Return to main page HERE!

Author: Anne Osterlund
Title - Aurelia

Aurelia is the crown princess of Tyralt. Everyone loves her. The people of Tyralt would rather see Aurelia on the throne than the king, her father. Her father is not a cruel ruler, but he thinks of no one besides himself. If that means more taxes to finance his parties, so be it. So if everyone loves Aurelia, who is trying to kill her?

Robert Vantauge's father had been the king's spy until they left the kingdom for a new life on the remote frontier. The king's current advisor wrote and begged the spy to return and help find the assassin. When Robert heard his father refusing to go, he goes in his father's place. Aurelia had been his friend as he grew up. He still cares very deeply for the princess and sets off to save her.

By order of the king, no one is to tell Princess Aurelia that someone is trying to kill her. She is to remain unaware. So Robert cannot tell Aurelia what is going on. But Aurelia refuses to be held back. She always has. She knows every escape route from the palace and its grounds. She knows every nook and cranny of the kingdom (the bad areas, as well as the good). And she knows something is going on, concerning her, and no one will tell her - not even the one she trusts above all others, Robert.

**** Personally, I enjoyed every page of this wonderful story until the ending. It will be up to each reader to decide whether the ending is satisfactory or not. To each her own. The plot is solid and engrossing. The characters are engaging. The clues to solve the mystery, before those in the book do, are all there. Though teens are the target audience for this book, adults will enjoy it just as much. Down right intriguing! ****

Author: Julie Harford
Title - If You Could Only Choose Your Mother

Five years ago, Marcie's mother walked out, and in the intervening years, her dad has dated some. The latest one is Eva, a rather maternal type who is actually older than he is, but all her good qualities only make Marcie resent her more; not that she wants her mother back, she just doesn't want another woman there either. Nor is she thrilled when her absentee parent demands that she and her brother come spend the summer in New York and to her wedding. Her attempts to cope with that only lead to arguments and humiliating incidents. Her best friend getting into trouble only adds to the tension, but then, something good happens and Marcie finally discovers what might be true love. With things looking up, Marcie is actually happy, until tragedy strikes and she is forced to face one of the scariest things that can happen to a teen, or to an adult for that matter. In the crisis though, she learns many very important things.

***** I have often advised adult readers to partake of young adult books, and this is no exception. Though darker than you might expect a teen book to be, the realism of it is never crass or overly depressing. Furthermore, the bleak moments make the light shine through all the more clearly when it comes. Marcie's is a powerful story, one that will get into your heart. Having watched my own dad suffer ill health, I have to say, those scenes almost hit too close to home, and made me wish I could hug the characters involved. *****

Author: Mary Janice Davidson, Anthony Alongi
Title - Jennifer Scales & the Messenger of Light

For a year now, Jennifer Scales has known she is half were-dragon half beaststalker. Somehow, mortal enemies found love to produce her. Magical being or not, she's still a teenager with all the angst and problems of high school, combined with those inherent in her nature, like having no choice but to turn into a dragon once a month and having people try to kill her. Now, the ante is upped when she finds that someone is out to kill everyone near and dear to her father and she has a long lost sibling who is not at all friendly.

*** Magic and mystery combine in this charming adventure that is written so well adults can enjoy it as well as kids. Imagine Trixie Belden as a lycanthrope and you will have some idea of what to expect. The authors have created a wonderful world for our minds to play in, so have fun. ***

Author: Mary Janice Davidson, Anthony Alongi
Title - Jennifer Scales and the Ancient Furnace (YA)

As Jennifer makes the transition from child to adult, her body begins to change. Yes, that is normal, but her changes are not normal at all. For one thing, she virtually flies while playing soccer, her eyes glow silver, and she's growing wings. As it so happens, she is a were-dragon, something she was not aware of until the change made itself felt. Now, she's either a freak or people think she's dying. Though unhappy about this biological fact, Jennifer has no time for resentments to fester; she needs to cope with all that is happening, learn what it means to be a dragon, and avoid those who want to kill her kind on general principles.

**** If you are used to thinking of Mary Janice Davidson and hot sex in the same mental breath, think again. Her versatility as a writer is clear in this short, but sweet collaboration that speaks with the voice as if it was penned by one author. A refreshing sweetness is combined with wry humor as we are introduced to this world. It is plain to see why adults as well as teens are charmed. ****

Author: Terry Spear
Title - Vampire In My Dreams

Ironically, it is when Marissa is hunting vampires that she meets her soul mate, who happens to be almost a vampire. Dominic has one shot at escaping a dark destiny, and the moment he sees Marissa, he knows she is the key to his return to being a normal human. Fortunately or unfortunately, Marissa is not a plain vanilla human; she's a witch, so he can't compel her cooperation, he has to win it. As soon as she truly comprehends what danger he is in and begins to love him, Marissa can't do otherwise, though, even if she is ticked about a slip up that could doom her as well. With time running out, the young couple has to defeat the dangerous female who sired Dominic or lose their souls forever.

**** Anyone who loves vampire stories should get this, regardless of their age. The legends are updated and reinvented with a fresh spin that holds your interest from the outset. There is just enough angst and tension to give this book an edge, yet light moments keep it from being dark or grim in any way. This is a world I'd gladly revisit. Ms. Spears' characters are believable, even with their gifts and powers, making them easy to care about. ****

Author: Peter David
Title - Tigerheart (June 17, 2008 / YA Fantasy)

Paul grew up with stories of pirates, fairies, and The Boy (aka, Peter Pan), but when he began to realize that perhaps, just maybe he was in fact, The Boy, his world changed. Pixies began to visit him and he started regularly visiting the land where Pan ruled. Yet, things are not what J.M. Barrie, much less Disney, made it out to be. He finds a world darker than his dreams, where he needs courage, and he finds he is not sure he wants to be The Boy.

**** If I had to pick only one word, I'd review this with the word unusual. Mr. David mirrors the linguistic style of Barrie and of Frank Baum, both writing intelligently and keeping it simple enough for young readers to comprehend at least the superficial meanings. Though there are parts that are unclear, this seems to be the author's intention, so I will not quibble. There is a psychological profundity like unto Alice or to the classic movie, Labyrinth, which may be explored or not, but you can enjoy the story without pondering it. ****

Author: Rochelle Mead
Title - Frostbite (Paranormal YA)

As the world is enfolded in winter, Rose continues her training to make her an able bodyguard for the Moroi princess, Lissi, while fighting, with scant success, her overwhelming attraction to her mentor, Dimitri, and attempting to pass her classes. The Strigoi have become a greater threat, more openly and boldly attacking those vampires who have not turned to evil, making it more imperative for Rose and other dhampirs to be alert and ready to fight to the death. Distractions should be kept to a minimum, for everyone's sakes. However, between her mother's visit, school, the mental tie that has her inside her best friend/charge's mind at the most embarrassing of times, and the requited, but impossible love for Dimitri, as well as being in two potential triangles, Rose has plenty of distractions. That could cost her dearly.

*** Though not for the youngest of the young adult set, due to its realism and frankness, this is a compelling saga that will capture the imaginations of readers of any age old enough to appreciate the complexity of it. In Rose we have a heroine who is both uncertain and edgy, making for a multi-layered being through whose eyes we discover her world. Ms. Mead's world building skills are truly adept, and readers will want to follow her into the adult books she writes. ***

Author: Rachel Caine
Title - Feast of Fools (The Morganville Vampires #4 / June 3, 2008 )

Claire is rapidly coming to learn that in Morganville, it's always darkest, and there's no dawn that the darkest is just before, and furthermore, when it's dark, that's when the vampires come out to play with humans. It need not be said that the games are not nice or fun for the humans. Though she might feel like Amelie is on the side of the angels and can harbor both fear and an odd affection for Myrnin, and even be friends with Michael Glass, for the most part, she fears the vampires, with reason. The newest one in town, Bishop, makes even Oliver, Amelie's nemesis, seem friendly. With the deadliest, most ruthless of the undead in Morganville, determined to take over, and with her parents and friends in danger from him and his minions, the risks Claire is forced to take are not just increased, but cubed. Strange alliances are made as former enemies realize that they share a common foe. As Claire struggles with all this, she still has to race against time to try and save the lives of all the local vampires from a microscopic opponent, a disease that could make the threat of Bishop moot. And somewhere in all the madness, she'd love to be able to sort out her own life as well.

***** Even when she's not writing about the weather, Ms. Caine blows me away. Through Claire's eyes and heart, we are pulled into an intense, kinetic, and highly emotional story that with wider exposure could topple a certain wizard from his broomstick. Words can barely describe the impact of books like this, that are so filled with feeling that you almost become the characters. It is not a stand alone novel, but if you have missed the first volumes, you just need to go back and read them. Though labeled young adult book, I'd say that just means there is nothing vulgar in it. The swear words are those of low level and everyone keeps their clothes on around other people. That does not make this any less of a mature book. In fact, it is more so than some adult books. *****

Author: Victoria Laurie
Title - Demons Are a Ghoul's Best Friend (Ghost Hunter Mysteries #2)

When her niece's school becomes the focus of demonic attacks, M.J. and her fellow Ghost hunters make the journey to it, believing, wrongly, that it will be a simple matter of laying a troubled soul to rest. They were wrong. The ghost is an evil spirit, and one that will not be busted lightly. Coupled with the fight for respect from those who believe her to be nuts, M.J. has a true challenge on her hands.

*** I strongly advise new readers to get the first book in the series, What's a Ghoul to Do?, because I kept feeling like I was missing some background information I needed, having not read that book. However, beyond this issue, it's a fun read for those who enjoy ghost stories and promises to continue to be such as the series progresses. ***

Author: Kathryn Caskie
Title - How to Propose to a Prince (Long Regency)

Elizabeth is the youngest of the notorious Royle sisters. It is whispered that they are the daughters of the Prince of Wales, secreted away and raised by the personal physician. Whether true or not, the sisters are close to each other, as well as to the man who raised them. Elizabeth is the sister who has "the sight". Her dreams always come true. The only real problem is that they are only HALF true. No one is ever sure which part is correct and which part is not.

As the story opens, Elizabeth is telling her sister that she dreamed about her future husband. Elizabeth is positive he will be a prince and clearly recalls his features. Very shortly thereafter, they see the man while out shopping. They follow him into a store and hear the clerk call him "Your Highness". The man sternly informs them all that he is Sumner Lansdowne, Marquess of Whitevale, and NOT the prince. After he is gone, the clerk tells them that he saw the prince as he entered town. No one knows why the man will not admit that he is the prince.

Prince Leopold has secretly come to London to seek the hand of the Prince Regent's daughter, Charlotte. Word is that she is most amenable to his suit. Sumner Lansdowne is the cousin to Prince Leopold. From a distance, they look identical. Closely though, one may tell the difference, especially in their heights. To protect Leopold, Sumner poises as the prince at the Ton balls. There, he is reacquainted with Elizabeth. But someone in the area wants Prince Leopold dead. Sumner and Elizabeth soon find themselves with targets on their backs.

