Sneaking Around Goodreads (14)

'Sneaking Around Goodreads' is a showcase of a few books in which is found from Goodreads.com. Each book is talked about briefly, usually about the cover and the plot. Books posted on here are books that are on my wish-list and my 'i-want' list. All of the books are pre-released.

Where It Began by Ann Redisch Stampler

Simon Pulse - March 6, 2012

Gabby Gardiner wakes up in a hospital bed looking like a cautionary ad for drunk driving and lacking a single memory of the accident that landed her there. What she can remember, in frank and sardonic detail, is the year leading up to the accident.

As she takes us through her transformation from invisible girl to on-trend Girl Who Dates Billy Nash (aka Most Desirable Boy Ever), she is left wondering: Why is Billy suddenly distancing himself from her? What do her classmates know that Gabby herself does not? Who exactly was in the car that night? And why is Gabby left alone to take the fall?

Putting the pieces together will take every ounce of Gabby's strength. As she peels back the layers of her life, she begins to realize that her climb up the status ladder has been as intoxicating as it has been morally complex...and that nothing about her life is what she has imagined it to be.

Thoughts: Look at that gorgeous cover! The plot of the story is really intriguing too.

The Story of Us by Deb Caletti

Simon Pulse - April 24, 2011

Cricket's on a self-imposed break from her longtime boyfriend, trying to figure out whether she's in it for the right reasons. But this is a bad week to try to figure it all out. After ditching two previous husbands-to-be at the airport, Cricket's mother Daisy is finally getting married, to Dan Jax. Cricket loves Dan, but as the families and friends start to arrive for Wedding Week at the beautiful guest house on Bishop Rock, run by old hippies Ted and Rebecca Rose and their sweet, sexy son Ash, things start getting complicated.

There’s no airport on Bishop Rock, as far as anyone knows, but Cricket fears that Dan is in danger of becoming ditched husband-to-be number three, and Cricket’s own desires have chosen now to have a mind of their own. Because even though her boyfriend looms large in her mind, Ash is right in front of her....

Thoughts: Three words... It's Deb Caletti.


Graffiti Moon by Cath Crowley
Knopf Books for Young Readers - February 14, 2012

Senior year is over, and Lucy has the perfect way to celebrate: tonight, she's going to find Shadow, the mysterious graffiti artist whose work appears all over the city. He's out there somewhere—spraying color, spraying birds and blue sky on the night—and Lucy knows a guy who paints like Shadow is someone she could fall for. Really fall for. Instead, Lucy's stuck at a party with Ed, the guy she's managed to avoid since the most awkward date of her life. But when Ed tells her he knows where to find Shadow, they're suddenly on an all-night search around the city. And what Lucy can't see is the one thing that's right before her eyes.

Thoughts: Another awesome cover! The concept of graffiti seems really cool.

What have you been sneaking around Goodreads?

Sneaking Around Goodreads (13)

'Sneaking Around Goodreads' is a showcase of a few books in which is found from Goodreads.com. Each book is talked about briefly, usually about the cover and the plot. Books posted on here are books that are on my wish-list and my 'i-want' list. All of the books are pre-released.


Gone, Gone, Gone by Hannah Moskowitz
April 17, 2011 - Simon Pulse

It's a year after 9/11. Sniper shootings throughout the D.C. area have everyone on edge, trying to make sense of the random acts of violence. Meanwhile, Craig and Lio are just trying to make sense of their lives.

Craig's crushing on quiet, distant Lio, and preoccupied with what it meant when Lio kissed him...and if he'll do it again...and if kissing Lio will help him finally get over his ex-boyfriend, Cody.

Lio feels most alive when he's with Craig. He forgets about his broken family, his dead brother, and the messed up world. But being with Craig means being vulnerable, and Lio will have to decide whether love is worth the risk.

Thoughts: Love, love, love Hannah Moskowitz!

The List by Siobhan Vivian
April 2012

An intense look at the rules of high school attraction-and the price that's paid for them.

It happens every year. A list is posted, and one girl from each grade is chosen as the prettiest, and another is chosen as the ugliest. Nobody knows who makes the list. It almost doesn't matter. The damage is done the minute it goes up.

