Review: Teardrop by Lauren Kate (Teardrop #1)

Publisher - Doubleday Children's
Publication Date - 24th October 2013
Paperback - 441 pages
Genre - Young Adult/Paranormal Romance

Source - Received from publisher for review

Rating - 3.5 out of 5: I liked it.

Reviewed by - Chrissie

Book Info - Seventeen-year-old Eureka won't let anyone close enough to feel her pain. After her mother was killed in a freak accident, the things she used to love hold no meaning. She wants to escape, but one thing holds her back: Ander, the boy who is everywhere she goes, whose turquoise eyes are like the ocean.

And then Eureka uncovers an ancient tale of romance and heartbreak, about a girl who cried an entire continent into the sea. Suddenly her mother's death and Ander's appearance seem connected, and her life takes on dark undercurrents that don't make sense.

Can everything you love be washed away?

My Thoughts - I am a fan of Lauren Kate's Fallen series so was very excited when I heard about the release of this book. Add to that the gorgeous covers that are a given with any book from this author, I knew I just had to read it. And for the most part it was an enjoyable read.

I loved how the legend of Atlantis was brought into this story, with all the mystery and intrigue that surrounded it, as it's not one I've really come across in novels before so it was a new twist on the paranormal romance genre for me. And as more was revealed about the war between the Atlanteans and the Seedbearers, I found myself getting pulled into the novel more and more as I wanted to know how Eureka was involved with it all.

I really liked the characters of Brooks and Ander. They were both good friends to Eureka and did everything they could to help her through all the difficulties in her life. If I had to pick between Team Brooks or Team Ander, I'm really not sure I could do that right now as they are both very much in love with her and want nothing but the best for her. And I'm sure that Eureka is just as divided between the two as I am.

The pacing of the novel however seemed a little off. It felt as if it took a long time for the story to get going so it took quite a while until I really started to enjoy it. At first it did feel like rather hard work. But then nearer the end, as the action picked up and a lot of the threads of the story started being pulled together, I was dragged into the novel and couldn't put it down. Also, even though I guess this is a minor complaint that may not bother others, I found it quite distracting to have a main character with such an unusual name as Eureka. I almost cringed every time another character called her by her name and I still wasn't really used to it by the end of the novel. But this is just a personal peeve. Others might enjoy reading about characters with unusual names.

Summary - Although it took a long time to get going, this was a good beginning to a new series with lots of groundwork being laid around a very interesting legend. After the ending of this book I am very much looking forward to seeing what happens next in the lives of Eureka, Brooks and Ander.

Review: Etiquette and Espionage by Gail Carriger (Finishing School #1)

Publisher - Atom
Publication Date - 5th February 2013
Paperback - 312 pages
Genre - Young Adult/Steampunk

Source - Received from publisher for review

Rating - 4 out of 5: I really liked it.

Reviewed by - Maddie

Book Info - It's one thing to learn to curtsy properly. It's quite another to learn to curtsy and throw a knife at the same time. Welcome to Finishing School.
Fourteen-year-old Sophronia is a great trial to her poor mother. Sophronia is more interested in dismantling clocks and climbing trees than proper manners—and the family can only hope that company never sees her atrocious curtsy. Mrs. Temminick is desperate for her daughter to become a proper lady. So she enrolls Sophronia in Mademoiselle Geraldine's Finishing Academy for Young Ladies of Quality.

But Sophronia soon realizes the school is not quite what her mother might have hoped. At Mademoiselle Geraldine's, young ladies learn to finish...everything. Certainly, they learn the fine arts of dance, dress, and etiquette, but they also learn to deal out death, diversion, and espionage—in the politest possible ways, of course. Sophronia and her friends are in for a rousing first year's education.

My Thoughts - So, normally I hate it when books are compared to Harry Potter -or Twilight, or The Hunger Games, or The Fault in our Stars- but this time I understand.  Remember when you were reading The Philosopher's Stone and it just felt.... fun?  Well, Gail Carriger has recreated this but at 'Geraldine's Finishing Academy for Young Ladies of Quality' and without the terrifying ending with Voldemort.

This book was clearly intended for the younger reader, preferably nine years or older, but as a fifteen year old girl, who normally wouldn't be seen dead with a cover like that (seriously?  Sophronia is meant to be a Victorian girl of fourteen!  Not a twenty year old model with a bad cosplay dress), this book would be enjoyed by any girl of any age who just wants some fun.

