Book Review: This is Not a Love Letter

THIS IS NOT A LOVE LETTER by Kim Purcell tells the heart-wrenching story of a teen dealing with the disappearance of her boyfriend.

When her boyfriend disappears, Jessie immediately suspects foul play. As the story unfolds, readers explore issues from their interracial relationship to mental illness and addiction. Told as a letter to her missing boyfriend, readers become immersed in the local community and are challenged to look beyond racism for answers.

Librarians will find this interracial love story to be popular with a youth who enjoy contemporary, realistic fiction. The compelling mystery and authentic characters make this an engaging young adult thriller.

Published by Disney-Hyperion on January 30, 2018. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: Useless Bay

USELESS BAY by M.J. Beaufrand is a heart-pounding thriller with elements of magical realism.

The Gray quintuplets along with their adopted dog are known for their search-and-rescue skills. However the disappearance of a young boy and the discovery of his dead stepmother become a mystery that’s difficult for even the Gray siblings to solve.

Librarians will find that fans of mystery and detective novels will devour this exciting story set on Whidbey Island in Washington state. The magical realism and touch of romance will broaden its appeal. The short sentences and fast-paced approach make it an effective choice for reluctant readers.

Published by Amulet, a division of Harry N. Abrams on October 18, 2016. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: The Killer in Me

THE KILLER IN ME by Margot Harrison is a young adult thriller filled with nightmares and visions.

Nina has nightmares about a serial killer. To determine whether her visions are true, she decides to track the supposed killer and at the same time learn about her past. However her shocking discoveries hit close to home.

Librarians will find an audience of this psychological suspense among teens who enjoy a heart-pounding mystery. With lots of twists and turns, readers will be drawn into this fast-paced story.

To learn more about the author, go to https://margotharrison.com/.

Published by Disney-Hyperion on July 12, 2016. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: The Leaving

THE LEAVING by Tara Altebrando is an engrossing mystery about a small group of children who suddenly disappear, then reappear after a decade.

Ten years after six children are taken from a school bus, five teens seem to appear out of nowhere. They don’t remember where they’ve been and can’t explain what happened to their missing peer. As the young people slowly re-enter society, the pieces of their missing lives begin to falling into place and the mystery unfolds.

Librarians will find this heat-pounding suspense to be popular among teens who enjoy both a suspense thriller and an engaging memory mystery.

To learn more about the author, go to http://www.taraaltebrando.com/.

Published by Bloomsbury on June 7, 2016. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: Holding Smoke

HOLDING SMOKE by Elle Cosimano is a heart-pounding, young adult fantasy thriller.

After a near death experience, Smoke finds that he’s able to leave his body as a ghost and move among people without their knowledge. Behind bars for a murder he didn’t commit, Smoke uses this special ability to gather information that can keep him alive in the youth detention facility while also seeking clues that could set him free.

Librarians will find that complex character development, compelling plot twists, and interesting use of Smoke’s abilities will drawn in lovers of suspense as well as those who simply enjoy a good story. While the detention facility is portrayed more as a maximum security prison than a youth rehabilitation center, young adult readers will enjoy this fast-paced suspense. This selection will be very popular among teen boys, but will also appeal to young women who enjoy the hint of romance.

To learn more about the author, go to http://ellecosimano.com/.

Published by Disney-Hyperion on May 3, 2016. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: Flawed

FLAWED by Cecelia Ahern is a young adult dystopian thriller exploring societal perfection.

Celestine lives in a world that expects perfection. Those who break societal norms are physically and emotionally branded. While Celestine is considered the model citizen, she begins to realize that living a moral life may require actions that don’t mesh with society’s view of perfection. When she’s branded for an act of kindness and compassion, her life changes forever.

Librarians will find this engaging work of science fiction to be a source for endless discussions about the role of society and government in dictating what’s moral and ethical. Use it in a book club or even a psychology or sociology course.

To learn more about the author, go to http://www.cecelia-ahern.com/.
To learn more about the book, go to http://fiercereads.com/books/flawed/.

Published by Feiwel and Friends, an imprint of Macmillan on April 5, 2016. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: The Lie Tree

THE LIE TREE by Frances Hardinge is a heart-pounding historical mystery.

Set in the nineteenth century, Faith discovers a connection between a strange tree and the mystery of her father’s death. She soon discovers that this magical tree feeds on lies, but dispenses the truth through its hallucinogenic fruit. This complex, edge-of-your-seat fantasy will keep readers guessing until the very end.

