Book Review: Paper Valentine by Brenna Yovanoff–Blog Tour

Paper Valentine by Brenna Yovanoff

Published by Razorbill January 8th 2013

Hardcover- 306 Pages

Source: ARC provided by publisher for review

Summary:

         The city of Ludlow is gripped by the hottest July on record. The asphalt is melting, the birds are dying, petty crime is on the rise, and someone in Hannah Wagnor’s peaceful suburban community is killing girls.
For Hannah, the summer is a complicated one. Her best friend Lillian died six months ago, and Hannah just wants her life to go back to normal. But how can things be normal when Lillian’s ghost is haunting her bedroom, pushing her to investigate the mysterious string of murders? Hannah’s just trying to understand why her friend self-destructed, and where she fits now that Lillian isn’t there to save her a place among the social elite. And she must stop thinking about Finny Boone, the big, enigmatic delinquent whose main hobbies seem to include petty larceny and surprising acts of kindness.
With the entire city in a panic, Hannah soon finds herself drawn into a world of ghost girls and horrifying secrets. She realizes that only by confronting the Valentine Killer will she be able move on with her life—and it’s up to her to put together the pieces before he strikes again.

My Thoughts:


    I was happy to be asked to be a participant in the blog tour for Paper Valentine. I haven’t had a chance to read the author’s previous books and knowing how positive the reviews have been, I was excited to read it. There is a lot happening in 306 pages. Though not quite what I expected, I enjoyed many aspects of the book, especially Yovanoff’s writing style.  The story revolves around Hannah and the murders of girls in a her town, but that seems like a secondary storyline compared to Hannah’s grief at the loss of her best friend to Anorexia, six months earlier. Actually, my favourite parts were the moments between Hannah and Lillian. I thought the description of Lillian’s obsession with her weight, was realistic and well done. Hannah is slowly discovering who she is, and who she wants to be without Lillian. It’s Lillian, that compels Hannah to begin her own investigation into the deaths of the girls. The ‘creepy’ factor was definitely present and I could not read the book at night or if I was in the house by myself. 
*spoilers ahead*
I think because there was so much happening in the book, anorexia, a love interest, murders, grief, ghosts; there were many questions that went unanswered. I wanted to know why Lillian appeared to Hannah? What made the “Valentine Killer” kill the girls? The ending wasn't satisfying but perhaps that was the point? I liked Paper Valentine and I know that other bloggers on the tour have absolutely loved it, but I just expected/wanted more.

Favourite Quotes:
“Sometimes I think that’s the whole reason she’s still here-she’s weighted down, anchored by all the things she couldn't let go” (15) -love this quote sooo much

“Kissing him is like the wildest, most thrilling thing that has ever happened to me. It’s like diving into the deep end over and over” (187)

Review: The Raven Boys by Maggie Stiefvater

The Raven Boys by Maggie Stiefvater

Published September 18th 2012

Scholastic Press –390 pages

Source: ARC provided by the publisher

Summary:

“There are only two reasons a non-seer would see a spirit on St. Mark’s Eve,” Neeve said. “Either you’re his true love . . . or you killed him.” 

   It is freezing in the churchyard, even before the dead arrive.
Every year, Blue Sargent stands next to her clairvoyant mother as the soon-to-be dead walk past. Blue herself never sees them—not until this year, when a boy emerges from the dark and speaks directly to her.
His name is Gansey, and Blue soon discovers that he is a rich student at Aglionby, the local private school. Blue has a policy of staying away from Aglionby boys. Known as Raven Boys, they can only mean trouble.
But Blue is drawn to Gansey, in a way she can’t entirely explain. He has it all—family money, good looks, devoted friends—but he’s looking for much more than that. He is on a quest that has encompassed three other Raven Boys: Adam, the scholarship student who resents all the privilege around him; Ronan, the fierce soul who ranges from anger to despair; and Noah, the taciturn watcher of the four, who notices many things but says very little.
For as long as she can remember, Blue has been warned that she will cause her true love to die. She never thought this would be a problem. But now, as her life becomes caught up in the strange and sinister world of the Raven Boys, she’s not so sure anymore.


