Fire by Kristin Cashore

Fire is the prequel to Graceling. Fire features some of the characters in Graceling. It takes place in a land next to the one Graceling takes place in, although it is many years before Graceling. Mythical creatures called monsters, brightly colored animals and humans who evoke strong emotions of desire or hate who can control people's minds roam this new land. We follow Archer and Fire, a monster, as Fire struggles with her father's legacy, one she doesn't want to inherit.

This book is full of action and adventure and you won't want to put it down. For ages 13+ for violence and mild themes.

Reviewed by Colleen.

Reviewed from an ARC.

Hold Still by Nina LaCour

When Caitlin's friend Ingrid commits suicide, she is left alone to cope. At first she tears herself apart over it, but then, finding Ingrid's journal under her bed, she learns to cope and move on. She reads through Ingrid's journal and follows her and her thoughts up until her last days. She realizes that Ingrid didn't only affect her and her family and friends, that her influence spread to many other people.

Overall it was a great book with a powerful message. It really shows how far a death can reach and just how far a death can reach and just how far you can reach if you try. This book is not for the faint of heart, but if you read it, I guarantee you won't forget it.

For 15+ due to cutting and suicide and some mature content.

Reviewed by Colleen.

Reviewed from an ARC.