Librarians will find that fans of Frances Hardinge will be thrilled with her latest historical fantasy. While the book’s main focus is on the mystery elements, mature readers will be impressed by the author’s connections to religion, feminism, and scientific debate.

To learn more about the author, go to http://www.franceshardinge.com/.

Published by Amulet, an imprint of ABRAMS. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: Teen Frankenstein

TEEN FRANKENSTEIN by Chandler Baker is the first book in the new High School Horror series.

This supernatural thriller is a loose adaptation of the classic Frankenstein story for a contemporary teen audience. Tor and her best friend Owen have been experimenting with dead rats and reanimation. The sudden availability of a dead teen’s body allows them to try out their theories on a human corpse. When the newly arisen creature starts to attend school, other bodies begin to appear kickstarting multiple murder investigations.

Librarians will find that the dark humor combined with the quirky, classic horror tale will be a hit with young adults.

To learn more about the author, go to http://www.chandlerbakerbooks.com/.

Published by Feiwel and Friends, an imprint of Macmillan on January 12, 2016. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: This is Where It Ends

THIS IS WHERE IT ENDS by Marieke Nijkamp is the gripping fictional account of a school shooting.

Told in “real-time” from the perspective of friends, family, and classmates of the teen shooter, this quick read takes place in one harrowing hour. The tragic story immerses readers in the thoughts, reflections, and actions of people facing the unimaginable horror of a gunman in their high school auditorium.

The author’s use of time stamps for each chapter, flashbacks, text messages, and other literary techniques adds interest for teen readers.

Librarians will find that students are attracted to this timely topic and drawn to the universal themes of revenge, heroism, and hope.

To learn more about the author, go to http://www.mariekenijkamp.com/

Published by Sourcebook Fire on January 5, 2016. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: Illuminae

ILLUMINAE by Amie Kaufman is a fast-paced science fiction novel using transcripts, instant messages, and other interesting means to tell an amazing outer space story.

Katy and Ezra are survivors of an attack on their remote mining colony. With the enemy in hot pursuit, a virus wreaking havoc, and an unstable artificial intelligence system in charge of the nuclear weapons, the two teens must use all their skills and resources to escape alive.

The first heart-pounding book in the new Illuminae Files series sets the stage for what’s likely to be a popular new young adult science fiction series. The author’s skillful use of fictional documents to convey the action will be attractive to many readers.

With so much of the fantasy market consumed with dystopian works, librarians will find a huge audience for this science fiction novel. This YA adventure also fits right into the resurgence of interest in science fiction works like Star Wars and Star Trek works.

To learn more about the author, go to http://amiekaufman.com/
To learn more about the series, go tohttp://www.randomhouse.com/teens/illuminae/.

Published by Random House for Young Readers on October 20, 2015. ARC from the publisher.

Book Review: Hunter

HUNTER by Mercedes Lackey is a riveting dystopian fantasy for young adults.

Growing up in a remote mountain monastery, Joyeaux has been trained as a Hunter. Using a combination of magic, combat skills, and her own wits, she’s fought an array of monsters alongside her Hounds who appear from the Otherworld. When she’s summoned to protect Apex City, she’s immersed in a world where Hunters are treated like superstars and people may be as dangerous as the monsters she hunts.

From Drakken to Goblins, Lackey has created a fascinating world filled with amazing creatures. The well-developed characters are engaged in a thrilling story of sabotage and conspiracy that adds a layer of interest that goes beyond monster chasing.

Fans of The Hunger Games and other dystopian works will be attracted to the action-adventure elements along with the “hunter as action star” theme. The addition of mythological creatures and paranormal elements will increase the popularity. Librarians will quickly find a following for this fast-paced science fiction fantasy series. Lots of open questions will have readers looking for the next book.

Published by Hyperion, Disney Book Group on September 1, 2015.

Book Review: Icebreaker

ICEBREAKER by Lian Tanner is an intriguing middle-grade science fiction thriller that takes place aboard a huge ship traveling the icy southern polar regions.

After 300 years at sea and an epic Civil War, the crew of the Oyster is divided into three tribes. As an outcast, twelve-year-old Petrel lives a lonely life with only a couple talking rats as companions. The ship was originally launched to save the final remnants of knowledge and technology from the evil Anti-Machinists. However, memory of the original mission has been lost for generations until a lone boy is spotted by Petrel on an iceberg. What follows is a fast-paced story of survival and renewal.

