Review - Chasing the Prophecy (Beyonders #3) by Brandon Mull

Title: Chasing the Prophecy

Author: Brandon Mull

Series: 3rd (A World Without Heroes, Seeds of Rebellion) 

Pages: 512

Published: March 12th 2013 by Aladdin

ISBN: 9781416997962
Source: Library

 

Description: Jason and Rachel were not born in Lyrian. They did not grow up in Lyrian. But after all of the battles and losses, the triumphs and adventures, and most of all, the friendships forged in this fantastical world, Lyrian has become home to them in a way they never could have imagined. And so, armed now with the prophecy of a dying oracle, they have gone on their separate quests—each surrounded by brave and powerful allies—knowing that the chance for success is slim. But Jason and Rachel are ready at last to become the heroes Lyrian needs, no matter the cost.

I Give This ...

I'm a huge Brandon Mull fan.  I've loved this series so far. I kind of put off reading this final book because I wasn't ready for the series to end.  And it's always hard to pick up the final book for various reasons.  Will I like it?  Will it end the way I thin it should?  Can all the characters have the ending they deserve?

I was only slightly disappointed in the fact that at over 500 pages, this book can be a little slow in places.  There are instances were I felt the story lagged and something had to happen in order for the story to go anywhere.  It's was like a slow march to certain death and destruction.  However, the story was saved by the actions of the characters.

 

I'm always short of words when it comes to the characters in this series.  Mull ranks right up there with Rowling when it comes to defining characteristics that make for literary characters one can admire and look up to.   Jason may not always have the brains, but he makes up for it in shear determination and bravery. Yet, I never felt he acted rashly.  He make sound decisions about his actions and showed unwavering trust in his companions.  While Jason may be the backbone, Rachel is the brains.  She was chosen for her mission for a reason.  She has the ability to see the whole picture when she only has a piece.  And her knowledge and mastery of the magic of Lyrian is impressive.

I think my favorite character has ended up being Ferrin.  Who knew a displacer that could always be counted on to put their needs above anyone else would be the one to save the day.  I was never sure how he would influence the story (good or bad) and I'm sure he knew either.  I was pleased to see that he was able to rise above his own doubts and be the hero of the story.

I will be no doubt closely watching what Brandon Mull produces next.  And hoping that one day he gets the recognition I think he deserves. 

 

 

 

Review - The Captive Maiden by Melanie Dickerson

Title: The Captive Maiden

Author: Melanie Dickerson

Series: Stand Alone

Pages: 302

Published: November 23rd 2013 by Zondervan

ISBN: 9780310724414

Source: Publisher via Netgalley

Description: Gisela's childhood was filled with laughter and visits from nobles such as the duke and his young son. But since her father's death, each day has been filled with nothing but servitude to her stepmother. So when Gisela meets the duke's son, Valten--the boy she has daydreamed about for years--and learns he is throwing a ball, she vows to attend, even if it's only for a taste of a life she'll never have. To her surprise, she catches Valten's eye. Though he is rough around the edges, Gisela finds Valten has completely captured her heart. But other forces are bent on keeping the two from falling further in love, putting Gisela in more danger than she ever imagined.

I Give This ...

I love fairy tale retellings.  I particularly enjoy Melanie Dickerson's versions.  They are clean and tastefully done, even if they don't stray much from the original idea.  This one was no different.

The story of Cinderella is actually one of my favorite fairy tales, so this one called to me.  I enjoyed how this story was setup.  Gisela is the daughter of a wealthy business man known for his outstanding horse farm.  Which was one of the aspects I enjoyed most in this story.  Gisela has her father's affinity for horses and I found it charming.  After her father's death, Gisela's stepmother has sold the horses one by one to keep up her extravagant lifestyle.   She also knows it's the one was to keep Gisela in check and continue to do her bidding.  

I was curious the first time we meet Valten.  I was sure that Gisela had built up this girlhood crush into a man that could never leave up to that ideal.  While Valten is far from perfect, I was relieved to learn to that Gisela was willing to see Valten for what he was.  I actually enjoyed their flirting and how they interacted with each other.  I never felt like it was an instant attraction.  They were drawn together and circumstances led to the intensity.  Plus, fairy tales are all about the heroics.  

This story actually reminded me a lot of Ever After, which is has always been one of my favorite movies, so double bonus.  I need to remember to read another one of Melanie Dickerson's books.  I have a couple on my Kindle ready to go!

