Blog Tour Book Review Plus Giveaway: The Brass Giant: A Chroniker City Story by Brooke Johnson

This story has wonderful steampunk elements.

The Brass Giant: A Chroniker City Story
by Brooke Johnson

• File Size: 1155 KB
• Print Length: 236 pages
• Publisher: Harper Voyager Impulse (May 5, 2015)
• Sold by: HarperCollins Publishers
• ASIN: B00M719Z06

Genre: Steampunk, YA
My Rating:  3.75 of 5.0

Book Description
Publication Date: May 5, 2015
Sometimes, even the most unlikely person can change the world

Seventeen-year-old Petra Wade, self-taught clockwork engineer, wants nothing more than to become a certified member of the Guild, an impossible dream for a lowly shop girl. Still, she refuses to give up, tinkering with any machine she can get her hands on, in between working and babysitting her foster siblings.

When Emmerich Goss--handsome, privileged, and newly recruited into the Guild--needs help designing a new clockwork system for a top-secret automaton, it seems Petra has finally found the opportunity she's been waiting for. But if her involvement on the project is discovered, Emmerich will be marked for treason, and a far more dire fate would await Petra.

Working together in secret, they build the clockwork giant, but as the deadline for its completion nears, Petra discovers a sinister conspiracy from within the Guild council ... and their automaton is just the beginning.

Review:
Petra is an orphan who works as a shop girl in a poorer section of Chroniker City. The good thing about her work is that she gets to help fix clock mechanisms under the guidance of a kind expert. Petra has always dreamed of entering the Guild University to study and become a certified engineer. She tries to sneak in disguised as a boy but is rejected because she has no background school and no money for tuition.

Some of the young students are passing the shop and one of the young men has an automaton following him. Petra is fascinated but challenges the mechanism. Emmerich, who created the remote controls, recognizes the look of awe and intensity in Petra’s eyes. He pursues her and asks her to help him build a special project for the Guild. Not only is the project highly secret but if it is discovered that Emmerich allowed Petra to work on it they would both be in danger of charges of treason leading to execution. Although reluctant and fearful, Petra cannot resist the opportunity to truly work in the Guild.

Their first prototype is well received by the council leaders who move up the deadline for the final project. Petra and Emmerich grow closer as they work late at night to build the clockwork giant until Petra tries to walk away when she realizes the danger her involvement poses to Emmerich.

An attack by Luddites, who hate the machines, brings a fire to the University causing Petra to rush to Emmerich. The incident brings back memories of the night her parents died in a similar fire. Now Petra has even more reason to fight to be a part of the Guild. She returns to help Emmerich finish the project only to discover that the purpose of the machine has been twisted by a conspiracy of leaders seeking their own agenda. Petra is caught and accused of treason and she feels completely betrayed by Emmerich.

The story is set in 1881 and the steampunk world is wonderfully developed. I really enjoyed the rich descriptions of sights, smells and sounds. The steampunk world had much in common with other steampunk stories I have read. Still, I found the focus on the mechanics engaging and the development of the young friendship enjoyable for about two thirds of the book. Then the young adult angst and the gushing romance became too much. Plus Petra repeatedly made stupid, childish decisions that put her in danger. I suppose the effusive romance and the impetuous, rash behaviors are consistent for young adult but these issues broke my engagement with the otherwise good story.  The scenes to wrap up this book seemed a bit forced and the story ends intentionally with problems remaining to be addressed in the next book.

I liked the steampunk aspects of the book enough to still give this a pretty positive rating. I do think this book would be enjoyed by young adults and those who like steampunk as long as they are prepared for YA romance too.

I received this through Edelweiss for Pump Up Your Book Blog Tour.

To Purchase The Brass Giant
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Brooke is a stay-at-home mom, amateur seamstress, RPG enthusiast, and art hobbyist, in addition to all that book writing. As the jack-of-all-trades bard of the family, she adventures through life with her fiercely-bearded paladin of a husband, their daughter the sticky-fingered rogue, and their cowardly wizard of a dog, with only a sleep spell in his spellbook.
They currently reside in Northwest Arkansas, but once they earn enough loot and experience, they’ll build a proper castle somewhere and defend against all manner of dragons and goblins, and whatever else dares take them on.
Visit Brooke at her website

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GIVEAWAY

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• This giveaway begins April 27 and ends on May 15.
• Winners will be contacted via email on May 17.
• Winner has 48 hours to reply.

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Book Review: The Fire Sermon by Francesca Haig

This is an engaging and imaginative dystopian story.

The Fire Sermon

by Francesca Haig

• File Size: 3075 KB
• Print Length: 385 pages
• Publisher: Gallery Books (March 10, 2015)
• Sold by: Simon and Schuster Digital Sales Inc
• ASIN: B00LD1OQQO

Genre: Fantasy, Dystopian, Post Apocalyptic
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0

Book Description
Publication Date: March 10, 2015
The Hunger Games meets Cormac McCarthy’s The Road in this richly imagined first novel in a new post-apocalyptic trilogy by award-winning poet Francesca Haig.

Four hundred years in the future, the Earth has turned primitive following a nuclear fire that has laid waste to civilization and nature. Though the radiation fallout has ended, for some unknowable reason every person is born with a twin. Of each pair, one is an Alpha—physically perfect in every way; and the other an Omega—burdened with deformity, small or large. With the Council ruling an apartheid-like society, Omegas are branded and ostracized while the Alphas have gathered the world’s sparse resources for themselves. Though proclaiming their superiority, for all their effort Alphas cannot escape one harsh fact: Whenever one twin dies, so does the other.

Cass is a rare Omega, one burdened with psychic foresight. While her twin, Zach, gains power on the Alpha Council, she dares to dream the most dangerous dream of all: equality. For daring to envision a world in which Alphas and Omegas live side-by-side as equals, both the Council and the Resistance have her in their sights.

Review:
Cass lives in a society that is still recovering from nuclear destruction. Four hundred years after the fires there is a generation of twins, always male and female, who are separated into two distinct classes. The Alphas are without deformity and they get to remain with their parents, go to school and enter the ruling society. The Omegas, who have at least one defect are branded, separated from their family and sent to Omega working communities. The controlling Alphas would like to ignore their twins, but they cannot because if either twin dies, so does the other.

Cass is a rare seer, dreaming or sensing future events around her. She was able to hide this ‘defect’ for years which caused anger and resentment to grow in her twin, Zach. The family suffered ostracism because they could not separate out the Omega. Zach tricked Cass into revealing her secret when they were 13 and she was finally sent away to an Omega farming community.

Cass spends six years working and dreaming of a world where people are given equal chance. Meanwhile Zach, known as the Reformer, has gained a powerful position on the Alpha Council creating enemies in both factions. Zach captures Cass and imprisons her in a secluded cell, presumably to protect her from his own enemies. But there is a devious conspirator working with the Alpha Council, another seer known as The Confessor. The Confessor relentlessly questions Cass regarding any visions of a rumored Island of refuge where Omega’s live without the oppressive restrictions and taxes imposed by the Alphas. Cass refuses to break under the hateful probing and one day she pushes back and sees awful sights in the mind of The Confessor.

Fearing what they will do to her next, Cass escapes and manages to release another prisoner before leaving the fortress. The young boy, who is missing an arm, has lost his memories of life before his imprisonment. Cass names him Kip and they manage, with the aid of Cass’s foresight, to elude pursuers as they travel in hope of finding The Island. They find bits of help along the way and even spend a few weeks in relative safety. But Cass knows that The Confessor is always probing her thoughts and wherever Cass and Kip go they expose friends to danger.