My Thoughts:
    It should be no surprise that Maggie Stiefvater is one of my favourite authors.  The Raven Boys received a lot of buzz before the ARC release at ALA, and BEA and rightfully so, Maggie is a gifted storyteller.  She has this amazing ability to reinvent herself as a writer each time she begins a new series or writes a new book. The feel of The Raven Boys is completely different from her other novels, the pacing a little slower but from the beginning you know that it will build to something great.

I loved the premise of the novel and was immediately drawn to Blue’s matter a fact way of dealing with people and the world around her. Though Blue is the main character, Gansey is really at the centre of the story and is what propels the reader forward. He is obsessed with discovering the location Welsh King Owain Glendower, believing he rests along Ley Lines…areas with paranormal activity. *I became fascinated with the idea of Ley Lines and when I finished reading the book I began to research whether ley lines can be found in Ontario…apparently there is one about 4 hours away. One day I plan to take a road trip to see if I can locate it*

As much as I loved Blue and Gansey, I have to say that Adam was my favourite character. He’s the steadfast friend, who stands behind Gansey, adores Blue but has his own painful back story. There was just something about him that I could relate to.

Beautifully written with so many wonderful surprises throughout; there were twists that I definitely did not see coming. A riveting first book in an expected series of four.

Review: Envy by Elizabeth Miles

Envy by Elizabeth Miles

Published by Simon Pulse –September 4th 2012

Pages: 320

Source: ARC provided by the publisher

Summary:

The Furies are back in the second book of a chilling paranormal trilogy where revenge rules the day—and “sorry” isn’t going to cut it.

Spring is coming, and the ice is slowly melting in Ascension…revealing the secrets buried beneath.

     Emily Winters knows the Furies have roots in Ascension, Maine—but she’s about to discover that they’re deeper than she ever imagined. With the help of her new friend Drea, she vows to dig them out. But it’s hard to focus when she’s desperate to make up with JD, and to figure out why Crow, a mysterious Ascension High dropout, seems to be shadowing her.
     Meanwhile, new girl Skylar McVoy is determined to leave her own dark past behind. So she’s thrilled when popular Gabby takes her under her wing, and the stunning and sophisticated Meg offers to give her a major makeover. But everyone knows what happens to the vainest girl of all…

     It’s tempting to be naughty. But beware: the Furies are always watching, and their power grows stronger by the day.

My Thoughts:

  I was thrilled to receive Envy in my mailbox. I enjoyed Fury so much that I have been anticipating the release of Envy for some time.  It did not disappoint. Emily, Drea, Gabby and JD are back and we are also introduced to Skylar and Crowe. The story begins almost where Fury left off and unlike some “second” books, the transition is seamless.  The Furies are back as well and are more evil than ever (is that even possible?). There is something so sinister about how they are described. Breathtakingly beautiful but absolutely ruthless. I had this creepy feeling wash over me more than once while reading.

    Skylar is a fascinating character. New to Ascension she believes she now has “a chance to build a new life, to build a life”. We’re not told what has happened in the past to Skylar –just given glimpses-but we certainly get the sense it was anything but good. Skylar  becomes obsessed with Gabby and being popular, which leads her to making terrible choices. Though I didn’t agree with how she acted, I could totally relate to that feeling of wanting to be someone. To be important. I think many will relate to that feeling.
Envy was well paced and gripping. I couldn’t stop reading until it was finished and  I can not wait to revisit Ascension again in the 3rd and final novel even though the Furies scare the heck out of me.
Definitely Recommended!




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I’m thrilled to welcome Elizabeth Miles back to the blog for a Q&A about Envy:

1. I know the series is a planned trilogy- but is there a possibility that you might continue and write more in the series?