This is the story of eight girls, freshman to senior, "pretty" and "ugly." And it's also the story of how we see ourselves, and how other people see us, and the tangled connection of the two.

Thoughts: I very much enjoy contemporary novels... especially when it has a high school atmosphere.


Arcadia Awakens by Kai Meyer
February 14, 2012 - Blazer + Bray

To Rosa Alcantara, the exotic world of Sicily, with its network of Mafia families and its reputation for murder and intrigue, is just that—exotic and wholly unknown. But when her life in Brooklyn begins to fall apart, she must travel there, to her family’s ancestral home, where centuries of family secrets await her.

Once there, Rosa falls head over heels for Alessandro Carnevare, the son of a Sicilian Mafia family, whose handsome looks and savage grace both fascinate and unsettle her. But their families are sworn enemies, and her aunt and sister believe Alessandro is only using Rosa to infiltrate the Alcantara clan. And when Rosa encounters a tiger one night—a tiger with very familiar eyes—she can no longer deny that neither the Carnevares nor the Alcantaras are what they seem.

Hidden caves, dangerous beasts roaming the hills, and a history of familial bloodlust mean that Rosa can’t trust anyone. Torn between loyalty to her family and love for their mortal enemy, Rosa must make the hardest decision of her life: stay in Sicily with her new love…or run as far and as fast as she can.

Thoughts: Look at the cover... It's absolutely stunning! The premise sounds very intriguing too.

What have you been sneaking around Goodreads?

Sneaking Around Goodreads (12)

'Sneaking Around Goodreads' is a showcase of a few books in which is found from Goodreads.com. Each book is talked about briefly, usually about the cover and the plot. Books posted on here are books that are on my wish-list and my 'i-want' list. All of the books are pre-released.

The Beginning of After by Jennifer Castle

September 6, 2011 - HarperTeen

Sixteen-year-old Laurel's world changes instantly when her parents and brother are killed in a terrible car accident. Behind the wheel is the father of her bad-boy neighbor, David Kaufman, whose mother is also killed. In the aftermath of the tragedy, Laurel navigates a new reality in which she and her best friend grow apart, boys may or may not be approaching her out of pity, overpowering memories lurk everywhere, and Mr. Kaufman is comatose but still very much alive. Through it all, there is David, who swoops in and out of Laurel's life and to whom she finds herself attracted against her better judgment. She will forever be connected to him by their mutual loss, a connection that will change them both in unexpected ways.

Thoughts: Look... at... that... cover... I am speechless.

Deadly Cool by Gemma Halliday
October 1, 2011 - HarperTeen

DEADLY COOL, in which a sixteen-year-old finds out that her boyfriend was cheating on her with the president of the chastity club; when she goes to confront the cheaters, she finds the girl dead instead and now must solve the murder.

Thoughts: Premise seems very interesting. I'm starting to like young adult mysteries, too! Very beautiful cover!

You Are My Only by Beth Kephart
October 25, 2011 - Egmont USA

Emmy Rane is married at nineteen, a mother by twenty. Trapped in a life with a husband she no longer loves, Baby is her only joy. Then one sunny day in September, Emmy takes a few fateful steps away from her baby and returns to find her missing. All that is left behind is a yellow sock. Fourteen years later, Sophie, a homeschooled, reclusive teenage girl is forced to move frequently and abruptly from place to place, perpetually running from what her mother calls the “No Good.” One afternoon, Sophie breaks the rules, ventures out, and meets Joey and his two aunts. It is this loving family that opens Sophie’s eyes, giving her the courage to look into her past. What she discovers changes her world forever…

Thoughts: I am so coveting this one! It's Beth Kephart!

What have you been sneaking around Goodreads lately?

Sneaking Around Goodreads (11)

'Sneaking Around Goodreads' is a showcase of a few books in which is found from Goodreads.com. Each book is talked about briefly, usually about the cover and the plot. Books posted on here are books that are on my wish-list and my 'i-want' list. All of the books are pre-released.