Cass and Kip find what appears to be an Omega safe place. At least it was safe until Cass arrived. Piper, the young leader, is not sure if he can believe Cass found their carefully hidden refuge without help. Some of the leaders want to kill her, especially when they discover the identity of her twin. Even if she isn’t a spy, chances are she brings danger. But Piper hopes he can use her abilities to help the rebellion forces. Cass tries to get Piper and other rebels to understand her desire to find a world of peace instead of a world where Omegas are cast aside and twins are killed for political advantage.

The story continues with the clever rebel Omegas battling the ruthless, manipulative Alphas. A new character is added rather late in the story giving aid and challenging Cass to stop running and take a stand. There is also a good twist, or two, as the book reaches its climax. It is clear that there is still a lot of story left for a sequel and it will be interesting to see where the author’s creative imagination takes this difficult society.

I enjoyed the easy writing style, the determined characters and the action. There were a few drawbacks where I questioned the lack of sense and caution but these actions could well fit young people who tend to be impetuous, reckless and don’t always recognize their own mortality. The story is entertaining and suitable for young adults. I think it could make an interesting movie.

I received this title through NetGalley for an honest review. It qualifies for NetGalley Challenge.

Audio Book Review: All Our Yesterdays by Cristin Terril

This is an engaging and fascinating time paradox tale.

All Our Yesterdays
by Cristin Terril
Narrated by Meredith Mitchell

Length: 9 hrs and 25 mins 
Unabridged Audiobook
Release Date:03-18-14
Publisher: Tantor Audio
Genre: Listed as Suspense but could be considered Sci FI
My Rating 4.0 of 5.0

Book Description
Publication Date: September 3, 2013
| Age Level: 12 - 18 | Grade Level: 7 - 12
"You have to kill him." 
Imprisoned in the heart of a secret military base, Em has nothing except the voice of the boy in the cell next door and the list of instructions she finds taped inside the drain. Only Em can complete the final instruction. She's tried everything to prevent the creation of a time machine that will tear the world apart. She holds the proof: a list she has never seen before, written in her own hand. Each failed attempt in the past has led her to the same terrible present—imprisoned and tortured by a sadistic man called the doctor while war rages outside. Marina has loved her best friend James since the day he moved next door when they were children. A gorgeous, introverted science prodigy from one of America's most famous families, James finally seems to be seeing Marina in a new way, too. But on one disastrous night, James's life crumbles apart, and with it, Marina's hopes for their future. Now someone is trying to kill him. Marina will protect James, no matter what. Even if it means opening her eyes to a truth so terrible that she may not survive it. At least not as the girl she once was. All Our Yesterdays is a wrenching, brilliantly plotted story of fierce love, unthinkable sacrifice, and the infinite implications of our every choice.

Review:
Marina is a young teen who loves the wealthy, genius boy next door, James. As a prodigy James has few friends. Marina has always stuck with him even as he struggled through his growing phases and through the death of his parents. He also has a best friend, Finn, who has hung with him at their private school. James has been raised by his older brother who is a U.S. Senator being prepared as a possible future president. James goal is to help the world be a better place.

James was mocked by many classmates as a social misfit far above his years in brilliance. As he matures he finally grows into his body and all the girls are after him even though they are still in high school and he has moved onto college levels and private mentoring. Marina has loved James for so long she can’t imagine not being with him. She puts up with Finn because he is James friend and she will do whatever it takes to support James. She is excited when it appears that James is finally seeing her as more than the “kid-sister’ neighbor girl except the night ends in tragedy.

In the future, Em and Finn are adjacent cells n a military prison where they resist against ‘the Doctor’ and ‘the Director’. They are subjected to repeated deprivations and tortures because they refuse to give up Em's hiding place for highly important scientific notes regarding a time machine. The creation of the machine has created a totalitarian government with restricted freedoms resulting in rebellion.

Em uncovers a cryptic message that says “You have to kill him”. Apparently she has gone back in time before as this is the fourteenth message on the paper with all the other alternatives having been crossed off. Em and Finn escape with help from a surprising source. Now they must plan how and when to end the nightmare that they have lived for the past four years. And Em has to determine if she can kill to protect those she loves the most.

This is a very engaging and fascinating time paradox tale. The author changes time and viewpoints from Em in the future/present and Marina in the past. This makes for a very interesting blend and kept me engaged as I learned the characters and their histories. The time travel created opportunities to ponder the consequences and options. There were a few details that some might say violate the paradox rules of time travel. But since it is fiction the author gets to make the rules, right? There were times when I didn’t like Marina’s insecure and clingy character (not to mention teenage angst) and I was glad she matured into a stronger person. I suspected the twist before it was revealed but I still thought it was really well plotted. I recommend this to readers who like the twists created by time travel dilemmas.

Audio Notes: Meredith Mitchell did a good job with the narration. The characters were distinguishable and the emotions, danger and intensity are carried through the narration. I enjoyed the story through the audio presentation.

I received this title through Audio Sync 2014. It was paired with the classic JULIUS CAESAR by William Shakespeare, which I may have to listen to just to clarify the pairing. This qualifies for Audio Challenge, TBR Double Dare and TBR.

Audio Book Review: Divided We Fall by Trent Reedy

I found this interesting for its political presentation through an engaging protagonist.

Divided We Fall

Written by: Trent Reedy

Narrated by: Andrew Eiden

Length: 10 hrs and 42 mins 

Unabridged Audiobook

Release Date:05-13-14

Publisher: Scholastic Audio

Genre: Sci Fi, YA

My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0 

Publisher's Summary
From the author of Words in the Dust: an action packed YA novel set in a frighteningly plausible near future, about what happens when the States are no longer United.
Danny Wright never thought he'd be the man to bring down the United States of America. In fact, he enrolled in the National Guard because he wanted to serve his country the way his father did. When the Guard is called up on the governor's orders to police a protest in Boise, it seems like a routine crowd control mission... but then Danny's gun misfires, spooking the other soldiers and the already fractious crowd. By the time the smoke clears, 12 people are dead. The president wants the soldiers arrested. The governor swears to protect them. And as tensions build on both sides, the conflict slowly escalates toward the unthinkable: a second American civil war.
With political questions that are popular in American culture yet rare in YA fiction, and a plot that's both excitingly provocative and frighteningly plausible, Divided We Fall will be Trent Reedy's very timely YA debut.
©2014 Trent Reedy (P)2014 Scholastic Inc.

Review:
Danny Wright is a seventeen year old who joined the Idaho National Guard to serve his country as his father did. Danny lives with, and helps to calm, his mother who struggles with an anxiety disorder. Danny did his summer basic training and returned to school expecting to finish out his senior year with his long time girl friend and his school buddies.

The President institutes a mandated ID registration for all US citizens. Idaho’s governor disagrees with the plan and refuses to implement or enforce it. Danny never expected to get called up to real action but his unit is pulled in to assist in quieting a protest riot in Boise. The crowd doesn’t back off and when a rock hits Danny’s gas mask his gun accidentally goes off initiating unplanned gunfire and tragedy. The Governor seeks to protect the young men in the unit while the Federal authorities seek to arrest and punish those responsible. People split in their opinions with many calling the guardsmen murderers, others calling them soldiers doing there jobs and another group naming them heroes.

