Review: Wonderstruck by Brian Selznick

Title: Wonderstruck
Author: Brian Selznick
Genre: Juvi, Graphic Novel, Contemporary
Format: ARC
Star Rating: 5/5 stars

Taken from 'goodreads', "Set fifty years apart, two independent stories—Ben's told in words and Rose's in pictures—weave back and forth with mesmerizing symmetry. How they unfold and ultimately intertwine will surprise you, challenge you, and leave you breathless with wonder.

Ever since his mom died, Ben feels lost.
At home with her father, Rose feels alone.

He is searching for someone, but he is not sure who.
She is searching for something, but she is not sure what.

When Ben finds a mysterious clue hidden in his mom's room,
When a tempting opportunity presents itself to Rose

Both children risk everything to find what's missing.

With over 460 pages of original drawings and playing with the form he invented in his trailblazing debut novel, The Invention of Hugo Cabret, Brian Selznick once again sails into uncharted territory and takes readers on an awe-inspiring journey."


What a fantastic read! Right off the bat, let me tell you that I've given this title 5 out of 5 stars. Having never read 'The Invention of Hugo Cabret', I wasn't sure what to expect with this Brian Sleznick book. The hefty 600 pages intimidated me a bit, too. 


All I can say is thank goodness I decided to pick up 'Wonderstruck'. It's very, very good. Part graphic novel, part narrative, 'Wonderstruck' is actually two stories set in very different times that somehow come together to create a perfect story.


The art is beautifully done and it's amazing how well Rose's story comes across in pictures alone. In the same respect, the narrative is just as well done. This is truly a great story that is hard to put down. While the page count is staggering, I completed this book in about an hour.


There's not much more I can say, but this book about friendship, adversity, and loving connections is a winner and is something that should be on everyone's 'to read' list. 'Wonderstruck' hits store shelves September 2011.

In My Mailbox

In My Mailbox is a meme hosted by 'The Story Siren'. Its purpose? To allow bloggers to share with the world any new acquisitions that may have arrived via snailmail, the www, or even by car trip. I don't usually participate in this meme, but I just happen to have a few books that have arrived for review...


For Review:


'Breadcrumbs' by Anne Ursu
Blurb (goodreads): Once upon a time, Hazel and Jack were best friends. But that was before he stopped talking to her and disappeared into a forest with a mysterious woman made of ice. Now it's up to Hazel to go after him. Inspired by Hans Christian Andersen's "The Snow Queen," BREADCRUMBS is a story of the struggle to hold on, and the things we leave behind.

'Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children' by Ransom Riggs
Blurb (goodreads): A mysterious island. An abandoned orphanage. And a strange collection of very curious photographs. It all waits to be discovered in Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children, an unforgettable novel that mixes fiction and photography in a thrilling reading experience.

'Wasteland' by Patricia Williams
Blurb (goodreads): Becca Wilkinson is a nobody, and those that are aware of her existence know her as "that quiet girl in the back of class", "loser", or her favorite-"that chick that killed all those people." New at Leeville, Luke Johnston has everyone eating out of the palm of his hand...except Becca. There's something dark and dangerous about him that she distrusts. Becca will have to let her guard down if she wants answers--but can she handle the truth?

At The Movies: And 'The Host' finally has a Melanie!

So, remember Stephenie Meyer's other book, 'The Host'? The movie rights were sold years ago and finally we have some solid proof that a movie will eventually come to the silver screen! Here are the facts...

According to IMDB, the movie will hit theaters March 2013, being distributed by Open Road Films.


And even better? They've announced the actress chosen to play main character Wander/Melanie-- Saoirse Ronan (credits: The Lovely Bones, City of Ember, Atonement). Jared and Ian have not yet been cast (or news hasn't hit the web about it yet!). With Saoirse cast, I'm sure we'll be hearing more cast updates soon. 


My thoughts? I've only seen the girl act in 'City of Ember', but I don't mind the producers choice. She has that 'quirky' look (Picture) that I always pictured Wanderer to have. The only problem I see is that she looks a little young for the person I deemed in my fantasy cast to play Ian-- Ian Somerhalder. She would work well with my Jared-- Matt Lanter.