Review - The Shadow Throne (The Ascendance Trilogy #3) by Jennifer A. Nielsen

Title: The Shadow Throne

Author: Jennifer A Nielsen

Series: 3rd (The False Prince, The Runaway King)

Pages: 336

Published:  February 25th 2014 by Scholastic Press 

ISBN:  9780545284172

Source: Publisher via Netgalley

Description: One war. Too many deadly battles. Can a king save his kingdom, when his own survival seems unlikely? War has come to Carthya. It knocks at every door and window in the land. And when Jaron learns that King Vargan of Avenia has kidnapped Imogen in a plot to bring Carthya to its knees, Jaron knows it is up to him to embark on a daring rescue mission. But everything that can go wrong does. His friends are flung far and wide across Carthya and its neighbouring lands. In a last-ditch effort to stave off what looks to be a devastating loss for the kingdom, Jaron undertakes what may be his last journey to save everything and everyone he loves. But even with his lightning-quick wit, Jaron cannot forestall the terrible danger that descends on him and his country. Along the way, will he lose what matters most? And in the end, who will sit on Carthya's throne? 

I Give This ...

 Anticipation could not have been higher when it came to this book.  I'll be the first to sing my praises for this series, so this last book in the series had a lot to live up to.  Jennifer Nielsen pulled it off with a bang.

 

I've come to expect a lot from Jaron.  He's basically the complete package.  He's smart, resourceful, courageous, and cares for his country.  He's going to do anything in his power to prevent a complete takeover from another country.  It also kills him to know that to do this there will be loss of life on both sides.  It's a price he has the hardest time paying and I think that shows honor as well.

I admired that fact that the author was not afraid to take this story to the brink of despair.  Characters die that you would think would make it to the very end.  I honestly had no idea if Jaron would save the day because King Vargon always seems one step ahead. How is it that Jaron never really gives up hope?  Even when it seems like there is no way out, Jaron is willing to trade his life to bargain for his people.   

Our cast of characters fill out the rest of the story beautifully.  They all have a role to play even if they don't know the ultimate plan that Jaron has. It makes those final moments that much more suspenseful.  I even got one of those rare surprises and someone ultimately wasn't on the side I thought they were on.

I can not recommend this series enough!  It's well rounded, has awesome characters, and rich world building.  I think I need to seek out this author's previous books and I look forward to what she offers in the future!

Review - Bright Blue Miracle by Becca Wilhite

Title: Bright Blue Miracle

Author: Becca Whilhite

Series: Stand Alone

Pages: 173

Published:  February 4th 2009 by Shadow Mountain 

ISBN: 9781606410318

Source: Personal Copy

 

Description: Seventeen-year-old Leigh Mason is not sure she's ready to share her mom, her bedroom, and her little sisters with her new stepsister, Betsy. And she's definitely not ready to share her best friend, who happens to be a boy! Coping with a blended family is not easy for either Leigh or Betsy, especially during their senior year in high school. Each step brings them nearer to a crisis that will either send them running in different directions or bind them firmly together (which, let's face it, would take a miracle). Bright Blue Miracle is a new young adult novel that has everything a girl wants: a hero (more specifically, a really cute boy), a villain (who happens to be a stepsister), comedy, despair, pedicures, ice cream, love, hate, tennis, revenge, and, of course, a couple of surprises that might send you for some tissues.

I Give This ...
 

I found this at my local Walmart one day quite a long time ago.  The cover really caught my interest because its so bright.  The story sounded promising, although since I found it in the LDS section I knew it was apt to be pretty cleanly written as well.

I think its a true tribute to her upbringing that Leigh doesn't all out rebel at the changes she has to go through.  Being a teenage girl isn't easy, add in a new step-sister and things are going to be challenging.   She asked to share her room with a person she barely knows and really doesn't like much in the beginning.  I was a little surprised at that arrangement.  I think it put to much pressure on the girls to get along.   I think the family probably could have functioned better if they found a way to let them both have their own space.

I was also surprised that Betsy chooses to date Leigh's best friend.  I know she asked if it was ok, but it was another way I felt that Leigh was asked to bend over backward for Betsy.   Be nice to her...she gave up her home and friends to move here was a phrase while not necessarily spoken was definitely felt.   I never though Leigh got a fair chance to display her emotions, or that her family thought she was justified in doing so.

I did really like the overall message that's displayed in this story.  Family comes first, even when its a blended family.  That sometimes things need to fall apart a little before they can fully come together.  And I think perhaps the biggest one is that everybody deserves a chance.   I think it takes courage to look beyond what you initially see and look deeper.

 

Review - The Runaway King (The Ascendance Trilogy #2) by Jennifer A. Nielsen

Title: The Runaway King

Author: Jennifer A. Nielsen

Series: 2nd (The False Prince)

Pages: 352

Published: March 1st 2013 by Scholastic Press 

ISBN:  9780545284158

Source: Publisher via Netgalley

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

I Give This ...

  

I anticipated this one a great deal.  I loved the first one and had extremely high hopes that the sequel would live up to the build up.  I was so pleased to have it be exactly that!