**** Mystery, intrigue, romance, or adventure, no matter what your tastes are you will find them satisfied in this story set within the Regency era of London. Since Elizabeth's dreams are only half right, there are plenty of humorous situations due to interpretation mistakes. This is one to pack in your traveling bag. Whether you go to the beach, the mountain, or simply to your back yard, this romance is the perfect accessory. ****

Author: Meg Cabot
Title - Princess Mia

Breaking up with the guy you have loved forever, losing your best friend, being completely falsely accused to wrecking her relationship with her boyfriend, and having someone set up a website dedicated to hating you is ample reason to be depressed, right? If you said yes, Princess Mia totally agrees with you; however, when she and her black mood hole up and hide from life, her royal father trundles her to the psychiatrist's office, where she is challenged to do one thing that scares her a day. For Mia, that is anything involving dealing with people. Aside from the aforementioned problems, she finds that Lilly, her former best friend's, former boyfriend, J.P., now wants to be the love of her life, and if she were not still nutty over Michael, he'd be tempting, which is not a good thing. Second, she has to come up with a speech to give some exclusive women's society. Then, she also has her Grandmere who is a problem just by living and breathing, school, the fact that she has begun to fill out, and her mortal enemy now is acting like her best friend. Could life possibly get more complex? Yes, it could, and she will have to get through all of it, while in the process giving her fans a story to celebrate.

**** The Princess is a charming heroine whose problems, even the ones we would never face, feel so real that you can not only sympathize with, but empathize and become deeply involved. Having read Ms. Cabot's work for adults as well as young people, I think I can safely say I'd read a cereal box if she wrote it. Three cheers for all involved. ****

Authors: P.C. Cast & Kristin Cast
Title: Marked
(A House of Night novel, Bk 1, Teen)

Zoey Redbird's world is very much like our own, except that vampyres have always existed. Zoey is sixteen-years-old and having a typical day in school when she notices a Tracker standing beside her locker. Never really believing the Tracker is hunting for her, Zoey is genuinely shocked when the Tracker Marked her a fledgling vampyre. This means a crescent moon scar appears on Zoey's forehead and she has less than a day to reach the House of Night, a private boarding school for fledgling vampyres. Zoey's mother is no help. Her step-father all but hates her. Zoey goes to her Cherokee grandmother for help, but gets hurt along the way. While unconscious, Zoey has a vision from Nyx, the Vampire Goddess, who informs Zoey that she is very special and has been chosen to be the eyes and ears of Nyx. When Zoey awakens, she is with her grandmother at the House of Night.

Neferet is the High Priestess of the House of Night, as well as her new Mentor. Unlike before the vision, Zoey's crescent moon mark is now filled in. This is unheard of before going through The Change. Zoey soon learns that she has some amazing powers, yet no understanding of how to use them.

Zoey is not the only fledgling in school with special powers. Aphrodite is the leader of the Dark Daughters. She is in training to be a High Priestess; and Zoey has made Aphrodite's black list without even trying. Zoey must look deep within herself for the courage she needs to fulfill her destiny - with a little help from her new vampyre friends.

***** A solid foundation for a new supernatural series! It seems to target older teens, but adults will find themselves drawn to it as well. It looks as though the writing talent is a gene that runs strong in the Cast family tree. Terrific plot with well formed characters. I look forward to the next release of the Cast Duo. *****

Authors: P.C. Cast & Kristin Cast
Title - Betrayed (House of Night #2, Teen)

Zoey "Z" Redbird is a fledgling vampyre. She has managed to finally settle in at the House of Night finishing school. Z has been Chosen by the vampyre goddess, Nyx, and she has already kicked vampyre ghost butt. Yet still Zoey has a strange feeling something is wrong, like the stillness before a tornado or storm.

Zoey's Imprint with Heath remains and she still finds herself caring for the mortal teenager. The mutual attraction between Z and Erik, also a fledgling, remains as well. Yet Zoey is finding herself intrigued by Loren Blake as well. Loren is a part-time, temporary professor (of poetry class) at the academy. Zoey is sure he cannot be more than five or six years older than she, however, relationships between students and teachers are prohibited.

Zoey is about to conduct her first Full Moon Ritual as leader of the Dark Daughters and Sons. Zoey's life is full and she has little alone time for herself. It soon becomes apparent that she better make some time for a new problem. People Zoey knew from her prior human life are disappearing. When and where their bodies are eventually found, as well as the cause of deaths, point to the House of Night. To save all the humans and vampyres she cares for, Zoey must face a betrayal that could break her heart, if not her very soul. May Nyx protect her!

***** If you have not read the first book, MARKED, then I highly suggest you do so before beginning this title. If you do not, you will still be able to understand what is going on; however, you will not be privy to some references of Zoey's adventurous past and markings. Believe me when I say this series could be categorized as either Young Adult or Fantasy. It does not matter if you are male or female, this series will enthrall you against your will. Authors P.C. Cast and Kristin Cast are a dangerous writing duo with poisonous pens. Highly recommended. *****

Author: Robert B. Parker
Title - The Boxer and the Spy(May 1, 2008)

When a shy classmate's body is found, everyone assumes he killed himself; that is, everyone but Toby Novak, who does not believe it. With the help of his best friend, Abby, he begins to probe the death, sure he'll discover a murder. Another source of help and support proves to be his mentor, a retired boxer whose lessons in discipline and strength prove invaluable in the investigation. Delving deeply into the politics of his small town high school leads Toby into trouble and dangers better faced by men far older than he. Yet, despite his youth and inexperience, his quest for truth and justice proves Toby is not a boy, but a young man.

*** Mr. Parker's fans, young and less young alike, should highly enjoy this new venture. In the tradition of Trixie Belden's imperfect, yet intrepid teen sleuth stories, Toby Novak makes a place for himself in his readers' hearts. Though somewhat milder than the author of Spenser's other works, nonetheless, there is a satisfying, emotionally intense quality to the work that makes it clear who wrote this. ***

Author: Melissa Marr
Title - Wicked Lovely

For nine centuries, Keenan has sought his soul mate, his Summer Queen, yet every mortal girl he thought her to be ran away or, if she dared the test to prove her rightful place, succumbed to a terrible fate. When all hope seems lost and he begins to fear that his mother, the Winter Queen, has won in denying him love and in hanging onto her cursed power, he finds Aislinn, a girl who has obeyed three rules her entire life, rules that warn her away from all Fey folk. Yet, though she wants only to be a normal teen-aged, high school girl and have a plain old boyfriend, she finds herself pursued by the king of the Fairies, and it's becoming harder and harder to run away. Torn between two worlds, two loves, the past, and the future, Aislinn finds herself forced to make a choice that could save or damn them all.

**** This is a book for anyone who enjoys a compelling tale. Elements of Tam Lin, Labyrinth (the David Bowie one, not Pan's), Joan D Vinge's Snow Queen, and classic fairy tales in general (not the Disney versions), are woven into a sweeping, micro-epic that touches the heart and sweeps you into a magnificent world all at once. This seems like only the beginning, but if it is the full story, you will still be satisfied. ****

Author: Jacquelyn Sylvan
Title - Surviving Serendipity

June's life was nice and normal, ordinary even, until one day she is whisked abruptly away to another planet, one where she is the heir to the throne, and it is her job to defeat the evil that threatens that world. That is only the first surprise. Ahead of her lies heartache, more stunning revelations, confrontations that can alter the fate of a world, many sacrifices, and love. What she always believed is no longer true, but there are many layers to the actual truth, and not all of them pleasant.

**** June's story is one that is intriguing and mature enough to capture an adult's fancy, yet appeal to older teens as well. Earth myths and alien worlds are effectively blended into an easy to read tale that is both familiar and new. ****

Author: Laura Preble
Title - Queen Geeks In Love

Shelby and her best friend, Becca, are geeks and proud enough of it to form a club that celebrates their status. As a new year begins, they are full of plans, but romance could complicate matters as Shelby tries to adjust to having a guy and two of the other queens fall for the same guy. Meanwhile, they try to put together a show to raise money for charity and for the club and handle the pressures of daily high school life.

*** Girls need not be perfect to be awesome is a fantastic message to send to young women, and the fact that it's done in a fun way is a bonus. I particularly enjoyed Shelby's very cool, absent minded professor-ish dad and her pet robot, Euphoria, who joins the ranks of user friendly, you know you want one of her robots, right along with R2, K-9, and KITT. ***

Author: Rachel Caine
Title - Midnight Alley
(Morganville Vampires #3)

This third book in the Morganville Vampires series begins where the second left off. Claire Danvers had signed a contract pledging herself to Amelie in return for the protection of those she cares for. Amelie is the town's Founder. She is the oldest, scariest vampire of all. Claire now wears a Patron bracelet.

Claire still resides in Glass House with Eve, Michael, and Shane. Michael and Shane are still buds, but there is some major friction between them now. Then there is Claire's archenemy, Monica Morell. Claire detects the strange scent of oddity, of something rotten, when Monica starts showing up and begins acting as though she wants to become one of Claire's closest friends.

Amelie demands Claire become an apprentice to an ancient vampire and begins some private lessons in his secluded home. Claire will soon discover why.

**** Holy bloodsuckers! Author Rachel Caine delights with this installment of the M.V. series. Readers will actually find out HOW and WHY the town of Morganville even exists. As I watched various characters turn from friend to enemy (within seconds) and the darker side of college life emerge, I detected flavors of P.N. Elrod and R.L. Stine. I can't help but wonder if the stories by Elrod and/or Stine had somehow inspired Caine as she began writing this series. Each installment had many hidden surprises that kept me on the edge of my seat. The only major down side is that each book left me hanging, like an old Batman show. ****

Author: Jenna Petersen
Title - Seduction is Forever

Set in London, 1814. Emily Redgrave, Lady Allington, is a young woman of charm, beauty, intelligence, and grace. She is also a spy for the Crown. Six months ago Emily had been shot. However, Emily believes she is ready to return to the field.

Grant Ashbury, Lord Westfield, knows from experience that anyone he cares for will be in danger while he remains a spy. Seeing his late wife's lifeless eyes had taught him that. But now Grant want to get back into the field. He would gladly accept ANY case for a chance to prove to his superiors that he is ready.

Emily's mission is to protect Grant against the nameless, faceless enemies who seek his destruction. Grant's mission is to defend Emily for the same reason. Neither knew the missions were false. However, while Emily searched for Grant's enemies, she stumbled upon a real case of treason.

