-03-17T16:27:00.004+11:00

THE GOOD NEIGHBORS:
Kin by Holly Black
art by Ted Naifeh

I Can See Clearly Now!

Everything was fine, normal even, except for the fact that Rue's mother has disappeared. Missing for over three weeks with no place to go, Rue can't imagine where she has gone to. But more disturbing then that is the things Rue has been seeing, things she shouldn't be seeing; things with wings, sharp teeth, pointy ears and claws. Rue was going crazy, but besides that everything was fine, normal even.

Then the police arrived to take her father away. A student of his was dead and with her mother missing it looked as though her father was now responsible for two deaths. But how could it be true? There had to be another explanation for her mother's disappearance, for the death of a young girl and for the crazy things Rue was seeing. If there wasn't then it meant her father was a murderer, if there was then it meant there were far more things to fear in the world then anyone believed.

Kin reveals to Rue the true nature of her mother's family, her parents past and her own identity. With a broken promise comes heartache and retribution. Danger, sacrifice and love reveal to Rue the mystery that has torn her world apart and what may be the only hope to bring it back together. Timeless themes of changelings and faerie wives are portrayed within these dark and gothic images, telling a story that is just as dark and it is tragic.

Holly Black Webpage
Ted Naifeh Webpage

Holly Black @ Scholastic

The Good Neighbors

On sale: 01 February 2011
Price (AU): $16.99
ISBN: 9780439855655
Recommended age: 12+
In a word: Changeling
Re-read it: probably
Recommend: yes
Star rating: four out of five
xx

The Chronicles of Faerie Book 1

2011-03-15T22:24:00.003+11:00

THE CHRONICLES OF FAERIE:
The Hunter's Moon by O. R. Melling

The Hunt Has Begun!

Throughout their separate childhoods Gwen and Findabhair have always shared a love of everything magical, whether it be wrapped up in songs, stories or on the big screen. They had always dreamed of faraway places, impossible beings and magical love. On turning sixteen these two cousins decided to travel around Ireland, one of the most magical countries there is, in search of adventure, love and magic. But what they find is not your usual faeries at the bottom of the garden.

Although their journey turns out to be more adventurous then either girl could have predicted the danger for both is very real and very magical. Faeries have whisked away Findabhair and Gwen is left alone to battle for her cousin's life as well as that of her own. But there is more at stake then just their mortal lives. The Land of Faerie is at risk and if Gwen fails she will lose not only her life and her cousin's but also the magic that is the Faeries from the world.

The Huner's Moon is a dangerous time for all where the hunted is also the sacrifice, but is the sacrifice to great to bear even to save all of Faerie? An exciting journey across Ireland becomes a captivating journey to find inner strength, courage, friendship, hope and magic. Insecure and unsure, Gwen is not used to taking the lead and making decisions however her journey across Ireland will see her doing just that, for if she fails lives will be lost, magic will die and all hope will be gone.

O. R. Melling Webpage

O. R. Melling @ Thames & Hudson

O. R. Melling @ Abrams Books

On sale: 26 May 2006
Price (AU): $14.95
ISBN: 9780810992146
Recommended age: 14+
In a word: Hunted
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: five out of five
xx

Soul Screamers #4

2011-03-12T14:50:00.004+11:00

SOUL SCREAMERS:

My Soul To Steal by Rachel Vincent

I Want What She's Having!

Having fought through and survived hellions, possessions, toxic plants, demon's breath and death, Kaylee is about to face her biggest threat yet. After being apart for two years Nash and his ex girlfriend Sabine have again found each other. But as much as Nash denies he still has feelings for Sabine, Kaylee can't help but wonder. After all Sabine is no ordinary ex girlfriend, she was his first kiss, his first love, his first everything.

With Sabine's arrival comes death and ciaos and Kaylee can not help but be suspicious of her new rival, despite claims from those around her who would stick up for Sabine. Sabine has made it more then clear that gaining Nash back is her only goal, even at Kaylee's expense. Kaylee must make a choice, either stand aside and give up the one she loves to appease a living nightmare, or risk losing everyone that is dear to her to a fate worst then death.

My Soul To Steal through love, fear and bad dreams. Something is broken between Kaylee and Nash that may never be fixed. Kaylee has to decide if it is more painful to hold on to something that is no longer there, or to let go of something that had meant so much. With cat-fights, jealousy, creepy vines, nightmares, love triangles, white lies, painful truths, pizza, ice cream and puppies, this is the best Soul Screamers story yet.