The Goddess Test by Aimee Carter

April 19, 2011 - Harlequin Teen

It's always been just Kate and her mom--and now her mother is dying. Her last wish? To move back to her childhood home. So Kate's going to start at a new school with no friends, no other family and the fear her mother won't live past the fall.

Then she meets Henry. Dark. Tortured. And mesmerizing. He claims to be Hades, god of the Underworld--and if she accepts his bargain, he'll keep her mother alive while Kate tries to pass seven tests.

Kate is sure he's crazy--until she sees him bring a girl back from the dead. Now saving her mother seems crazily possible. If she succeeds, she'll become Henry's future bride, and a goddess.

If she fails...

Thoughts: The premise hooked me as soon as I read the synopsis! And that cover.... wow.

Tris and Izzie by Mett Ivie Harrison

October 11, 2011 - Egmont USA

A modern retelling of the German legend "Tristan and Isolde", "Tris and Izzy", is about a young witch named Izzie who is dating Mark King, the captain of the basketball team and thinks her life is going swimmingly well. Until-- she makes a love potion for her best friend Brangane and then ends up taking it herself accidentally, and falling in love with Tristan, the new guy at school.

Light, contemporary romantic fantasy for teens.

Thoughts: I love retellings! And again, that cover is definitely stunning.

A Beautiful Dark by Jocelyn Davies

September 27, 2011 - HarperTeen

Skye never questioned the story of her life. Her Aunt Jo adopted her after the death of her parents when she was just a child, and together they flip through memories the way some people flip through photo albums.

She never questioned if the stories were true.

Until the night of her 17th birthday, when the arrival of two strangers intrudes on her cozy life. Polar opposites, like fire and ice, Asher is dark and wild, while Devin is fair, cold, and aloof. Skye has no idea what they want—only that their presence coincides with the beginning of some shockingly strange events. Events that Skye, if she dares to think it, might be responsible for causing.

High up in the mountains of Boulder, Colorado, Skye finds herself caught in the middle of an ancient battle, one that began untold millennia ago. Torn between unpredictable Asher, whom she loves, and the infuriating Devin, who she can’t stay away from, her fate is murky as a starless night. And as the secrets of her true identity are revealed, Skye realizes that her destiny may reside in the Heavens—or somewhere darker.

Thoughts: I love anything about opposites! And, battles, ooooh!

What have you been sneaking around Goodreads?

Sneaking Around Goodreads (10)

'Sneaking Around Goodreads' is a showcase of a few books in which is found from Goodreads.com. Each book is talked about briefly, usually about the cover and the plot. Books posted on here are books that are on my wish-list and my 'i-want' list. All of the books are pre-released.


Watched by Sharde Richardson
May 30, 2011 - Jolt

Mikayla doesn’t want much: just to rock out to her favorite band, become the next Kwiki Stop video gaming champion, and keep her Q-tip habit under control. What she does want is the sight of the sudden inexplicable dark auras around everyone to stop. Problem is, those auras are demons and Mikayla is the last trait holder with the power to ban them. Which is a total buzz kill.

To make matters worse, the town folk of Sulphur Springs don’t look the same, and her classmates are a little dark in the eyes. There are murders, suicides, reckless skinny-dipping, gratuitous use of Q-tips, and newfound powers that Mikayla must learn to control.

Her past becomes present when a shape-shifter tells her what her true identity is, and how to keep the demons of Hell from nipping at her Converse. Through him she’ll discover who to trust, who to kiss, and how valuable her abilities are to the right beings. Because the evils of Hell aren’t staying down without a fight.

Or without her soul.

Thoughts: Look at the beautiful cover... I think that's enough to explain why I want to read this!

My Beating Teenage Heart by C.K. Kelly Martin
September 27, 2011 - Random House Books for Young Readers

Seventeen-year-old Breckon Cody is tormented by the sudden death of his seven-year-old sister, a death he considers his fault and can't forgive himself for. Every time he breaks makes it that much harder to keep going. The only person who knows the true extent of his pain, his constant witness, is someone Breckon doesn't know exists, someone who can't remember the story of her own life.

Thoughts: That cover is beautiful. Premise sounds so interesting too!

What have you been sneaking around Goodreads lately?