Danny’s name is leaked and he and his school friends end up in a dangerous car chase trying to outrun Federal Agents. The kids get help from a surprising source but now his friends and the world wonder about Danny’s involvement with the Boise incident. Danny especially has to face his own sweetheart who has been harping about ‘those murderers being brought to justice’.

The political standoff escalates to a point where the soldiers have to choose loyalties between the Federal government and Idaho authorities. Idaho is shut off from access, leaving Danny’s fragile mother in another state, causing even more worry for Danny who has been pulled into full time defensive duty.

This story presented a scenario that could be all too real. The story deals with young adult issues of family, school, responsibilities and young love. I enjoyed the action and the real, natural teenage characters - to a point. There is some (sadly true to life?) idiocy in the behavior of the teens and there is one young man that is obsessed with conquering every cute female, younger and older. That activity and the repeated underage drinking makes this book not such a good teen role model/read, in my opinion. The ending crashed a bit with some of that teen idiocy and then leaves the action at an unresolved state.

The story brings to the forefront the very real problem of young adults going into battle situations and having to make difficult decisions that will impact the rest of their lives. On a philosophical level the story also opens up debate on the interesting political/civil issues of state versus national rights which is a timely discussion. I’m curious where the author takes the political battle from here. I recommend this to those who like an entertaining young adult story involving interesting political issues.

Audio Notes: The story is told from Danny’s view and I think Andrew Eiden did a good job of narrating. There was enough diversity in the narration to keep the characters distinct and to keep the story pace engaging. I liked the author’s use of news feeds and this added interest to the audio.

I received this as a free download through SYNC 2014 Summer audios. This selection was paired with the classic The Red Badge of Courage.  

Audio Book Review: Of Neptune: Syrena Legacy, Book 3 by Anna Banks

The final book in this trilogy adds some new interest and resolves okay in spite of some weak elements. 
Of Neptune: Syrena Legacy, Book 3
Author: Anna Banks
Narrator: Rebecca Gibel

Series: The Syrena Legacy, book 3
Runtime: 9.6 Hours
Recording: Unabridged
Release date: 5.13.2014
Publisher: Blackstone Audio
Genre: Fiction/Childrens [I would not class this as Childrens]
ISBN-13: 978-1-4829-8785-0

Genre: YA Fantasy
My Rating: 3.75 of 5.0

Summary:
Emma and Galen’s kingdom—and their love—is threatened by long-lost Syrena in the brilliant conclusion to Anna Banks’ bestselling trilogy.
Emma, half human and half Syrena, and her Syrena love, Galen, need time together—alone. Away from the kingdoms of Poseidon and Triton. Emma’s grandfather, the Poseidon king, suggests the two visit a small town called Neptune.
Neptune is home to both Syrena and Half-Breeds alike. But Emma and Galen didn’t sign up to be peacemakers between the ocean and the land-dwelling, freshwater Syrena. They didn’t bargain for meeting a charming Half-Breed named Reed, who can barely disguise his feelings for Emma. And they especially didn’t expect to find themselves in the middle of a power struggle that threatens not only their love but their ocean kingdoms.
In this stunning conclusion to her bestselling Syrena Legacy, Anna Banks thrills fans with more action and romance than ever.
© 2014 by Anna Banks

Review:
Galen is insistent on taking Emma away for some down time after the excitement and loses in book two, Of Triton. Galen is still reeling from the death of his best human friend and assistant, Rachel. Galen’s older brother, Grom, the King of Triton, is against Galen and Emma taking time off especially in the human world. But the Poseidon king, Emma’s grandfather, has directed Emma to take Galen to a particular ‘vacation’ spot in Tennessee.

Emma is delighted to discover that Neptune is a community of land dwelling Syrenas and Half-Breeds. Galen isn’t happy about the discovery because Half-Breeds, other than Emma, are not accepted by the ocean Syrena. Also, a local, charming young man, Reed, has an immediate attraction to Emma.

Unfortunately, Neptune isn’t completely the peaceful place it appears. Some of the inhabitants are intent on forcing the sea tribes of Syrena to accept the land tribes and Half-Breeds.  There is also a deceiving human who is setting traps with the goal to capture and expose the mer-people. Galen and Emma are surprised to find themselves as hostage targets by two different interests. First they need rescue and then they have to deal with human exposure and the problems that Neptune represents to the ocean world.

I enjoyed the underlying plot for the most part although some of the hostage attacks seemed rather “set up”. What really bothered me though was the hormonal attraction between Galen and Emma and the lame, unnecessary attempt at a  love triangle. Okay, I guess it’s to be expected in a YA story, but after the nice restraint in the first two books I find that a bit annoying. Suddenly the strong relationship and respect between Emma and Galen is spoiled with teenage lust, doubt and jealousy. Fortunately their passion and petty issues are way-laid by the activities in Neptune and ultimately the story ends well. Beyond the issues noted, I do recommend the full series as entertaining.

Audio Notes: Initially I was distracted by what sounded to me as "whining" narration. I didn’t remember having that trouble with book one and my audio notes in the review for Of Poseidon indicate that I wasn’t so effected. It took a few hours into this audio before the story took precedence over the narration. Rebecca Gibel’s voice is suitable for the YA characters so it was as much a content issue as voice issue I think that was distracting for me. I suggest that a reader listen to the audio sample and decide if they are comfortable.

I received this download from Blackstone Audio through Audiobook Jukebox for an honest review.

Book Review: Of Triton (The Syrena Legacy) by Anna Banks

This is an engaging sequel to book one.
Of Triton (The Syrena Legacy)
by Anna Banks

File Size: 932 KB
Print Length: 256 pages
Publisher: Feiwel & Friends; Reprint edition (May 28, 2013)
Sold by: Macmillan
ASIN: B00BCFZLQ0
Genre: YA, Paranormal
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Book Description
Publication Date: May 28, 2013
Emma has just learned that her mother is a long-lost Poseidon princess, and now struggles with an identity crisis: As a Half-Breed, she’s a freak in the human world and an abomination in the Syrena realm. Syrena law states all Half-Breeds should be put to death.
As if that’s not bad enough, her mother’s reappearance in the Syrena world turns the two kingdoms—Poseidon and Triton—against one another. Which leaves Emma with a decision to make: Should she comply with Galen’s request to keep herself safe and just hope for the best? Or should she risk it all and reveal herself—and her Gift—to save a people she’s never known?
Once again, Anna Banks infuses Emma and Galen’s points of view with humor, intrigue, and waves of romance.

Review:
Emma has learned that her mother, Nalia, is the missing princess of Poseidon. Syrenas, the mer-people, do not accept half-breeds and Nalia is afraid of what they will do to Emma so Nalia convinces her to run. Emma is reluctant as she doesn’t want to leave behind Galen who has gone to get his brother Grom, the Triton king and Nalia’s long ago fiance.

Grom is excited to discover that Nalia is alive but he has many complications to face. He has recently agreed to strengthen the relationships between Tritons and Poseidons by accepting Paca as a mate. Paca is a young woman who supposedly has the gift of Poseidon because she can direct dolphins with hand signs. When Grom returns with Nalia, Paca’s father, Jagen, and his friends question Nalia’s true identity. Jagen is a danger as he is challenging the royal family for control of the Syrena people.