So, keep your eyes out for 'The Host' movie news!  I'm sure we'll be seeing more soon!!!!  (And if you haven't read the book-- read it!  If you can't get through the first 100 pages, I totally understand-- they're long winded.  Just skip them!  Start at 101 and you'll be hooked.  :p )

Review: Steel by Carrie Vaughn

Title: Steel
Author: Carrie Vaughn
Genre: YA, Juvi, fantasy, action, adventure, coming of age with a twinge of romance
Perfect for: both younger and older readers who are in need of a welcome stand-alone novel
Star Rating: 4/5 stars

Taken from 'Goodreads', "Sixteen-year-old Jill has fought in dozens of fencing tournaments, but she has never held a sharpened blade. When she finds a corroded sword piece on a Caribbean beach, she is instantly intrigued and pockets it as her own personal treasure.

The broken tip holds secrets, though, and it transports Jill through time to the deck of a pirate ship. Stranded in the past and surrounded by strangers, she is forced to sign on as crew. But a pirate's life is bloody and brief, and as Jill learns about the dark magic that brought her there, she forms a desperate scheme to get home—one that risks everything in a duel to the death with a villainous pirate captain."


'Steel' is a little under rated. Stand-alone's are so rare now a days that 'Steel' was a bit of fresh air! It is hard to classify 'Steel'. On one hand, it was great fun reading it, but on the other, I don't feel that I'll need to read it again. The best way to describe this novel? Beach reading! At 304 pages, it's a quick read, perfect for when you need a read that will kill time on a lazy day. Even better, as a stand-alone, you won't find it ending in the middle of any angsty action sequence, but on a very complete note that will leave you (or at least it left me) feeling satisfied!


'Steel's pirate storyline was surprisingly easy to jump into and this is coming from a girl whose only history with pirate novels is 'Vampirates'. Don't expect this to read like a dark dystopian or angsty supernatural read because it won't. 'Steel' definitely falls into the 'light/action/adventure/coming of age' category. The romance is that of young love and is present, but the heart of the story comes from the coming of age elements.  Because of that, this read is suitable for both young and old YA readers.


Why should you read 'Steel'? All in all, Vaughn has crafted an easy to read, entertaining story. I love the sword play elements, as well as the characters. 'Steel' is something you'll want to check out at your local library.  'Steel' gets 4 out of 5 stars.

Book Blogger Hop/Follow Friday/Updates

Oh, another Friday is here and with that comes another hop post! As I sit here watching 'Let's Make a Deal', I am reminded that I didn't get to post much this week! That will be fixed this upcoming week, I assure you! Good news on the reality show front, we're ready to pitch! And because of that, check back for a new mini series on what it takes to create a reality show and more about my upcoming California Adventure!


This Week on the Blog:
Heads UP! Twilight: The Graphic Novel Vol. 2
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Trailer


And now, the Hops...

The Question of the Week is: 

When did you realize reading was your passion and a truly important part of your life? 

Answer: I've loved reading since third grade-- the year I participated in Battle of the Books. While I occasionally (*cough*this week*cough*) take a short break, reading has gotten me through the best of times and the worst of times. You can always count on a book, I think! There's not one moment that I can mention that made me realize my 'passion' for reading. It has always been such a constant that I couldn't imagine NOT loving reading and loving talking about things I've read.

The Question of the Week is:
What is your favorite fairy tale or story that revolves around the fae?


Answer: As far as my favorite fairytale is concerned, I think I'd have to go with Beauty and the Beast alla Walt Disney or Thumbelina. I just love the stories.

I also quite like the original Brothers Grimm stuff-- so macabre! When it comes to reads, 'Tithe' is a great fae tale. Aprilynne Pike's series is quite addicting.


Till next week!

Heads Up! Twilight: The Graphic Novel, Volume 2 Is On Its Way!

I don't know about you, but I really enjoyed Volume one of 'Twilight: The Graphic Novel'. The art was beautifully done and the characters were far closer to what I believe Edward and Bella would look like than, say, their movie counterparts. 


Back in March 2010, I totally expected to get volume two within a few months of volume one, especially with volume one only covering half of the novel. Alas, it is now June 2011 and we have just received a release date from Yen Press for volume two. 'Twilight: The Graphic Novel, Volume 2' will be debuting October 2011 in hardcover and ebook format.

To be completely honest, I think having to wait a year and a half for this volume might hurt it. For sure, I will read it, but can I invest another $22.00 in a series that may or may not get finished in a timely manner? I've been spoiled with manga series releasing three or four volumes a year and understand the differences between those and 'Twilight: The Graphic Novel', but I wish Yen Press had come up with more of a plan in terms of releasing them in a timely, scheduled manner... 