Jaron really captured my heart.  I believe his desire to rule his people is true.  The problem lies in the fact that he is head strong.  His regents aren't use to having a king that might actually rule for the good of the people.  They want a docile king so that they can continue to enjoy the kickbacks that come their way.  However, I knew that Jaron would not sit back and let his country be taken from him.

What I did not expect were the lengths he would go to ensure the safety of his kingdom.  He's able to cross his countries borders and integrate into the very group that could do some of the worst damage.  He has to prove himself over and over again.  His wiliness to go through some of most excruciating circumstances becomes the stuff of legends.  In the end, he earns back the person he wants most to lead his army.  What remains to be seen is who will at his side to rule as Queen.   

I think one of things that makes this series so enjoyable is the dialogue.  Nielsen has a way with words that make the characters seem alive and real.  The story may be fantasy, but it rings true.  I can't wait to read the next in the series! 

 

Review - Seeds of Rebellion (Beyonders #2) by Brandon Mull

Title: Seeds of Rebelllion

Author: Brandon Mull

Series: 2nd (A World Without Heroes)

Pages: 512

Published:  March 13th 2012 by Aladdin

ISBN: 9781416997948

Source: Library

Description: After the cliffhanger ending of A World Without Heroes, Jason is back in the world he’s always known—yet for all his efforts to get home, he finds himself itching to return to Lyrian. Jason knows that the shocking truth he learned from Maldor is precious information that all of his friends in Lyrian, including Rachel, need if they have any hope of surviving and defeating the evil emperor.  Meanwhile, Rachel and the others have discovered new enemies—as well as new abilities that could turn the tide of the entire quest. And as soon as Jason succeeds in crossing over to Lyrian, he’s in more danger than ever. Once the group reunites, they strive to convince their most-needed ally to join the war and form a rebellion strong enough to triumph over Maldor. At the center of it all, Jason and Rachel realize what roles they’re meant to play—and the answers are as surprising as they are gripping.

I Give This ...

I'm a huge Brandon Mull fan.  If you haven't read any of his books, you really need to do so soon!   However, I was a tad disappointed in this book.  It just didn't really live up to the first book in the series and feel short of my love for his other series.

All our characters are back, and for that I soldiered on through this book.  Jason ends up back in Lyrian.  It doesn't take him long to find Rachel.  And the little band of rebels marches forward with a plan.   There are bits of the story that I really enjoyed.  Rachel has a far higher purpose that I could have ever imagined.  Tie that in with her affinity for magic and I eagerly await where this story might take her.  We learn some extremely interesting facts about Galloran.  After everything we've learned, he's the one I would want on my side to take down Maldor.  There are some secondary characters that are interesting including a Maldor traitor that I really have no idea if I trust or not.  Interestingly enough, he's not sure he can be trusted either.   I'm not sure how that works.

I wanted to like it so much that I never gave up on the story.  And it seriously dragged.  Remember how there were quite a few complaints about Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows feeling like a never ending camping trip?  That's kind of how this one felt as well.  There are numerous location changes with endless time in between.  A lot of time is spent discussing what they should do next, who the traitor might be, and how to stay ahead of Maldor's spies.  There are definitely interesting things that happen when they get there, and those moments are worth the journey.   I just sometimes wished it wasn't so wordy.  I think the story could have been told is quite a few less pages.

Despite all that, I can guarantee that I will still read the last book in this series.  I know how fantastic Mull is at world building, and I want to see how this epic land handles a rebellion.  

Review - The False Prince (The Ascendance Trilogy #1) by Jennifer A. Nielsen

Title: The False Prince

Author: Jennifer A. Nielsen

Series: 1st

Pages: 342

Published: April 1st 2012 by Scholastic 

ISBN: 9780545284134

Source: Library 

Description: In a discontent kingdom, civil war is brewing. To unify the divided people, Conner, a nobleman of the court, devises a cunning plan to find an impersonator of the king's long-lost son and install him as a puppet prince. Four orphans are recruited to compete for the role, including a defiant boy named Sage. Sage knows that Conner's motives are more than questionable, yet his life balances on a sword's point -- he must be chosen to play the prince or he will certainly be killed. But Sage's rivals have their own agendas as well.  As Sage moves from a rundown orphanage to Conner's sumptuous palace, layer upon layer of treachery and deceit unfold, until finally, a truth is revealed that, in the end, may very well prove more dangerous than all of the lies taken together.

I Give This ...

The minute I saw this one, it went on my to-read list.  I was shocked to see it at my library (my library never gets things that quick after release date).  I immediately picked it up and took it home!  It was just as good as all the reviews say it is!

Sage is an interesting narrative.  While all the boys are picked from the orphanages, there's something different about Sage right from the start.  He knows what the world is like because he's seen it.  He's not one to settle in and barely get by.  He's had to fight for every little thing he has.  I was also impressed that despite his hard life, he has a sense of humor and quite a lot of sarcasm.  From the start I wondered what he might have been compensating for.  I enjoyed him, but felt there was way more to the story.