Meanwhile, Galen still thinks that they should keep Emma’s exsistence as a half-breed a secret even though Emma clearly has the true gift of Poseiden. She can talk to all the fish and mammals of the ocean who are more than glad to play with her or follow her direction.

There are more fun moments with volatile Rayna, Galen’s sister, and her new mate, Toraf, the best tracker of the Syrena. Also there is much help from Galen’s faithful human assistant, Rachel. Although there is mutual, strong attraction, Gavin and Emma continue to honor their commitment to keep their relationship pure until they can mate.

The plot is very engaging with changes in several of the characters and danger from within and without the Syrena community. I found this to be a good sequel to book one, Of Poseidon, and a quick and enjoyable read. I am looking forward to listening to the final book for review.

I selected this story in eBook form to read before reviewing the third book.

Audible Book Review: The Fault in Our Stars by John Green

This is a beautifully written and poignant story of brave teenagers falling in love.

The Fault in Our Stars
by John Green
Narrated by Kate Rudd

    LENGTH    7 hrs and 14 mins
    RELEASE DATE    01-10-12
    PUBLISHER    Brilliance Audio
Genre: Young Adult
4.75 of 5.0.

Publisher's Summary
Audie Award Nominee, Best Teens Category, 2013
Despite the tumor-shrinking medical miracle that has bought her a few years, Hazel has never been anything but terminal, her final chapter inscribed upon diagnosis. But when a gorgeous plot twist named Augustus Waters suddenly appears at Cancer Kid Support Group, Hazel’s story is about to be completely rewritten.

Insightful, bold, irreverent, and raw, The Fault in Our Stars is award-winning-author John Green’s most ambitious and heartbreaking work yet, brilliantly exploring the funny, thrilling, and tragic business of being alive and in love.
©2012 John Green (P)2012 Brilliance Audio, Inc.

Review:
Hazel is a sixteen year old teen who would love nothing more than to be a “normal” teen. Instead she has lived with cancer for several years and has to have a portable oxygen tank to help support her weak lungs. She resents her condition, resents the goodwill of her parents who watch over her so carefully and resents the youth support group. The support group is their for encouragement but also brings the stark reality of their illness and mortality to the participants.

One of her group friends is Isaac whose cancer will soon cause him to loose his eye sight. He brings a friend to group one day, a hot looking guy named Augustus. Augustus, a confident teen a few years older has lost a lower limb but has been clear of cancer for a few years. He is immediately smitten by Hazel and young love blooms. They share a love of reading and exchange books.

The book that is Hazel’s favorite was about a young girl who had an illness and lived with her intrepid mother. They are helped by the mother’s boyfriend who Hazel isn’t sure is for real or a con. But the book just ends abruptly... presumably when the girl dies. Hazel is obsessed with learning what happened to the mother and boyfriend. The author has never written anything else and now lives a reclusive life in Netherlands. Augustus reads the book and manages to make contact with the author. Then Augustus uses his wish to arrange a trip to take Hazel to Amsterdam to meet the author and try to get answers to her questions. The trip is an adventure and discovery. But there is heartache in store.

This started slowly for me but it soon became engrossing. The writing is incredibly impressive, thought provoking, touching and poignant. The plot deals with cancer which touched home a bit. But it made me see illness issues in a different perspective - both from the viewpoint of the youth and the difficult position of the parent caregivers. It also reminded me of the brilliance of life. This is a YA romance but readable and meaningful for any age.

Audio Notes: Kate Rudd does an excellent job conveying the illness, rebellion, confusion, hopes and angst of teenage Hazel Grace. She handled the other characters perfectly well too, complete with accents. The narration brought the characters to life and made the story a bit easier smoother.

I picked this from my Audible Library.

Book Review: The Double Life of Incorporate Things (Magic Most Foul) by Leanna Renee Hieber

This is an intriguing supernatural battle against evil forces.
The Double Life of Incorporate Things (Magic Most Foul)
by Leanna Renee Hieber

• File Size: 941 KB
• Print Length: 252 pages
• Page Numbers Source ISBN: 1494324555
• Publisher: Deus Ex Victoriana (November 27, 2013)
• ASIN: B00H1J7506

Genre: YA, Paranormal (gaslamp fantasy)
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Book Description
Publication Date: November 27, 2013
"Just when we think our nightmares are over, the Society has invented a new horror. Around every corner a shadow, behind every whisper a demon. If we don't end what the devils began, we will die haunted..."

The finale in the acclaimed Magic Most Foul trilogy: The trauma and the terror of the Master's Society has only escalated for the dashing Lord Denbury and brave, feisty Miss Natalie Stewart, and a new terror has been unleashed in Manhattan. Together with their stalwart friends and unlikely heroes, they take the fight directly to the Denbury estate, where new evils have awakened. But are they prepared for all the sacrifices that shall be asked of them? With their very lives and the sanctity of their mortal souls at stake, Natalie and Jonathon are past the point of no return...

Review:
Natalie is a strong minded, independent young woman of 18. It is clear from the beginning of this story that she has special skills that have helped her fight demons and save the young man that she fell in love with, Jonathan, Lord Denbury. Jonathan’s soul had been imprisoned in a painting and his body possessed by a demon summoned by the Master’s Society. The first book covers how Natalie discovered Jonathan’s prison and helped to free him.

Natalie is aided by her father’s friend, a widow, Evelyn Northe, who Natalie views as a step mother. Natalie’s own mother died in a carriage accident but pushed Natalie to safety. Her mother now is present for her in times of great need as a guardian angel. Evelyn is a clairvoyant so she can accept Natalie’s and Jonathan’s skills and help them in the fight against the Master’s Society. Especially since the local law enforcement of 1880 don’t believe the supernatural, spiritual warfare goings on and resent having women poking into their investigation.

The evil Master’s Society is conducting terrible experiments to trap souls, reanimate bodies and using a powder to infect normal citizens with madness and violence. One group that has suffered from an unwitting attack during a party is a group of artistic types who have gathered together to support each other. Their charismatic leader is Nathaniel Veil who is famous for his shows on Gothic themes, including exploration of the paranormal. Ms. Lavinia Kent was the hostess of the party and she seeks help from Evelyn.

The story is set in Manhattan but takes the battle across the sea to Jonathan’s home outside of London, England. The four young people prepare to face several of the leader’s of the Master’s Society, including the mad, power hungry man who imprisoned Jonathan. Although they think they have a good plan, they do not fully realize the extent of danger they face.

There is good emotion and action in this story. The plot moves forward well while the young romance and other relationships are woven in as important elements. I enjoyed the spiritual foundation that supported the battle against the evil society and liked that it was a needed factor to fight the demons.

There was one minor point of view jump but most readers would probably not notice that technical error which caused an awkward sentence but didn’t disrupt the storyline. Other than that minor item I enjoyed the clean descriptions and fast paced movement of the book.

I had not read the prior books but there was enough background given to make this book understandable although I wished I had read the stories in proper sequence. This story has a proper ending although it  appeared to me that there might be a lead in to another story.Although designated a YA read, and containing some YA angst, this is interesting for more 'mature' readers too who enjoy paranormal battles.

I received the eBook for an honest review and participation in a book Blitz tour. Check the feature and Giveaway post linked HERE.