Anyway, to answer my own question, I will probably, totally buy it. I own the first one, why not buy the second? I just *really* hope that it concludes the 'Twilight' novel and doesn't stop right before the action starts in the third portion of the book! I don't know if I could wait another year and a half for another volume of 'Twilight'!

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2-- New Movie Trailer!

Have you seen the new trailer for 'Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2'? As always, if the layout cuts off the right side of this video, watch it directly via youtube!





I'm looking forward to this movie, though I have a feeling it will be an emotional roller-coaster!

Book Blogger Hop/Follow Friday/Updates

It's that time again! I've passed over the last few hops b/c I wasn't a huge fan of the question. This week has some interesting questions, so I thought I'd participate...


This Week on the Blog:
Review: Tigers Quest
Review: Legend
PotterMore?



The Question of the Week is:
Genre Wars! What's your favorite genre and which book in that genre made it your favorite?


Answer: My favorite genre's are fantasy and supernatural, usually the kind that mixes with the real world a bit! There are so many. Originally, the works of Bruce Coville (Magic Shop series) and Elizabeth Winthrop (Castle in the Attic) brought me into the genre. Since then I've discovered a ton more awesome titles! Happy fiftieth feature, ParaJunkee!

The Question of the Week is:
How many books are currently in your To-Be-Read (TBR) Pile?


Answer: Too many! Most are older titles that I have been told are really good that I just haven't gotten to you! For the full list, check out my goodreads account-- link located on this site's side bar!


See ya next week!

PotterMore? Mrs. Rowling Has An Announcement!

So, I noticed on Twitter this morning a tag called 'PotterMore', a countdown to a 'JK Rowling Announcement' (with interactive owls), and a teaser site called 'Pottermore'. What is Mrs. Rowling planning? Who knows! But, the owls are arriving and you bet I'll be where ever I have to be when the countdown reaches zero!


Have news on this?  Leave a comment!

Review: Legend by Marie Lu

Title: Legend
Author: Marie Lu
Genre: YA, Dystopian, Romance
Format: ARC
Perfect for: those young and old looking for good dystopian
Star Rating: 4/5 stars

Taken from Goodreads, "What was once the western United States is now home to the Republic, a nation perpetually at war with its neighbors. Born into an elite family in one of the Republic's wealthiest districts, fifteen-year-old June is a prodigy being groomed for success in the Republic's highest military circles. Born into the slums, fifteen-year-old Day is the country's most wanted criminal. But his motives may not be as malicious as they seem.

From very different worlds, June and Day have no reason to cross paths - until the day June's brother, Metias, is murdered and Day becomes the prime suspect. Caught in the ultimate game of cat and mouse, Day is in a race for his family's survival, while June seeks to avenge Metias's death. But in a shocking turn of events, the two uncover the truth of what has really brought them together, and the sinister lengths their country will go to keep its secrets.

Full of nonstop action, suspense, and romance, this novel is sure to move readers as much as it thrills."


Oh, 'Legend', how I enjoyed reading thee! I received 'Legend' by chance and didn't immediately go to read it. The back blurb made it seem a little too much like a mystery, which isn't usually my cup of tea. Low and behold, I was totally wrong. 'Legend' is a fantastic read!


While I'm sure promotional material for this will mention 'Hunger Games' and in truth, the landscape and storytelling does have a similar feeling, you'll enjoy this book so much more if you don't compare it to 'Hunger Games'. As I mentioned before, the world feels similar in a militaristic sort of way, but oddly enough, 'Legends' world is a little more 'real'.  'Legend' is clean enough for younger YA readers, but has enough depth to entertain older YA readers, too.


The characters? To say the least, I really enjoyed them. I had a bit of trouble keeping track of the voices in the beginning, with the alternating chapters, but once I got the names of the characters down, it was smooth sailing.


Day, the 'Han Solo' of the novel, is a vigilante type you can really get behind. His cause, well, you really do begin to root for him fairly early in the novel. And June? She took a little longer to warm up to, but once she started interacting with Day and his partner in crime Tess, I really began to enjoy her character as much as the others. Towards the end of the novel, I was pretty much shouting to her character to do the right thing! (A sign of a good novel, I think!)