 I'm glad you want more! However, I don't think it's gonna happen, at least not right now. I've got a few other projects simmering on the back burner of my mind, and while it'll be bittersweet to bid farewell to the Furies (and more importantly, to Em, JD, Gabby, and the rest of the bunch), I'm excited for a new adventure.

2. Is the character of JD based on anyone you know? What about the character of Crow (my new fav)?

        Like I say in the acknowledgements of ENVY, I used to think a guy like JD was too good to be true -- and then I met my *fiancee* (!?!). JD isn't based on him, per se, but I can't help but think that a lot of the love and warmth that surrounds JD's character is influenced by the love and warmth I feel about my man, who happens to also be a) a little kooky, b) sometimes self-righteous, and c) cool with being a sensitive dude (three characteristics I'd definitely peg to JD).
As for Crow...He's an amalgamation of lots of bad boys I've known over the years (or wished I knew!), plus some classic TV guys like Sawyer from Lost, Dylan McKay from 90210, and Caleb from Pretty Little Liars. Now that I think about it, Crow also reminds me a little of an ex-boyfriend of mine, one who was a little angry at the world and took it out on himself.

3. I had a couple of revelations while reading, and I was taken by surprise by how much I related to the character of Skylar.I think many teens will understand where Skylar is coming from. Do you have any advice for teens on how to build confidence?

That's great to hear! Skylar is obviously very troubled, but I'm happy that her story resonated with you. Honestly, there were times during high school when I felt a lot like Skylar (though I obviously never took that angst to such an extreme). I think there are lots of young women who feel like the odds are stacked against them or that the social hierarchy is both arbitrary and unfair -- because it usually is! 
Lauren (Oliver, one of my closest and oldest friends) and I wrote letters to each other in the upcoming Dear Teen Me anthology (Zest Books, October); in part, they address the issue of building confidence and trusting oneself. I think it's important to remember that what happens in high school doesn't necessarily set the stage for the rest of your adult life. It's a time to try things out, discover what matters to you, make mistakes, and learn from them. It's hard to remember in the moment, but it's true: This too shall pass. The only way to lose your insecurities and gain confidence is to look inside yourself and find stuff you like. Affirmation sought from outsiders will dissipate; self-love stays the course.

4. I really felt the Furies "evil" intensify in this book, they were seriously creepy...anyway you can give us a sneak peak into what might happen next?

They really are so freaking scary sometimes, aren't they? The thing about the Furies is that they are totally ruthless. Once their evil is unleashed, they'll do anything to see it spread further. The battle reaches its final showdown in Book Three (ETERNITY, which I am currently finishing up)...Will Em lose the life she knows now? Can she fight the Furies on her own? Will she and JD finally make it? Are the Furies in Ascension for good?

5. I've become obsessed with author’s playlists for books recently- was there a song or (songs) that helped you while you wrote Envy?

The funny thing is, I cannot listen to music when I write -- I find it very distracting. However, as you know, I still like to create playlists for my books. Here's the one for Fury, and here are a few of the songs you'll find on my Envy playlist:
 
-- Blue Orchid by the White Stripes (Frantic energy and an orchid mention - it just clicks.)
-- Living Room by Tegan and Sara (First of all, I just love this song and Tegan and Sara in general. Also, there is something just a little creepy about this song...It's very intense.)
-- Myth by Beach House (I picture this being a song Em and Drea would listen to in the car.)
-- You Belong With Me by Taylor Swift (Obviously, this is like Skylar's theme song.)

Look for the full Envy playlist at elizabethmilesbooks.com (where you can also find the dreamy story of my recent engagement!).

Thanks so much Elizabeth!!