Sneaking Around Goodreads (9)

'Sneaking Around Goodreads' is a showcase of a few books in which is found from Goodreads.com. Each book is talked about briefly, usually about the cover and the plot. Books posted on here are books that are on my wish-list and my 'i-want' list. All of the books are pre-released.

Drink, Slay, Love by Sarah Beth Durst

September 13, 2011 - Margaret K. McElderry

What happens when a vampire is stabbed through the heart by a were-unicorn? She suddenly develops a very inconvenient conscience. Oops.

Thoughts: LOOK at the cover. Gorgeous. And, I love Sarah's other novels so I absolutely am coveting for this one already.

Dead End by Jason Myers

June 14, 2011 - Simon Pulse

Dru and Gina are young, in love, and can’t wait to get out of Marshall, Nebraska, a town where bloodline means everything and whoever has the money makes the rules. But all their dreams are shattered when Gina has a monstrous run-in with the son of the richest man in Marshall—an incident that leaves her broken, battered, and violated.

Driven by rage, Dru and Gina take matters into their own hands, and quickly find themselves in over their heads. Without any other options, Dru and Gina are on the run. But there’s more chasing them than they think, and love might not be enough to save them.

Thoughts: The premise and concept of this novel is so interesting. The cover is very beautiful too! Cannot wait!

Forgotten by Cat Patrick

June 7, 2011 - Little, Brown Books for Young Readers

Each night when 16 year-old London Lane goes to sleep, her whole world disappears. In the morning, all that's left is a note telling her about a day she can't remember. The whole scenario doesn't exactly make high school or dating that hot guy whose name she can't seem to recall any easier. But when London starts experiencing disturbing visions she can't make sense of, she realizes it's time to learn a little more about the past she keeps forgetting-before it destroys her future.

Part psychological drama, part romance, and part mystery, this thought-provoking novel will inspire readers to consider the what-if's in their own lives and recognize the power they have to control their destinies

Thoughts: Mystery, visions, drama, romance, and that amazing cover... what more is there to swoon about?

What have you been sneaking around Goodreads lately?

Sneaking Around Goodreads (8)

'Sneaking Around Goodreads' is a showcase of a book or two in which is found from Goodreads.com. Each book is talked about briefly, usually about the cover and the plot. Books posted on here are books that are on my wish-list and my 'i-want' list. All of the books are pre-released.

Exposed by Kimberly Marcus

February 22, 2011 - Random House Books for Young Readers

In the dim light of the darkroom, I'm alone, but not for long.
As white turns to gray, Kate is with me.
The background of the dance studio blurred, so the focus is all on her
legs extended in a perfect soaring split.
The straight line to my squiggle,
my forever-best friend.

Sixteen-year-old Liz Grayson is photogirl—sharp, focused and ready to take the world by storm with her camera. But Liz's entire life is called into question when her brother is accused of a crime—and the accuser is Liz's own best friend. As the aftershocks from that accusation rip through Liz's world, everything she thought she knew about photography, family, friendship and herself, shifts out of focus. And for the first time in her life, Liz finds herself unable to trust her own point of view. Told in stunning, searingly raw free verse, Exposed is Kimberly Marcus's gut-wrenching, riveting debut and will appeal to fans of Ellen Hopkins, Laurie Halse Anderson and Virginia Euwer Wolff.

Thoughts: Just look at that cover... and that plot line looks so action packed. Seriously want!

Jersey Tomatoes are the Best by Maria Padian
March 8, 2011 - Knopf Books for Young Readers

This is a hilarious and heartbreaking story of two teen girls and the summer when everything changes for them. Both Henry and Eva are New Jersey natives and excellent athletes: Henry's a master on the tennis court and Eva is a graceful ballerina. When opportunity knocks for both of them the summer before their junior year in high school they throw open the door: Henry sees freedom from her overbearing father and a chance to build her talents on the court. Eva sees the chance to be the best as well as even more pressure to be graceful, lighter, more perfect on the dancefloor.

Soon, Eva's obsession with physical perfection leads her down the path to anorexia, and her health issues overwhelm everything else. But through it all these two best friends know that Jersey Tomatoes are the Best, and nothing will come between them no matter the distance.

