Breathe, Annie, Breathe by Miranda Kenneally

Title: Breathe, Annie, Breathe
Author: Miranda Kenneally
ISBN: 9781402284793
Publisher: Sourcebooks Fire
Released: July 15, 2014
Page #: 307
Source: ARC from the publisher

Summary:
"Annie hates running. No matter how far she jogs, she can't escape the guilt that if she hadn't broken up with Kyle, he might still be alive. So to honor his memory, she starts preparing for the marathon he intended to run.

But the training is even more grueling than Annie could have imagined. Despite her coaching, she's at war with her body, her mind - and her heart. With every mile that her training partner, Jeremiah, cheers her on, she grows more conflicted. She wants to run into his arms... and sprint in the opposite direction. For Annie, opening up to love again may be even more of a challenge than crossing the finish line."
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First Lines: (Quoted from the galley - see final copy for edits)

"As a kid, I had the worse mile time ever. 
Our gym teacher made us run the mile a few times a year for something called the Presidential Fitness Test. I'd huff and puff and wonder why the hell President Bush cared how fast I could run laps around the playground."
Page 3
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Review:

It's not very often that a book is set in and around Nashville. So, of course, I had to give this one a shot.

After her boyfriend dies, Annie decides that she has to finish the marathon that he was training for. She's not a runner, though, so she has to go through a fairly grueling training process to even think about finishing the marathon. Along the way, she meets lots of amazing people who have their own demons. Not to mention there's a guy she doesn't expect... and he starts some feeling she's not sure she is ready for. It's all a mess and she's worried that she doesn't even have the strength to finish the race.

I'm always a fan of stories about mental toughness overcoming physical pain and heartbreak. Annie has all of this. She's dealing with the death of her long-term boyfriend - a death that she's convinced she could have prevented. As she finished up high school, there are lots of things she never thought she would have to do on her own. She gets stronger both mentally and physically throughout the course of the book - and it's not without its bumps and hurtles.

Of course, I loved all of the Nashville area markers. It's kind of fun to read about a place I know so well. For me, that was almost worth reading the book altogether. There were a few places that I'd never heard of, so I wonder if they were made up for the purpose of the book. But it worked well and I could easily imagine those trails and the places they stopped... This probably just means there need to be more books set here.

The story spans several months because you start with Annie's first training sessions. Throughout that time, she graduates high school and starts college with some unlikely friends. I appreciate that the author didn't cut any corners because of the timing. I imagine training for a marathon takes at least that long. But you do wonder if there are some things missing because you're only getting the highlights from those months. On the other hand, it allows you to imagine what her life is like other times - which is probably pretty normal.

Because the book spans so much time, that really makes it a lot easier to believe the romance that blooms throughout. It's not fast. Annie wants to take it slow because of her past - and because of who the guy is. It's just really sweet and shows what it can be like when two people are totally falling for each other. With it branching into college, you can imagine she's dealing a little bit with more adult situations of living on her own, but it's well done.

I also enjoy that Annie doesn't come from some amazing background or privilege. She has to work for everything she wants - quite literally. She has to spend her time as a waitress so that she can earn enough money for her training sessions and books for college. I really liked reading about someone who has goals and is willing to work hard for them. And I feel like there might be a lot of kids in that sort of situation who might benefit from hearing her voice.

I would recommend this book for upper YA readers because of all the college stuff. It's sort of a sports book with all of the running and extreme sports. And it would probably be more for wanna-be athletes rather than people who are already good at it. :) But it's a good story and I had a fun time reading it. I think some teens will have the same experience.
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Other Blog Reviews:

Teen Librarian Toolbox
Dear Author
A Bookish Escape
Just a Couple More Pages
Effortlessly Reading
Snuggly Oranges
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The Talking Bookworm
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Smitten Over Books

Kinda Like Brothers by Coe Booth

Title: Kinda Like Brothers
Author: Coe Booth
ISBN: 9780545224963
Publisher: Scholastic
Released: August 26, 2014
Page #: 248
Source: My public library

Summary:
"It was one thing when Jarrett's mom took care of foster babies who needed help. But this time it's different. This time the baby who needs help has an older brother - a kid Jarrett's age named Kevon.

Everyone thinks Jarrett and Kevon should be friends - but that's not gonna happen. Not when Kevon's acting like he's better than Jarrett - and not when Jarrett finds out that Kevon's keeping some major secrets.

Jarrett doesn't think it's fair that he has to share his room, his friends, and his life with some stranger. He's gotta do something about it - but what?"
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First Lines:

"He's leaving.
Kevon.
He's in the corner of the room throwing stuff in that stupid army bag he got, trying to be real quiet."
Page 1
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Review:

I'm pretty much a fan of anything Coe Booth puts out there. This is no exception.

Jarrett's mom is known for taking in foster babies - at any time of night. So when one of those babies comes in with a little extra baggage (aka a big brother), Jarrett realizes that his life is about to change. He has to share everything and his mom expects he and Kevon to get along famously. That's just not the case. In fact, they butt heads at every turn. Neither of them like the situation, and Jarrett cannot wait to get his normal life back.

It's so refreshing to have this sort of middle grade book. It deals with so many issues and it seems like something many kids will be able to relate to. I think some of my favorite things were about the Center. I loved that these boys were doing a step routine, that the boys decide to take yoga, that Jarrett was learning to be a film maker... I just think it's great to show them trying lots of new things and learning more about the world around them.

I think it all boils down to how relatable this book is - and how relatable I hope it is. I hope kids have a place like the Center to go. I hope there are classes happening about being how to be a good man. I hope there are mentors out there like the various men in Jarrett's life. I hope there are women like Jarrett's mom who take in and love babies who need a place to go. I really, really hope that kids who pick up this book find a little bit of themselves in Jarrett - no matter where they're from or what their lives are like.