Review: Sweet Evil by Wendy Higgins

Sweet Evil by Wendy Higgins

Published by Harper Teen May 2012

Source: Reviewed from copy borrowed from the library

Summary:

What if there were teens whose lives literally depended on being bad influences?
This is the reality for sons and daughters of fallen angels.
Tender-hearted Southern girl Anna Whitt was born with the sixth sense to see and feel emotions of other people. She’s aware of a struggle within herself, an inexplicable pull toward danger, but Anna, the ultimate good girl, has always had the advantage of her angel side to balance the darkness within. It isn’t until she turns sixteen and meets the alluring Kaidan Rowe that she discovers her terrifying heritage and her willpower is put to the test. He’s the boy your daddy warned you about. If only someone had warned Anna.
Forced to face her destiny, will Anna embrace her halo or her horns?

My Thoughts:

 I wasn’t sure what to expect when I picked this up. I thought I had enough of reading about fallen angels…. soooo not the case with this book. I’m not a fan of the cover but I love the title “Sweet Evil” because it speaks to the possible sides in all of us and the author Wendy Higgins does a phenomenal job depicting the inner struggle.
 Anna is different. She remembers every detail of her life, even right back to her birth. She can tell what people are feeling by their “auras”, but she has spent her life up to now, wondering why. Until she meets Kaidan Rowe. A dreamy, bad boy with all the right moves, she’s as drawn to him as he is to her, and he knows exactly what Anna is. These two have amazing chemistry together, and Kaidan might be one of my new favourite “book boyfriends” (le sigh)
  Aside from the yummy guy, the story centers on Anna as she tries to figure out her purpose. Just like us, she struggles with good and evil, in herself and in the world. I love books that surprise me. I expected to read this as an “escapism” read but it was much more. There were many moments where I unexpectedly paused to reflect on the meaning of the words, Anna’s situation and how it could be interpreted and relevant for my life. Recommended, and I’m looking forward to the next one.



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Book Review: Until I Die by Amy Plum

Until I Die by Amy Plum

Published May 8th 2012 by HarperCollins

Reviewed from personal copy

Summary:

Kate and Vincent have overcome the odds and at last they are together in Paris, the city of lights and love.
As their romance deepens there’s one question they can’t ignore: How are they supposed to be together if Vincent can’t resist sacrificing himself to save others? Although Vincent promises that he’ll do whatever it takes to lead a normal life with Kate, will that mean letting innocent people die? When a new and surprising enemy reveals itself, Kate realizes that even more may be at stake—and that Vincent’s immortality is in jeopardy.

My Thoughts:

  There is something special about a book set in Paris. Perhaps its the history, and the romantic atmosphere I always equate with that city, ( oh how I long to visit) it seems so magical.  This is the second book in the  Revenants series,and although I think that Die For Me would have made a great stand alone, I was excited to revisit the story and the characters of Kate and Vincent. I truly adore them as a couple. 

    Kate is determined and strong, yet has already dealt with so much in life. She and  Vincent seem made for each other except for the fact that Vincent is immortal and Kate is not.  They meet their challenges head on, despite the reserved support of family and friends. The book was a bit slow in the building though in hindsight I can see the how the plot was laid out before us. I had my suspicions of who the new enemy would be and kept shouting it out to Kate but it seems characters in books never listen. 

  Overall, a good follow up, but the ending left me yelling NO!!!! When will the next one be out? How does Amy Plum expect me to wait?

Until I Die - Kobo

Until I Die -Book Depository

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Book Review: Born Wicked by Jessica Spotswood

Born Wicked by Jessica Spotswood

Published February 7th by Putnam

Reviewed from ARC provided by the Publisher

Summary

Everybody knows Cate Cahill and her sisters are eccentric. Too pretty, too reclusive, and far too educated for their own good. But the truth is even worse: they’re witches. And if their secret is discovered by the priests of the Brotherhood, it would mean an asylum, a prison ship—or an early grave.
Before her mother died, Cate promised to protect her sisters. But with only six months left to choose between marriage and the Sisterhood, she might not be able to keep her word... especially after she finds her mother’s diary, uncovering a secret that could spell her family’s destruction. Desperate to find alternatives to their fate, Cate starts scouring banned books and questioning rebellious new friends, all while juggling tea parties, shocking marriage proposals, and a forbidden romance with the completely unsuitable Finn Belastra.
If what her mother wrote is true, the Cahill girls aren’t safe. Not from the Brotherhood, the Sisterhood—not even from each other