I loved learning about the country along with the boys.  The way the kingdom is(was) run is interesting.  The royal family must have been highly despised to have created so many enemies.  Enemies that are very patient in waiting for just the right time to strike.  I was amazed at just how deep the treachery went.  I often wondered who was a faithful follower and who wasn't.  I also really enjoyed the training the boys went through.  I think it really helped shine a light on each of their strength and weaknesses.  I debated to myself and who would make the better prince.   I also think it brought forth their true colors.  It's amazing who will snap under the pressure.

I have to be honest and say I completely expected the twist in the story.  Although, I loved how they explained it all.  I really couldn't figure out the how's.  The ending really left me wanting the next book.  Such a long wait ....

Review - Little Women and Me by Lauren Baratz-Logsted

Title: Little Women and Me

Author: Laruen Baratz-Logsted

Series: Stand Alone

Pages: 336

Published: November 8, 2011 by Bloomsbury

ISBN: 9781599905143

Source: Teen Book Scene Tour

Description: Emily is sick and tired of being a middle sister. So when she gets an assignment to describe what she'd change about a classic novel, Emily pounces on Little Women. After all, if she can't change things in her own family, maybe she can bring a little justice to the March sisters. (Kill off Beth? Have cute Laurie wind up with Amy instead of Jo? What was Louisa May Alcott thinking?!) But when Emily gets mysteriously transported into the world of the book, she discovers that righting fictional wrongs won't be easy. And after being immersed in a time and place so different from her own, it may be Emily-not the four March sisters-who undergoes the most surprising change of all.

I Give This ...

 

I was really excited to start this book.  I liked the writing assignment.  It sounded like something that I would have liked to have done in junior/high school.  But, this story missed its overall mark with me for some reason.

I actually liked Emily in present time.  She really struggling with who she is.  I imagine it's hard to be the middle sister (I have no idea).  I also really enjoyed the comparisons she makes between her family and the sister in Little Women and also to the Bronte sisters.  But I struggled with her after she's transported into the novel.

Emily seems to adapt to world of Little Women a little to easily.  The only trouble she seems to have is with key plot points.  I think I would have more trouble with actually getting use to the differences.  I also have to be honest in saying while I enjoyed reading Little Women, I can't say that it would be a book that I would read over and over.  So, I was a little bored with basically reading the story again in this format.

 I did have fun with the very modern things that Emily did in the story.  The way her sisters reacted to her was just great.  I also like the twist with Amy and Father, it was unexpected.  I also like Emily's reasoning in the end on what she would change in the story.  It was a very sound judgement and I liked it.  It also left me wondering who really does end up with Lauri (I could not remember for some reason lol).

Review - The Unwanteds (Unwanteds #1) by Lisa McMann

Title: The Unwanteds

Author: Lisa McMann

Series: 1st in series

Pages: 390

Published: August 30, 2011 by Alladin

ISBN: 9781442407688

Source: Galley Grab

Descrption: Every year in Quill, thirteen-year-olds are sorted into categories: the strong, intelligent Wanteds go to university, and the artistic Unwanteds are sent to their deaths.

Thirteen-year-old Alex tries his hardest to be stoic when his fate is announced as Unwanted, even while leaving behind his twin, Aaron, a Wanted. Upon arrival at the destination where he expected to be eliminated, however, Alex discovers a stunning secret—behind the mirage of the "death farm" there is instead a place called Artime.

In Artime, each child is taught to cultivate their creative abilities and learn how to use them magically, weaving spells through paintbrushes and musical instruments. Everything Alex has ever known changes before his eyes, and it's a wondrous transformation.  But it's a rare, unique occurence for twins to be separated between Wanted and Unwanted, and as Alex and Aaron's bond stretches across their separation, a threat arises for the survival of Artime that will pit brother against brother in an ultimate, magical battle.

I Give This ...

 

I was excited to read this.  I've enjoyed Lisa McMann's other books.  Plus, this seemed to fit into a genre that I enjoy...middle grade fantasy.  I think it's a worthy ready for those who enjoy the category (adults and kids alike).  But, I'm not sure it has the power to become the next big thing.

I liked Alex at first, but I had a hard time identify with his need to contact his twin.  I got that they were identical twins.  And I know that twins have a special bond.  But, it bothered me that the separation seemed to bother Alex more than it bothered Aaron.  I was strange to watch Alex convince himself that Aaron really wanted and needed to be with him.  He completely disregarded what it might do to the people that inhabited Artime.