Thoughts: I love something book hilarious and heart breaking! And, it's a book that dips into real teen issues so that's definitely a book I'd love to read.

Shine by Lauren Myracle

May 1, 2011 - Amulet Books

When her best guy friend falls victim to a vicious hate crime, sixteen-year-old Cat sets out to discover who in her small town did it. Richly atmospheric, this daring mystery mines the secrets of a tightly knit Southern community and examines the strength of will it takes to go against everyone you know in the name of justice.

Against a backdrop of poverty, clannishness, drugs, and intolerance, Myracle has crafted a harrowing coming-of-age tale couched in a deeply intelligent mystery. Smart, fearless, and compassionate, this is an unforgettable work from a beloved author.

Thoughts: This cover is BEAUTIFUL. Wow. And, it's Lauren Myracle! What more can you want?

What have you been sneaking around Goodreads?

Sneaking Around Goodreads (7)

'Sneaking Around Goodreads' is a showcase of a book or two in which is found from Goodreads.com. Each book is talked about briefly, usually about the cover and the plot. Books posted on here are books that are on my wish-list and my 'i-want' list. All of the books are pre-released.


He's So Not Worth It by Kieran Scott

June 7, 2011 - Simon & Schuster

Ally Ryan, come on down to the Jersey Shore and forget your troubles!

Have you recently been humilated in front of your friends and family at your former best friends birthday party? Was your almost boyfriend partly responsible for that humilation by withholding some vital information about where your estrangerd father is? Did you come home to find said estranged father sitting on your stoop?

If so, then it sounds like you could use a vacation! The Jersey Shore is the place to be. Your mother may be living with her boyfriend of only a few months, but at least the stunt Shannen pulled has put some of your friends back in your court. Even so, you're still angry and what better way to get over Jake than to blow off some steam with local guy, Cooper. People will hardly recognize your new attitude, but the old one wasn't getting you anywhere, so who cares!

Jake Graydon, an exciting opportunity is waiting for you in the service industry!

Are your grades so low your parents have grounded you for the summer? Did you the girl you really like unceremoniously leave you behind? Would you rather eat dirt than see your friends again? Then a job at the local coffee shop is just the ticket! Suprisingly, Ally's father is the new manager so you get to be reminded of her nearly every day. Maybe it's time to start flirting with your best friend's ex or even taking school a bit more seriously. Especially when you finally see Ally and she's hanging around with some loser and it's couldn't be more clear that she is over you.

Have a great summer!

Thoughts: I love Kieran Scott! The cover looks so cute as well. And, I'm up for any summer read! Seems like my cup of tea.

Dreams of Significant Girls by Cristina Garcia

July 12, 2011 - Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing

Brought together each summer at a boarding school in Switzerland, three girls learn a lot more than just French and European culture. Shirin, an Iranian princess; Ingrid, a German-Canadian eccentric; and Vivien, a Cuban-Jewish New Yorker culinary phenom, are thrown into eachother's lives when they become roommates. This is a story of 3 paths slowly beginning to cross and merge as they spend the year apart, but the summers together. Through navigating the social-cultural shoals of the school, developing their adolescence, and learning the confusing and conflicting legacies of their families' past, Shirin, Ingrid, and Vivien form an unbreakable bond.

Thoughts: I've always been intrigued with anything about friendships and the cover for this one is so beautiful.


Incredibly Alice by Phyllis Reynolds Naylor

May 10, 2011 - Atheneum

It’s the last semester of senior year, and while Alice and most of her friends are out looking for prom dresses, another classmate is shopping for a wedding dress—with room enough for a baby bump. But “till death do us part” won’t be coming out of Alice or Patrick’s lips for a long time—especially because Patrick is about to leave for Spain, and prom night could be the last time they’re together until the following summer! Still, Alice isn’t sure how “memorable” she wants the evening to be….

Full of the ups and downs of being a teen—and all the big and small moments along the way—Alice’s senior year is something readers have long been waiting for. Will graduation feel like the end of childhood...or the beginning of something new?

Thoughts: First time I've seen this book around before! Seems interesting... senior year! Graduation! New beginnings! All awesome!