**** This story will keep all regency and historical romance fans on their toes! The first half of the book reads like a soothing and romantic Regency and then the author adds a touch of danger and suspense. An excellent way to enjoy a rainy evening. ****

Author: Gail Ranstrom
Title - Lord Libertine

Set in London, 1821. When her sister, Cora, is dying before her, Isabella "Bella" O'Rourke vows to find the killer and bring him to justice. The only thing Cora can tell Bella is that the man is a gentleman of the Ton, dark haired, licks his lips after every kiss, and his kisses taste bitter. Bella has no delusions about Cora's murderer. Cora had been bled from the wrists, partly skinned, her private parts mutilated, and had a wyvern dragon drawn (in her own blood) on her belly. Whoever this madman is, he is able to hide his dark soul beneath a handsome face and great charm.

Since the Home Office has no leads and stopped investigating, Bella can think of no way to locate her sister's killer except to kiss every dark haired gentleman she can during the Season and watch to see if he licks his lips or tastes bitter. Bella has no doubts that the hunt will destroy her reputation; however, she needs to protect her identity as much as possible so that her vigilante justice does not ruin her two remaining sisters chances of making a good match. The men have begun calling her Lady Lace. One dark haired and charming gentleman, Andrew Hunter, is fast becoming a problem. Bella finds herself attracted to him, but she cannot get him to give her a kiss. Yet she must find a way to make sure he is not the man she seeks. At the same time, the gentleman keeps scaring off the other gentleman she is trying to test.

Andrew "Drew" Hunter is known as Lord Libertine. After witnessing horrors during his time in the war (not to mention the horrible acts he had to commit to others), Drew is doing every wild thing he can imagine to keep himself from remembering. Drew has become numb and not even his wild nights are interesting any more. But then his former commanding officer and friend, Lord Wycliffe with the Home Office, convinces Drew to help locate a serial killer. Ladies are disappearing, only to turn up dead with ghastly wounds that speak of cult rituals. Lord Wycliffe had been present when Bella and Cora spoke. Cora had only been the first lady from the upper class to been kidnapped. The facts show that she won't be the last. The number of bodies is now in the double digits and the night of something called the Thirteenth Sabbath draws near. Drew must keep silent on what he knows from everyone, including from the tempting Lady Lace once he knows her secrets. But how can Drew keep the lady he adores from putting herself in danger without revealing Lord Wycliffe's secrets?

***** This may be a romance set during the Regency era of London, but it is overflowing with drama and gripping suspense! The identity of the killer is pretty obvious to the reader, but the author has more than a few twists and surprises in store. You will never grow bored of this excellent story and I highly recommend it to all. *****

Author: Carol Culver
Title - Manderley Prep (BFF series, #1)

Cindy Ellis's father had married Irina Vanderhoffer. Cindy instantly had a stepmother and two stepsisters. But then her father died, leaving Cindy alone in the world. Irina did little for Cindy. They lived in the Bay Area, in California. Cindy had to work in Irina's spa, while the two stepsisters played cheerleader and lusted (and often did much more than lust) at the school's athletes. Cindy wants only to get the best grades possible so she can get into a great college with a full scholarship. Afterward, well, Cindy's first priority is to get as far away from her self-centered and cruel stepsisters and her uncaring stepmother. The East Coast would be an ideal location.

Manderly Prep is the most exclusive high school around. To keep up her grades and point rankings (the new headmaster is ex-military and it shows), Cindy does extra credits. One is to sign up to tutor English to anyone in need. Cindy gets assigned Marco Valenti. He is the new foreign exchange student. Marco is a prince from Italy and Manderly's new team soccer star. Cindy's feelings for Marco catch her off guard, but she keeps a lid on them since she figures there is no way a hot guy like Marco could ever bother to look twice at a girl like her.

Brie and Lauren Vanderhoffer think of Cindy as their own little servant. Cindy always ignores anything they do to her and she does whatever they ask. But when the mean stepsisters start pulling mean jokes on Cindy to keep her away from Marco, Cindy realizes that the time has come for some serious payback.

**** This story may be set in modern day, but it has an awful lot of similarities to the fable named Cinderella. (Cindy with two wicked stepsisters, stepmother, pauper, servant, and even a prince.) However, I still found it to be a wonderful read. Ages teen and up only though, since there is adult material. I am looking forward to the next BFF novel. ****

Author: Sophia Nash
Title: A Dangerous Beauty (Regency)

Rosamunde is the daughter of the Earl of Twenlyne. She grew up wild and very loved. But she made a huge mistake. When her father demanded she wed the man she erred with, Rosamunde refused and became a ruined woman. She finally married a common man and suffered more than she would ever reveal to anyone. Her sister, Sylvia Langdon, went wherever Rosamunde did, no matter that it meant she would share her sister's tainted title.

When her abusive husband dies, Rosamunde flees from her late husband's cousin, who thinks to continue where his kin left off. Rosamunde and Sylvia accept an invitation to spend a season with the Dowager Duchess of Helston and join her unique Widows Club. Rosamunde wants only to stay in the shadows and catch no attention; however, the brother of her mistake is with Ata. Rosamunde does not believe the St. Aubyn family knows that she has a horrid past with their family. If they did, they never would have invited her to Cornwall and she has no where else to go.

Luc St. Aubyn, the Duke of Helston, never beds the same woman twice. He has the well-deserved titled of Lord Fire and Ice. He is as fire with the woman he chooses for the night and as ice the instant he wakes in the morn. Luc knows how cruel is father and the dukes before him were. Luc is still trying to build up the funds they lost. Luc is pulled toward Rosamunde, but knows that she has suffered much at the hands of her late husband and his family. He is determined to repair the repressed look within Rosamunde's eyes and try to make up at least a bit of what his family did to her.

***** This story is full of drama, bravery, and humor. From the first page I found myself enthralled by Rosamunde and her unbreakable spirit. Author Sophia Nash has proven that as great as she was with the short Regency Romances, she is even better with the longer ones! If this author's name is on the cover, do not even bother reading the back; simply BUY it. Sophia Nash is one of the best! *****

Author: Lauren Royal
Title: The Art of Temptation
(Regency)

In 1817, Sean Delaney has become a profitable businessman. He had taken a small inheritance and, within ten years, has acquired much wealth. The only blight in Sean's life is seeing how miserable his sister, Deidre, is.

Deidre's husband, John Hamilton, treats Deidre worse than dirt, but refuses to grant her the divorce she desires. That is, until now. John's a famous painter and his dying uncle is Samuel Hamilton, the Earl of Lincolnshire. John is Samuel's heir and insists John come stay with him during his final few weeks of life so they may come to know each other. John and his uncle have not seen each other since John's infancy. Of course, John cares nothing for the earl and wants only for the man to die and give over the title, estates, and wealth to him. John does not want to see the old man. John wants to spend those few weeks elsewhere, so he makes a deal with Sean. If Sean pretends to be John and stay with the earl until he passes away, John will grant Deidre the divorce.

Budding artist Lady Corinna Chase has her mind on improving her technique, not marriage. She hopes that one of her canvases will be selected for the annual Summer Exhibition. Corinna is soon one of an elite few who knows Sean is not really John. (After all, a painter cannot possibly be color blind, as Sean is.) Wanting the earl's last days to be happy ones, Corinna is more than happy to help Sean pull off his hoax. But neither Corinna, nor Sean, thought that they would become enamored of each other.

***** Though this story's main focus is on Corinna and Sean, it also delves into a sub-plot romance of Lady Rachael and Griffin (Corinna's brother). Somehow the sections with the secondary couple makes the story more realistic. Life often has more going on than one romance at any given time, correct? Perhaps this is the reason for my interest. Whatever the reason, author Lauren Royal proves that she knows what her readers enjoy. Brava! Encore! *****

Author: Stephanie Meyers
Title: Eclipse (Y.A. Fantasy, Twilight #3)

An approaching graduation from high school is, naturally, a time of changes and angst for anyone. However, for Bella it is at least triply so. For her, graduation means that her life as a mortal will shortly end, not to mention her life as a single, young woman. She and the Cullens have been given a mandate that she must be changed into a vampire sooner rather than later, or she will be killed. However, the love of her life, Edward, has also said he will not change her without marriage. Complicating matters are her lingering feelings for Jake, the werewolf who befriended her and helped her heal when she lost Edward for a time, and her ties to mortality. Then, there is the fact that an angry vampiress wants to avenge the loss of her lover on Bella, something that is causing death and violence to enter the sleepy little town where she lives. The price of love can be very dear.

***** This, like Harry Potter, is a series that transcends adolescence to capture the imagination of adults as well. Bella's pain and the ethical questions she deals with strike a chord and make you truly think as you read, engaging more of your mind than your average beach read demands. There is action and an intriguingly imagined alternate world where preternatural beings walk among ordinary humans, but that is not what truly makes these books special. The emotions, the love, and the profundity of choices made is what makes these books that matter. *****

Author: J.K. Rowling
Title: Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows

The time has come for Harry Potter to meet his destiny and to end the spell of terror that Lord Voldemort has cast over the wizarding world for years. To achieve this end, he must abandon his lightweight, normal for a wizardly teen-aged agenda and set off on a quest to find and destroy the remaining Horcruxes that hold bits of his nemesis' soul. However, the journey is a long one that will be grueling on physical, emotional, and mental levels. Harry will finally learn the truth, perhaps more than he wants to know, but all that he must know in order to make the most difficult decision of all.

***** I have no doubt that this is a somewhat useless review and my fellow Potter addicts will buy the book, if they have not already, regardless. Nonetheless, let me say it is a brilliant read. Though it ended on a somewhat more positive note than the Thomas Covenant series tends to, it left me with that same feeling the conclusion of one of Mr. Donaldson's novels does, a feeling of having seen something profound. All I can say to those who object to the books on Christian grounds is this; I am Christian and you'd have to be blind not to see the overtones of Christianity replete in the pages. Self-sacrifice, love, and redemption are the ties that bind the story together, not magic. There is not as much humor as in the prior novels in the series, but I didn't expect there to be. It is a dark read, a sad one, but a good sort of sadness. I was disappointed in some ways, but no story is perfectly able to please everyone in every aspect. It is a fitting end. *****

Author: Erin Lynn
Title: Demon Envy
(Teen Vamp)

Kenzie Sutcliffe is sixteen-years-old. She lives in Ohio and has just begun her junior year in West Shore High School. Her best friend is named Isabella "Iz". She has a fourteen-year-old brother named Brandon and a five-year-old sister named Zoe. Kenzie has a crush on Adam and instinctively dislikes Amber (because she seems to have Barbie's perfect life). All-in-all, Kenzie looks and sounds like a typical teenaged girl. Then while simply trying to apply some prescription acne cream on her face, Kenzie accidentally opens a demon portal in her bath tub!

Levi looks like a normal teenaged boy. (Only Zoe can see his blue wings with green scales.) Levi had been in a demon prison for the last six months because he was not doing enough demonic activity. In other words, Levi was too nice. Demons feed off of other people's envy. So if Levi does not make people envious, jealous, or do any other sin, then he'd starve. Against her better judgement, Kenzie agrees to help Levi escape his servitude permanently; it is something that no demon has ever successfully accomplished before.