Book Review: Waning Moon (The Chronicles of Lily Carmichael trilogy) by PJ Sharon

This is an engaging, fast paced, post-apocalyptic adventure.
Waning Moon (The Chronicles of Lily Carmichael trilogy)
PJ Sharon

• File Size: 425 KB
• Print Length: 270 pages
• Page Numbers Source ISBN: 1479309427
• Publisher: PJ Sharon (September 25, 2012)
• ASIN: B009GW3GTK

Genre:  Post-Apocalyptic
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Book Description
Publication Date: September 25, 2012
In the year 2057, in a post-apocalyptic world where a polar shift threatens the survivors of a widespread pandemic with extinction, sixteen-year-old genetically enhanced Lily Carmichael has more immediate problems. Her uncle is dying of cancer and her healing abilities are ineffective against the blood ties that bind them. In order to find a cure, Lily must leave the protection of her quiet town and journey to the trading city of Albany, all while avoiding the Industry, an agency that would like nothing better than to study and exploit her abilities.

Seventeen-year-old Will Callahan has been searching for his father since severe storms blasted through the Midwest, killing his mother and sister. When he learns that his father may be in the city, he catches a ride with Lily, a girl who has come to his rescue more than once. As the two embark on a dangerous journey, the tension between them grows. But the secrets Will’s keeping could put Lily in far more danger than traveling to the city with him, and if he was any kind of man, he would have told her to run the minute she found him.

Review:
Lily, a sixteen year old, lives in a secluded village with her Uncle, Sam, and her younger brother, Zephron, in a post-apocalyptic world. The children were genetically enhanced and keep their special abilities secret because otherwise they would be pulled in, studied and used by The Industry. Lily has special skills as a healer but her brother’s powers lean toward violent outbreaks. Their Uncle is a creative engineering and mechanical whiz with skills to create camouflage and provide means of survival.

Lily has encountered a stranger heading toward her home and in an effort to evade him there is an accident that leaves her more frightened than ever. Shortly thereafter Lily finds a young man, Will, looking wild and starved, in one of her brother’s traps. Although she knows she should not allow any stranger near their home she feels that she must help him.

Will is a seventeen year old who is traveling to find his father who he believes has gone to the city. His father has a family connection with the government but doesn’t agree with the policies so he may be laying low to avoid being brought in. Will stays with Lily’s family for a few days while they prepare a caravan trip to the city to trade for supplies and the special medicine that Lily’s Uncle needs for his cancer.

Although the trading seems to go well there is danger following Lily and Will. Lily gets in trouble when she meets with the doctor who is supposed to provide the medicine. Lily flees and tries to follow Will only to discover more trouble and danger when she has to rescue him from the authorities who are actually seeking her.

The characters are likeable and pretty natural in their circumstances. I enjoyed the developing friendship between Lily and Will even though it is clear that they are both hiding secrets. That is part of the intrigue to the story as the author weaves in the past history to reveal their secrets. There are some points that didn’t quite seem realistic ... that is to say the actions and events were contrived. Yet the story was engaging. It flowed well and read quickly. I would be interested to follow the continuing adventures.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Uncle Sam explains his mantra for survival:

"Adapt, improvise, and overcome--remember?"

I received a download for this book from the author at EPICon 2013.

Book Review and Giveaway Link: Just Ella by Annette K. Larsen

This is a lovely, sweet romance with hints of the Prince and the Pauper.
Just Ella
by Annette K. Larsen

• File Size: 3414 KB
• Print Length: 294 pages
• Publisher: Hidden Falls Publishing (August 14, 2013)
• Sold by: Amazon Digital Services, Inc.
• ASIN: B00EK7R5ZW

Genre: Historical Romance
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0

Book Description
Publication Date: August 14, 2013
A Proper, Clean Romance.
Ariella was only looking for a distraction, something to break up the monotony of palace life. What she found was a young man willing to overlook her title and show her a new and vibrant way of life. But when her growing feelings for Gavin spiral out of control and clash with the expectations of her station, she will discover that the consequences of her curiosity are far more severe than she’d imagined.

"I watched in helpless horror as two guards hauled Gavin to his feet and dragged him from the room. My voice was frozen, unable to protest as another guard took hold of my arm, leading me upstairs. From the confines of my room, I stared into the darkness beyond my window, hoping to catch one more glimpse of Gavin. He was gone, and I wondered if he would have been better off if he had never met me."

Review:
Ariella is a princess who longs to be loved for herself...just Ella. No one knows that side of her. She doesn’t even have friends since she can’t mingle with others in her kingdom. She has a special camaraderie with her father, the king, as he shares history and explains political aspects of ruling when she visits in the library in the afternoons.

As she is nearing her sixteenth birthday Ella knows that there will be a big celebration with neighboring nobility coming to the festivities and some thinking about making alliances. One young prince, Jeshua, has shown particular favor towards Ella but she doesn’t like his arrogant, sly attitude that shows more interest in himself than in others.

Ella seeks refuge in a hidden room in the garden maze where she meets a young gardener, Gavin. He recognizes her as nobility by the way she speaks and carries herself. But she introduces herself only as Ella, and a gentle friendship begins before he realizes fully who she is. Ella begins to spend time in the garden, reading to Gavin as he works. Sometimes they chat about life as he tells her about village traditions. Then he even takes her on a surprise exploration, sneaking outside of the palace grounds.

When an excursion outside of the palace results in an attack Ella must explain that Gavin didn’t attack her but rescued her. Now that that her secret friendship is exposed, Gavin is banished, her father is angry and so Ella loses the two she cherished most.

Ella is sad and distraught but finds a way to share her desire to help others. She continues to avoid Jeshua even as he increases his pursuit. Then she is devastated to learn that Gavin has become engaged. But what can she expect? They are of two different worlds and Ella must learn to let him go.

There is danger and intrigue as Ella is kidnapped. She learns the identity of her kidnappers but is afraid that her parents won’t believe her and Gavin will get blamed instead. If there is any chance for Ella to be with Gavin they are going to have to take risks and sort out the misunderstandings that abound.

I liked Ella’s down to earth, caring personality and enjoyed the gentleness of her friendship with protective Gavin. I really appreciated the maturity that Ella learned as she dealt with the pain of lost love and loneliness. I also liked how she sought more than an idle life of royalty and wanted to make life better for the people.

The writing has an easy flow and the story is full of emotional depth. There is a very nice ‘afterward’ where the author explains the inspiration for the story and gives snippets and tidbits about certain characters or scenes. Although I was not enthralled, I would say the story is enchanting and a good read for those who enjoy stories of star crossed love with a happy ending.

Ella realizes a hard lesson:

...Love did not always conquer all.
   And so I was left to find a way to conquer love. Heaven help me. Location 2783.

I received this title as part of BookBlast Blog Tour.
Look at the BookBlast feature post for more information and another Giveaway Link!

Book Tour Giveaway 

(in addition to Bookblast Giveaway linked above.)

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Ends 11/5/13

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Audiobook Review: Shadows of Glass: The Ashes Trilogy Book 2 by Kassy Tayler

This is a good sequel with a cliffhanger ending setting up book 3.