Tanner’s skills at world building and character development will bring the story alive for middle grade readers. Her balance of interesting dialog with vivid descriptions will help readers visualize this unusual shipboard setting.

Librarians will find that this exciting adventure will appeal to youth who enjoy dystopian settings with elements of steampunk. ICEBREAKER is the first book in The Hidden Trilogy.

To learn more about this Australian children’s author, go to http://liantanner.com.au/.

Published by Feiwel & Friends, an imprint of Macmillan on August 18, 2015.

Book Review: Fuzzy Mud

FUZZY MUD by Louis Sachar is a fast-paced middle-grade ecological mystery exploring friendship, bullies, and a life-threatening biohazard.

A work of speculative fiction, the story revolves around three children who stumble upon a mutated microorganism with the potential to cause a global pandemic.

Sachar weaves together short, focused chapters with excerpts from Senate hearings to create a quick read for a broad audience. For such a short book, the author is able to create multi-dimensional characters and a believable plot.

Youth who enjoy the environmental mysteries of Carl Hiassen and Jean Craighead George will be drawn to this ecological thriller. While reluctant readers will enjoy this fast-paced, “skinny book”, it will also be popular with those who read school and friendship titles. The variety of themes make it a good choice for group discussions.

Librarians and teachers will find the timely environment issues to be good connections with STEM connections. Consider a display that includes medical and ecological mysteries along with works of nonfiction about the CDC and strange diseases.

Published by Delacorte Press, an imprint of Random House on August 4, 2015.

Book Review: Lair of Dreams

LAIR OF DREAMS by Libba Bray is the second engaging suspense in The Diviners series.

Set in the 1920s, this paranormal thriller features an array of fascinating characters from the first novel including Evie, Sam, Jericho, and others. A sleeping sickness is spreading through New York City. Henry DuBois and Ling Chen are diviners who are able to walk in dreams. Will they be able to solve the mystery of this rapidly spreading illness or will they be trapped in the dreamworld? In addition to the dream theme, many subplots will keep readers connected with all the characters and prepare fans for more books to come.

Bray has become a master of blending historical fiction with supernatural fantasy elements. From speakeasies to racism, a wide range of political and social issues are seamlessly woven into the fabric of this haunting story.

Fans will be standing in line for this exciting thriller. Consider a library event that includes period costumes and ghostly decorations.

To learn more about the author, go to https://libbabray.wordpress.com/.

Published by Little, Brown, an imprint of Hachette on August 25, 2015. ARC through Edelweiss.

Book Review: Trollhunters

TROLLHUNTERS by Guillermo del Toro and Daniel Kraus is a quirky, young adult fantasy thriller with enough macabre humor to keep teens entertained.

Jim’s uncle disappeared 45 years ago leaving his brother to become an overprotective parent. When teenager Jim is suddenly thrust into an underworld of trolls and other creatures, he must join a group of reluctant heroes to save his town.

Best known for his work on films such as Hellboy and Pan’s Labyrinth, del Toro brings his unique blend of fantasy and humor to the young adult audience. Teaming with science fiction author/director Daniel Kraus, they’ve created an action-adventure that will be particularly popular with male teens who enjoy quirky science fiction thrillers. The book’s beautiful illustrations bring the underworld to life for readers.

Librarians will find this book to be popular among teens who enjoy titles with connections to horror and the underworld. For middle school youth who devoured series like Gregor the Overland or Percy Jackson and the Olympians, Troll Hunters can serve as a bridge to young adult literature. While not outstanding, this dark fantasy is likely to attract enough followers to become a series.

Published by Disney-Hyperion on July 7, 2015. ARC from NetGalley.

Book Review: The Six

THE SIX by Mark Alpert is a heart-pounding near-future thriller exploring artificial intelligence, digital preservation, and what it means to be human.

Adam’s body is withering away from the effects of muscular dystrophy. Along with five other terminally ill teens, Adam undergoes an operation that allows his brain to be merged with a computer to produce the first human-machine hybrids. Since the army controls the technology, The Six pioneers are obligated to work with the military on a top secret mission to destroy a rouge artificial intelligence known as Sigma who is about the exterminate human life on earth. The conclusion sets up the premise for a new series that’s likely to be popular with YA science fiction fans.