What have you been sneaking around Goodreads?

Sneaking Around Goodreads (6)

'Sneaking Around Goodreads' is a showcase of a book or two in which is found from Goodreads.com. Each book is talked about briefly, usually about the cover and the plot. Books posted on here are books that are on my wish-list and my 'i-want' list. All of the books are pre-released.

The Darlings Are Forever by Melissa Kantor
January 4, 2011 - Hyperion

Jane, Victoria, and Natalya. Together, they are the Darlings. Best friends forever. They have matching necklaces, their own table at Ga Ga Noodle, and even a shared motto: May you always do what you’re afraid of doing.

When the friends begin freshman year at three different high schools in distant corners of New York City, they promise to live by their motto and stay as close as ever. The Darlings know they can get through anything as long as they have each other. But doing scary new things is a lot easier with your friends beside you. And now that the girls aren’t spending all their time together, everything they took for granted about their friendship starts to feel less certain. They can’t help but wonder, will they really be the Darlings forever?

Thoughts: The cover is so cute! The synopsis is very intriguing as well and I think the whole concept seems very fun and entertaining. I love friendship novels, so, I can't wait for this one!


Eternity (Fallen Angel #2) by Heather Terrell

July 1, 2011 - HarperTeen

The end . . or a new beginning?

As Ellie comes to grips with her destiny as the Elect One, her relationship with Michael grows tense. When she meets a mysterious boy names Rafe, things get even more complicated.

Yet the time has come for the Elect One to stand against the group of fallen angels who are bent on destroying the world. In order to face the immeasurable malevolence heading her way, Ellie tries to put her personal life aside. But she soon learns that whoever holds her heart also holds the key to mankind’s salvation — or destruction. As the end days approach, Ellie is faced with an epic decision. Who does her heart really belong to? And is her love strong enough to save the world?

Thoughts: I loved the first book, Fallen Angel, so I'm already longing for this one.


Rhymes with Cupid by Anna Humphrey

January 1, 2011 - HarperTeen

Rhymes with Cupid is about a girl named Elyse who, after a terrible heartbreak last Valentine’s day, has sworn off dating as well as celebrating the February 14th holiday. Both things are a bit of a problem, though, since a) she works at a gift & stationery store, surrounded by tacky, sparkly cards and annoying singing Cupid dolls and b) she ends up meeting this guy named Patrick who works in the same mall and is her new neighbour and her driving instructor and is really cute and incredibly charming… which, you know, might be okay except for the whole ‘sworn off dating’ thing and the fact that he seems to be into her best friend.

Thoughts: Romance! Dating! A light read! Love summer-ish and light reads... the feeling is so promising. The cover is definitely adorable... I like the ice cream sundae!

What have you been sneaking around Goodreads?

Sneaking Around Goodreads (5)

'Sneaking Around Goodreads' is a showcase of a book or two in which is found from Goodreads.com. Each book is talked about briefly, usually about the cover and the plot. Books posted on here are books that are on my wish-list and my 'i-want' list. All of the books are pre-released.

Queen of the Dead (The Ghost and the Goth, #2)

by Stacey Kade

June 7, 2011 - Hyperion

After being sent back from the light, Alona Dare–former homecoming queen, current Queen of the Dead–finds herself doing something she never expected: working. Instead of spending days perfecting her tan by the pool (her typical summer routine when she was, you know, alive), Alona must now cater to the needs of other lost spirits. By her side for all of this, ugh, “helping of others” is Will Killian: social outcast, seer of the dead, and someone Alona cares about more than she’d like.

Before Alona can make a final ruling on Will’s “friend” or “more” status, though, she discovers trouble at home. Her mom is tossing out Alona’s most valuable possessions, and her dad is expecting a new daughter with his wicked wife. Is it possible her family is already moving on? Hello?! She’s only been dead for two months! Thankfully, Alona knows just the guy who can put a stop to this mess.