The storyline about Jarrett struggling in school and probably failing sixth grade makes me really sad. But the thing I really liked about this was the fact that nothing was sugar-coated. He doesn't read well, he doesn't test well. This is a reality for lots of kids out there. But I hope they are able to read this kid's story and realize that there is hope for them. And that they might find comfort that they aren't the only ones.

So, I've got lots of pie-in-the-sky thinking about this book, obviously. It's well written and I think it's packed with wonderful messages. I hope others get the same feelings from it that I did. While I love the YA books that Booth writes, I sort of hope she continues writing for middle graders as well. She is very skilled at both and I look forward to whatever she's got coming in the future.
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Other Blog Reviews:

Guys Lit Wire
Wandering Librarians
ForeverBookish
The One and Only Marfalfa
Running Through the Stars
Reaching Reluctant Readers
YA Books Central
Teen Librarian Toolbox
The Pirate Tree

The Swap by Megan Shull

Title: The Swap
Author: Megan Shull
ISBN: 97800623311696
Publisher: Katherine Tegen Books
Released: August 26, 2014
Page #: 382
Source: ARC from the publisher

Summary:
"Ellie spent the summer before seventh grade getting dropped by her best friend since forever. Jack spent it training in The Cage with his tough-as-nails brothers and hard-to-please dad. By the time middle school starts, they're both ready for a change. And just as Jack's thinking girls have it so easy, Ellie's wishing she could be anyone but herself. Then, BAM! They swap lives - and bodies!

Now Jack is braving sleepover parties, while Ellie reigns as The PRince of Thatcher Middle School. As their crazy weekend races on - and their feelings for each other grow - Ellie and Jack begin to realize that maybe the best way to learn how to be yourself is to spend a little time being someone else.

Told in alternating perspectives, The Swap offers fresh and funny insights into how the other half really lives. "
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First Lines: (Quote from the galley, see final version for edits)

"It's sunny and it's summer and the three of us are sitting on the scratchy cement edge of the Riverside Swim Club pool, dangling our feet into the deep end.
Page 1
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Review:

This was most definitely one of my favorite middle grade books I've read in a while.

Ellie and Jack are both in a tough spot at the beginning of school. They're unhappy about some big aspect of their lives and don't know how to change it. One witchy nurse changes all that - and puts them in each other's bodies. Each of them has a lot to learn about how differently they live... and it changes how they see their own lives.

I'm not sure how much of a review I can write about this book because I really loved it. I mean, the whole switching bodies thing is done really well. The things you wonder about are discussed easily. The whole bathroom issue, the morning situation for boys... it's all in there. And I feel like it's handled really well - and glossed over without it becoming too much of an issue.

I know some have complaints about the gender stereotypes, but I feel like it was fine. I mean, I can easily imagine these kids at any middle school, anywhere. Just because she plays for a soccer team that wears all pink and he has brothers who are so aggressive and tough, doesn't keep me from buying into the story completely. I love that the mean girl got called out so effectively and that both characters were able to help each other so much.

Now that I mention it, the whole sports and fitness thing was a really fun part of the story. The fact that both of them are very into team sports helped them understand each other even more. Their family lives are so different that you almost can't even understand how they could comprehend each other's struggles, but it works out really well.

The ending of this story almost left me in tears. There's a moment with Jack's father that really did make me tear up and I think it will have that effect on many readers. And I just loved how things wrapped up in a pretty package. I honestly don't think I could have asked for more from a middle grade book. I almost wish there were going to be more books about these characters because I loved them so much.

As you can imagine, I will be recommending this book to all of my upper middle grade readers. I think the whole physical differences discussions sort of push it outside of the early middle range... so this is almost more for the kid who is asking questions about body changes - mostly because it actually talks through some of it and might be a helpful tool. Either way, it's a great book and well written. I look forward to reading more from this author.
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Other Blog Review: 

Little Book Star
Sarah Reads Too Much
Between the Pages
Book Loving Me
Gizmo's Book Reviews
Lisa Loves Literature
Paper Riot
Pingwing's Bookshelf
Those Summer Reading Nights
Gisbelle's YA Obsession

Rebel Belle by Rachel Hawkins

Title: Rebel Belle
Author: Rachel Hawkins
ISBN: 9780399256936
Publisher: G.P. Putnam's Sons
Released: April 8, 2014
Series: Rebel Belle #1
Page #: 345
Source: Owned copy

Summary:
"Harper Price, peerless Southern belle, was born ready for a Homecoming tiara. But after a strange run-in at the dance, Harper's destiny takes a turn for the seriously weird. She's imbued with the powers of a Paladin, a guardian with agility, super strength and lethal fighting instincts.

Just when life can't get any more disastrously crazy, Harper finds out who she's charged to protect: David Stark, school reporter, subject of a mysterious prophecy and possibly Harper's least favorite person. Things get complicated when Harper starts falling for him - and discovers that David's own fate could very well be to destroy Earth."
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First Lines:

"Looking back, none of this would have happened if I'd brought lip gloss the night of the Homecoming Dance.
Bee Franklin was the first person to notice that my lips were all naked and indecent."
Page 1
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Review:

Mages. Oracles. Paladins. Magic. It's a whole world right under everyone's noses!

Harper Price is the queen of her school. Her town, even. Everyone knows her and loves her. Her life could not be more perfect. On the night that she is supposed to be crowned Homecoming Queen, something insane happens. She's attacked and semi-accidentally kills someone with her stiletto. And now she's a ninja. Obviously, nothing makes sense anymore and her world is flipped on its head and her cotillion is going to be ruined.

I am going to agree with many of the reviews I've seen that this book is sort of ridiculous and silly, but it is a fun read. I mean, diving into the brain of a girl who is more concerned about her cotillion dress than anything else is sort of a big ask. She's smart, but is stretched so thin that her priorities get a little skewed sometimes. Luckily, she has the perfect friends to back her up on anything... until she becomes a ninja and can't tell them about it.

Going through the discovery process about this underlying world is a lot of fun. It gets even better when you understand that Harper is meant to protect someone she hates. Their relationship is really hilarious and you can see them butting heads at every turn. I think it's one of those things that you can easily imagine... because who didn't have enemies in high school?!?