Rachel Vincent Webpage

Rachel Vincent @ Harlequin Teen

Soul Screamers

Netherworld Survival Guide

On sale: 01 January 2011
Price (AU): $19.99
ISBN: 9781921685781
Recommended age: 14+
In a word: Balloons
Re-read it: probably
Recommend: yes
Star rating: four out of five
xx

Red Riding Hood

2011-03-09T22:33:00.004+11:00

Red Riding Hood by Sarah Blakley-Cartwright
& David Leslie Johnson
introduction by Catherine Hardwicke

Who's Afraid Of The Big Bad Wolf?

Daggorhorn is a town guarded by high walls, sharp spikes and a monthly sacrifice to appease the beast. Once a month the town succumbs to fear and self preservation, finding shelter within their high homes, locked up tight, as the Wolf prowls accepting its offering of chickens or goats and leaving its residents unharmed. For years this uneasy truce has held, but then one day a body was found.

The Wolf had killed and now the villagers want revenge. But when the famed werewolf hunter Father Solomon arrives the villagers discover they have more to fear then just the Wolf. Mistrust and paranoia set is as the residents of Daggorhorn discover that the Wolf is one of their own, but who? No one is above suspicion as a witch hunt ensues and as the death toll rises Valerie must make a choice between saving those she loves and saving herself.

Red Riding Hood is the darker and richer story behind one of the most well known fairy-tales. A thrilling mixture of paranoia, mistrust, fear, sacrifice and love. This story will have you questioning everyone and not even grandma will be safe from suspicion. But as the villagers turn on their own and the losses become to great to bare, in the end it will not be the identity of the Wolf that matters most but their own abilities to do what is right and the strength to following their hearts.

Sarah Blakley-Cartwright @ Hachette
Red Riding Hood

On sale: 01 March 2011
Price (AU): $18.99
ISBN: 9781907410826
Recommended age: 14+
In a word: Wolf
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: four out of five
xx

Ondine #2

2011-03-06T22:02:00.002+11:00

ONDINE:
The Autumn Palace by Ebony McKenna

There's Magic In The Air!

Ondine and Hamish have had the whole summer to find each other and fall in love. Now autumn has arrived and Hamish is called away to begin his employment with the Duke as Shambles, his ferret alter ego, to perform duties as a spy. Ondine, although forbidden by her parents to leave home, has decided to follow her heart and Hamish to the Dukes palace the Autumn Palechia. Ondine's parents will not be happy about this at all. However the greater problem will be, if after travelling all the way to the other side of the country, if she is permitted to stay.

Being in love Ondine and Hamish want only to be together, however it is Shambles who is more often then not making an appearance much to Ondine's dismay. However with the very real threat to the Dukes life Ondine can hardly blame Hamish for being preoccupied with his job. As Ondine, Hamish/Shambles and her aunt Colette are set the task of finding this would be assassin, a task that is proving extremely formidable in a palace as there is no shortage of secrets and backstabbing, they find time is running short.

The Autumn Palace is a place filled with hard-working, demanding, spoilt, misunderstood and generally crazy people. There is a feeling to the palace that has people acting in ways they wouldn't normally and Ondine is no exception. Ashamed at her behaviour having spied, lied, cheated and betrayed while all the while holding down three jobs as well as keeping up, or failing at, school work, Ondine still manages to redeem herself. A love story wrapped in a mystery, Ondine may at times be ruled by her emotions but she is by no means incompetent, being quite ingenious and clever. A sweet and intriguing story that will leave you gushing and guessing to the last page.

Ebony McKenna Webpage

Ebony McKenna @ Hardie Grant Egmont

On sale: 01 March 2011
Price (AU): $14.95
ISBN: 9781405256384
Recommended age: 12+
In a word: Spies
Re-read it: probably
Recommend: yes
Star rating: three out of five
xx

Faeriewalker Book 2

2011-03-03T22:37:00.004+11:00

FAERIEWALKER:
Shadowspell by Jenna Black

Beware of Erlking's Bearing Gifts!

Dana has spent most of her life being responsible, taking care of her mother and looking after their home. Never having lived with rules before Dana has known nothing but freedom, however after moving to Avalon Dana has found that she must give up her freedom. Living in a 'safe-house' underground is not exactly the ideal home life she had come to Avalon in search of but with two faerie queens, a crazy aunt and a whole mess of fae out to kill her Dana has little choice but to put up with her confinement. That is until she finds ways of sneaking out.

When the Erlking enters Avalon things for Dana go from bad to worse. There are hidden secrets from the past that threaten to be the downfall of Dana and those secrets may be revealed to late to save Dana from a fate worse then death, or from death itself. As the line between enemy and ally becomes blurred Dana is finding it increasingly hard to know who she can trust, but that doesn't stop her risking her own life to save the lives of those she cares for.