I didn't have to wait till Sophronia was sent to school to get interested.  I was really quickly involved in the steam-punk Britain she lives in.  Unlike Harry Potter, there is no moment where she moves from our world to the steam-punk world.  I have to admit I missed that moment of revelation.  However Carriger did successfully describe an alternative steam powered place, full of robotic service maids and flying carriages. 

When she arrives at the finishing school I couldn't quite tell if anyone would be surprised by the lessons.  In a world of mechanical butlers and vampires who be surprised by a teacher with werewolf tendencies?  It works though, because instead of being surprised by lessons on flirtations devices you just accept it and hop on the floating school of wonders.  Despite a mystery involving a brand new communication invention and Sophronia's new found enemy possibly concealing it, my focus was on the girls of the boarding school.  

A little gossipy and a little bitchy, all the girls have their own character and there not the cut out stereotypes we're used too.  There is a supposed love interest but he has a personality and it's not too gut wrenching.  It also peaked my interest for the sequel 'Curtsies & Conspiracies' which I will read when I need a little fun delight.

Other books in the series:
1. Etiquette and Espionage
2. Curtsies and Conspiracies

Series Spotlight: Lux by Jennifer L. Armentrout

Series Spotlight is a new weekly feature here on Once Upon a Series, where I will be highlighting a series that I would either like to read if I get a chance to, or would like to finish reading at some point. Hopefully it will give you all some ideas for other series to read... or if you've read something similar that you think other fans of the series featured would like, then please do mention it in the comments.

My pick this week is a series that I've seen all over blogs for quite some time but that I still haven't got around to reading myself yet. It looks amazing and I'm really hoping to get started on it soon. Have you guys read this series? What did you think of it? Be sure to let me know in the comments!

0.5. Shadows

The last thing Dawson Black expected was Bethany Williams. As a Luxen, an alien life form on Earth, human girls are…well, fun. But since the Luxen have to keep their true identities a secret, falling for one would be insane.

Dangerous. Tempting. Undeniable.

Bethany can’t deny the immediate connection between her and Dawson. And even though boys aren’t a complication she wants, she can’t stay away from him. Still, whenever they lock eyes, she’s drawn in.

Captivated. Lured. Loved.

Dawson is keeping a secret that will change her existence...and put her life in jeopardy. But even he can’t stop risking everything for one human girl. Or from a fate that is as unavoidable as love itself.

1. Obsidian

Starting over sucks.

When we moved to West Virginia right before my senior year, I'd pretty much resigned myself to thick accents, dodgy internet access, and a whole lot of boring.... until I spotted my hot neighbor, with his looming height and eerie green eyes. Things were looking up.

And then he opened his mouth.

Daemon is infuriating. Arrogant. Stab-worthy. We do not get along. At all. But when a stranger attacks me and Daemon literally freezes time with a wave of his hand, well, something...unexpected happens.

The hot alien living next door marks me.

You heard me. Alien. Turns out Daemon and his sister have a galaxy of enemies wanting to steal their abilities, and Daemon's touch has me lit up like the Vegas Strip. The only way I'm getting out of this alive is by sticking close to Daemon until my alien mojo fades.

If I don't kill him first, that is.

2. Onyx

Being connected to Daemon Black sucks….

Thanks to his alien mojo, Daemon’s determined to prove what he feels for me is more than a product of our bizarro connection. So I’ve sworn him off, even though he’s running more hot than cold these days. But we’ve got bigger problems.

Something worse than the Arum has come to town….

The Department of Defense are here. If they ever find out what Daemon can do and that we're linked, I’m a goner. So is he. And there's this new boy in school who’s got a secret of his own. He knows what’s happened to me and he can help, but to do so, I have to lie to Daemon and stay away from him. Like that's possible. Against all common sense, I'm falling for Daemon. Hard.

But then everything changes.

I’ve seen someone who shouldn’t be alive. And I have to tell Daemon, even though I know he’s never going to stop searching until he gets the truth. What happened to his brother? Who betrayed him? And what does the DOD want from them—from me?

No one is who they seem. And not everyone will survive the lies.

3. Opal

No one is like Daemon Black.

When he set out to prove his feelings for me, he wasn’t fooling around. Doubting him isn’t something I’ll do again, and now that we’ve made it through the rough patches, well... There’s a lot of spontaneous combustion going on.