Shadows of Glass: The Ashes Trilogy Book 2

    by Kassy Tayler
    Narrated by Nicola Barber
        Series: The Ashes, Book 2

LENGTH  9 hrs and 40 mins
RELEASE DATE  07-23-13
PUBLISHER  AudioGO

Genre: YA Dystopia

My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary

Wren’s world has changed. The thing that she fought for - escaping the dome - has come to fruition, but it’s not the paradise she thought it would be. Most of the shiners have died, and according to James she is to blame for many of the deaths, a burden which sits heavy on her shoulders. Still some have survived and Wren is determined to keep them safe as they fight to establish a home outside while hiding from the rovers who have weapons that can kill from far away. But as long as she has Pace she knows everything will be fine. Still Wren wonders, as she sees the smoke that continually pours forth from the dome, how did her friends inside fare? Will they ever find out if Lucy, David, Jill, and Harry, along with Pace’s mother survive the explosions?

Meanwhile, someone else has also seen the smoke. A band of explorers from across the sea arrive in an airship, curious about the dome, and offer help to those who survive. When Wren meets the handsome Levi Addison, she suddenly questions her love for Pace as Levi offers to show her the world from his airship. Does she really love Pace? Or was it just the circumstances that made her think she did? Meanwhile, word arrives from inside via Pip, and Wren is forced to go back inside the dome, a thing that terrifies her more than anything else, to save her friends. Once she’s back inside will she be able to escape again?

©2013 Kassy Tayler (P)2013 AudioGO

Review:
In this sequel to Twilight of Ashes, Wren, Pace, James, Adam and a few more shiner friends have survived the rushing waters that drove them out of the exploding tunnels. Some of the blind ponies and goats have also survived. But there are many more deaths and losses. The small group is now forced to survive, with little in the way of supplies, in an alien environment where even the sun they have rarely seen can harm them.

Wren discovers that her friend, John, who was forced outside, has survived and established a place of shelter. He warns of the threat of barbarian rovers who raid and carry off females. Wren is filled with self doubt and guilt that is fueled by the bitter James. She questions if living in freedom, with starvation and fear, is better than living the life of drudgery, but safety, that they had before she dared to dream of the outside.

Suddenly Wren is faced with more strangers in an airship but she soon realizes that these foreign explorers are friendly. The remarkable family set out to help the small group of survivors to establish a safe community, offering even staff and weapons to protect against the rovers. The young man, Levi, is smitten by Wren’s simple beauty, her bravery, strength and determination. He doesn’t mean to come between Wren and Pace but if there is a chance for him to win her attention he intends to pursue it.

Pip, Pace’s intrepid canary, brings a message to Wren from Lucy who is still inside the Dome. The call is “Help us!” Pace has to go back inside if he wants to rescue his mother while Wren feels she must find a way to help her friends inside. Levi’s Uncle agrees to use his ship to help get them inside where they soon are trapped into more danger. As this book closes, Wren, Pace and Levi face the angry leader of the Royals, Wren’s father.

I liked the addition of the exploring US characters. It was interesting to try to imagine how the outside world, and strangers from far off, would effect Wren and her friends who have had little schooling. Presenting Levi as another romantic interest to catch Wren’s attention creates more conflict in addition to the struggle of surviving. Although it makes Wren appear shallow in her feelings I attribute some of her confusion to her youth and the stresses she has been experiencing.

I felt there was too much repetition of Wren’s fearful doubts and thoughts for a good part of the first half of the book. Again this may be consistent with the angst of being a teen but it was a bit annoying. The story was entertaining and I was engaged and anticipating what would happen with the confrontation inside when book two abruptly ended. For those who really don’t like cliffhangers, be forewarned. I will be interested to learn the conclusion in volume three.

Audio notes: Once again Ms. Barber does a good job giving emotional input to characters. She does a nice job with the accents and I enjoyed the listening.

I received this title for review from AudioGo through AudioBook Jukebox.

Audible Book Review: The 5th Wave by Rick Yancey

This is interesting, entertaining and a thought provoking alien invasion/apocalypse story.
The 5th Wave
    by Rick Yancey
    Narrated by Brandon Espinoza, Phoebe Stro

LENGTH    12 hrs and 41 mins
RELEASE DATE    05-07-13
PUBLISHER    Penguin Audio
Genre: Post Apocalyptic
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
The Passage meets Ender's Game in an epic new series from award-winning author Rick Yancey.

After the first wave, only darkness remains. After the second, only the lucky escape. And after the third, only the unlucky survive. After the fourth wave, only one rule applies: Trust no one.

Now, it's the dawn of the fifth wave, and on a lonely stretch of highway, Cassie runs from Them. The beings who only look human, who roam the countryside killing anyone they see. Who have scattered Earth's last survivors. To stay alone is to stay alive, Cassie believes, until she meets Evan Walker.

Beguiling and mysterious, Evan Walker may be Cassie's only hope for rescuing her brother - or even saving herself. But Cassie must choose: between trust and despair, between defiance and surrender, between life and death. To give up or to get up.
©2013 Rick Yancey (P)2013 Penguin Audio.

Review:
Cassie (for Cassiopeia NOT Cassandra) is a young teen struggling to survive her world after aliens appeared and wiped out a large portion of the population. First there was loss of electronics resulting in chaos and soon starvation. Then many, including Cassie’s mother, suffered a painful death from a bleeding virus. After the virus survivor’s fled the killing in the cities trying to hide. Cassie, with her father and her younger brother, Sammy, had joined a small community. They are living day to day as they try to hide from the flying drones and avoid the alien assassins whom Cassie calls the ‘Silencers’.

One day buses and military personnel arrive and everyone thinks they are saved. But the bus is only collecting children under 16. Cassie could go with her brother but she refuses to leave her father. They watch Sammy leave and then Cassie goes into the woods to find another friend. She stumbles upon a soldier killing the young boy. When she starts to return to camp she is devastated to see the soldiers killing all of the adult civilians. Now she knows she cannot trust the military or anyone at all. She is on the run, alone, wondering how she can rescue her brother.  She is injured by a Silencer and lost in the snow when she is rescued by Evan.

Cassie knows to trust no one but Evan saved her from the snow and fed and clothed her. He is very gentle and tender.   Yet he seems to know too much about her and she suspects that he is doing more than hunting as he goes out each night. Cassie slowly regains her strength and Evan reluctantly helps her plan how to get to Sam.

Meanwhile Sam and other young people have been taken to the military base to be trained as warriors to fight. That training includes how to kill the enemy who they are told look just like other humans but have an alien parasite on their brain. Only special tools and glasses help determine who is “green” to be killed or red to recruit.  The new recruits are also ‘tagged’ so they cannot be lost or stranded. Or are they being tagged for control purposes? What is the truth and who can be trusted?

I enjoyed the survival elements and the relationship conflicts presented in the story.  The premise is really interesting and there is good intensity of action that keeps the listener’s attention. I enjoyed some wonderful phrasing in the writing (with a print I could quote them but that is hard to capture in an audio).  I liked Evan’s character even though part of his mind-set is left mysterious. I’m undecided about the ending as it was one that leaves some open issues. But at least there was hope! I recommend this to readers who enjoy a good alien/apocalypse story and the emotional dilemmas of feelings associated with an individual ‘them’ instead of a faceless enemy.

Audio Notes:   I initially was annoyed by the “whininess” of Cassie. I wasn’t sure if it was her personality or the narration but I decided it was both and therefore fit the story.  I think both narrators did a good job with the personalities they portrayed for the reading. The narration enhanced the story for my enjoyment although I think this would be a fine ‘read’ as well. 

This is from my own Audible library.