Shadowspell continues the story of Dana, a Faeriewalker and somewhat confused heroine, who is brave enough to enter the enemies lair to bargain with her virtue but who still manages to naively demean herself with words for actions she has yet to take, nor does she intend to. Having never been kissed, unless provoked by magic, Dana is unnecessarily self recriminating, but despite this misguidedness there is a captivating plot filled with lies, loss, heartache, death and magic. If you've read book one you won't want to miss this.

Jenna Black Webpage

Jenna Black @ Pan Macmillan

On sale: 01 February 2011
Price (AU): $16.99
ISBN: 9780330404143
Recommended age: 14+
In a word: Spells
Re-read it: possibly
Recommend: to those reading the series
Star rating: three out of five
xx

August

2011-02-28T17:30:00.007+11:00

August by Bernard Beckett

Life Is Unpredictable!

Tristan's tale is one of hardship, discipline and learning. Growing up somewhat sheltered his determination and capacity for learning drove him from his home and towards the church, there thought, prayer and higher learning were open to him. His life was all planed out ahead of him, a life full of promise and God. Then one night something happened that made him question all that he believed. One night he met Grace and his life was changed forever.

Grace's tale is a story of misunderstandings, mistreatment and loss. Her childhood was strict and rigorous but also sheltered. As a naive girl Grace was easily led by her heart and an eagerness to please others, and as fate and circumstance conspired against her she was cast out from the protection of her childhood home and left to her own devices. As her life spiralled away from her control she at least could hold on to one thing, her angel.

August is largely a philosophical debate on the soul, what it means to have freewill and what it is to be free. A deeply thoughtful look at the way religion, society and circumstance shape who we are and how at our very essence we are beings of instinct as shown through our actions. Theology, love and life clash in this thrilling tale of chance, destiny and the chaos that is the human mind.

Bernard Beckett @ Text Publishing

On sale: 28 February 2011
Price (AU): $23.95
ISBN: 9781921758041
Recommended age: 18+
In a word: Freewill
Re-read it: probably
Recommend: yes
Star rating: four out of five
xx

Dracula in Love

2011-02-24T23:36:00.006+11:00

Dracula in Love by Karen Essex

The Greatest Vampire Story Ever Told, Retold!

Mina is a woman on the verge of obtaining all that she has ever wanted. Soon to be married, she and her fiancé Jonathan have already planed out how their future lives together will be, where they will marry, the location of their first home and even the names of their children. Everything was perfect, then the dreams began. But these were no ordinary dreams being as vivid as waking life and Mina begins to question not only her life but also her sanity.

Meanwhile, Jonathan is called away on business and in his absence Mina begins to see all her dreams of a future with him crumble. Slowly, as her dream world collides with reality, Mina begins to see a different future, one that spans not only her present life but stretches into forever. But that is a future not with her fiancé but with another man, a man who had always been with her in one way or another. Mina must discover who she is and what she wants as she descends down a path that will either bring her closer to her hearts desire or to a life unfulfilled.

Dracula in Love from its first pages presents you with a story that promises to be something extraordinary. A story of a woman faced with an ageless love and an inhibiting social conscious, told in a time where woman are seen as either delicate angels or seductive villainesses. Here the supernatural and demonic Dracula is retold in a more realistic but no less fantastic version where the real monsters are not those demonic creatures of the night but the very men who claim heroism through brutal means. Murder, betrayal, scandal and desire all play a role but at its heart this is a story of eternal love.

Karen Essex Webpage

Karen Essex @ Allen & Unwin

On sale: 01 January 2011
Price (AU): $24.99
ISBN: 9781742376134
Recommended age: 18+
In a word: Vampires
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: five out of five
xx

Need #3

2011-02-21T19:37:00.005+11:00

NEED:

Entice by Carrie Jones

Follow The Rainbow!

Nick may be dead, carried off by a Valkyrie to the mythical halls of Valhalla, but that doesn't mean that Zara is going to let him go. Zara will give anything to get him back, already she has given up her humanity but if her quest is to succeed more will be lost, lives will be sacrificed. Selfishly she risks all to get back her protector, her warrior, her boyfriend, but will he want her now that she has been kissed by a pixie?

What started out as a way for her to gain access to Valhalla and retrieve her soul mate Nick has for Zara become more then she anticipated. Zara had thought it would be simple, kiss Astley, become a pixie, rescue Nick. But now things are more complicated. Zara is a Queen with responsibilities to her pixies as well as Astley, her King. Astley has given all to see Zara's needs filled, even at the expense of his own heart. However, whether she admits to it or not Zara is also loosing a little of her heart to Astley.