I did think the idea of Artime was fascinating, but oddly explained.  The castle (mansion?) itself seemed really intriguing.  But, the descriptions of it seemed unimportant.  I loved the idea of taking blackboards, tubes to get you to certain parts of the castle, and instructions tailored to your strong suits.  But, the story focuses some much on Alex and his desire to contact Aaron.  I feel like so much more could have been done with this story.

So for me this wasn't the next things for middle grade fantasy lovers.  I'll keep looking.  Although, I'm sure I will read the next one if give then chance.  I don't feel the story is completely done yet.

Real Mermaids Don't Wear Toe Rings by Helene Boudreau

Title: Real Mermaids Don't Wear Toe Rings

Author: Helene Boudreau

Series: Hopefully!

Pages: 224

Published: Available now from Sourcebooks

ISBN: 9781402244124

Source: sent for review

 

Description: Freak of nature takes on a whole new meaning... If she hadn't been so clueless, she might have seen it coming. But really, who expects to get into a relaxing bathtub after a stressful day of shopping for tankinis and come out with scales and a tail? Most. Embarrassing. Moment. Ever. Jade soon discovers she inherited her mermaid tendencies from her mom. But if Mom was a mermaid, how did she drown? Jade is determined to find out. So how does a plus-size, aqua-phobic mer-girl go about doing that exactly? And how will Jade ever be able to explain her secret to her best friend, Cori, and to her crush, Luke? This summer is about to get a lot more interesting...

I Give This ...

 

I really liked the idea of this one.  But, once again worried that book might come across as to young.  I was both right and wrong, which always manages to surprise me.  It's another one of those books I will put away for when my girls get a little older.

I liked Jade.  She a young teen who's going through a lot.  She's dealing with those awful young teen years without her mom.  First crushes, first friend conflicts, first periods, and all of a sudden comes that mermaid's tale.  Some of the aspects of the story that are very much a part of everyday real life are what made the story a little juvenile for me.  Although I have to admit the first time she gets her period makes me both laugh out loud and cringe with the memory of my first time.  It's all really perfect for the age group this is intended for.  I did like her relationship with her dad, her best friends, and her crush.  It was cute and seemed very real.

I really liked the mermaid elements of this story.  How her mother came to land and developed legs was an interesting story.  Plus the thought of a mermaid drowning was interesting.  Add it what really happened to her mom and I was hooked.  It was fun and I really loved the courage and ingenuity that Jade showed to help her mom.  

I'm hoping this is going to be a series, because the problem wasn't really resolved.  I can't wait to see what happens next.

Team Challenge (The Pony Whisperer, #2) by Janet Rising

Title: Team Challenge

Author: Janet Rising

Series: 2nd in Pony Whispers

Pages: 192

Published: Available now by Sourcebooks

ISBN: 9781402239533

Source: sent for review

 

Description: Team Challenge continues the misadventures of Pia and her horse, Drummer, a pony with attitude. It's the start of summer vacation and everyone in the stable yard is excited about entering a new, nationwide team competition. When Pia and her arch-nemesis Catriona end up on competing teams, it's bound to end in trouble! 

I Give This ...

 

I really enjoy this series.  It's cute and I'm seeing a positive message in the stories.  I love the inclusion of horses and such an important part of the story.

I liked Pia a lot more in this story.  I love the family challenges she faces.  I think it reflects well on what a lot of preteens are going through at home.  She has to watch her mom start dating men other than her dad.  Plus, she has to deal with the woman her father has chosen to date.   I thought it was interesting the things her dad showers on this women, especially the things Pia has wanted for many years.

I liked how the story presents the idea of working together as a team.  The only way they will win is if they help and support each other.  I also loved how Pia was able to realize that the horses needed more praise.  They weren't getting anything out of being made to train so hard.  I loved the message that animals have feelings too.

I'm really enjoying this series.  I think it will be something my older daughter will love when she's older.  She loves horses!  I know I would have enjoyed it at the age of 8 or so.

The Aristobrats by Jennifer Solow

Title: The Aristobrats

Author: Jennifer Solow

Pages: 224

Published: September 2010 by Sourcebooks Jabberwocky

ISBN: 9781402242588

Source: Publisher sent for review

Description: It’s all about the Attitude. Parker Bell knows the secret to beauty is pretty simple–wearing the right clothes isn’t as important as how you feel in them. Popularity is like that too. It’s all about attitude. You have to picture who you want to be and then just imagine that’s who you already are. This year Parker and her three best friends have made their way to the top of the populadder at Wallingford Academy. And they’re ready to use their Aristobrat status to help spread positive vibes throughout the school. But when the girls are assigned to produce the seriously lame school webcast, their popularity plummets! Will this tragedy destroy the girls' status? Or their friendship? Or both?

I Give This ...

 My first guy reaction was I don't really like this.  But, it's not because this isn't a good book.  I just don't identify with it.  And that's ok, because not every book written is going to have cross over appeal.  So, I continued on with the idea that I'm previewing it for my daughter's to read when they are older.  