Audio Book Review: The Empty Mirror by James Lincoln Collier

This is a strange, ghostly bit of entertainment.
The Empty Mirror
by James Lincoln Collier

Unabridged Audiobook

Author: James Lincoln Collier  
Reader: Adam Verne  
Running Time: 3 hrs 45min
Published by AudioGO, 2013
Genres: Young Adult, Historical Fiction, Ghost Story
My Rating: 3.75 of 5.0

Book Summary:
Nick Hodges had always been a troublesome boy. Growing up an orphan in his Uncle Jack's care in a small New England town wasn't easy. Everyone was a little wary, a little watchful--a little too watchful. One day, while Nick is walking in the woods, a neighbor thinks she sees him miles from where he actually is. Soon a series of events reinforcing Nick's hotheaded reputation unfold. The incidents become increasingly serious until, finally, Nick is the scapegoat for a much more sinister crime, one that he wouldn't even think of committing. As he uncovers history of the town's influenza epidemic, and as he observes a strange occurrence in the graveyard, Nick begins to suspect something out of the ordinary is happening. And when he sees a figure running in the woods wearing the mirror image of his own shirt, Nick starts to piece together some of the answers--answers no one could have imagined. James Lincoln Collier has written a haunting story of a boy and his reflection--and what happens when two souls want to inhabit the same living body.

Review:
I suppose you could best describe this as a ghost story and a mystery. It is set in a  type of back woods community in 1932. Nick, a young teen of 13, has already developed a reputation as a boy to cause trouble and mischief. One day a ‘nosy’ neighbor complains that he was rude to her. But he insists that he was miles away with his friend, Gypsy. Gypsy’s father is an abusive drunk. Her  family is considered trash and no one would believe them.

Nick is puzzled by the false accusations until he is looking in a pond and doesn’t see his own reflection. As Nick tries to hunt down the doppelganger himself the mischief leads him to a grave marker of a boy his own age who died with the influenza the year that Nick was born. The reflection continues to cause trouble focusing town hostility towards Nick. As the mischief escalates it appears that Nick may well end up in jail unless he can find a way to show the sheriff or town people he is innocent. Then the threats become even more deadly and Nick must leave or find a way to stop the body snatcher.

The story is interesting in its simplistic, beautiful settings and the mysterious, creepy danger. It is an unusual story and not my usual read but I did find it entertaining. I recommend this to fans ghost stories and to those who like unusual surprises with a touch of creepiness.

Audio Notes: Adam Verne does a nice job with the voices of Nick and Gypsy. The reading, and the writing, convey a small town, older time, tone. I do think there could have been a bit more suspense and excitement.  Still he managed to keep it entertaining and light which would make it better for YA listeners.

I received this MP3 download from AudioGo through AudioBook Jukebox.

Attention Audio Fans, YA, Classic Readers: Check Out SYNC - #syncya!

SYNC Summer 2013 Titles Revealed!
 

Twelve weeks of free audiobook downloads, combining a popular contemporary YA title and a classic paired by theme, start May 30, courtesy of audiobook publishers, AudioFile, and OverDrive.
DON'T MISS OUT – SIGN UP TODAY!

Check out the great Summer line up starting with:

May 30 – June 5, 2013
Of Poseidon by Anna Banks, read by Rebecca Gibel (AudioGO)
The Tempest by William Shakespeare, read by a Full Cast (AudioGO)

And here is one in June I am looking forward to:

June 13 – June 19, 2013
The Raven Boys by Maggie Stiefvater, read by Will Patton (Scholastic Audiobooks)
Bless Me, Ultima by Rudolfo Anaya, read by Robert Ramirez (Recorded Books)

Well - Really I am looking forward to all of them. I hope you'll join me and share the news!
 

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Book Review and Giveaway: New Wings by Donna Stanley

This is a wonderful fictional portrayal of guardian angels!

New Wings 

by Donna Stanley

• Paperback: 240 pages
• Publisher: Creation House (May 7, 2013)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1621363368
• ISBN-13: 978-1621363361

Genre: Inspirational Fiction, Angels
My Rating: 5.0 of 5.0

Book Description
Publication Date: May 7, 2013
Why is it that when we pray for the supernatural, we are surprised when it shows up?

Seventeen-year-old Olivia Stanton knows the Bible says guardian angels exist, but assumes they only show up when people are dying or need to be saved from some kind of sudden disaster…until her own guardian angel appears to her in the form of a handsome blonde-haired, blue-eyed guy her own age. As Olivia gets to know Mike, she begins to see angels—both good and evil—on a regular basis, and quickly learns how many misconceptions she had about the spiritual realm.
Will Mike be able to prepare Olivia for the daunting spiritual battle about to overtake her small town before it destroys her and everyone she cares about?

Review:
Olivia is a high school senior struggling with all the usual challenges of her age: self confidence, boys, college plans, etc.  Olivia has always been curious about angels.  But when she begins to see creepy things in the shadows she is thrilled to learn that not only does she have a guardian angel but she can see and talk to him!

Mike first appears to Olivia as a young man at school. She is interested but cautious and concerned if he is stalking her. When she learns who he is she is pleased to be able to have such a friend and protector. Olivia can see more than her own guardian angel. She sees demons, warrior angels and the angels protecting her friends too. She learns that she has certain spiritual gifts if she is willing to accept them and allow God to use them as He directs. She learns that there is power, and protection, through prayer and apparently she has a special role to play in helping her friends and community.

Olivia soon is gathering her best friends, Erin and Christina, around her as support. Meanwhile her mother thinks she is having mental difficulties like her Aunt. But Olivia knows it is real and isn’t sure how to show her mother. Mike assures Olivia that something will bring her mother around as Olivia is too important to the spiritual battle in the community to have doubts obstruct her.

I was very delighted with this book. I love reading about angelic warfare as it boosts my prayer efforts. The author weaves wonderful Biblical lessons into an interesting story with engaging and likeable characters. It really warmed my heart and excited me to watch the teens begin to see God and angels as real forces in their lives.This is an easy read and I recommend it for Christians especially to share with teens they know!

I received this book through Glass Road PR Tour for an honest review.

[PLEASE NOTE:  I give my apologies to the author and Glass Road for my original posting being incomplete. My internet went out Tuesday night and I had work and travel that took my time until Thursday evening.]

ENTER THIS GIVEAWAY for the Review Copy:

 ENTRY FORM HERE

For 3 Extra Bonus entries Visit the author's website and tell me something you find of interest.

* This contest is open US ONLY.
* This contest will close 10 PM (Central) on May 31, 2012.
The winner will be randomly selected from all entries.
WINNERS WILL BE ANNOUNCED on June 1, 2012.
Winners will have 72 hours to respond by email or the winners form linked in the announcement.

Audio Book Review: Ashes of Twilight by Kassy Tayler

Fans of The Hunger Games won't want to miss this engaging YA dystopia!
Ashes of Twilight
by Kassy Tayler (Author)
Nicola Barber (Narrator) 

• Audible Audio Edition
• Listening Length: 9 hours and 24 minutes
• Program Type: Audiobook
• Version: Unabridged
• Publisher: AudioGO
• Audible.com Release Date: November 14, 2012

Genre: YA Dystopia
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
Wren MacAvoy works as a coal miner for a domed city that was constructed in the mid-19th century to protect the royal blood line of England when astronomers spotted a comet on a collision course with Earth. Humanity would be saved by the most groundbreaking technology of the time. But after nearly 200 years of life beneath the dome, society has become complacent and the coal is running out. Plus, there are those who wonder: Is there life outside the dome? Or is the world still consumed by fire?

