Thursday, February 28, 2013

In the Arms of Stone Angels, by Jordan Dane

Jordan Dane has crafted a fast-paced, emotional roller-coaster of a ride with the story of sixteen-year-old Brenna Nash and a two-year-old unsolved murder in a small town. When Brenna and her mom return to the town to sell Brenna's grandma's house, Brenna is sucked into the case after visiting the friend she turned in for the murder--a half-breed orphan boy with gorgeous, soulful eyes named White Bird. He's been catatonic in a hospital since the murder, but when Brenna shows up, something happens...

The characters and their voices are palpable and distinct. The plot never slows down and, despite the infusion of Native American magic, seems utterly believable. I highly recommend this story.

Saturday, February 2, 2013

City of Bones, by Cassandra Clare

This book was hard to put down from the moment I picked it up. The plot was very well orchestrated from beginning to end. I especially found the use of Madam Dorothea clever. I also liked the contrast between Luke and Valentine as father figures and leaders. The love Clary felt for Luke was so real.

All of the characters were believable, distinct, and memorable, and I could picture them vividly. Both the more-than-friends relationship between Clary and Simon and the blossoming romance between Clary and Jace were palpable. But the ending...

Without giving anything away, I just want to say that I don't believe it. I think Valentine is trying to manipulate them and that even Luke and the others are mistaken. I just can't accept the cruel twist, and find it hard to believe that Clary and Jace do...

I hope I'm right as I enter into the world of the second book.