While, I still had a hard time with the lingo (thank god there's a glossary in the back lol), I ended up liking the story for the message I think it portrays.  I think it has a really positive vibe to it.   These girls are the most popular in their school, but they didn't get there by stepping all over everyone below them.  I think the girls found out something really important about themselves through this book.  It's not always about what you wear, who your friends are, were you sit at lunch, or how many friends you have on facebook.

I would completely recommend this for younger girls (maybe as young as 8).  

A Living Nightmare (Cirque Du Freak, #1) by Darren Shan

Title: A Living Nightmare

Author: Darren Shan

Series: 1st in Cirque Du Freak

Published: April 2004 by Little Brown

Pages: 272

ISBN: 9780316905718

Source: Library

Description: In the tradition of Stephen King's 'Salem's Lot, Cirque Du Freak is the frightening saga of a young boy whose visit to a mysterious freak show leads him on a journey into a dark world of vampires. Filled with grotesque creatures, murderous vampires, and a petrifying ending, Cirque Du Freak will chill, thrill, and leave readers begging for more. 

I Give This ...

 

Honestly, there's nothing really wrong with this book.  I think it's just one of those that might not cross over to the adult population as well as others.  I really do think it's perfect for pre-teen boys.  The voice is perfect, and I think that age range will really identify with the characters.  And it's just grotesque enough that I think boys will love it, but parents won't object.  The interactions with the spider were enough for me (my mother's is terrified of spiders, so I'm not to overly fond of them).  I liked the Freak Show.  It was just so over the top but seemed to fit right in with what I know about them.  Plus, I think it gives the book just enough horror without actually being really scary.  The events after the show are actually pretty fast paced and interesting.  The story is just a little simple for my taste.  I think I might recommend it to my 9 year old cousin when he's a little older.  I think he might like it!  I'm not sure about the rest of the series.  Maybe occasionally if the the library has them.

 

The Word On The Yard (The Pony Whisper, #1) by Janet Rising

Title: The Word on the Yard

Author: Janet Rising

Series: 1st in The Pony Whisper series

Published: June 2010 by Sourcebooks Jabberwocky

Pages: 192

ISBN: 9781402239526

Source: received from publisher for honest review

Description: When Pia’s parents divorce, both Pia and her pony Drummer have to start life in new homes. In this smash hit series from the UK, Pia Edwards finds herself in a new town, new school and new stable. Thanks to a mystical statuette that allows her to talk to horses, she discovers that she isn’t the only one having trouble fitting in and making new friends – ponies have problems, too!   Pia immediately gets off on the wrong foot with Cat, ‘queen’ of the stables, but starts to make friends when her newly-discovered talent helps save a pony from colic. Word spreads about Pia’s pony-whispering powers – then it all goes wrong when she gets her own TV show. Pia suddenly receives more attention than she ever dreamed – from humans and horses alike. But can her dream last forever? When Pia’s invited on national television to help problem horses by talking to them, she’s mortified to discover she forgot her statue. Pia is convinced the jig is up when James, a fellow horse lover and total hottie, gallops up with the statue and saves the day. She’s afraid he’ll reveal her secret, but James assures Pia the Pony Whisperer that her secret is safe with him. Maybe this new town isn’t so bad after all.

I Give This ...
 

I jumped at the chance to read this one when offered.  I have a particular love for horses (being raised around them, etc.) and one of my favorite series growing up was the Saddle Club.  I really enjoyed the set up and Pia was an interesting character.  She's going through a lot and the only stable thing in her life is her horse.  You can tell that she has a real connection with him.  I thought the idea of being able to hear what the horses were saying was great.  It was fun to see what words the author would put in the horse's mouth!  And some of the situations with the horses gave a very different light to the idea of what horses go through.  My only real issue with the story was the attitude.  For pre-teens, I thought they characters had a horrible attitudes and the way the interacted with each other and even adults was a little off.  Even the horse got a bit of an attitude, which was a bit weird.  Overall, I think this a great story for younger girls.  Especially for those who are animal (especially horses) lovers.!

The Last Olympian (Percy Jackson and the Olympians, #5) by Rick Riordan

Title: The Last Olympian

Author: Rick Riordan

Series: Last of 5 books

Published: May 2009 by Disney Hyperion

Pages: 381

ISBN: 9781423101475

Source: Library

Description: All year the half-bloods have been preparing for battle against the Titans, knowing the odds of a victory are grim. Kronos’s army is stronger than ever, and with every god and half-blood he recruits, the evil Titan’s power only grows. While the Olympians struggle to contain the rampaging monster Typhon, Kronos begins his advance on New York City, where Mount Olympus stands virtually unguarded. Now it’s up to Percy Jackson and an army of young demigods to stop the Lord of Time. In this momentous final book in the New York Times best-selling series, the long-awaited prophecy surrounding Percy’s sixteenth birthday unfolds. And as the battle for Western civilization rages on the streets of Manhattan, Percy faces a terrifying suspicion that he may be fighting against his own fate.