Author Marie Lu has a great novel on her hands, one that will surely pick up a lot of fans along its travels! Keep an eye out for 'Legend', which is being released November 2011, and for news of the movie currently being worked on by CBS Films. All in all, 'Legend' is  dystopian done right!


'Legend' gets 4 out of 5 stars.

Review: Tiger's Quest by Colleen Houck

Title: Tiger's Quest
Author: Colleen Houck
Genre: YA, Supernatural, Romance, Action
Perfect for: Readers who fell in love with Kishan in the original
Star Rating: 3/5 stars

Taken from Goodreads, "Kelsey Hayes is no ordinary college freshman. In fact, the eighteen-year-old girl has just returned from India, where she risked her life—and her heart—to rescue a handsome Indian prince from a terrible curse. Back home in Oregon, Kelsey is determined to move on, despite the lingering feelings she has for the man she left behind. She meets Li, a completely average guy who offers the promise of an ordinary, curse-free life. But just when Kelsey is ready to move on, Ren reenters her life, on a quest to reclaim her heart. Danger threatens their newly rekindled love and to save him, Kelsey must journey with someone else—a man who wants her for himself. The saga begun in Tiger’s Curse continues in Tiger’s Quest, as Kelsey finds herself in an epic battle between good and evil. From the shores of the Pacific Northwest to the jungles of India, the mountains of Nepal and Tibet, and the mystical realm of Shangri-la, this suspenseful tale of love, sacrifice, and redemption is not to be missed."


I really, really enjoyed the original novel in this series entitled, 'Tiger's Curse'. So, it goes without saying that I had high expectations for 'Tiger's Quest'. Peeking at other reviews and ratings didn't help the hype, either. Most have raved about 'Tiger's Quest' and given it pretty high ratings. Sadly, I just didn't feel the love for this title. 'Tiger's Quest' was weighed down by long blocky descriptions and lack luster plot elements.


I don't mean to completely rip into 'Tiger's Quest', but there wasn't a lot that screamed 'oh my gosh, this is awesome'. The main problem with this novel stemmed from the long, blocky descriptions and the way that much of the time we learned facts via lines of description and not lines of dialogue. The long legends were pretty skim-worthy, too.


Adding to my disappointments, it seemed like Kelsey and Kishan had a pretty easy time completing the tasks that were placed in front of them. Everything just seemed to work out in their favor far too easily.


Even with the disappointments, there was one thing that I enjoyed about this novel-- Kishan. Seeing his character grow in 'Tiger's Quest' was the best part of this novel. I think I even prefer him to Ren now!


'Tiger's Quest' gets 3 out of 5 stars. Not my favorite book, but it's something you will want to read if you enjoyed the original.

Author Interview: Krystle Jones, author of Veiled Innocence

I recently had the chance to review 'Veiled Innocence', a fantasy adventure with a bit of romance tossed in.  You can find the review HERE.  I asked Krystle if she would answer a few quick questions.  She agreed and I'm proud to give you this new author interview!


A Bit About Krystle Jones:

Krystle Jones grew up in Tullahoma, Tennessee, where she spent her grade school years staying up late reading stories rather than doing her homework. She managed to come out of high school with straight A’s, and went on to obtain a Masters in Flute Performance. She currently lives in Omaha, Nebraska. Veiled Innocence is her first novel. Visit her online at http://krystlejones.blogspot.com


The Q and A Session:
Tell us a few fun facts about yourself:
Krystle: I love to paint landscapes and sketch portraits. I also love putting together websites, voice acting for online games, and playing in musicals (I got my masters in flute).


When and how did you first come up with the idea for Veiled Innocence?
Krystle: I had a dream one night when I was about 22 or 23 (I'm 26 now) about a princess trying to escape a palace fire. I brushed it off to my overactive imagination, but she never really faded away. In fact, other characters soon materialized (Vishka and Rowan), and before I knew it, I had a premise for a story. I talked myself out of the idea of writing a novel, since I had never attempted one before, many times before just making myself do it. The first draft was a train-wreck (went through 6 drafts total, with 2 of them being a complete rewrite), and as I learned more and practiced writing, it became what it is today.


Has writing always been what you've wanted to do?
Krystle: Not exactly. I've always loved writing and reading, but I never really expected to become a novelist. I actually wanted to go into animation; I love cartoons, even to this day. I find it fascinating how people can bring characters literally to life with nothing more than a pencil and some paper. But I was also actively invovled in the band program, and eventually chose music.