Unfortunately for Alona, Will has other stuff on his mind, and Mina, a young (and beautiful) seer, is at the top of the list. She’s the first ghost-talker Will’s ever met—aside from his father—and she may hold answers to Will’s troubled past. But can she be trusted? Alona immediately signs her name in the “clearly not” column. But Will is, ahem, willing to find out, even if it means leaving a hurt and angry Alona to her own devices, which is never a good idea.

Thoughts: The cover is seriously gorgeous. I also really enjoyed The Ghost and the Goth so I definitely look forward to this one!

The Sweetest Thing
by Christina Mandelski

May 10, 2011 - Egmont USA

Christina Mandelski's debut novel, about a young teen juggling first love, a cake-decorating business, her dad's reality TV show, and a search for her missing mother.

Thoughts: Looks like a pretty cute and light novel (except, I guess for the part where she's looking for her missing mother). Don't know too much about it, but, still excited!

What you have been sneaking around Goodreads?

Sneaking Around Goodreads (4)

'Sneaking Around Goodreads' is a showcase of a book or two in which is found from Goodreads.com. Each book is talked about briefly, usually about the cover and the plot. Books posted on here are books that are on my wish-list and my 'i-want' list. Not all of the books are pre-released.

The Trouble with Half a Moon

by Danette Vigilante

(January 6, 2011 - Putnam Juvenile)

Thirteen year old Dellie lives with the guilt that her little brother’s death was her fault. Her mother cries all the time and because she wants Dellie to stay safe, she keeps her inside as much as she can. It doesn’t matter that Dellie longs to go outside to be like other girls or that there’s a boy she likes and he likes her too. All that matters to her mother is that she’s safe at home. So, Dellie has no choice but to watch the world of her housing project through her second story window. Things start to change soon after new neighbors move in on the first floor. Trouble like this has never happened in Dellie’s building before. Now there are men fighting on the stoop, gunshots echoing through the night and Corey, a hungry and abused five year old boy knocking on her door looking for something to eat. Corey reminds Dellie of her brother and even though their friendship is dangerous, she wonders if this time, she’ll be able to do what needs to be done. Will she be able to save Corey?

Thoughts: The premise sounds original and I want to see how Corey's and Dellie's friendship will develop. I think the cover is stunning as well. It reminds me of the cover of ONE NIGHT THAT CHANGES EVERYTHING by Lauren Barnholdt, and I honestly don't know why! This is, I think, Danette's first novel. So excited!

OyMG
by Amy Fellner Dominy

(May 2011 - Walker Books for Children)

Ellie Taylor is at the Christian Society Speech & Performing Arts summer camp and she can win it all: a scholarship to high school, a chance to compete on the best speech team in the state, and Devon--the insanely hot guy who’s also her hottest competition. There's just one problem: she has to hide that she's Jewish or risk losing it all.

Will hiding her true identity be worth a shot at her dreams?

Thoughts: I don't think I have ever read a book focused too much on religion/identity. This one seems like a fresh concept and I always love unique plot lines. The cover for this one is super cute too! I like the way the girl poses with the religion on the other side and that star, meaning her dreams, which obviously conveys she doesn't know which one to choose. This is Amy's first novel. I look forward to this one!

What have you found through sneaking around Goodreads?

Sneaking Around Goodreads (3)

'Sneaking Around Goodreads' is a showcase of a book or two in which is found from Goodreads.com. Each book is talked about briefly, usually about the cover and the plot. Books posted on here are books that are on my wish-list and my 'i-want' list. Not all of the books are pre-released.

Arranged

by Catherine McKenzie

(January 8, 2011 - )

Anne Blythe is lucky. She's got a brand new book contract, a great newspaper job and a steadfast best friend, and she can land just about any man she sets her sights on - and the ones that appeal are typically tall, dark and handsome.

Problem is, the men she chooses never last. Shortly after yet another relationship goes down in flames, Anne comes across a card for what she believes is a dating service, and pockets it just in case. If she's so unlucky in love, maybe she could use a little assistance. Then her best friend announces she's engaged, and envy gets the better of Anne. Now's the time, she decides, to give the service a try - and she is shocked to discover that what the company specializes in are exclusive, and pricey, arranged marriages. After learning of the company's success rate, however, she overcomes her reluctance and signs on. After all, arranged marriages are the norm for millions of women around the world, and she's not done so well selecting a mate on her own. So why not use a professional service that claims it can produce the perfect match?