My Thoughts:

I have always loved reading about magic and witches, and my shelves are full of books that reflect that. Born Wicked is definitely a highlight, one that caught me by surprise though the lovely cover should have been a clue to the story inside. 

I immediately adored Cate, and felt the burden of what she had been left with, her responsibilities and her secrets. Desperate to have a life of her own, yet also protect her sisters the story revolves around the time where she must announce her intention to marry or join the sisterhood,

I remember when I was ten my mom and I went on vacation and toured Massachusetts and Salem was on of our stops. I was fascinated and terrified as we went through the exhibits in Salem and I learned about the Salem witch trials. It was horrifying to think of young women who may be slightly different being accused and tortured. It also amazed me at the power men had. 

I thought about that power as I read Born Wicked and the Brotherhood, their judgements and cruelty. The Brotherhood is truly terrifying and every page I worried that the sisters would be found out.

Born Wicked is well written, full of suspense, magic and just the perfect amount of romance laced throughout, I eagerly await the next in the series. Highly Recommended.

Waiting on Wednesday-Must Have

Breaking the Spine hosts a meme each week called Waiting on Wednesday, 

where we post about the books we are excited about reading. 

My choice this week:

Shine by Jeri Smith-Readu

Summary

In this dramatic conclusion to the Shade trilogy, Aura and Zachary’s relationship sizzles as the secrets of the Shift are revealed. 

Life can change in an instant, and no one understands that better than Aura. It’s been almost a year since her boyfriend tragically died. She’s finally letting go of Logan’s violet-hued ghost, but not her search to uncover the truth about her past. 

As the first in a generation that can see ghosts, Aura is convinced she has a connection to the Shift. She’s trusted Zachary, ever patient and ever by her side, with all that she knows. But when the government threatens his life in an attempt to learn Aura’s secrets, she will stop at nothing to protect herself and the one she loves...even if that means betraying her own heart.

OMG-seriously- can not wait for this... 

What are you waiting for?

Embrace by Jessica Shirvington -Giveaway

Embrace by Jessica Shirvington

Published March 6th 2012 by SourceBooks Fire

Summary:

It starts with a whisper: “It’s time for you to know who you are…” 

Violet Eden dreads her seventeenth birthday. After all, it’s hard to get too excited about the day that marks the anniversary of your mother’s death. As if that wasn’t enough, disturbing dreams haunt her sleep and leave her with very real injuries. There’s a dark tattoo weaving its way up her arms that wasn’t there before. 

Violet is determined to get some answers, but nothing could have prepared her for the truth. The guy she thought she could fall in love with has been keeping his identity a secret: he’s only half-human—oh, and same goes for her. 

A centuries-old battle between fallen angels and the protectors of humanity has chosen its new warrior. It’s a fight Violet doesn’t want, but she lives her life by two rules: don’t run and don’t quit. When angels seek vengeance and humans are the warriors, you could do a lot worse than betting on Violet Eden… 

Look for the sequels ENTICED in September 2012 and EMBLAZE in March 2013!

As part of the blog tour, below is a post from Jessica about falling in love at 17. I know that love is possible at any age. I met my husband at 17 as well. People are often shocked to hear that we've been together that long. We're in our 14^th year of marriage and though we've had challenges, I know we are just meant to be. I knew it then too.

Here's Jessica's post:

Falling in Love at 17

Falling in love is easy. Staying in love … more complicated.