**** This teen book has a twist that most would never have expected; a NICE DEMON! (Isn't that an oxymoron?) Yet author Erin Lynn seems to make it work somehow. Humorous, fun, and some dangerous entities make this into a story you will totally enjoy. ****

Author: Linda Joy Singleton
Title: Fatal Charm (The Seer #5)

Sabine Rose keeps quiet about her psychic abilities. They have already given her more grief than any one person should have to deal with in a life time. Yet these gifts may be what helps Sabine save Nona, her grandmother. Nona is slowly losing her memories. Unless Sabine and Dominic, Nona's young handyman and apprentice, can find the hidden remedy book of an ancestor, Nona will soon slip into a coma. So when Sabine moves back in with Nona in Sheridan Valley, she is ecstatic! All her new friends welcome her back with open arms.

Josh, Sabine's boyfriend, is big on helping kids. He convinces Sabine to sign up as a mentor during a camping trip for disadvantaged kids. It is a three-day weekend event to be held in less than two weeks. But Josh is also acting differently. He now has a three letter tattoo and refuses to discuss what the letters mean.

Josh is not the only one acting or feeling different. Sabine cannot stop herself from dreaming of Dominic or getting excited just by his close presence. Sabine is being pulled between two guys and is unable to decide which she honestly wants. But all that must wait, because Dominic has found the fourth, and last, missing charm. After over one hundred and fifty years, the charms are together again. Agnes, Sabine's ancestor, gave one charm to each of her four daughters long, long ago. Together they give all the clues needed to locate a remedy book Agnes hid. With all four charms in their possession, Sabine and Dominic are in a race against time to find the book and cure Nona.

If all that is not enough to keep Sabine busy, she also learns to astral travel. During one astral travel, Sabine spies on Jade, the half-sister she recently found out about. Dad refuses to tell his current family about Jade and her mother, Crystal. Sworn to secrecy, Sabine cannot help but resent Jade for her very existence. Yet when Sabine witnesses a murder during her astral spying, she immediately calls Dad. The victim looked like Crystal.

***** This is the fifth book of THE SEER series. If you do not read the previous books, you may find yourself a bit lost at times. All the secondary characters from the previous stories are mentioned, though a couple play no real part in this episode. The author ties up all loose strings and answers all the questions her readers have been eager to know. Yet, at the same time, the author COULD continue the series, using a few continuous running sub-plots. Will the story continue or end here? We, the readers, must wait and see. One thing is for sure, this is not one to miss! Fabulous! *****

Author: Richelle Mead
Title: Vampire Academy

The fact that two young women decide to run away from their exclusive boarding school might not be extraordinary under usual circumstances, but Lissa and Rose are not your average school girls. Lissa is a vampire princess and Rose is her dhampir guardian. When Lissa begins exhibiting powers that have seldom been seen among the good vampires since the time of a vampire saint, and it seems that someone is trying to drive her insane or hurt her, Rose feels that it is her duty to get the princess out of St. Vladmir's. Unfortunately, the adults in charge do not agree and bring them back to school where Rose is placed on under intense probation and finds herself training harder than ever for her role in life. The problems she sought to escape are still there, and might even have multiplied. Who is trustworthy is doubtful and the one person besides Lissa that Rose is sure will never betray her is a man she loves but is off limits.

*** Older teens and adults who want a tamer, but still intense novel will want to add this to their TBR list. Ms. Mead has completely re-envisioned vampire society, making it far more complex than most other authors do, which adds to the fascination. Rose is a very strong heroine, though she has a softer side it takes a while to discover. Her bad girl image does lead to some scenes that younger readers might not be ready for, or that their parents might not be ready for them to read, rather. The only real handicap in this story was the multiple flashbacks that sometimes made it unclear as to when an event was taking place in the timeline. ***

Author: Rachel Caine
Title: Glass Houses
(Morganville Vampires, Bk1)

Claire Danvers thinks studying and learning are fun. It is no wonder she ends up going to college early. She is only sixteen, so her parents do not want her to live in a dorm too far away for them to drive to. Therefore, Claire ends up at Texas Prairie University (TPU). Claire plans to remain at TPU until she is eighteen and then transfer to a much bigger and better college. Since Claire is sixteen, she expects that the other students would treat her a bit harsh. After all, Claire is much younger than anyone else and prefers to study instead of party. However, she never expects to find out that she is the ONLY normal or sane student in town. It does not take long for Claire to honestly believe that she is the only sane person in TOWN!

Monica Morrell is the most popular girl. She is also the biggest bully. When Claire, accidently, makes Monica look stupid, she becomes Monica's personal punching bag. Worse, after being given a black eye and shoved down some steep stairs, Claire knows that Monica wants nothing less than to see her dead. Claire's only real choice is to find some sort of cheap housing off campus...TODAY!

Claire ends up at Glass House. It a blend of Tara from "Gone with the Wind" and the home of "The Munsters". Within twenty-four more hours, Claire learns why the town is odd. Vampires run the town! Humans who are under Protection from a vampire always wear their bracelets identifying them as such. These humans swear their entire lives to their Protector. They live, serve, and die at their Protector's whim. And anyone without a bracelet, such as Clair, is meat!

Claire now has three house mates. Eve works at the local coffee shop named Common Grounds. It is the only neutral territory around. Shane can only cook one thing, chili. He hates Monica even more than Claire does. (Monica returns his hateful feelings.) But the strangest is David. The house belongs to David. But David is never seen during the day, only at night. He is not a vampire though. He is one big mystery. The trio may seem almost as strange as the Morganville, but when the town's deepest secrets come crawling out at night for fresh blood, these three have Claire's back.

***** The only thing that I do not like about this novel is that it ends in the middle of a murder involving one of Claire's three house mates. Talk about a frustrating cliff hanger! So do NOT begin this novel until you purchase book two (The Dead Girls' Dance). If this book had ended three pages earlier, I would have given it the full five stars. Instead, it is getting 4.5 stars. Otherwise, this book is stellar! *****

Author: Rachel Caine
Title: The Dead Girls' Dance
(Morganville Vampires, Bk 2)

Claire Danvers is a genius. She thinks studying and learning are fun. Since she is only sixteen, her parents will not allow her to attend college far away. They want to be able to drive up anytime they believe Claire needs them. Therefore, Claire attends Texas Prairie University (TPU). Due to problems with the previous dorm's popular girl, Monica Morrell, trying to kill her, Claire lives off campus at Glass House with three other house mates.

Claire is only now getting used to knowing that vampires rule the town and the local humans are pledged to certain vampires as life-long servants and blood donors. Anyone without a bracelet showing that he has Protection is nothing more than meat if he roams the streets after dark. It is a little more tolerable, thanks to her roommates. Eve has become Claire's best friend. Shane has become Claire's boyfriend. David is still strange, even though Claire now understands why David is never seen during the day. No, David is not a vampire, but that would be a blessing compared to what he is now.

Now a fraternity is throwing its annual Dead Girls' Dance. Amazingly, Claire and Eve have been invited. They have no idea WHY they were issued the invitation though. Since Claire is so young, she would have declined, except that Shane's father, along with a gang of bikers, are on a vendetta to kill all vampires. If humans get in the way, that's just too bad.

***** This book picks up EXACTLY where the first left off. If you have not read book one (Glass Houses), then you will find yourself lost a few times. Thankfully, this time the story does not end in the middle of something horrible, like a murder. It does, however, leave many threads dangling. I am still confused on when Claire's two days dead line got extended by her parents. Did the author forget about it? Loop hole? Who knows? Hopefully, the dead line will be explained in the third novel (Midnight Alley), due for release October 2007. Teens and Young Adults will not be the only ones to be enthralled by this series. Worth 4.5 stars! If you like vampires, this is for you! *****

Author: Julie Kenner
Title: The Good Ghouls' Guide to Getting Even
(Teen vampire)

Elizabeth “Beth” Frasier has a totally dysfunctional family. Her mother is a lawyer. Her father is a doctor. You would think having successful, well-to-do parents is a GOOD thing. On the contrary, it means they have ZERO time for her. Before they got divorced six months ago, all Beth’s parents did was fight and their grumpiness was hard to deal with. Now, the parents are still the exact same way. The only difference is that they live in separate places. However, their indifference toward Beth comes in handy on her sixteenth birthday though. (Yes, Beth’s dad forgot all about her Sweet Sixteenth birthday! As for Beth’s mom, she simply had her secretary order a gift certificate to a book store and then ending up giving it to Beth a day late!) But this means that neither parent even noticed that Beth never came home that night … or that Beth had become a vampire!

Beth has a major crush on Stephen Wills, the high school’s star football player. So Beth is thrilled when Stephen suddenly seems to take interest in her. Beth never expects Stephen to kill her or turn her into a vampire! But Stephen has a task that only Beth can do. After all, Beth is smart! She’s valedictorian. But all Beth wants is revenge against Stephen and the “popular girls” who lured her into Stephen’s clutches.

Beth’s best friend, Jenny, is on her side. So is Clayton, after he failed to stake her. According to Clayton, Beth can get her life back if she kills her “Creator” (A.K.A. her Master). Problem is that a vampire cant’ stake their Master. And once Beth drinks from a living person, she ‘s doomed for eternity. Should that happen, Clayton and his grandpa would be gunning for her again. Worse, college aged vampire hunters are in the immediate area. What’s an undead girl supposed to do?

***** I have not had this much fun with a teen book in a looong time! Beth is not only smart, but she is witty and filled with sass! Her friends are the same, but Beth just has it all in spades! The story is so great that I did not want it to end. So I am thrilled to find that there will be a second novel in this series. Don’t worry, this book will NOT leave you hanging. It is fun watching Beth and her friends get even with Stephen and the cheerleaders, as well as, against the various other popular kids who got her turned into a vampire. But the author, Julie Kenner, is a Master at story telling! Again, the ending does not leave you hanging, but it does set up a problem that will obviously have to be handled in a part two. “Buffy” and “Firefly”, move over! There is a new show in town. STELLAR! *****

Author: Julie Kenner
Title: Good Ghouls Do

Elizabeth "Beth" Frasier is the current valedictorian of Waterloo High School in Austin, Texas. She has a great boyfriend, Clayton Greene, a loyal best friend, Jenny, and an odd acquaintance with a cute college guy named Kevin. The down side is that Beth was tricked (earlier in the year) into becoming a vampire. Then she had to save Clayton from dying by changing him into a vampire as well. Kevin is a vampire hunter. The only reason Kevin has not staked them both is because they have yet to drink the blood of a LIVING person. Until such time, Beth and Clayton may still have a chance to become human again. To do so, they must figure out WHO Beth's maker/master is and then have the vampire staked.

Jenny is using her journalism skills to investigate students, teachers, and anyone else from the school in hope that the list of possibilities (suspects) can be narrowed down. Once trimmed to a decent size the hard part will begin. Jenny, Beth, Clayton, and Kevin must test the rest with holy water.