One thing drove me really nuts. I haven't seen anything about it in anyone's reviews, so maybe I'm just losing my mind. But there is one moment that the author seems to lose track of one of her characters. I feel like I only noticed because I like to visualize what people are doing and appreciate when an author tells me where they're sitting, standing, looking, etc. But there's one spot in this book where the same character sits four different times without ever standing... I looked at it several times to make sure I wasn't going insane. But it really seems like there's an error there.

With that being said, it didn't keep me from enjoying the book. But it did sort of keep me aware of everyone's whereabouts and hoping it wouldn't happen again. And it didn't seem to. So we're good. :) I loved how explosive the ending was in this book. I didn't see most of that coming and it made me really excited for a second book with these characters. Not to mention the possibility of an awesome love triangle! I can only imagine the many directions this story could go.

I will definitely be recommending this book to anyone who loves their realistic stories with a hint of magic. It's a fun book that I know people will get into and an author that many already love. I'll absolutely be checking out the second book when it comes out and I look forward to seeing where this could go!
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Other Blog Reviews:

Effortlessly Reading
Nick's Book Blog
Books and Swoons
The Obsessive Bookseller
Finding Bliss in Books
hell is cold
Read. Breathe. Relax.
Elizziebooks
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deux lectrices

Isla and the Happily Ever After by Stephanie Perkins

Title: Isla and the Happily Ever After
Author: Stephanie Perkins
ISBN: 9780525425632
Publisher: Dutton Books
Released: August 14, 2014
Page #: 339
Source: My public library

Summary:
"Hopeless romantic Isla has had a crush on introspective cartoonist Josh since their first year at the School of America in Paris. And after a chance encounter in Manhattan over the summer, romance might be closer than Isla imagined. But as they began their senior year back in France, Isla and Josh are forced to confront the challenges every young couple must face, including family drama, uncertainty about their college futures, and the very real possibility of being apart.

Featuring cameos from fan-favorites Anna, Etienne, Lola, and Cricket, this sweet and sexy story of true love - set against the stunning backdrops of New York City, Paris, and Barcelona - is a swoonworthy conclusion to Stephanie Perkins's beloved series."
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First Lines:

"It's midnight, it's sweltering, and I might be high on Vicodin, but that guy - that guy right over there - that's him.
The him.
His posture is as familiar as a recurring dream."
Page 1
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Review:

Stephanie Perkins is like a dream author for me. Every book I've read I have thought, "This is my favorite! How is she so good?! When does her next book come out? Why isn't everyone reading this already?" Hopefully they ARE!

Isla and Josh go to school in Paris, but they're both from New York. She's been watching him for years, hoping for him to notice her. Or, at least, more than just some girl in his classes. And when she gets her opening - and she isn't totally herself - she makes a move. It's a clumsy move, but it gets them talking and sets the future on course.

Man. I'm going to try not to gush here. Every step of the way, I was in love with this book. AM in love with this book. It's such a magical, romantic story about two people dealing with the ins and outs of true love. And it's not always pretty. You almost immediately fall in love with both of these characters and I cannot imagine something bad happening to either of them. Of course things fall apart in the middle, but in a way that makes sense.

Perkins is a master at the realistic romance story. And I absolutely adored the way she wove in characters from her previous novels. You don't need to know anything about them, and it's just a nod to the people who have read her other books. It's just so well done! (this is me. not gushing.)

One of the big things that Isla and Josh have to deal with is the college selection process. One of them knows exactly what they want and what it will take to get there. The other has no earthly idea and is contemplating just following the other person on their journey. I think that's an issue that many teens face - especially for those undecided people. It's nice to watch them work through those issues and figure out what it means for the two of them as a couple in the future. Lots of insecurities arise that I distinctly remember feeling as a teen.

There's something so magical about books that are set abroad - especially Paris. They're in this really cool situation there without parents and I think that's what fuels a lot of the story. They are on their own. They have to almost fend for themselves. It's very boarding-school-like, without seeming like an actual boarding school situation. The best of all worlds! And honestly, the immediate set-up had me hooked. The fact that she had just gotten her wisdom teeth out and was on medicine and wandering the streets... it's just so funny and I love the whole damsel in distress - but not really -thing.

Another thing I really enjoyed was Josh's graphic novel that he was working on. I am a person who reads a lot of graphic novels and I thought it was really cool to include that he is an artist who aspires to publish his work. I do think that's an area with growing interest right now - not just reading graphic novels and comics, but to create them. And how you do that effectively. Oh! And the fact that Isla is into comics, too! That was perfect. Thank you for making a girl character who likes things that are sometimes seen as "boy stuff!"

The romantic situations definitely push this book up to older teens, but I think it's fabulous and everyone should read it. Especially adults. I mean, it's just a solid romance that covers so much ground and is extremely well-written. I've said this before, but I'll officially read anything Stephanie Perkins writes. I've drunk the kool-aid. Give. Me. MORE! :)
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Other Blog Reviews:

Dear Author
Mostly YA Book Obsessed
The Pretty Books
Happy Indulgence Books
YA Love Blog
YA Midnight Reads
Bookshelf Fantasies
Consumed By Books
Starlight Book Reviews
Daisy Chain Book Reviews

Perfectly Good White Boy by Carrie Mesrobian

Title: Perfectly Good White Boy
Author: Carrie Mesrobian
ISBN: 9781467734806
Publisher: Carolrhoda Lab
Released: October 28, 2014
Page #: 291
Source: ARC from the publisher

Summary:
"Sean Norwhalt can read between the lines.
He knows she just dumped him. He was a perfectly good summer boyfriend, but now she's off to college, and he's still got another year to go. Her pep talk about futures and 'possibilities' isn't exactly comforting. Sean's pretty sure he's seen his future and his 'possibilities,' and they all look disposable.