Why did you choose the ebook/self published route? Do you believe the traditional routes of getting published are changing?
Krystle: I chose self pub because I wanted to keep all my rights to my work. I'm selfish in that aspect, I suppose, and I guess since I poured 2 years of my life into VI, it made me more possessive of that particular work. 


While I think there are more opportunities for publication available to writers now, both self pubbing and traditional routes have their share of hard work involved (query letters and piles of rejections vs. wearing many hats as a self-published author. I myself, as many of my colleagues are doing, act as publicist, writer, editor, cover designer, interior designer, etc.). While you have sole command and freedom when you go with self-publishing, you also need to be well aware of the large amount of time you'll put into the novel that isn't writing or editing (about a 40/60 ratio, for me, I think). It's a lot of work.


Describe your book in 10 words or less:
Krystle: An epic dark fantasy saga. (haha)


If you had to choose the cast for a movie adaptation of Veiled Innocence, who would play Rowan, Lian, and Vishka?
Krystle: Oh, this is tough! When I wrote VI, I hadn't imagined any particular actors/actresses for the parts. When I watched the trailer for Hanna, however, I thought to myself, "Saoirse Ronan (the girl playing Hanna) would make a lovely Lian." I honestly have no idea who I'd cast for Rowan or Vishka. Probably unknowns, or up-and-coming stars.


I'm a TV nut, what is on your DVR right now?
Krystle: True Blood Season 3. I didn't have HBO when it was airing, so I'm getting caught up.


What's next? Do you have an sequels planned and when should we expect them? Krystle: Yes, there are actually 2 sequels and a prequel planned. The two sequels are untitled at the moment, but the second book will come out May 23rd, 2012 and the third and final book will release May 23, 2013 (in case you're wondering, May 23 is my birthday). 


After the trilogy is done, I want to publish a prequel called Age of Stars, that tells Vishka's backstory (how she became Empress, the love story between her and Draxonus, and the events leading up to the opening of VI where we first meet her).


Where can readers find your book and what formats can they get it in?
Krystle: They are available at Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Borders, and Amazon UK as an ebook at $2.99 and on Smashwords in epub and other ereader-friendly editions, also $2.99. Paperback will be available soon through Amazon and it will be $14.99.

Top Ten Tuesday- Favorite Settings

This week's Top Ten 'Five' Tuesday, hosted by The Broke and the Bookish, is about your favorite book settings. Here are a few of mine!

1- Italy: I've been to Italy and LOVED it. Set a book in Italy and I'll probably take an extra look at it.


2- Hogwarts: The best thing about the Harry Potter books? Hogwarts. I'm notorious for skipping along the bits that don't take place in the castle.


3- Narnia: How can you not want to visit a place where the animals talk?


4- An Animated Disney Musical:  How much fun would it be to live in a world where you can break into song and not get stared at?


5- Castles:  One day, I want to own a castle.  It's one of the reasons I enjoy readings books about them!

Review: Veiled Innocence by Krystle Jones

Title: Veiled Innocence
Author: Krystle Jones
Genre: YA, ebook, fantasy, adventure, action, romance
Format: Ebook
Perfect for: those who are in need of a bit of fantasy/adventure
Star Rating: 4/5 Stars

Taken from Goodreads, "Vishka should have died the night her empire fell. Alone and desperate, she makes a pact with a beautiful stranger for the power to avenge her people. But every bargain has its price…

Lianora never placed much stock in the gods; she especially never believed the Accalian lore that spoke of a lost ancient magic, a magic woven from the fabric of people’s souls. So when she discovers the teardrop necklace, she thinks it to be nothing special – until the visions begin, glimpses of a legendary empress’s past and the approach of a great evil. One that may be far closer than she realizes.

What Rowan wants more than anything is freedom. More by force than choice, he serves the crumbling gothic metropolis of Accalia as Black Knight, charged with the protection of the city. When a vicious murder occurs in the dead of night, he never dreams the beautiful woman with dark eyes and flowing, black hair could be a prime suspect. A woman who hasn’t aged for over one thousand years, driven to Accalia in pursuit of an avenging god of death bent on rebuilding his usurped kingdom with the souls of the living.

When Accalia falls prey to a devastating attack, the three unwilling allies are forced together. Now they must figure out how to kill a god. But how do you kill the embodiment of Death?"