Of course there are major hurdles in the way. Someone, or a group of people, are trying to stake Beth into dust. Beth has just dodged an arrow from a crossbow when she overhears Clayton talking on the phone. And it definitely sounds like Clayton has hired someone to assassinate Beth so he can become human again. After all, Beth is Clayton's maker. Taking advantage of the romantic strain, Kevin is trying to win Beth's love and doing a very good job of it. There is also the fact that Beth stopped trying to figure out the day-walking formula for the higher up vampires of the school and it looks like they will have to force Beth to begin work on the formula anew. Lastly, there is another vampire clan in town; the Traditionalists. They do not want the day-walking formula to be found. If that means getting rid of Beth and anyone else in their way, then so be it.

***** If you missed the first book (The Good Ghoul's Guide To Getting Even) then run, don't walk, to the nearest book store and buy a copy! No, you do not HAVE to read the first book in order to enjoy this novel, but things will make a bit more sense to you if you do. Beth is smart, highly self-motivated, and very witty. Okay, sarcasm comes naturally to her, but that just makes her more realistic to readers, right? I am also very excited, because it LOOKS like there will be a third story to this undead adventure. Yippee! I can hardly wait! Author Julie Kenner will win awards with this new series. Out-freaking-standing! *****

Author: Jacquie D'Alessandro
Title: Sleepless at Midnight
(June 26, 2007 / Long Regency)

Matthew Devenport, Marquess Langston, must marry an heiress within the next few months. However, a trip to London and courting ladies would take time away from a second vital task. His solution is to invite some gentlemen, unwed ladies, and chaperons to Langston Manor for a house party. Matthew could look over the ladies, court the one he chooses, and never have to cease his search in the garden. (But his search would have to be done late at night when no one would see.)

Problem is that even though the beautiful heiresses are exactly what he needs, Matthew is drawn to Viscountess Carolyn Wingate's plain companion, Miss Sarah Moorehouse. Sarah is not only plain, but wears spectacles. She is Lady Carolyn's sister, but a lowly physician's daughter and no heiress. Matthew would never have noticed her except he unexpectedly meets her in the garden as she sketches. Their brief exchange is anything but boring. No weather, no fashion, but a REAL and intelligent conversation. Sarah quickly becomes everything Matthew wants, but cannot have.

All the ladies, minus the chaperoning mothers, form the Ladies Literary Society of London. Instead of poetry and other novel approved by Society, they decide to read "Frankenstein". During a lively discussion, they decide to create the perfect man - figuratively, of course. Each is assigned a task. Sarah is to pilfer a shirt from their host, Matthew Devenport. When Sarah spies Matthew in the garden, at midnight, with a shovel, her imagination goes wild.

While Sarah and Matthew are distracted by each other, someone else is watching. Someone who wants what is buried in the garden. Someone who has already killed once for it and may again.

***** Jacquie D'Alessandro brings enticing characters and drama to her readers once again. Sarah Moorehouse is unique and a refreshing change from normal Society ladies. Romance, drama, and a bit of danger make this novel spectacular. I cannot recommend this one highly enough. DO NOT MISS IT! *****

Author: P.C. Cast & Kristin Cast
Title: Marked
(May 1, 2007 / House of Night- Book I: /YA Paranormal)

Zoey's world was a normal teen one. Though not trouble free, it was good. Then, out of nowhere, she is Marked and has no choice but to go to the House of Night, or she will die. Everyone knows that those who are Marked will turn into vampyres, so she is instantly a pariah. Her only hope of acceptance lies with her grandmother, but when she journeys to see the elderly woman, she meets Nyx, the goddess of night and vampires, instead and her Mark is enhanced as the goddess claims her for her own. Now at peace, Zoey is able to accept her new life. As she begins to fit into her new school, she finds that Fledgling teens are much like other kids. She makes new friends, but perhaps more importantly, she makes an enemy who she will have to confront in the heart stopping finale of this opening story.

**** The Casts have created put a very interesting new spin on vampire lore. The action is fast paced and absorbing, interspersing light moments among the intensity. When you reach the climax of the tale, you'll be on the edge of your seat. Though this is labeled a young adult novel, I strongly suspect adults of any age will enjoy it. ****

Author: R.R. Smythe
Title: Into the Woods (YA Fantasy)

Set in Sureau, Scotland. The year is 1860. Seventeen-year-old Callum McClure lives with his mother and grandfather. They tend to Sureau's lighthouse. Callum goes to the Alexander School for the Gifted, via a scholarship. To keep the privilege of going to the school, Callum must keep his grades up.

Callum and his closest schoolmates are finding it extremely difficult to concentrate on studying this year though. Many villagers have fallen into a mysterious sleep. Trees and roots have grown, almost before their very eyes. It is as if the trees were weaving a root sarcophagus for each, individual sleeper. Even stranger, a message is emblazoned on the closet door of each sleeper's room: Stand. See. Remember. Choose.

Callum and his schoolmates must figure out what the four words mean quickly, or their parents will never awaken from their comas.

**** This Young Adult Fantasy will send chills down your spine. I, as the reader, followed Callum and witnessed everything he and his friends went through as they attempted to decipher the messages. At the same time, I watched Callum's mother, Ellsbeth, as she walked through the Netherwood. Each time Callum deciphered one of the four messages, some villagers awakened. Through the eyes of Ellsbeth, I saw the other sleepers wander, make mistakes, and be released from the Netherwood, leaving Ellsbeth alone. There is one thread left dangling, but do not fret. This IS a stand alone book. But that thread gives me hope that another book about the Netherwoods may someday come to pass. Excellent reading for any age of fantasy fans! ****

Author: Stephanie Meyer
Title: New Moon (Teen Paranormal)

In order to give Bella a chance at a "normal" life, Edward Cullen, the vampire who loves her, and his family leave town, disappearing as if they had never been there. Immediately, the girl enters a sort of "fugue" state, where she is only half alive and cares about nothing. She play acts at life until she realizes that when she experiences danger, she can "hear" Edward in her mind. Soon, however, Bella does not have to seek danger, it has found her. Another vampire wants her dead to avenge the murder of her lover and Bella's best friend has manifested his werewolf heritage. Though Bella might not care about the risk to herself, she has to deal with the danger or lose all those she loves.

***** This may be targeted to a teen audience, but there is much to draw adults into the plot. Bella's introspective narration is compelling and makes the words come to life. Her grief process will strike a chord with many who have known what it feels like to lose someone, and though her manner of coping is not advisable or possible in some aspects, the fact that she does manage to find hope again is encouraging. *****

Author: Meg Cabot
Title: How To Be Popular (Teen)

As the new school year begins, Steph Landry decides she is going to stop being "such a Steph", a phrase coined by the most popular girl in school five years ago after Steph spilled a red Big Gulp on Lauren by accident. The phrase has become the bane of Steph's existence, as everyone, even people who have never met her, commonally use her name to refer to gauched, inept, stupid, or clumsy acts. She decides to become popular by following a guidebook she found while helping her soon to be step-grandmother clean out a room so that Jason, Steph's best friend, will have a new room. Unfortunately, stopping being such a Steph virtually does stop Steph from being herself. Her opening sally into the realms of the popular leads her into organizing a talent auction to raise money for the senior trip, and as a result, she does catch the eye of the most popular guy in school, Mark Finley. However, he is her nemesis' boyfriend, and Lauren will not let anyone, especially Steph take anything from her, except abuse. Steph soon learns that popularity is not all it's cracked up to be and has to make some hard choices about what is truly important.

**** Though other books of Ms. Cabot's are probably more popular, ironically, this one is definitely her best. Steph's quest is one that anyone of any age can identify with and learn from. The end note contains a message that will leave you cheering, but this is not a preachy book. Truth is rendered in a breezy way that still hits you forcefully while it is making you smile. ****

Author: Meg Cabot
Title: Party Princess (Princess Diaries, Bk 7)

It may be some time before Princess Mia rules Genovia, but she is already getting a taste of governing as the President of the student body of her school. It is not going well. With three months left until the commencement, Mia is faced with bankruptcy and being unable to pay for the ceremony to be held at Lincoln Center. She does not want to resort to selling candles to make up the deficit, but that is a more appealing idea than having the valevictorian cause her bodily harm, if she can get past Lars, Mia's bodyguard. However, Grandmere has an idea. Unfortunately, when Grandmere or the princess' best friend, Lily, has an idea, Mia knows life is about to get "interesting," in the worst sense of the word. She's already dealing with a mountain of potential fall-out from Lilly's idea of creating a school-based literary journal whose sales will go toward meeting the budget. Now, Grandmere has the bright idea to put on a show. Her delivery of the suggesting somehow lacks the perkiness of Judy Garland telling Mickey Rooney that is what they ought to do. Now that the Queen Mother has spoken, so shall it be done. Being beaten senseless by an irate senior might be a better fate!

**** Mia's trials and tribulations continue to charm and amuse readers of all ages. Her angst has a ring of truth, even in the most ridiculous situations. Subtle in-jokes enhance the humor. If you need a laugh, or just to be reassured that things will get better, pick up a Princess story. ****

Author: Mari Mancusi
Title: Stake That (Teen)

Rayne's goal in life was to be a vampire; after all her boyfriend, Magnus, was one. However, Mag failed to differentiate between Rayne and her twin, Sunny, and bit the wrong girl. So, not only has Rayne lost her boyfriend, but she's lost her hope of unlife. You know the saying when a door closes, a window opens? Rayne's finding that to be true. It turns out she is the chosen one of this generation, the girl who is supposed to slay vampires, but only the bad ones. Slayers Inc, recognizes there are some good ones, like Magnus, and want him to stay in power. With an evil vampire out to take down Magnus using bio-weapons, Rayne has a double impetus to stake the dude. She also has help she is not sure she wants at first in the form of a very easy on the eyes, undercover vamp, Jareth. Of course, being a slayer and semi-dating a new vampire are not all fun and games. It is dangerous work, demanding sacrifices, and exposing Rayne to trolls on her blog that chronicles her adventures.

**** No matter how old you are, if you enjoyed Buffy and Angel, odds are you will love this as well. Rayne is a snappy, smart aleck heroine with a unique take on life. Laughs come fast and furious, even in the grimmest moments. I look forward to seeing how the series develops. ****

Author: Jacquie D'Alessandro
Title: Never A Lady
(Long Regency)

Colin Oliver, Viscount Sutton, left his countryside estate in Cornwall for London. Recently, Colin has been having the feeling of impending doom. Recalling that his own mother died at the same age he currently is, Colin decides it is time to find a bride and provide heirs for the family line. Thus the unwanted, but necessary, trip to London is done. What Colin does not expect is to find a face from his past. Madame Alexandra Larchmont may be the most sought after fortune teller for all the Society parties lately, but four years ago she had been a thief who tried to pick his pockets. Since the night she escaped him, Colin feared for the unknown girl's fate. The question now is whether she has really changed her ways or if she is using her talent of reading cards to gain entry into the homes of the upper crust.