I Give This ...
 

  I thought this was an extremely satisfying ending to the series.  Everything is neatly tied up and explained.  The events are the most part fast paced.  I did get a little bored during some of the in between battle times while they were defending NYC.  But, then Kronos would attack again with some new monster and the action would pick back up.  I loved Hestia's role in this book.  It felt like a much needed recognition for the lesser known Gods.  I thought it also played in nicely to the inclusion of Pandora's box and that all that was left was hope.  I was happy to see the relationship between Percy and Annabeth finally progress.  It was once of those it's about time moments.  I loved Rachel's finally place in the story.   It just made sense to me, especially since I never felt the connection between Percy and her.  It always felt forced. 
Overall, just a wonderful book and great tie up.  I'm looking forward to the author's next series involving the Egyptian Gods.  I don't know as much about them, so I'm interested to see if holds the same pull as this one did.

Keys to the Demon Prison (Fablehaven, #5) by Brandon Mull

Title: Keys To The Demon Prison

Author: Brandon Mull

Series: Final Book in the Fablehaven series

Published: March 2010

Publisher: Shadow Moutain

Pages: 593

ISBN: 9781606412381

Source: Library Book

Description: Since ancient times, the great demon prison Zzyzx has protected the world from the most dangerous servants of darkness, including Gorgrog, the Demon King. After centuries of plotting, the Sphinx is on the verge of recovering the five artifacts necessary to open the legendary prison. Facing the potential of a world-ending calamity, all friends of light must unite in a final effort to thwart the Sphinx s designs and find a safe home for the five artifacts. To this end, Kendra, Seth, and the Knights of the Dawn will venture far beyond the walls of Fablehaven to strange and exotic magical preserves across the globe, where the end of every quest becomes the beginning of another. In this explosive series finale, allegiances will be confirmed and secrets revealed as the forces of light and darkness collide in a desperate struggle to control the keys to the demon prison.

I Give This Book 4 Stars!

At the end of book 4, I had my serious doubts at how the author was going to wrap up such a series in only one more book.  He proved me wrong, but I worry it was at the expensive of the story a little.  Don't get me wrong, it's still wonderful.  There's just so much that happens in such a short amount of time.  And for some reason all of it happens with such ease.  The previous 4 book felt like there was more of a battle to get what they were after.  Seth alone has 6 different adventures (and not all of them include Kendra).  I did love watching him mature in this book.  He learned that not all wrong decisions are done for the wrong reasons.  I think he learned what true courage was.  I also love the involvement of the Satyrs.  They were fantastic, providing just enough comic relief throughout the story!  Kendra seems to have fulfilled the big sister role.  She doesn't seem to play much of a part in the bigger picture until the very end when she single-handedly swoops in and saves the day (without even really meaning too).  I really liked how the author threw in a love interest.  It was so appropriate and very tastefully done.  Overall, I thought it was a fantastic ending to the series.  I just think the author could have easily gotten one more book out of the series by drawing out some of the tasks a little.  I will be looking forward to see what Brandon Mull comes up with next!

Princess for Hire by Lindsey Leavitt

Title: Princess For Hire
Author: Lindsey Leavitt
Published: March 2010

Pages: 240

ISBN: 9781423121923

Source: Publisher sent copy after I requested

Description: When a well-dressed woman steps out of a bubble and wants to know if you'd like to become a substitute princess, do you A) run B) faint C) say yes? For Desi Bascomb, who's been longing for some glamour in her Idaho life, the choice is a definite C). Desi has a rare ability: with the help of "Royal Rouge," she can temporarily transform into the exact look-alike of any princess who needs her subbing services. Dream come true, right? Well, Desi soon discovers that subbing involves a lot more than wearing a tiara and waving at cameras.... In this winning debut, one girl's dream of glamour transforms into the desire to make a positive impact. And an impact Desi makes, one royal fiasco at a time.

I Give This Book 4 Stars!

contacted the author (who directed me to her publisher) about this book. It just sounded so cute and since it was sort of set in Idaho, I wanted it! Thankfully the publisher consented to my wish! From the pink glittery cover to the princess story inside, I felt like the this story had Disney written all over. But, not in the cheesy straight to DVD sort of way. I was reminded of Meg Cabot's Princess Diaries (OK the movie version since I haven't read the books). Desi is a great character for pre-teens. She's struggling with who she is, but knows she wants to make a difference. I think she does a fantastic job helping princess' who feel the exact same way she does. And, in doing so she gains confidence in her own life. The story had a little bit of fairy tale magic that makes it all cute and bubbly (pun intended)! Overall perfect for pre-teens, or even younger girls. I think even some adult might like this as well (I know I did)!