Like the crappy rental his family moved into when his dad left.
Like all the unwanted filthy old clothes he stuffs into the rag baler at his thrift-store job.
Like everything good he's ever known.

The only hopeful possibilities in Sean's life are the Marine Corps, where no one expected he'd go, and Neecie Albertson, whom he never expected to care about."
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First Lines: (quoted from the galley - see finished copy for edits.)

"I stood in the back of the barn, in front of a pile of boxes marked 'Tools,' watching the party go on."
Page 1
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Review:

This is exactly the type of book I what I was hoping "New Adult" would be. Just... real. Exactly what I think teen guys are like, for real. There's something to be said for that. Gritty. Raw. Intense.

Sean spends one summer with a girl who is leaving for school in the fall. But she really changes everything about him... how he sees the world, what his future looks like, everything. He starts to see people differently - even his closest friends and family. When he makes the decision to go into the Marines, there is only one person he trusts with his secret.

Honestly, I've decided that this author has the whole "new adult" thing in the bag. I mean, without it actually being classified that way. Her books are honest and real in a way that I rarely see. She doesn't pull any punches. Because of her first book Sex and Violence, I have decided I need to read anything she does. I'm not sure that this second book hit me as much as her first, but it was still fascinating.

I think Marine Corps angle of this book is one that many teen boys will resonate with. I mean, not that they're all going to do it or anything, but that the military is an option to them. And what little boy hasn't wanted to be a soldier at some point in their lives?! Or girl. I mean, let's be real. So the discussion about the medical tests and the swearing in... plus leaving for boot camp... I think it's all stuff that teens will want to know about. I like the way this author dealt with all of that - positively and non-last-resort-ish.

As I mentioned, this book is probably as close to real teen guy thinking as it gets, you can imagine there are some crude bits. That's the wrong word... Accurate bits. There's sex, there's drugs, there's alcohol, there's naughty thoughts... and so much more. I'd probably only hand this book to 17 year olds and up. So if you're a librarian thinking about this title, be sure to keep all that in mind. It's intense!

I think the way the friendship between Sean and Neecie develops is perfect. They become fast friends and tell each other everything. It's kind of nice to see how they play off of one another without it being some sort of weird sexual thing. I mean, not that those thoughts aren't mentioned, but there is an innocence that seems to connect the two of them.

There is a whole lot of family drama and craziness that I think many people will latch onto. A couple of screwed up families and some that have put themselves back together successfully. There's all sorts of types and I think that helps make this book feel so real. One thing that did throw me off was some of the timing in the beginning of the book. It might be changed by the time the final version is out for purchase, but there were some jumps that I didn't quite follow. Lots of asking myself, "wait, was that in the same day?"

All in all, I think this book was really good. I'd definitely recommend Mesrobian's first book over this, but it's still a great story. She does a wonderful job capturing real life and bringing it out through her words. As always, I'm impressed. And as I said before, I'll probably be reading anything she comes out with in the future. Can't wait to see what that might be!
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Other Blog Reviews:

Bibliodaze
Book Snob
There aren't many reviews out there right now, but it looks like there are some decent ones on Goodreads. Check those out.

Can't Look Away by Donna Cooner

Title: Can't Look Away
Author: Donna Cooner
ISBN: 9780545427654
Publisher: Scholastic
Released: August 26, 2014
Page #: 265
Source: ARC from the publisher

Summary:
"Torrey Grey is famous. At least, on the Internet. Thousands of people watch her videos on fashion and beauty. But when Torrey's sister is killed in an accident - maybe because of Torrey and her videos - Torrey's perfect world implodes.

Now, strangers online are bashing Torrey. And at her new school, she doesn't know who to trust. Is queen-bee Blair only interested in Torrey's infamy? What about Raylene, who is unpopular, but seems to accept Torrey for who she is? And then there's Luis, with his brooding dark eyes, whose family runs the local funeral home. Torrey finds herself drawn to Luis, and his fascinating stories about el Dia de los Muertos, the Day of the Dead.

As the Day of the Dead draws near, Torrey will have to really look at her own feelings about death, and life, and everything in between. Can she learn to mourn her sister out of the public eye?"
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First Lines: (Quoted from galley - see final version for exact quote)

"In September, my parents moved me and my dead sister to Texas. 
Today, just one week after the moving trucks left us here, my parents are going to put her ashes in the ground out in the middle of nowhere. The thought of it makes my stomach churn."
Page 3
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Review:

Torrey is a famous YouTube personality, but can't find it in herself to post anything anymore. After her sister's death, her life has been turned upside down. She and her parents move to Texas to be closer to family and she has to start from scratch with new friends and new problems.

It's no secret that I am obsessed with YouTube. There are lots of people I subscribe to and follow closely online - mostly because it's fascinating and often hilarious. The concept of people becoming famous that way is fairly new and I am very interested to see where that takes us. So to have a story about a girl in that position, I was definitely hooked. The whole concept is one that I'm totally interested in. Especially when real life interferes.

That being said, there were a few things that disappointed me in this story - and it all has to do with the character of Torrey. Upon arriving at her new school, her immediate concern is finding the popular crowd and befriending them. And not just that, but being extremely rude to the people outside of that crowd... just to impress. It made me instantly dislike her and the way she views things. And honestly I just wanted to shake her and scream at her about what it means to start fresh.

As you can imagine, things work themselves out so that I ended up not hating her as much. But there's something so shallow and awful about a person who is only concerned about impressing others. Especially when you get the impression that she's out to set trends with her audiences, not just follow them. Wouldn't she be better off to plot her own course in the new school, rather than try to follow someone else? It just didn't ring very true to me - and that's probably because I hate people like that.

There were several interesting characters beyond Torrey, though. Luis is awesome and she doesn't deserve him at all. Raylene is pretty funny and I would have liked to learn a little more about her - especially considering how things turn out in the end. Torrey's parents were interesting characters as well because of how they are pictured dealing with the grief from the death of their daughter.