Alpert’s fast-paced plot, engaging writing style, and attention to scientific detail will be a draw for many young science and science fiction fans. Librarians will find this adventure-suspense equally popular among both male and female teens. Use this book to inspire youth to go back and read the works of Ray Bradbury, Isaac Asimov, Arthur C. Clarke, and others. Also tie this work of science fiction with nonfiction books related to artificial intelligence, robotics, genetics, and physics. The many thought-provoking issues addressed in the text make it a good choice for book club discussions.

Librarians need to be prepared for questions about when the next book in this series will be available. It’s sure to be a YA hit.

To learn more about the author, go to http://www.markalpert.com/.

Published by Sourcebooks Fire on July 7, 2015.

Book Review: The Mothman's Curse

THE MOTHMAN’S CURSE by Christine Hayes is a spooky thriller for middle grade readers.

Living in America’s most haunted town, Josie is accustomed to strange happenings in her family’s auction house. However, the appearance of a Polaroid camera that captures images of a ghost draws Josie and her brother into a century old mystery. A ghost, a monster, and a cursed pin are just a few of the creepy things these witty siblings encounter as they try to prevent a disaster in their small Ohio town.

This fast-paced suspense will keep readers on the edge of their seats wondering what will happen next. Hayes’ conversational writing style is easy to read and her characters are well-developed.

What will make the story even more compelling for young readers is the connection to with local legends about a real Mothman. Create a display featuring this book along with others about legendary monsters like Bigfoot and Sasquatch.

To learn more about the author, go to http://christinehayesbooks.com/.

Published by Roaring Brook on June 16, 2015.

Book Review: Cuckoo Song

CUCKOO SONG by Frances Hardinge is an eerie supernatural mystery set in England after World War I.

When Triss wakes up after an accident, her life feels strange. Pages have been ripped her diary, her memories seem incomplete, and dolls are coming to life. In her quest to understand her illness, she discovers a world of creepy changelings that causes some exciting sinister suspense.

Hardinge immediately grabs that attention of readers and provides just enough information about each character to keep readers wondering and guessing.

Librarians will find this book popular among youth who enjoy a thriller without needless blood and violence. Written for ages 12 and up, both middle grade youth and young adults will enjoy this spooky fantasy.

To learn more about the author, go to http://www.franceshardinge.com/.

Published by Amulet Books on May 12, 2015

Book Review: Breaking Sky

BREAKING SKY by Cori McCarthy is a fast-paced, science fiction adventure focusing on an elite military program and a hotshot teen pilot testing an experimental jet.

It’s 2048 and America is on the verge of war. Chase is among a select group of daredevil pilots at the United Star Academy flying the “Streaker”, a top-secret prototype jet designed for teen pilots. The strong female protagonist and eclectic cast of characters will appeal to both male and female readers.

McCarthy’s skillful mix of heart-pounding fight sequence descriptions with authentic military comrade dialogue fit perfectly with the book’s themes. The cinematic writing style and non-stop action will appeal to the video game generation.

Librarians and young adult readers alike will immediately see connections to books like Ender’s Game and movies like Top Gun. The futuristic military theme will be popular with fans of dystopian science fiction. The hint of romance and family drama will add to the appeal.

This young adult novel has been optioned by Sony Pictures as a movie, so this title will be popular for awhile. It’s likely that Breaking Sky will kickstart renewed interest in the military, science fiction thriller sub-genre.

Learn more about the author at http://www.corimccarthy.com/.

Published by Sourcebook Fire on March 10, 2015.

Book Review: Tunnel Vision

TUNNEL VISION by Susan Adrian is a heart-pounding paranormal suspense that will keep young adult readers engaged from beginning to end.

Jake has a secret. When he holds an object, Jake he can see through the eyes of the owner. A party game reveals his talent and sets in motion a string of events that include government surveillance, rouge agents, and underground scientists.

A talented storyteller, Adrian does a masterful job layering the lies and deceit. Readers will quickly become caught up in the intrigue wondering who our protagonist should trust. Adrian’s description of the tunneling experience makes the phenomena seem real. Her vivid descriptions of captivity and escape contribute to this nail-biting suspense.

Containing a hint of romance and just enough paranormal elements for fantasy lovers, this fast-paced adventure will appeal to a wide range of YA readers.

This YA novel serves as an excellent bridge to adult thrillers. It also opens the door for paranormal readers to explore related sub-genres involving government espionage and spy novels.

Published January 20th, 2015 by St. Martin’s Griffin. Edelweiss ARC used for review.