The cards have warned Alexandra for years about a certain man that would enter her life and turn it upside down. Yet she never expects to see him at a London soiree. In trying to slip away unnoticed, she ends up overhearing an assassination plot. Trying to stay out of danger, but unable to sit by and do nothing, Alexandra leaves the host of the party an anonymous letter, explaining what she had overheard. Later, when Alexandra learns the host has been murdered, she rightfully fears for her own life. The only person she can turn to is Lord Sutton. It does not seem as though the gentleman recalls their encounter four years ago, but the longer she stays in his presence, the higher the odds that he will remember her. Even worse, the man may figure out just how much she yearns for his touch.

***** Author Jacquie D'Alessandro has yet to disappoint me with any of her romantic and suspense filled tales. Until the unlikely day occurs of D'Alessandro suddenly getting writer's block so badly that she totally flops in story telling (Heaven Forbid!), I will remain one of her biggest fans. Once again, all the characters in the story are very well developed and totally believable. The main and secondary characters are so detailed that each seem to have their very own personality and little quirks. I not only came to care for the main characters, but also all the secondary and a few of the background characters as well. (Little Robbie is a perfect example.) Wimpy, fainting, and useless females need not apply to be in any D'Alessandro novel. The same can be said for stiff, recherché, and boring men. Excellent and highly recommended reading! *****

Author: Frewin Jones
Title: The Faerie Path
(Teen)

A boating trip with her boyfriend to celebrate turning sixteen proves to be the pivotal moment of Anita's life. After an accident, the teens are taken to the hospital where she is given a book that tells the story of a Faery Princess who vanished on her wedding day. Not long after, she follows a phantom into the Faerie lands where she learns that she is that princess, Princess Tania. Her boyfriend, unfortunately, is not her intended, but his servant. Yet, Anita/Tania feels torn between two worlds, especially since she cannot remember being a princess. There is more going on that she comprehends, to be sure, and that's no fairy tale!

***** For either teens or adults with a young heart and mind, this is a lovely story to experience. Tania makes for a compelling heroine whose divided heart will cause a pang in yours. If you loved Labyrinth and wished there was more to the story, you can enter a world like that here and be satisfied. *****

Author: Deborah Jackson
Title: Time Meddlers(Teen)

Sara Sachs is switching schools in the middle of sixth grade and does not want to be in Ottawa. She wants to be with her mom not in what she calls the wilderness with her dad. She is shocked when on the way to school her first day she sees a car drive right through a kid. Sara is very interested in what this boy is like because of what she saw. She soon finds out that Matt is the son a very famous scientist. Sara wants to meet his dad but Matt has never even seen him. His father disappeared when Matt was born. Together Sara and Matt figure out that Matt’s father knows the secret to time travel and figure that he is stuck in another time and they are determined to bring him back to the present. Will Sara and Matt be able to bring his dad back? Read the book and find out!

***** This is an excellent story. If you like adventure or time travel books, you will love this book. Once your start reading you will not be able to put it down! *****

Author: Willard Manus
Title: A Dog Called Leka (Teen)

Ben is a teenager who lives on the island of Rhodes in the Aegean Ocean who just lost his parents a few months ago. Ben has been building a catamaran. He wants to be a sailor like his parents. One day a stray dog comes along and Ben does not like him. Ben does not want to become attached to the dog and have to leave him behind. But it is hard to say no to a hungry dog so Ben starts to feed the dog and gives him the name Leka. When Ben finishes the catamaran he starts sailing it. Ben has a job to take a family on a boat trip and he has to pick them up from across the ocean. Ben decides to take Leka with him. Will Ben make it with Leka to pick up the family? Read the book and find out about Ben and Leka’s exciting journey.

**** This book is very exciting! When you read this book you will not be able to put it down. A very good page turner. This book is also very interesting! ****

Author: Rachel Caine
Title: Glass Houses
(YA / Morganville Vampires)

Being a child prodigy is not a ticket to an easy life, as Claire Danvers well knows. Being a college freshman at sixteen might sound exciting, but so far, all it has gotten her is a lonely life where being ignored is the best she can hope for. All too often, she finds herself teased, at the minimum. Right now, the worst is at the maximum as she has attracted the hostile attentions of the dorm's queen, Monica. Cruel pranks have escalated to the point where Claire has just cause to fear for her life. So, she decides to move out, and the best option appears to be the Glass House. As she arrives, the first two residents she meets, Eve and Shane, make her feel welcome. However, the mysterious Michael Glass, though kind, is chary about having a minor in the house. Things are dangerous in Morganville, but when he realizes the danger Claire would face returning to the dorm, he relents. Claire is about to enter a world where vampires are real and run the town in a mafia style fashion. To cross one brings down wrath that she cannot even begin to comprehend. Unfortunately, Claire does draw one's ire, putting herself and her housemates at risk unless a deal can be wrought with the bloodsuckers. Even if it can, the cost will be dear. Claire has one more idea, a very dangerous one. It's all or nothing when gambling with vamps. And, what is the secret Michael hides?

***** If you are an adult, let me put it to you plainly, if you must pay attention to the young adult label, then just consider it a sign that you are, in some way young, when you read this. It is not a "children's novel," but a solid, utterly compelling story that you will find addictive and hypnotic. I did not even realize it was technically not a book for grown-ups until I looked to check the ISBN for the review. There is a subtle, poignant romantic undertone, suspense, mystery, and humor. I just wish it was longer. If Rachel Caine is not on your auto-buy list, put her there immediately, if not sooner. *****

Author: Eloisa James
Title: Pleasure for Pleasure
(Long Regency)

Out of the four Essex sisters, only Josie remains unwed. After turning one suitor down ("Berwick"), the so called gentleman had Lord Charles Darlington come up with a horrid nickname for Josie. Thus Josie is known as "the Scottish Sausage"! Ironically, Josie resembles the nickname only because she stuffs herself into a corset. She is more beautiful than anyone seems to realize.

Garret Langham, the Earl of Mayne, is a close friend of Josie's. He tutors Josie on the arts of flirtation and poise. Others begin a make over, teaching Josie what clothing compliments her natural figure. Once done, the nickname is useless as a taunt.

Problem is that Thurman believes himself to be the next witty nicknamer. In fact, Thurman believes himself even better than Darlington and he has decided to give Josie an even worse nickname, giving himself a grand reputation. But Josie's transformation ruins his plans. Thurman soon believes Josie is responsible for all his failures ...

**** The author never conceals Thurman's hatred for Josie, so I do not feel as though I have given out any spoilers. More is going on within this novel's plot and sub-plots than I let on. I was delighted with a few twists and surprises along the way. Each chapter begins with a snippet from an anonymous earl's memoirs about the women he has bedded in his life. All through the book, everyone (male and female alike) are trying to figure out WHO the author is. Also, Darlington is the rare leopard that actually changes its spots. I felt as though watching his transformation, in various sections of the story, was one of the high points within the entire novel, second only to Thea's transformation. BRAVA! ****

Author: Deborah Jackson
Title: Time Meddlers
(Young Adult)

Sarah Sachs is in the sixth grade. She and her dad moved from large Toronto to small Ottawa. As Sarah walks to her new school she is surprised to see a boy walk into the street without checking for oncoming vehicles. Her surprise turns into the first of many shocks when Sarah watches the skidding vehicle drive completely through the boy as if he was not there! This is how Sarah makes her first, though reluctant, friend Matt Barnes.

Professor Nathan Barnes is a famous scientist who has been missing since Matt's birth. Matt lives with his dad's assistant, Nadine, who is nice to him only when the public is looking. Matt wants nothing more than to know if his father is really alive somewhere or not. Sarah and Matt dive head-long into researching the answer.

The duo end up locating a machine that Dr. Barnes created for traveling into different eras. Before they know it, Sarah and Matt are dropped into the year 1615. Worse, they are in the middle of a war between the Algonquin and Iroquois notions. Knowing their own history, Matt wants to be a peace negotiator and halt the upcoming battles. This would save many lives. However, Sarah is not sure that Matt's idea is a good one since it could very well change history as they know it. If history changes, so will the future.

***** An extremely well done story that will have you rethinking your ideas on quantum theories. Though the tale involves multiple universes and the possibility of time travel, it is told in such a way that kids as young as the age of eight can easily understand everything. The book is recommended by the publisher for children between ages eight and twelve. However, I believe that young adults (teens) will highly enjoy the story as well.

The back of the book is filled with a short glossary, discussions for reading groups, and even some activities that could be done in the classroom. This novel is so exciting that kids will probably not even realize how much they are learning. Excellent! *****

Author: Lauren Royal
Title - Tempting Juliana
(Long Regency)

Our story begins in June, 1816, at the Foundling Hospital in London. At the age of twenty-two, Lady Juliana Chase is only now about to begin her first Season in London. She and her sister, Corinna, are late getting a Season due to all the recent deaths in the family. While touring the Foundling Hospital's art gallery with her sister and a little girl who lives next door, Emily, Juliana does what she does best ... meddles. Juliana has a big heart and always wants to help everybody and fix everything. So seeing all the babies Juliana decides she will sew all the baby clothes needed by the hospital for the month. Unable to sew well over a hundred baby items by herself, she must persuade others to help her accomplish this huge task. Juliana has also taken little Emily under her wing. Emily has a pet garden snake that she takes with her everywhere (and I do mean EVERYWHERE). Juliana wants the child to learn that reptiles over five feet in length as pets is not considered acceptable.

Shortly thereafter Juliana learns that her good friend, Lady Amanda Wolverston, is due to marry Lord Malmsey, a man too old for her, within two weeks. It was arranged by her father and Amanda cannot get out of it. So Juliana begins meddling, of course. Juliana and Amanda want to have a younger man compromise Amanda. They choose James Trevor, the Earl of Stafford, who is ready to wed and begin his nursery. Juliana feels badly that Lord Malmsey would be losing a bride, so she simply HAS to match him up with someone else too. For herself, Juliana chooses David Harcourt, the Duke of Castleton. However, Juliana soon finds herself much more attracted to James than David.

James is not only an earl, but also a physician dedicated to wiping Smallpox off the face of the earth. He runs New Hope Institute to tend to the poor and give the children free vaccinations. While Juliana is running around to get James and Amanda together, she learns James cannot seem to keep a receptionist. You guessed it, Juliana meddles. But now that her heart is on the line, Juliana is about to learn that there is such a thing as meddling too much.

**** I could not help but feel that the character of Juliana was a little overdone on the meddling front. And I wanted to see more of little Emily than the author allowed. Otherwise, this story is fantastic, IMHO. To keep the story rolling smoothly, the author has a sub-plot romance between Juliana's brother, Griffin, the Marquess of Cainewood, and another young lady. I look forward to seeing that romance continue in the next sister's story (due for release in Fall 2007). ****

Author: Lorraine Heath
Title - A Duke of Her Own
(Long Regency)

Set in London, 1888. Lady Louisa Wentworth is now twenty-six years old. With no dowry and only her breeding to offer for anyone considering marriage, Louisa decides to forget wedding and takes matters into her own hands. She places an ad within a lady's paper offering to chaperone a genteel American lady in need of social guidance. With all the recent American heiresses entering town, in hopes of marrying into titles, it is not long before Louisa is hired by the Rose Family.