There's one other thing I'd like to address about this story. Torrey's father takes her to see a therapist to talk about her sister's death. It's obviously forced on Torrey and she's not happy about it. In fact, through the entire scene, she sits silent while the therapist tries to get her to say something. And I know that sometimes that is how things are. But nothing comes of this... it's never mentioned again. It's as though it didn't happen. Really, Luis becomes Torrey's sounding board for everything. And that's fine... but it seemed like a weird scene to throw in if it's never going to even be acknowledged later.

Also... would a YouTuber with 300K+ subscribers still be filming with their laptop cam and their phone?

Okay, so it looks like I had a lot of complaints about this book. But really, I was just hoping for more from it. The concept is solid and I was interested to see how things turned out - even if it was all in a nice, neat little package. I think for those with a passing interest in realistic fiction and current issues (cyberbullying and such), this is probably a good book for them.
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Other Blog Reviews:

Xpresso Reads
Neon Yeti Reads
Tammy Ann Books
The Armchair Librarian
Tweens Read Too
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The Fuma Files

Panic by Lauren Oliver

Title: Panic
Author: Lauren Oliver
ISBN: 9780062299840
Publisher: HarperCollins
Released: March 04, 2014
Duration: 8 hours, 11 minutes
Source: Audiobook from my public library


Summary:
"Panic began as so many things do in Carp, a poor town of twelve thousand people in the middle of nowhere: because it was summer, and there was nothing else to do.

Heather never thought she would compete in panic, a legendary game played by graduating seniors, where the stakes are high and the payoff is even higher. She'd never thought of herself as fearless, the kind of person who would fight to stand out. But when she finds something, and someone, to fight for, she will discover that she is braver than she ever thought.

Dodge has never been aftraid of panic. His secret will fuel him, and get him all the way through the game; he's sure of it. But what he doesn't know is that he's not the only one with a secret. Everyone has something to play for.

For Heather and Dodge, the game will bring new alliances, unexpected revelations, and the possibility of first love for each of them - and the knowledge that sometimes the very things we fear are those we need the most.
____________________________________________
First Lines:

"The water was so cold it took Heather's breath away as she fought past the kids crowding the beach and standing in the shallows, waving towels and homemade signs, cheering and calling up to the remaining jumpers."
Page 2
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Review:

I always put off reading Lauren Oliver's books for whatever reason, but I need to remember this for next time. Her stuff is so good and this book is no exception!

Panic is a game played by graduated seniors in a tiny town... because they have nothing better to do. They keep it a secret from any adults or authority figures because, well, sometimes people get hurt. Actually, someone always gets hurt. It's a game of wills and fear and dares. Don't finish the task? You don't move on and you lose. Heather never wanted glory or money or anything, but she finds herself fighting to stay in the game. Dodge is in it for revenge. No matter what, they have to conquer their own fears to survive.

I wonder if there are actual places that have something like this. It doesn't seem all that far-fetched, honestly. Bored teens start a tradition that gives the winner certain fame? Plus, I feel like doing dares is one of the thrilling things about being a teenager who thinks nothing can harm them. Especially if it's totally under the radar and sneaky. It just seems really plausible and this could make an awesome movie. I know I'd watch it.

I love Heather. She's a normal girl, just living her life. She's not perfect. Her family is in turmoil, her friends are sort of betraying her, and her lovelife is in the dirt. But even through all of that, she is her own kind of badass. Because her lovelife is trashed, she decides to become a part of panic. Because of her mother's inability to take care of them, she takes her sister away and finds somewhere else for them to be. Because her friends are acting weird, she looks inside herself for strength. Plus, she gets a job working on a farm full of animals that she learns to love. She's just awesome and I want to give her a hug.

The development of the various families and the main characters is really interesting. See Heather's stuff above. And then you get the details about Dodge's family - and his sister who was permanently injured because of panic. And something stupid another kid did to her. This has made him angry for so long that he almost sees panic as the only thing that will make things better. But then he starts to make a couple of friends and realizes how things might be off in his head.

This book is totally character driven and I loved every moment of it. I listened to it - an amazing reader, btw. But it put those voices in my head and I could hear them even when I wasn't listening to the book. I think they are just super relatable and there are pieces of them in everyone. Watching all of this unfold was really enjoyable and I kind of didn't want it to end. I want to know what happens to them later, I want good things for all of them.

If you're looking for a great, one-shot, realistic book, then I definitely recommend you give this one a go. It's thrilling and a little bit frightening at times, but it's a story of overcoming impossible odds and finding your own personal strength. Who wouldn't want to read about that?! Probably best for older teens, for sure. But I almost just want everyone to read it anyway. :) I promise to try not to put off reading Oliver's next book...
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Other Blog Reviews:

Parajunkee
Miss Page-Turner's City of Books
Book. Blog. Bake.
Happy Indulgence
Living for the Books
YA Midnight Reads
Dreaming in Books
Oops! I Read a Book Again
The Social Potato
The Obsessive Bookseller

Don't Turn Around by Michelle Gagnon

Title: Don't Turn Around

Author: Michelle Gagnon
ISBN: 9780062227706
Publisher: HarperCollins
Released: August 28, 2012
Series: PERSEPH0NE #1
Duration: 8 hours, 31 minutes
Source: Audiobook from my public library

Summary:
"Sixteen-year-old Noa has been a victim of the system ever since her parents died. Now living off the grid and trusting no one, she uses her computer-hacking skills to stay safely anonymous and alone. But when she wakes up on a table in an empty warehouse with an IV in her arm and no memory of how she got there, Noa starts to wish she had someone on her side.

Enter Peter Gregory. A rich kid and the leader of the hacker alliance, Peter needs people with Noa's talents on his team. Especially after a shady corporation called AMRF threatens his life in no uncertain terms.