Entice is a Pixie Queen turning others to her need, a blind desire to get back what was taken, despite the cost. For Zara, Nick's death was the excuse needed to turn her to her destiny, towards Astley and her future as a Pixie. Zara and Astley have a bond that is undeniable so even if she succeeds in finding Valhahha and rescuing her beloved Nick things can never be the same. The next instalment in this teen romance is a roller-coaster ride of danger, myth and magic.

Top Ten Things To Remember When Dealing With Pixies

Carrie Jones Webpage

Carrie Jones @ Bloomsbury Australia
Need Pixies

On sale: 01 January 2011
Price (AU): $15.99
ISBN: 9781408810446
Recommended age: 12-18
In a word: Valhalla
Re-read it: possibly
Recommend: to those reading the series
Star rating: three out of five
xx

The Night Creatures - book one

2011-02-18T22:35:00.014+11:00

THE NIGHT CREATURES:
Burn Bright by Marianne de Pierres

Beware, Burn Too Fast And You Might Burn Out!

Retra is a girl sealed of from the world living in a guarded and restrictive community where information is withheld, rules are strict and punishments are a common occurrence. With even her thoughts and feelings denied she knew she could survive because she had her brother, but then one day her brother ran away.

Naif is a girl awakening to a new world of pleasure and freedom, uninhibited by parents or rules she is discovering a side of herself she never knew existed. But more then that she is discovering the dangers of Ixion. In the dark all senses are heightened and along with enjoyment comes a very real sense of fear, not just of the unknown but of the dangers that comes only with living in the dark.

Burn Bright is a decidedly dark and decadent story of a utopian paradise layered over a richly delicate and dangerous world of secrets, pirates and dark creatures. A provocative and intoxicating story of a girl breaking through the naivety of childhood and entering the seductive world of adulthood, a world filled with sex, drugs, music and of cause night creatures. An Enthralling read that questions societies morals and individuals actions wrapped in a beguiling cover.

Marianne de Pierres Webpage

Marianne de Pierres @ Random House

burn bright

On sale: 01 March 2011
Price (AU): $18.95
ISBN: 9781864719888
Recommended age: 16+
In a word: Ixion
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: five out of five
xx

Stork #1

2011-02-15T19:50:00.002+11:00

STORK:
Stork by Wendy Delsol

Winged Baby Deliverers!

The sun, the beach and the shops were all a thing of the past for Kat, and so too was a decent cup of coffee. The cold always was her enemy as was bad fashion sense and this small town with its cold climate and lack of style was looking more and more like a place Kat was to call home, whether she liked it or not.

Divorce, a new school and a persistent group of strange old women in even stranger hats make up Kat's experiences in this ancient small town. Then the dreams begin. But none of that has anything to do with the unknown boy Jack and his insistence that he and Kat know each other, nor dose it explain the bad mood he seems to adopt towards her and, as it turns out, only her.

Stork is a modern fairytale full of dreams, magic and Norse mythology. Although love comes quickly as an act of fate and some aspects are foreseeable, there is enough momentum to keep this tale flowing. This supernatural story may lack vampires, werewolves and angels but its original and fresh mystical beings along with its interesting and quirky characters are a refreshing change from the norm.

Wendy Delsol Webpage
Wendy Delsol @ Walker Books

On sale: 01 January 2011
Price (US): $29.95
ISBN: 9780763648442
Recommended age: 12+
In a word: Storks
Re-read it: possibly
Recommend: yes
Star rating: three out of five
xx

Castle Book 1

2011-02-13T19:46:00.001+11:00

CASTLE:
Howl's Moving Castle by Diana Wynne Jones

Heartless!

In the land of Ingary there exists a powerful and feared wizard named Howl who is well known for his wickedness. Howl devours girls, taking their hearts. He also spends hours at a time in the bathroom. Howl is a brilliant and talented wizard who is charming and charismatic, however he is also messy, vain and a terrible coward. But that is to be expected from one as heartless as Howl.

As the eldest of three daughters, Sophie is domed to a life of mundane boredom, and then the Witch of the Waste appears and curses her. Forced to leave her home Sophie soon finds herself on Howl's doorstep, however, changed as she is she feels quite safe that Howl would not be interested in her heart. But then again she could be wrong.

Howl's Moving Castle is a dreamy story of magic and wonder where friendships, secrets, demons and danger follow Sophie's every move. In many ways it is a re-imagining of the Wizard of Oz with heartless Howl also searching for courage, a scarecrow looking for a brain and a lost Sophie looking for a place to call home. An intricate fairytale for all ages, but one you should pay close attention to if you are to lift the curses plaguing these colourful characters.

Diana Wynne Jones Webpage
Diana Wynne Jones @ Harper Collins

On sale: 13 May 2009

Price (AU): $14.99
ISBN: 9780007299263
Recommended age: 11+
In a word: Curses
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: five out of five
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