At 17, life is about new experiences. It is about self-discovery, friends, adventure, mistakes, career and university choices. And let’s be honest, there are not many 17 year olds out there that aren’t interested in falling in love.

But how many are truly interested in falling in love with THE ONE at 17?

I’m not sure I was. In fact, I probably wasn’t. I was planning to take the world by storm – solo. So when I met Matt, well, actually … it was pretty darn amazing. But it was a little frightening too.

When we first got together, it was sweet and young and … perfect. I was head over heels. But things became complicated quickly. He was an up and coming athletic star and I was working in hospitality. So basically he worked hard in the day, and I worked hard at night. His lifestyle demanded routine and healthy living, mine … not so much. But we were determined to make it work.

Falling in love so deeply at a young age made it difficult to be as reckless as our friends. We watched them coast in and out of short, fun, but meaningless relationships and it just seemed so different to what we had.

Writing the Embrace series has been an opportunity for me to pour some of the incredibly intense emotions of young love into Violet’s story. It has been important for me as a writer, and a person, to recognize that it’s completely realistic for someone at her young age to experience the full effect and heartbreak of love. Violet is one hundred percent invested with her heart. She makes bad choices, but we have to. She regrets many of her decisions, because we all do. And she fights for what she loves, because she is compelled to. Violet’s story is unique to her, I don’t pull on parallel scenarios from my own life, but I do pull on the emotion of intense love. Love that I think adults sometimes forget that 17 and 18 years-olds are very capable of feeling.

I often find one question helps a lot of adults, who maybe disagree with this view, to be more open minded: Do you remember you first true love? Do you ever wonder what your life would’ve been like if you had stayed together? For some, the answer is a resounding NOT INTERESTED, but for others … the pause says it all.

Matt and I celebrate our 11th wedding anniversary in March - I believe jewelry is in order ;)

To read more about Jessica and her books http://www.jessicashirvington.com/

I have one copy of Embrace to give away. 

Open to Canada and US, Age 13+

Winner will be chosen at random on March 12th 2012. Winner will be contacted by email and has 48hrs to respond before an alternate winner will be chosen.

Let's keep it simple. Answer the following questions in the comments to enter. 

Do you believe in love at first sight? Why or why not?

Guest Review- Forever and a Giveaway

Donna and I met when I worked at the library near the high school where she taught. She was kind enough to let me join the high school book club she began and we partnered running the meetings. I instantly felt a connection with her as she loves YA as much as I do and is such a wonderfully, kind and genuine person. She is also tons of fun to be with and we have the same sense of humour. I'm so happy that even though we no longer "work" together, she's become a very dear friend.

Her Review of Forever:

Forever by Maggie Stiefvater

Published by Scholastic

July 2011

Summary:

The thrilling conclusion to #1 bestselling Shiver trilogy from Maggie Stievater

In Maggie Stiefvater's Shiver, Grace and Sam found each other. In Linger, they fought to be together. Now, in Forever, the stakes are even higher than before. Wolves are being hunted. Lives are being threatened. And love is harder and harder to hold on to as death comes closing in.

I am sure that book enthusiasts would agree that trilogy series are standard fare these days. I am also sure that book enthusiasts would agree that finding a perfect trilogy--with all of the compelling writing, magical storylines and emotional peaks--is not the norm. I cannot imagine the pressure that these authors face. Being responsible to readers for upholding their commitment and expectations would make me crumble!

All I can say is quite simply, "Bravo, Maggie Stiefvater." The Wolves of Mercy Falls is a series that is worth reading. This final installment was amazing.

The continuing storyline of Grace's entry into her existence as a wolf and Sam's desperation to know that she is okay remains a powerful draw in Stiefvater's final novel, Forever. Their love for one another does not diminish; however, they are forced to deal with the realities of their situation and how living partly as humans and as wolves will impact a future together.

The additional storyline of the relationship between Isabel and Cole is phenomenal. In fact, it is this parallel tale that I was deeply connected to. The character of Cole St. Clair is irresistible--his intelligence, sarcasm and vulnerability is a lethal combination!