But what Noa and Peter don't realize is that Noa holds the key to a terrible secret, and there are those who'd stop at nothing to silence her for good."
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First Lines:

"When Noa Torson woke up, the first thing she noticed was that her feet were cold. Odd, since she always wore socks to bed. She opened her eyes and immediately winced against the glare."
Page 1
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Review:

Secrets, lies, shady companies, hackers, underground hospitals, dead bodies piling up... what more do you want out of a YA mystery/cyber thriller?

Noa and Peter are both part of an online hacker community. They want to do good in the world by taking down corporations that deal with less-than-savory business. But when they start digging into the wrong corp, bad things start happening. Noa has been changed somehow - she doesn't need food, doesn't get tired, and doesn't really feel the changes in the weather. Not to mention that she is always on the run anyway with no place to call home. Peter is the opposite, until he starts questioning his parent's reactions to him being attacked. It's all very mysterious.

I really think this is a solid mystery/sci fi/thriller. But I'm probably partial to anything dealing with hackers, because I find them fascinating. Especially when you're dealing with a group who makes it their mission to make the world a better place. If only there were actually groups like that (are there?).

I can almost pinpoint the moment that I decided I really liked this book. At first, you're getting these very different stories about Noa and Peter. They are both trying to figure out what's going on, but they don't seem to connect in any way. It's just that they semi-know each other from the online community. But the moment that they realize working together is the way to go, I was hooked. They make a really interesting team and the dynamic is uncomfortably awesome. Both of them have trouble trusting anyone now and their alliance is uneasy. Which makes for some great drama. :)

The whole thing about farming kids who won't be missed is highly disturbing. I'm sure something like this actually does happen in the world - and we wouldn't even know it. Luckily, the adults in charge of that opperation come off looking like super creepers. And sometimes a little stupid in a meathead kinda way. Which makes the whole thing seem a little less horrifying. But the point is for Noa and Peter to find a way to take them down...

This is the first in a series, so you're left with a pretty steep cliffhanger. I'll definitely be checking out the next audiobook from my library in the near future. I just have to know what is going to happen to them! They did a great job with the audio and I'll be making sure to recommend that as an option. If you're a cyber thriller-lover like me, then you'll really dig this story. I'm excited to see where the author takes us next!
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Other Blog Reviews:

Book Nerd
Story Snoops
Stacked
Reading Lark
Fine Print
Sash & Em
A Leisure Moment
Birth of a New Witch
Recaptains
Appraising Pages

Broken Hearts, Fences and Other Things to Mend by Katie Finn

Title: Broken Hearts, Fences and Other Things to Mend

Author: Katie Finn
ISBN: 9781250045249
Publisher: Feiwel and Friends
Released: May 13, 2014
Page #: 339
Series: Broken Hearts and Revenge #1
Source: ARC from the publisher

Summary:
"Gemma had her summer all planned out, but it takes a sharp turn when she gets dumped and finds herself back in the Hamptons after a five-year absence.

Being there puts her at risk of bumping into Hallie, her former best friend (that is, before Gemma ruined her life.) But people don't hold grudges forever. Do they?

Gemma intends on making amends, but a small case of mistaken identity causes the people she knew years ago - including Hallie and her dreamy brother Josh - to believe she's someone else. As though the summer wasn't complicated enough already.

Can Gemma keep up the charade? Or will she be found out by the very people she's been hiding from?"
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Review:

I feel like everyone has that one thing from childhood that they regret. They said something mean to someone, did something horrid, etc. I know I did... and this book really brings that to the forefront.

Gemma has to spend the summer in the Hamptons with her father. It doesn't sound so bad until she realizes that her friend from the past is staying there, too. Years ago, Gemma had been horrible to her and her family, so now she feels like she has to make up for it. By luck, they all think her name is something different - and she looks different enough after a few years of growing up, that they are fooled. Now she has the chance to see if everyone has moved on and she can become friends with Hallie again.

Stories like this are sort of refreshing sometimes. It's light and easy, but there's enough drama going on to keep you interested. It's amazing how much can be messed up just by not correcting someone. Gemma lets Josh think her name is Sophie, just because it's on her coffee cup. But then it quickly snowballs because of who Josh is. Then it gets even bigger because now there is a whole group of people who know her as Sophie... so they just can't interact with anyone who knows her real name. I can imagine living like that would get all sorts of confusing. Especially when you run into people who know you from the past.

So, there's a lot of mistaken (on purpose-ish) identities, but there are also crazy things happening in Gemma's life. It seems like nothing will go right. She will break things, lose things, get sick, and so much more. It sounds like the most miserable summer of all time. But she has to keep up the charade and not let those things get her down. All of this is while she's trying to be the best possible friend to Hallie and trying to figure out what her relationship status is with Josh. She just can't... you know... be herself.

The one serious drawback of this book for me was that I could see what was going to happen a mile away. Honestly, soon after she got to the Hamptons and was just getting her feet under her, I could see what was happening. It's just a little shocking that it took Gemma that long to figure things out. And she doesn't, exactly. She is told. Well, you'll see what I mean when you read it. But because I knew what was going to happen, I lost a little interest. The book took me a little longer than it probably should have.

But all in all, it's a cute story that I think lots of romance lovers will be all about. It does leave you on a cliffhanger, so I am wondering what could possibly be next. There are a couple of aspects of the story that I know will pan out, but I'm guessing it will be more than that. So, if you're looking for a fun beach read, then this book is for you. Especially if you're a fan of friendship drama and lurv. :)
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Other Blog Reviews:

Bewitched Bookworms
Alexa Loves Books
Libby Blog
Paper Cuts
Starlight Book Reviews
Buried in Books
The YA Kitten
Paper Riot
Rather Be Reading
In Bed with Books

Exile by Kevin Emerson

Title: Exile

Author: Kevin Emerson
ISBN: 9780062133953
Publisher: Katherine Tegen Books
Released: April 29, 2014
Page #: 320
Source: ARC from the publisher

Blurb:
"Summer Carlson knows how to manage bands like a professional - minus the whole 'falling for the lead singer of the latest band' part. But Caleb Daniels isn't an ordinary band boy - he's a hot, dreamy, sweet-singing, exiled-from-his-old-band, possibly-with-a-deep-dark-side band boy. She also finds herself at the center of a mystery she never saw coming. When Calbe reveals a secret about his long-lost father, one band's past becomes another's present, and Summer finds it harder and harder to be both band manager and girlfriend. Maybe it's time to accept who she really is, even if it means becoming an exile herself..."
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First Lines: (Quotation from the galley, check final book for edits.)