Some time later, Anne is travelling to a Mexican resort, where in one short weekend she will meet and marry Jack, the man they have chosen for her. And against all odds, it seems to be working out, until Anne learns that Jack and the company who arranged their marriage are not what they seem at all.

Thoughts: I love the cover for this one and this seems like another cool light romance novel!

The Water Wars
by Cameron Stracher

(January 1, 2011 - Sourcebooks Fire)

Welcome to a future where water is more precious than gold or oil-and worth killing for.

Vera and her brother Will live in the shadow of the Great Panic, in a country that has collapsed from environmental catastrophe. Water is hoarded by governments, rivers are dammed, and clouds are sucked from the sky. But then Vera befriends Kai, who seems to have limitless access to fresh water. When Kai suddenly disappears, Vera and Will set off on a dangerous journey in search of him-pursued by pirates, a paramilitary group, and greedy corporations. Timely and eerily familiar, acclaimed author Cameron Stracher makes a stunning YA debut that's impossible to forget.

Thoughts: This sounds like a total 'environment-focused' book and if I'm right, I have never read anything like this before. Reading something new once in a while is nice!

What have you found through sneaking around Goodreads?

Sneaking Around Goodreads (2)

'Sneaking Around Goodreads' is a showcase of a book or two in which is found from Goodreads.com. Each book is talked about briefly, usually about the cover and the plot. Books posted on here are books that are on my wish-list. Not all of the books are pre-released.

The Weight of Bones
by Janet Gurtler

“For the first time in my life, I didn’t feel envy…”

Tess is the exact opposite of her beautiful, athletic sister. And that’s okay. Kristina is the sporty one, Tess is the smart one, and they each have their place. Until Kristina is diagnosed with cancer. Suddenly Tess is the center of the popular crowd, everyone eager for updates. There are senior boys flirting with her. Yet the smiles of her picture-perfect family are cracking and her sister could be dying. Now Tess has to fill a new role: the strong one. Because if she doesn’t hold it together, who will?

Thoughts: The plot and premise seem really interesting and the cover looks creepy, in a good way. Can't wait to see how Tess will develop in the story!

The Lucky Kind
by Alyssa B. Sheinmel

High school junior Nick Brandt is intent on getting a girlfriend, and Eden Reiss is the one that he wants. He has exactly four semesters to get the girl, but when the phone rings on an otherwise ordinary Tuesday night, life for Nick and his parents will never be the same. What had been a seemingly idyllic home life has become something else entirely. But with this shake-up comes a newfound confidence for Nick; he's become a bolder version of himself, no longer afraid to question his parents, and no longer afraid to talk to Eden.

Thoughts: Alyssa is an amazing writer so I look forward to this one! The plot seems very intense and I want to know what makes Nick's 'ordinary' life change. Can't wait for this one as well!

What have you found through sneaking around Goodreads?

Sneaking Around Goodreads (1)

'Sneaking Around Goodreads' is just basically where I showcase a book or two that I just recently discovered through Goodreads. Whether the book is released or not, it doesn't matter.

Four Seasons

by Jane Breskin Zalben

Allegra Katz has been playing piano since she was four. But these aren't just any piano lessons. She studies at the Julliard School in New York, where careers are being formed—or not.Between strict practice schedules, music classes, and regular school, Ally doesn't have time for much else. Sometimes she wishes she could break free, but she's never known any other way.

Her parents—a professional violinist and a singer—would kill her if they knew she was thinking about quitting piano, especially her mother. So she keeps on going, but as the months go by, she begins to ask herself, does she even love the piano? Why does she play? And how much longer can she stand the pressure before she breaks?

Choker

by Elizbeth Woods

What if the only friend you could trust turned out to be dangerous? A new thriller from debut author Elizabeth Woods!

These two covers are so pretty! The cover for FOUR SEASONS really intrigues me. I wish I had a longer synopsis for CHOKER, although, the synopsis pretty much tells you the main idea of the story! I'm so ninja, aren't I?

What have you found through sneaking around Goodreads?