Alexander "Alex" Wentworth is the sixth Earl of Ravensley and Louisa's brother. He is NOT happy about his sister hiring out as a chaperone, but admits they are in need of the money. Alex wants Louisa to help him wed one of the two Rose daughters, but his sister does not believe it would be a good match for either of the girls.

The Duke of Hawkhurst "Hawk" is one of Alex's close friends and also wants a good word put in with the Rose daughters. Louisa has feelings for Hawk, though she tries to keep it hidden. Besides, Hawk also needs to wed for money. But then Louisa and Hawk are caught in a compromising position.

**** A well done regency romance that will certainly capture your attention quickly. There is nothing truly new or original in the story; however, it is well worth your time and money. This is a terrific way to spend a rainy afternoon! ****

Author: Dorothy McFalls
Title - The Marriage List

Radford, the fourth Viscount Evers, is injured while in the Peninsula. Being that close to death forces Radford to admit that he must settle down with a wife and beget an heir. He even has his irritating best friend, Lord Nathan Wynter, help him make up a list as to what he required of a potential viscountess. He sets his eye on Lady Lillian, the lovely and vain youngest daughter of the Duke of Newbury. However, it is a complicated and outrageous lady named Miss Margaret "May" Sheffers that intrigues him to the point of distraction.

May is the only one who dares to stand up and go toe-to-toe with the sufferable Viscount Evers. Her parents disappeared years ago in a South American jungle. Uncle Sires is trying to have May's parents declared dead. Therefore, all May's funds have been seized and are tied up in court. If Uncle Sires (a.k.a. the Earl of Redfield) succeeds, he will inherit all the money rightfully belonging to May. If that was the only problem, May could easily deal with it. However, Uncle Sires is trying to throw her into the arms of a man old enough to be her grandfather. If Uncle Sires has his way, May will be wed to the man within two weeks. Yet once May and Radford share one passionate kiss, things begin to change.

***** There are a few more secondary characters that add keep two sub-plots running and the story moving right along. I never found myself bored. In fact, I read this entire novel in one sitting. I could not put the book down. I feel bad for any Regency Romance fan who misses out on this fantastic novel! Highly recommended! *****

Author: Kathryn Caskie
Title - How to Seduce a Duke
(Long Regency)

Set in London, 1814. The three Royle sisters are triplets, but they do not resemble each other a great deal. Their father had been a simple country physician, yet was able to set aside a large dowry for each of his daughters. Their Season is about to begin. They reside with their great-aunt, Prudence, who sleeps most of the time and is quite forgetful. When the sisters find a mysterious box from their father, the items within cause a huge stir. If the clues be true, then the three sisters may very well be the secret offspring of the Prince Regent and Mrs. Fitzherbert, his true love. Elizabeth and Anne are excited and eager to believe, but Mary, the reasonable and frugal one, does not believe it at all. Then the sisters are summoned to their guardian's resident. There, within a secret chamber, Lord Lotharian, Earl of Lotharian, and two other elderly gentlemen reveal an amazing story to the sisters. Still, there is no real evidence to prove their blood is even the slightest bit blue. Yet it does not matter. The men had promised their "father" to see them settled with good husbands of High Society.

The sisters are launched into Society by Lady Upperton. As Lady Upperton's protégées they automatically have entry to many door that would have been closed to them otherwise. Lady Upperton is thrilled to be a part of it all. Mary is to be the first sister matched by their sponsors. However, Mary already knows the man she wants to wed. It is Quinn, the newly belted Viscount Wetherly. Mary even convinces her sisters to powder themselves into disguise, as garden statues, to sneak a peek at him! That is good for everyone, including Quinn since he already has his eye on Mary as his future Viscountess. The only problem is Quinn's older brother, Rogan.

Rogan Wetherly, Duke of Blackstone, distrusts all women. He believes that all women are greedy winches out to trick unwary men into marriage by proclaiming love and devotion. Rogan has good reason for his beliefs and refuses to let his brother fall into any female's trap, especially Mary's. It is obvious that Mary has tossed out her lure in hopes of reeling Quinn in. So Rogan decides to pursue Mary in his brother's stead, but is the motives honorable?

***** A fabulous story that begins with a shock before morphing into one of the most intriguing reads I've had in a while! Are the three Royle sisters really princesses? It makes for an interesting sub-plot, that is for sure. Don't expect ME to tell, and you will have a wonderful time reading to find out. Author Kathryn Caskie may win awards for this novel. I eagerly await the next sister's tale. *****

Author: Caroline Linden
Title - What a Gentleman Wants
(Long Regency)

Marcus Reece, duke of Exeter, had always acted to preserve the family name, and his twin brother's along with it. To keep his brother, David, from being called out for a duel of honor, Marcus again cleans up David's mess and sends him out of London for awhile. But David ends up injuring his leg when his carriage wrecked during a race in a small town called Middleborough. The vicar's widow, Hannah Preston, takes care of David as he heals. David comes to care for Hannah, and for her small daughter, Molly. David is sincere when he proposes to Hannah, but the day before the wedding he panics.

Hannah curses her own idiocy. With few choices open to her, she weds a gentleman she hardly knows. David escorts Hannah and Molly to London, says he must be away on business for a bit, and promptly disappears. Hannah does not learn that David forged Marcus's name to the marriage license until the cold and aloft duke appears before her in person with accusations. Of course, Hannah is ready to simply walk out. But before she can, David and Marcus's sister, Celia, and stepmother, Rosalind, arrives and proceeds to gush all over Hannah and Molly.

Reluctantly, Hannah agrees to play the part of Marcus's duchess for a while. In doing so, Hannah will help secure Molly's future and Marcus can keep his relatives from hating David. The entire mess would sort itself out within only a month or two. Meanwhile, Marcus can continue his investigation with Bow Street of a counterfeiting ring. David seems to be mixed up in entire counterfeiting scheme and Marcus hopes to prove his brother innocent. But with tempting Hannah nearby, Marcus is having trouble concentrating. Marcus learns that by playing the part of husband, he has a chance to claim happiness.

***** Caroline Linden's characters are so vivid that, for awhile, I forgot they were all part of a fictional piece. As I read, I could easily see the events unfold before me and felt as though I were a part of everything. An outstanding story that I hated to see end. BRAVA! *****

Author: Alex Flinn
Title - Fade To Black (Teen)

Alex is a teenage who is HIV positive. Not many people want to be around him. This book shows the hardships that Alex has to go through. This book also shows how he has to deal with certain things. A boy named Clinton is one of Alex’s worst enemies. Clinton hates Alex a lot. Can Alex turn Clinton into a friend and not an enemy? Read the book to find out.

**** I liked this book very much. This book shows what a person has to go through if they are HIV positive. I enjoyed this book very much. ****

Author: Barbara Metzger
Title - Queen of Diamonds
(Long Regency)

Everyone knows the story of the vanished Lady Charlotte "Lottie" Endicott and the huge reward for her safe return. At the age of three, Lottie was the only survivor of a stage coach ambush. Everyone was supposed to have died, including little Lottie. Instead of finishing the deed they were hired for, Dennis Godfrey and Ezra "Ize" Iscoll, decided to implement an exotic extortion scheme. Dennis has his spinster sister, Molly, take the child far away to raise as her own. Every few months Molly would quietly collect blackmail money from a special bank account. Lottie became "Queenie", whose father died while serving his country. As only a child can do, Queenie adapted and, therefore, forgot all about her previous life. Molly loved Queenie as if the child was her own daughter. She devoted herself to bringing up Queenie as a proper lady, having her educated as such too. Molly even made sure that a dowry would be ready when Queenie was due to wed. Queenie had no idea that it was all a lie until Molly whispered, on her death bed, that she had never really been married.

Alex, the Earl of Carde, and his brother, Jack, have never given up hope on locating their sister, Lottie. Queenie actually returned to London for a short time after Molly died. She spent much of that time with her friend, Hellen Pettigrew, who is the daughter of a "kept lady". Ize has Queenie convinced that she had been adopted by Molly and was supposed to be part of a con to make the Carde family believe she was their lost daughter so they could collect the reward money, but when the scheme fell through, Molly kept Queenie as her own. Queenie felt bad for the Carde family and planned to tell the current family about the con that never happened and about the rumor she heard long ago that little Lottie had died. But Ize kept her from doing so. When news spread that the Carde family was looking for a lady going by the name of Queenie in town, Queenie fled to France, thinking she would be sent to jail.

Now Queenie returns again to London. This time she is known as Madame Denise Lescartes, a dressmaker fresh from France. Hellen is still her best friend and joins Queenie as she opens her new shop. Lord Harking is in town, hunting down his sleazy brother-in-law who has stolen the family heirlooms (diamonds) and left his sister. While searching, Madame Denise catches his eye. Queenie is soon the talk of the ton and her business begins to boom. Yet as Queenie's desire for Harking grows, her lies begin to catch up with her.

***** Absolutely outstanding! The author, Barbara Metzger, has succeeded in creating a tale within a tale. I was hooked on the very first page and unable to tear myself away. Queenie is a strong role model, doing what has to be done to survive in one of England's roughest eras for women. Watching meek little Queenie transform into a strong businesswoman is spectacular. In no way could the author have possibly made this story any better. Full of wonderful characters that I could not help but love or hate (depending on who they were), lots of action, drama, tension, and simply fantastic! Highly recommended! *****

Author: Alex Flinn
Title - Fade To Black (Teen)

Alejandro "Alex" Crusan is a seventeen-years-old Latino and HIV positive. His family moved from Miami to Pinedale, Florida. No one in his new school will touch him, much less befriend him. The only one that does not avoid Alex is Daria, the girl with Down Syndrome. Everyone avoids her too. But someone nearby hates Alex enough to learn his daily routine, followed by taking a baseball bat to Alex's car. The windows shatter, throwing tiny glass shards over Alex. The shards act as knives.

Daria does not lie. She tells the police what she saw. The police go after Clinton Cole.

Clinton has been very vocal on his feelings about Alex being HIV positive from the beginning. Everyone agrees with Clinton; however, no one believes Alex deserves what happened to him. When everyone begins avoiding Clinton, the teen starts to understand how Alex's isolation feels. Clinton swears he did not do it. Yet no one believes him.

**** Author Alex Flinn writes in a way that teens can relate to. She has taken a few taboo topics and created a mystery that young adults will enjoy trying to figure out, while learning about delicate subjects. I enjoyed the story very much and recommend it to all. ****

Author: Serena Robar
Title - Braced 2 Bite
(FIRST in the new Teen Vampire Romance series!)