"Just after dinner on the night before the start of senior year, Dad polishes off his guacamole garden burger, looks at me seriously, and asks, 'So, now what, then?'"
Page 1
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Review:

Summer has managed a band before - and she lost them to a big label. Now she has to start fresh and scope out new talent at her performing arts school. It's pretty easy to find someone new, but she has to contend with a lot of baggage. More baggage than she realized. But that also sets the new band up for future successes and a pretty epic treasure hunt. And quite a few shady characters mill around making things all mysterious.

I'm not a band girl. Well, not a rock band girl. I was the other kind of band girl...
Anyway, there's is a whole mindset of this book that is a little above my head. I mean, I get the basic concept. I understand the draw of the band. And I even can imagine the insane personalities that you encounter. But all of the rock references... yep, didn't get those. Something about Zepplin? Erm. A Beatles record? Okay. So I feel like there was something I missed out on a little bit, but it didn't keep me from enjoying the book.

I wasn't expecting the epic mystery element of this story. I think my expectation was just a cute story about musicians and touring and all that. Instead, this is a story about family and learning about what's important in life. I was a little impressed at how much deeper things went. Of course, you have to have the love triangle (which gets blown up) and the dramatics between the band members. And that there are several people who aren't who they say/think they are?! Gotta love that piece of intrigue!

There were a few times that I really wanted to strangle Summer. I get that she feels like she can't be herself around her parents. My parents were very understanding about things, so I have a hard time believing that her parents wouldn't understand her wanting to be a band manager. But that's just because of my own life experiences. I know a lot of families are more like hers, but it was hard to watch. I just wanted her to be truthful and loving. Instead she snuck around and lied to her parents. Oh god... does me noticing this make me old? Probably. But she's also constantly worrying about things and talking about how bad of an idea it is to date a band boy. And she does it anyway.

One very cool thing about this book - there is music that comes with it. Check it out: http://www.kevinemerson.net/2014/04/the-exile-soundtrack-is-here-three.html
I'm all about an interactive reading experience. No, the music isn't my taste (I'm an EDM fan), but it's still really cool. I know that sometimes authors put out soundtrack lists... but I haven't seen it done like this. I imagine that a lot of readers will really go for this.

All in all, this was a fun, entertaining story that I think people will really enjoy. I'm sure some of you will want to shake Summer as hard as I do, but the overall story is redeeming. This may be perfect for your beach reading this summer. (get it? summer? yolo.)
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Other Blog Reviews:

Nerdy Book Club
Candace's Book Blog
Snuggly Oranges
Books YA Love
The Book Hookup
The White Unicorn
The Storybook Kingdom
Reviews from a Bookworm
YA Romantics
Sarah Elizabeth's Bookshelf

Tease by Amanda Maciel

Title: Tease
Author: Amanda Maciel
ISBN: 9780062305305
Publisher: Balzer + Bray
Released: April 29, 2014
Page #: 321
Source: ARC from the publisher

Summary:
"Emma Putnam is dead, and it's all Sara Wharton's fault.
At least, that's what everyone seems to think. Sara, along with her best friend and three other classmates, has been criminally charged for the bullying and harassment that lead to Emma's shocking suicide. Now Sara is the one who's ostracized, already guilty according to her peers, the community, and the media.

In the summer before her senior year, in between meetings with lawyers and a court-recommended therapist, Sara is forced to reflect on the events that brought her to this moment - and ultimately consider her role in an undeniable tragedy. And she'll have to find a way to move forward, even when it feels like her own life is over.

 

In this powerful debut novel inspired by real-life events, Amanda Maciel weaves a narrative of high school life as complex and heartbreaking as it is familiar. Tease is a thought-provoking must-read that will haunt readers long after the last page."
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First Lines: (Quote from the galley - see final copy for official quote.)

 

"'Did you ever have a physical confrontation with Miss Putnam?'

'Did what?'

'Did you ever have a-'

'Oh. Yeah. Uhm, yeah, I guess there was that one time in the locker room.'

The lawyer writes this down, even though the tape recorder is on, has been the whole time."

Page 1

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Review:

 

Hearing the story from the perspective of the bully is pretty intense. She's torn about what's right and what's wrong - especially when there are lawyers telling her what she has to think.

 

Sara is being charged with harassment because her classmate committed suicide after being bullied by her. She's not the only one - her best friend is also being charged, along with some guys who went out with the girl. They all have various charges, but it amounts to them being responsible for the girl who hung herself in her family's garage. The problem is that none of these people actually think they're to blame. They're not allowed to see or speak to each other, so Sara feels very alone in all of these meetings and therapy sessions and getting through summer school.

 

It was really hard for me to like Sara. And Emma. And Brielle.

Okay, so maybe I wouldn't want to be friends with ANY of the characters in this book. It seems like everything they do is petty and stupid. And I'm not just talking about the bullies - yes, they act horribly towards Emma and don't care about anything. But Emma also does some pretty horrid stuff herself. I mean, assuming all of the rumors and stuff were true. It's hard to feel for someone who seems so weepie and possibly-slutty.

 

I know, I know. The story is being told from the perspective of a bully. That means we probably aren't getting an accurate picture of what Emma is actually like. But without that other side of the story, it's hard to feel compassion towards any of them. Maybe in the last, like, five pages. But throughout the entire story, I didn't know what to think. Was Sara bullied into doing the bullying? Did Brielle make her do those things? Maybe she's just as much a victim.