Inkdeath (Inkheart, #3) by Cornelia Funke

Title: Inkdeath
Author: Cornelia Funke
Published: October 2008
Pages: 663

ISBN: 9781905294718

Description: Ever since the extraordinary events of Inkspell, when the enchanted book Inkheart drew Meggie and her father, Mo, into its chapters, life in the Inkworld has been more tragic than magical. Dustfinger is dead, having sacrificed his life for his apprentice's, and now, under the rule of the evil Adderhead, the fairy-tale land is in bloody chaos, its characters far beyond the control of Fenoglio, their author. Facing the threat of eternal winter, Mo inks a dangerous deal with Death itself. There yet remains a faint hope of changing the cursed story—if only he can fills its pages fast enough.

I Give This Book 3.5 Stars!

After a so-so first book, a fantastic second one, I was not sure what to expect for the final book in the Inkheart trilogy. Honestly, it fell somewhere in the middle. It was still rich in descriptions. I really love the characters the author has created. And the story is such an original concept. But, at times this book was just too long. I found myself skimming areas just to get to the next set of adventures. I don't think we need long paragraphs about why or why not something is going to happen. At this point, we already know the characters and nothing was out of the ordinary. And it switched view points a lot. When you have so many characters that play important parts in the story and they are in so many different locations, the story gets overwhelming. There are still some fabulous parts of this book and it wraps up the story wonderfully. I'm sure it won't disappoint anyone who has enjoyed the series.

The Battle of the Labyrinth (Percy Jackson and the Olympians, #4) by Rick Riordan

Title: Battle of the Labyrinth
Author: Rick Riordan
Published: May 2008

Pages: 361

ISBN: 9781423101499

Source: Library

Description: Percy Jackson isn't expecting freshman orientation to be any fun. But when a mysterious mortal acquaintance appears on campus, followed by demon cheerleaders, things quickly move from bad to diabolical.  In this latest installment of the blockbuster series, time is running out as war between the Olympians and the evil Titan lord Kronos draws near. Even the safe haven of Camp Half-Blood grows more vulnerable by the minute as Kronos's army prepares to invade its once impenetrable borders. To stop them, Percy and his demigod friends must set out on a quest through the Labyrinth-a sprawling underground world with stunning surprises at every turn. Full of humor and heart-pounding action, this fourth book promises to be their most thrilling adventure yet.

I Give This Book 3.5 Stars!

This book in the series just didn't have the same pull as the first 3 did.  The story lost me a little.  I think I expected more action while they were in the labyrinth.  But at times, I felt like the story was going in circles.  There are parts that I really liked.  The story of the labyrinth and it's place in the modern world was extremely interesting.  I loved that an actual human plays such an intricate part of the story.  I think the story weaving was better in this one.  It's starts to connect everything together and sets up for the final book.  Although this one made me curious what part the gods would actually play in the final battle.  They seem to interfere  (or help) and the strangest times and I'm not sure what they actually want out of the demigods.   I still think the author does a fantastic job of weaving Greek mythology into the story.  It reminds me how much I love mythology.

The Titan's Curse (Percy Jackson and the Olympians, #3) by Rick Riordan

Title: The Titan's Curse
Author: Rick Riordan
Published: May 2007
Pages: 312
ISBN: 9781423101451
Source: Library

Description: When the goddess Artemis goes missing, she is believed to have been kidnapped. And now it's up to Percy and his friends to find out what happened. Who is powerful enough to kidnap a goddess? They must find Artemis before the winter solstice, when her influence on the Olympian Council could swing an important vote on the war with the Titans. Not only that, but first Percy will have to solve the mystery of a rare monster that Artemis was hunting when she disappeared -- a monster rumored to be so powerful it could destroy Olympus forever.

I Give This Book 4 Stars!

This book starts out with a bang. The gang finds two new powerful demigods, the Goddess Artemis is kidnapped, and Annabeth goes missing. I have to admit, I don't recall the Hunters from Greek mythology very well. I was happy to learn more about them. They made for an interesting addition to the story. Especially since I think this series is directed more at boys, and the Hunters are basically "man-haters." Their leader, Zoe, was a wonderful addition to the cast of characters. I wasn't sure about Thalia at first. She kind of annoyed me. But, I think the explanation of being frozen as tree for 7 years without really aging explained a lot. Percy continues to keep me interested in the story. And now that we think we know what his flaw is, should make the rest of the series that much more interesting. Especially since I would consider his flaw to be more "noble." I loved learning a few new things about Greek mythology that I didn't know before. The author continues to weave even the lesser known myths into the story! I especially enjoyed how the story of Atlas was worked in.