Sixteen-year-old Colby Blanchard lives in Seattle, is the head cheerleader, and keeps a 4.0 grade average. She knows what she wants in life and has a plan to obtain it. But it all falls apart when she is bitten and becomes Undead.

Colby's family is very supportive. Great-Aunt Chloe has dealt with vampires as a nurse during the wars and is the first family member to start helping out. Colby's mom starts digging up everything she can find on the internet to help Colby's transmission. And her orthodontist dad, who had her canine teeth removed when she was twelve, made her a "fang headgear set" to help her feed. Colby is upset to be Undead, but even more embarrassed that she has to have fang braces to survive. But those are not her biggest worries.

Thomas and Carl are with The Tribunal Group. They break the news to Colby that she is not a full-blooded vampire. She is a half-blood. Since one must have a license (which is a signet ring) to be accepted as Undead, Colby must appear before the three princes in a vampire court. If Colby is not accepted, she will be executed. Thomas wants to help her prepare, but if she is not accepted he is also the one who must eliminate her. That is definitely not what Colby wants to think about since she is crushing on Thomas. Yet there is more to Colby's intelligence and maturity than anyone else could possibly have guessed, including Colby! Oh, and one other bad piece of news, her creator keeps showing up.

***** An interesting new series for young adults revolving around vampire and human society. I was hooked almost immediately and could not stop reading until the last page had been turned! When the story ended I was so bummed. I wanted to know what happened later in life. Therefore, I was thrilled to learn that there will be a second novel titled "Fangs 4 Freaks" due for release in November 2006. YES! Author Serena Robar has created a fascinating world which blends high school and normal teen life with a darker world that hides in plain sight. I foresee awards in this author's future. Highly recommended! *****

Author: Linda Joy Singleton
Title - Sword Play (Bk 4 of The Seer series / Teen)

Sabine Rose is upset that her mother is making her move away from Nona and all her friends in Sheridan Valley. Sabine does not want to return to San Jose. Yes, it will be nice to see her sisters, who are twins, and her father; however, she does not care to be near her mother or the gossiping people at Arcadia High that actually had a petition made up to have her forced out of the school. There were over one hundred names on the petition, including her best friend's, Brianne. So going bad is not a cheery thought. It is made worse when the spirit of Kip Hurst shows up in her bedroom the night before she is due to leave. Kip died six months ago in a car wreck on prom night, shortly after he dropped his girlfriend off at home. Sabine tried to save Kip by telling him of her vision. When he died, everyone began whispering and blaming her! Now Kip is asking Sabine to "help her". Problem with that is that Kip did not say WHO she was to help.

Sabine is giving out candy on Halloween when Mr. Landreth, her fencing instructor, shows up at her door. He wants Sabine to get back into fencing, even though Sabine clearly states that she does not want to. Sly and persistent Mr. Landreth soon has her agreeing to help him teach beginners. The famous fencing club, known as the Foils, comes back into her life. Sabine used to be in the club, before she left for Nona's home. The only really tough one to see again is Brianne.

Ashley and Amy, her twin sisters, believe Kip wants Sabine to help his younger sister, Lucretia, out. Sabine believes that Kip wants her to help his ex-girlfriend, Aileen, out. At the same time, Dominic drives up from Sheridan Valley with a lead to locating the fourth and final charm that could help save Nona. Looks like time is the one thing Sabine does not have any more. The part that hurts Sabine the most though is that her boyfriend, Josh, had promised to drive up every weekend to spend time with her; however, he has not.

***** An excellent addition to the "Seer" series. Looks like things are beginning to wrap up for Sabine and those around her, in Sheridan Valley AND in San Jose. The next book may the final one. So keep an eye on the author's web site for any new updates. As for me, I could not put the book down. I began reading it in the morning and did not stop until the last page had been read. The author added in some startling twists too! My jaw almost hit the floor at one point. This is a MUST READ during your Summer Vacation! *****

Author: Kasey Michaels
Title - Beware of Virtuous Women
(Long Regency / A Romney Marsh Novel)

In this installment of the Becket series, Jack Eastwood plans to make a large splash in London society to catch the attention of a trio of men, one of which could very well be the leader of the Red Men Gang. Jack discusses his plans with Ainsley Becket and the unusual men that surround the gent. To make it all seem more real, Jack needs someone to play the part of his wife. Elly forcefully volunteers for the position.

Around the age of six, Eleanor "Elly" suffered an injury to her leg and foot while she was at sea. The injury left her with slight limp. Since then, she has been with (Captain) Ainsley Becket and his rag-tag clan in Romney Marsh. She is now twenty-one. She has sat quietly in the background, admiring and dreaming of Jack, but never trying to make him notice her. But when she learns the names of the three men Jack is after, she knows that she must seize this opportunity. In volunteering to play the role of Jack's wife, she not only gets to spend time with the man she secretly loves, but has a chance of finding out some answers about her childhood. The only problem Elly really has is keeping her personal secrets away from Jack's prying eyes.

Jack never paid much attention to the quiet lady whenever he was in Romney Marsh. But now that he sees Elly Jack cannot seem to take his eyes off of her. This fragile looking lady looks like a mouse to anyone who does not know better. There is strategy behind Elly's quietness and keen intelligence behind those oh, so innocent eyes. As Jack falls in love with Elly, he slowly learns that she is possibly even better at tactics than even he.

***** The Black Ghost is not mentioned often in this part of the Romney Marsh tale. You will see characters from previous episodes, but only briefly. Anyone who has not followed the story along will still find themselves enthralled with this dangerous romance. However, they could find themselves just a bit lost in the beginning. The author, anticipating this, gives a brief "Our Story So Far" section. If new readers will take just a moment to read this single page, they will have no trouble at all. Author Kasey Michaels either has a military background or a close family member who has such and helps her with these bold strategies. If I am wrong and Kasey Michaels simply imagined all this up on her own, then I believe myself fortunate never to have had her as an opponent in the Stratego game. All-in-all, I found this to be a brilliant addition to the Romney Marsh series and am eagerly awaiting the next release. *****

Author: Janet Muirhead Hill
Title - Danny's Dragon (Young Adult)

Danny, who is ten-years-old, found out that his dad, who was a pilot, had died in the war in Iraq. At first, he cannot believe it, but after awhile he knows that it is true.

This book shows how Danny overcomes his dad’s death. He pretends that his horse, Dragon, really turns into a real dragon. In his dreams Danny and Dragon try to save his father. Danny has to learn to deal with new people including a boy who used to live in Iraq.

***** I liked this book very much. Everyone should read this great book. Danny’s Dragon is a real page turner, and you will not want to put the book down. This book is good for anyone who has had to deal with death. It is the real reality of losing someone you love. *****

Author: Morgan Leshay
Title - Redemption (Long Regency)

Devlin Montaign, Viscount Syndale, is one of the most notorious rakes around. He is known by most as "Lord Syn". Dev has been in the process of purchasing the old Valholen monastery for quite some time now. All that is left tor Dev to do is sign on the line. That is exactly when the cleric, Mr. Grigory, informs Dev that there is one extra item that MUST be done. Lord Syn must marry Lady Tian, the resident ghost that travelers call the St. Valentine's Angel. Devlin surprises everyone, including himself, by agreeing.

Lady Tian has been living at the monastery for quiet some time now. Only Grigory knows that she is there, as well as, who the lady really is. For several years travelers who have stayed over night at Valholen have spoken about the angel that appears and gives advice. But Devlin never believed any of it. Upon meeting Lady Tian, he could almost believe an angel has actually descended from the heavens just for him. But unknown to them, not everyone is happy about the union.

**** A wonderful regency tale with a bit of suspense thrown in. I found Tian to be very delightful, a mixture of innocence and cunning. However, I believe Lord Syn gave into his feelings for his angel way too easily considering how dark his past is said to be. The author added in a few secondary characters, friends of Dev's, that are an odd bunch indeed. One of these is Lord Merrick. He comes across as even more a rogue than Dev. I look forward to reading his story some day. If you are looking for an enchanting romance with some suspense and surprises, then this is the title you should look up. Recommended! ****

Author: Michael P. Spradlin
Title - Spy Goddess: To Hawaii, With Love
(Teen / Book 2)

Rachel Buchanan is definitely a Beverly Hills girl. But when she fights the law, and loses, even her wealthy father cannot look the other way. That is how she ended up at the Blackthorn Academy, a boarding school in Pennsylvania. What her father did not know, and still does not know, is that the academy sits on top of a sophisticated crime lab and Rachel is training to be a spy. Whether Rachel likes it or not, there is a really evil man named Simon Blankenship, who believes himself to be "Mithras". Simon is after seven treasures that were hidden by Centurions during the Roman era. Simon also believes that Rachel is the reincarnation of the Goddess of Light, Etherea, and he will not rest until she is dead. Rachel is being trained by the school's headmaster, Jonathon Kim. Her group of friends include Pilar, who has psychic feelings, Alex, Pilar's boyfriend who is too macho for words, and Brent, a shy and mysterious super genius.

This time Mr. Kim and Mr. Quinn go to Hawaii, in search of one of the seven treasures. Problem is they are looking in the wrong place. So Rachel and her friends sneak out of the academy and head for Hawaii. Simon, and his dedicated, fanatical group of followers, are waiting for her. Sometimes being a goddess totally reeks!

***** Non-stop action, much like the animated series "Totally Spies". It does not matter if you are male or female, you are going to LOVE these spy novels! I hope they someday get picked up for a television series. STELLAR! *****

Author: Joan Bochmann
Title - Absaroka (YA)

Matt Reed is glad to be in Wyoming again. He has served his time in Vietnam and wants to forget the horrors he has witnessed. Matt's father, Jake, picks him up from the airport and together they return to the Rocking R. Shortly thereafter, Jake dies. Only then does Matt learn that the beloved ranch is mortgaged.

Paul Pringle, Matt's arch rival from their teenage years, used Jake's family problems to get his hands on the deed to the ranch. Matt has only six months to pay $100,000.00 plus foreclosure costs and attorneys' fees to get the ranch back. It seems impossible. Then Jill King informs Matt why Paul really wants the land. It will take the cunning of Jill, a Crow Indian friend named Joe Little Hawk, a herd of wild horses, and an old family friend named Hank to pull off a miracle.

**** The word "Absaroka" is from the Crow language. It means "Wyoming". This story is set during the time of the Vietnam War. I, as the reader, did not even realize that I was learning about the Native Americans that lived during that time, or about how life was. The biggest impact I had was seeing that people in this small town of Sheridan cared about each other and helped each other whenever possible. It is not something one sees often these days.

The story is written in simple terms. It seems to target the young adults; however, I feel that anyone over the age of fifteen can really appreciate the story, especially those who actually lived during these historical years. This is how life was. This story shows the value of family, friends, and honor. You will find yourself cheering Matt on as he struggles to regain the family land. Recommended reading. ****

Author: Linda Joy Singleton
Title - Witch Ball (The Seer #3)

Sabine has returned to Non