 

All of that being said, this book seems extremely close to real life. I can imagine all of these things happening in a high school right now. Which is sad for many reasons, obviously. It might have been nice to have more of the post-trial story. How did Sara pull herself together after all of this? What will she change about friendships and boyfriends in the future? There's a little glimpse of that, but it might have been helpful (for teens reading this book who are looking for some guidance on the "what next.").

 

It's a pretty raw book emotionally. I appreciate that Sara is not immediately apologetic for the things that happened. She deals with things in a very real and logical way. She can't see how she can be blamed for someone else's actions. It's a hard thing to grasp, for sure. The way she is written and the thought process she takes is really wonderful. Again... real life. That's definitely where this author excels.

 

I can't say that this was my favorite book of the year or anything, but I think it will be worthwhile for people looking for books about bullying. It's such a hot topic right now and I know a lot of schools are dealing with it in various ways. Hopefully the title of this book won't hinder anyone from getting it for a school. The perspective is worth it and is something that people need to read. Seeing things from the bullied standpoint is also very important, but it's nice to have something that explains the other side a little more.

 

So, good book. Worth a read. Be prepared to struggle with liking the characters. But it's a story that will stick with you long after you put the book down. There's a lot to chew on.

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Other Blog Reviews:

 

Mab is Mab

The Young Folks

Xpresso Reads

The Irish Banana

As the Crowe Flies (and Reads!)

Social Potato

Great Imaginations

Me, My Shelf, and I

Lit Up Review

Looking for the Panacea

Sex and Violence by Carrie Mesrobian

Title: Sex and Violence
Author: Carrie Mesrobian
ISBN: 9781467705974
Publisher: CarolRhoda Lab
Released: October 01, 2013
Page #: 294
Source: copy from my public library

Summary:
"At first you don't see the connection.
Sex has always come without consequences for seventeen-year-old Evan Carter. He has a strategy - knows the profile of The Girl Who Would Say Yes. In each new town, each new school, he can count on plenty of action before he and his father move again. Getting down is never a problem. Until he hooks up with the wrong girl and finds himself in the wrong place at very much the wrong time.

And then you can't see anything else.
After an assault that leaves Evan bleeding and broken, his father takes him to the family cabin in rural Pearl Lake, Minnesota, so Evan's body can heal. But what about his mind?

How do you go on when you can't think of one without the other?
Nothing seems natural to Evan anymore. Nothing seems safe. The fear - and the guilt - are inescapable. He can't sort out how he feels about anyone, least of all himself. Evan's never really known another person well, and Pearl Lake is the kind of place where people know everything about each other - where there might be other reasons to talk to a girl. It's all annoying as hell. It might also be Evan's best shot to untangle Sex and Violence.

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First Lines:

 

"You'd think the most fucked-up part of the last year would be the moment when I read this and thought, 'Yeah, that. That sounds like the way to go.'"

Page 1

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Review:

 

Didn't actually mean to start reading this book, but it was sitting on my desk and I started to skim. Can you believe I got totally sucked in and decided I had to give it a full read? I feel like this book was a little bit of a reach for me - more real and intense than what I'm used to. But I'm very glad I picked it up because there's a lot to digest!

 

Evan knows how to find the girls who will be up for anything. He's good at it. And finds them in every new town they live in. Unfortunately, he finds the wrong girl at his latest boarding school. After being beaten beyond recognition, his father moves them to a tiny lake town in the middle of nowhere. He has to re-learn how to talk to people, how to be around people, how to trust people - if he ever did before.

 

I'm wavering a little bit about whether I really liked this book or not. On one hand, I loved it. I thought it was real and gritty and true to the brain of a 17 y/o guy. The things he learns about himself and other people are done in the slow, calculating way that makes sense to real life. I was just super impressed about how things were handled - and it was almost never the easy way. Evan is skeptical about pretty much everything and spends his life trying to project the right image. I just really found myself rooting for him to man up and figure things out.

 

On the other hand, Evan is a gigantic douche. Seriously, he has finding the right girl for sex down to a science. And not relationships, either. Just physical... one-time things, usually. The sluttiest person on the planet. A womanizer in the making. It makes him really hard to like in the beginning. Luckily, there is a lot of introspection and therapy after the beating, so Evan really starts to redeem himself. A lot of this has to do with the people he meets and befriends - which is something really new to him.

 

This is probably the grittiest book I've read in a while. YA Lit is usually so sugar coated and sweet - even things from guy perspectives. Which is fine for most things, but it sort of hits you hard when you read a book that is so realistic. I thought it was well done and the voice of Evan just washes over you. There's a bit about parenting fails, too. His dad doesn't know what to do with him, so effectively doesn't talk to him about anything. And Evan realizes that his dad is dealing with his own demons - ones that are slowly coming to light during their time at the lake.

 

Now, a little bit of warning... this book is chock full of drug use, sex, language, violence, and more. A lot of hard-hitting topics are dealt with here and nothing is skimmed over. Imagine the brain of a teenage boy... yep. You've got it. All of it. So, while this book is written for teenagers, I would have a hard time giving it to someone under, like, sixteen. Maybe. It's one of those "use your own discretion" books. But you've got fair warning here.

 

I guess that's one other thing that sort of bothered me about this book... the blase drug use. The whole, "It's no big deal. It's just pot." mindset was a little interesting. I get that's how it probably is... not in my life... but I can imagine how it's totally normal for some. There's also the scenes with the shrooms. I guess I was sort of hoping for someone to have a bad reaction to something and have that "drugs are bad!" moment. But it never happened. Guess that might be old-school YA talking?

 

Anyway, all in all I think I loved this book. It's definitely stuck with me and I think it will for a long time. There's a lot to chew on, so give it a good solid week. :) I'm definitely interested to see what this author comes out with next.

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Other Blog Reviews:

 

YA Books Central

Into the Hall of Books

Annette's Book Spot

Books and Beautiful World

Ivy Book Bindings

Once Upon a Bookcase

Stacked Books

Waking Brain Cells

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