There are some ebooks that you read and say, why didn't a publishing house pick this up? For me, 'Veiled Innocence' is one of those books. Krystle Jones has crafted a story full of likable characters, an innovative fantasy world filled with magic, and just the right amount of action to keep everything moving.


There are many characters in this novel. I have to admit that in the beginning, I couldn't see how all of the characters lives would intertwine, but once they did, I was hooked and quite enjoyed watching their relationships grow. Author Krystle Jones spent a lot of time developing her characters, even those that we lost surprisingly early in the book.  I wish we had seen more of certain characters, but with so many introductions to be made, I'm sure Jones was just saving things for the sequel.


I love fantastical worlds, but some are hard to get into, hard to understand. 'Veiled Innocence' had a world that never felt overwhelming and the introduction to the world flowed well. Even the folklore in the story was easy to grasp.


There was an ease to the writing that I liked and found very addictive. A rarity in my experience with ebooks, I found myself not wanting to put this down for the evening and waking up looking forward to continuing the story.


If you are looking for an affordable fantasy/action/romance adventure, 'Veiled Innocence' may be what you need. It's available to purchase via 'Smashwords' for a great price. This is a diamond in the ruff and something you should check out if you e-read'.  (Soon to be available as a paperback via Amazon.)

Review: Immortal Beloved by Cate Tiernan

Title: Immortal Beloved
Author: Cate Tiernan
Genre: YA, Supernatural, Romance
Perfect for: older YA readers
Star Rating: 5/5 stars

Taken from Goodreads, "Nastasya has spent the last century living as a spoiled, drugged-out party girl. She feels nothing and cares for no one. But when she witnesses her best friend, a Dark Immortal, torture a human, she realizes something's got to change. She seeks refuge at a rehab for wayward immortals, where she meets the gorgeous, undeniably sexy Reyn, who seems inexplicably linked to her past.
Nastasya finally begins to deal with life, and even feels safe--until the night she learns that someone wants her dead."


I've never read the 'Sweep' novels by Cate Tiernan, so I didn't know what to expect from this title.  We've had 'Immortal Beloved' sitting around the house for a while, but I ignored it. Why did I ignore it? Two reasons, really-- one, the cover and two, the title. Both the title and cover just had no appeal for me. Without reading the back blurb, you'll instantly take this as your run of the mill supernatural romance, possibly starring vampires.


Low and behold, however, that this novel has nothing to do with vampires, just regular people who live really, really long lives called 'immortals'. And also, I should add, it is a *fantastic* read! Don't let the the mellow dramatic title or the bland cover discourage you from reading 'Immortal Beloved', this book is a winner!


First off-- the characters... They make this novel, especially Nastasya and Reyn. Most YA readers will be happily surprised with the characters in 'Immortal Beloved' because, while they look young due to their slow aging process, they don't act young (because some are well over hundreds of years old). Think of it this way-- an Immortal is essentially human. They can marry, have kids, take jobs, they just don't age like a traditional human being. For the characters in this novel who are hundreds of years old, they definitely have grown up already and have had many experiences that you don't see in your typical YA novels.


Reyn, the male love interest, isn't ignored in characterization. As well as coming off, well, hot, his back story is just as interesting as Nastasya's. If I had to choose my top five YA male leads, Reyn has now jumped up to the top of that list! He just rocks.


The plot moves quickly and includes many flashbacks into Nastasya's 'other' lives. It's very easy to screw up flashbacks in fiction, but Tiernan did them perfectly in this novel. They always added to the story and weren't ever boring in a 'let me skim passed them' sort of way. That equals a good flashback to me!


Who is this novel for? I mention that older YA readers will enjoy it, but younger one's could read it, as well. I made a point to mention the older readers because this is a novel that could cross the generational gap, like 'Hunger Games' and 'Twilight' did.


It is the first in a trilogy, so be warned that not everything will be answered. Unlike the common 'cut right in the middle of the action/non-ending' we're seeing in YA, this does have an ending. There is a stand-alone(ish) story in 'Immortal Beloved'. The ending feels right, but leaves just enough unanswered questions so that you're clamoring for the next novel!


My recommendation? Read this novel. Don't judge it by its cover or title. Add it to your 'to read' list. It's just that good. 'Immortal Beloved' gets 5 out of 5 stars from this little blog!