When one of Wren's friends escapes the confines of the dome, he is burned alive and put on display as a warning to those seeking to disrupt the dome’s way of life. But Alex’s final words are haunting. "The sky is blue." What happens next is a whirlwind of adventure, romance, conspiracy, and the struggle to stay alive in a world where nothing is as it seems. Wren unwittingly becomes a catalyst for a revolution that destroys the dome and the only way to survive might be to embrace what the entire society has feared their entire existence.

Review:
The city was built with glass domes and air filters to shelter humanity from the fire expected to burn up the surface when, in 1878, a comet was on collision with earth. The society was set up to protect the bloodline of the royals in England. The various classes are restricted by their duties to preserve the lifestyle and line of the pampered royals with their arranged marriages.  The coal miners live below in caves, providing coal to keep the fans running. Above ground, workers maintain the giant fans and clean the domes; others serve as gardeners, bakers, weavers and the various merchants who sell wares in the markets. Enforcers , called “blue coats”, guard the privileged royals from all the lower classes. Although the system was set up without criminal expectation, through the 200 years that have passed, a group of evil thugs, the filchers, dwell on the fringes and prey on those they can snatch in the streets.

Wren is an underground worker, a “shiner”, tending the ponies who pull the coal carts. She is now sixteen and has always had a bit of a crush on Alex but he is focused on Lucy. That leaves Wren stuck with her best friend’s brother, James, who is impetuous and sometimes cruel. Wren is a bit of a dreamer who sneaks up to the dome each day to watch the sunrise. She stares at the dome and wonders if there is really fire outside as the leaders say or if the world outside has returned to the green earth it used to be.

Alex and a few of their friends have started to gather as “seekers.” The group includes members across the class structure, including some royals who do not want to be forced into marriage. Suddenly the world as they know it is plunged into uproar. Wren witnesses a burned-alive Alex declaring with his last breath that “the sky is blue.” Alex had made a run for the outside but the blue coats dragged him back to let him die in the streets. Wren is chased by a blue coat, Pace, who has seen and heard more than he should. Soon the two are in hiding, wondering about the secrets beyond the dome and wondering what their future may bring. The younger miners want to investigate further but the elders are reluctant to cause trouble.

The story starts with Wren wondering about the Bible and the Heaven she knows little about. I enjoyed Wren’s faithful courage, steady determination and inclination to do the right thing even if that means seeking answers and freedom that could bring danger. Pace is a good match for her as he too is loyal, ready to protect her and ready to fight ‘the system.’  I also like how they both care for animals - the ponies and the canary Pace names Pip.

This is an engaging YA dystopia with wonderful world building and some good surprises. There is a good blend of action and ideological dreams.  I recommend this as a good read for those who like The Hunger Games and Divergent. I like that there is less senseless killing than in Hunger Games, although there is violence through the revolution that occurs. I will be interested in the sequel when released.

Audio Notes: Ms. Barber does a great job giving emotional input to Wren’s tale. She conveys her wonder, her frustration, her fear and sorrow. She presents the other characters equally well.  My only concern was that the narration was very soft making it hard to hear. Although that might have been the fault of my MP3, I realized the problem exists with the Media player too.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Wren has to make a decision when escape becomes possible:

"....yet, everything and everyone I love is still inside and something is desperately wrong in there. I can’t leave him....Dreams are nothing unless you have someone to share them with." End of Chapter 27.

I received this for review from AudioGO through AudioBook Jukebox.

Audio Book Review: Phantom Universe (Summer Chronicles #1) by Laura Kreitzer

This is a really engaging story and good audio. I'm ready for the next one!

Phantom Universe (Summer Chronicles #1)

• UNABRIDGED
• by Laura Kreitzer
• Narrated by Karen Savage

Although I loved this on audio, if you hurry you may be able to pick it up for free on Kindle!

Genre: YA, Sci Fi, Dystopia

My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0

Blurb from Audible.com:
Sold into slavery to pirates at the young age of four, Summer learns to survive the rough seas of subterfuge and thieves through silence. When the boat she's lived on most of her life is destroyed, Summer finds herself washed up on the shore of a new world, a phantom universe full of the bizarre and extraordinary. She meets Gage, the one boy who understands the girl with no speech. But when their lives are put on the line, will Summer finally call out? Or will all be lost in the fathomless depth of silence?

Review:
This story is told through bounces in time through Summer’s memories from age 4 to the current at age 16. This technique is fitting since the story centers around a time displacement. Even though this was on audio I didn’t have trouble following the time flashes once I knew that was how the past was being revealed.

When Summer was four she was stolen from her mother by human traffickers. Before being sold into slavery to pirates Summer was beaten into silence, learning that she was less likely to be beaten if she never spoke. She has not touched land nor spoken since.  Although she has struggled with the chores on deck and as the cook, at age twelve she found a protector and best friend in Landon. He has helped her in the ship's galley while guarding her from the worst of the leering crew. 

Now Summer is sixteen and a childhood friend, Jaden, arrives on board with a team that is seeking to retrieve Summer because she has a power that they need to control. Jaden helps Summer and Landon to escape from the ship but when they awaken on shore they learn that they are 200 years in the future. 

The world they find themselves in considers them "outlanders". The League of Canadian Federation, under its dictatorial president, is putting the outlanders in camps and it looks like they may starve (or worse) those who can’t be trained and assimilated into the current culture. Summer and her friends are the outcasts even among the outlanders. The outlanders in the camp where Summer is sent seem to be mostly teens and are part of 200 million people who have been transported from 2010 to 2210.  Somehow Summer is the catalyst that unknowingly impacted the timeline.  One of the League authority “cops”, Gage, who found Jaden and Summer, has taken an instant liking to the nearly starved waif. He determines to find a way to protect her not only from the dangers of the camp but from the Clock Society who wants to capture her to either use her or destroy her.

Ms. Kreitzer has combined a wonderfully imaginative future world with some hard issues such as muteness, human trafficking and societal oppression. All of that is woven into a page-turning plot. The characters are nicely developed, especially Summer’s strength, bravery, fears and vulnerabilities. Through the story it is interesting to see the ways Summer learns to communicate. There is a strong, platonic relationship with her protector, Landon, and a new, powerful but frightening romance connection with Gage. The action moves along at a good positive pace. Near the end of this book certain secrets are revealed and a new character, Julian, is introduced. I am ready to follow the characters and their struggles in the next book in the series.  

The story flows easily and the narration is distinct and crisp. The narrator, Karen Savage, has a wonderful accent and uses different voices to distinguish the characters. I particularly liked her expressive reading that portrays the emotions and excitement of the action. It was hard for me to pause the MP3 as I wanted to keep listening. I am sure the story would be good reading but I really liked listening to it.

I will seek out more by this author and narrator. If you liked the Hunger Game series, Divergent and/or Inside Out I think this fits with that category of engaging read.

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Summer gets a small revenge through cooking with hot peppers when a crew member destroys her treasured journal.

There is something about being insanely infuriated that makes one forget the consequences of their actions, luring them to commit to and conquer in blinding rage.

Thank you to Revolution Publishing and Audiobook Jukebox for the opportunity to review this Audiobook.

The setting is primarily Canada with some mention and visits to New York. I will add this to my ARC, New Author, Audio and Dystopia challenges.