All four characters are forced to make significant decisions as the townspeople (led by Isabel's father) have committed to a cleansing of the wolf pack. As Cole finds himself closer to creating a serum to "cure" the transition from human to wolf, it is really a race to see if everyone can be saved.

Yes, this is a romance; yes, this is a story about werewolves. However, Stiefvater treats her readers with respect. This is not a sappy melodrama. This novel (and series) shows incredible dedication to character development and takes its readers on a satisfying journey filled with feelings of suspense, loyalty and hope.
Thanks so much for doing this review Donna!!!

As some of you might recall, I was fortunate enough to attend a signing event with Maggie in July. I picked up an extra copy and had it signed to giveaway here.

I have one hardcover of Forever signed by Maggie to giveaway.

For your chance to win, leave a comment on this post, with your contact info.

You must be Age 13 or older

U.S or Canada only please.

For an extra entry in the giveaway- you can tweet about this post and show your link below.

Winner will be chosen at random on August 20th 2011 and then contacted by email.

Good Luck!

Die for Me by Amy Plum

So I'm a bit behind on the challenge- today was packed full of errands etc and it's now past 24 hours later and I only have finished 1 book- but I have to say it was a really good one! I'm hoping to make up some time tonight. I've read for 5 hours in total.....

Die for Me by Amy Plum

Published May 10 2011 by HarperTeen

352 Pages

Reviewed from Arc (but it's one I'll still buy for my shelves)

Summary from GoodReads

In the City of Lights, two star-crossed lovers battle a fate that is destined to tear them

 apart again and again for eternity.

When Kate Mercier's parents die in a tragic car accident, she leaves her life--and memories--behind to live with her grandparents in Paris. For Kate, the only way to survive her pain is escaping into the world of books and Parisian art. Until she meets Vincent.

Mysterious, charming, and devastatingly handsome, Vincent threatens to melt the ice around Kate's guarded heart with just his smile. But Vincent is full of secrets and Kate soon realizes that if she follows her heart, she may never be safe again.

Die for Me has had mixed reviews, but I have to say I loved this one. I loved the setting in Paris, I loved the writing style, I loved the main character Kate and I loved the love-interest Vincent-Boy did I love Vincent(swooning)
This book is escapism at it's best. I know that readers have said that it echoes many themes & elements from Stephenie Meyer's Twilight, and I saw the similarities in story line, and even character development but I'm totally ok with it. Twilight was a wonderful book to escape the world in and so is Die for Me.
It will be interesting to see where the author goes in the next book, but I for one can not wait!
Definitely recommended.
 
Next book- Across the Universe
 

Cryer's Cross by Lisa McMann

Cryer's Cross by Lisa McMann

Published by Simon Pulse  February 2011

223 Pages

Reviewed from ARC provided by publisher

Summary from Goodreads

The community of Cryer’s Cross, Montana (population 212) is distraught when high school freshman Tiffany disappears without a trace. Already off-balance due to her OCD, 16-year-old Kendall is freaked out seeing Tiffany’s empty desk in the one-room school house, but somehow life goes on... until Kendall's boyfriend  also disappears, and also without a trace. Now the town is in a panic. Alone in her depression and with her OCD at an all-time high, Kendall is about to find out just how far the townspeople will go to keep their secrets buried.

   I read Cryer's Cross in one sitting. It took a few pages before I settled in but then it had a hold of me and just didn't let go. Lisa McMann is a talented story teller and I could not have predicted the ending.

One of my favourite aspects of the book was watching Kendall manage her day to day life with OCD in the midst of the chaos in her community. I enjoyed watching her friendship with Jacien change and develop and feel that their developing friendship really anchored the storyline. If I had known how scared I would be after reading though, I definitely would not have read it so close to bedtime. Creepy and a little disturbing, I thought about it for days after.