But even he can’t protect his family from the danger of trying to free those they love.

After everything, I’m no longer the same Katy. I’m different... And I’m not sure what that will mean in the end. When each step we take in discovering the truth puts us in the path of the secret organization responsible for torturing and testing hybrids, the more I realize there is no end to what I’m capable of. The death of someone close still lingers, help comes from the most unlikely source, and friends will become the deadliest of enemies, but we won’t turn back. Even if the outcome will shatter our worlds forever.

Together we’re stronger... and they know it.

4. Origin

Daemon will do anything to get Katy back.

After the successful but disastrous raid on Mount Weather, he’s facing the impossible. Katy is gone. Taken. Everything becomes about finding her. Taking out anyone who stands in his way? Done. Burning down the whole world to save her? Gladly. Exposing his alien race to the world? With pleasure.

All Katy can do is survive.

Surrounded by enemies, the only way she can come out of this is to adapt. After all, there are sides of Daedalus that don’t seem entirely crazy, but the group’s goals are frightening and the truths they speak even more disturbing. Who are the real bad guys? Daedalus? Mankind? Or the Luxen?

Together, they can face anything. 

But the most dangerous foe has been there all along, and when the truths are exposed and the lies come crumbling down, which side will Daemon and Katy be standing on?

And will they even be together?

Waiting on Wednesday: Dorothy Must Die by Danielle Paige

Waiting On Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.

This week Chrissie has a "can't-wait-to-read" selection for you:

Dorothy Must Die by Danielle Paige (Dorothy Must Die #1)

I didn't ask for any of this. I didn't ask to be some kind of hero.
But when your whole life gets swept up by a tornado—taking you with it—you have no choice but to go along, you know?

Sure, I've read the books. I've seen the movies. I know the song about the rainbow and the happy little blue birds. But I never expected Oz to look like this. To be a place where Good Witches can't be trusted, Wicked Witches may just be the good guys, and winged monkeys can be executed for acts of rebellion. There's still the yellow brick road, though—but even that's crumbling.
What happened?
Dorothy. They say she found a way to come back to Oz. They say she seized power and the power went to her head. And now no one is safe.

My name is Amy Gumm—and I'm the other girl from Kansas.
I've been recruited by the Revolutionary Order of the Wicked.
I've been trained to fight.
And I have a mission:
Remove the Tin Woodman's heart.
Steal the Scarecrow's brain.
Take the Lion's courage.
Then and only then—Dorothy must die!

Series Spotlight: A Beautiful Dark by Jocelyn Davies

Series Spotlight is a new weekly feature here on Once Upon a Series, where I will be highlighting a series that I would either like to read if I get a chance to, or would like to finish reading at some point. Hopefully it will give you all some ideas for other series to read... or if you've read something similar that you think other fans of the series featured would like, then please do mention it in the comments.

My pick this week is one that I stumbled across on Goodreads which I think sounds really good as well as having some beautiful covers. What do you all think? Have any of you read this series yet?

1. A Beautiful Dark

On the night of Skye’s seventeenth birthday, she meets two enigmatic strangers. Complete opposites—like fire and ice—Asher is dark and wild, while Devin is fair and aloof. Their sudden appearance sends Skye’s life into a tailspin. She has no idea what they want, or why they seem to follow her every move—only that their presence coincides with a flurry of strange events. Soon she begins to doubt not just the identity of the two boys, but also the truth about her own past.

In the dead of a bitingly cold Colorado winter, Skye finds herself coming to terms with the impossible secret that threatens to shatter her world. Torn between Asher, who she can’t help falling for, and Devin, who she can’t stay away from, the consequences of Skye’s choice will reach further than the three of them could ever imagine.

2. A Fractured Light

When she wakes up in unfamiliar surroundings, Skye knows something terrible has happened to her. It's not until she hears Asher, the dark, rebellious angel she fell in love with, that the memories come flooding back. She tries to put the past behind her, but she knows she'll be forever haunted by the ruthless betrayal that almost took her life.

Skye returns home, but with the knowledge of who she really is, nothing can ever be the same. As she tests the limits of her newfound powers, Skye discovers that she's capable of far more than anyone could have imagined. Both the Order and the Rebellion want her for their side as war between the factions looms. She can't forget the terrifying truth she now knows about the Order, but something holds her back from embracing the Rebellion.

3. A Radiant Sky

Since the night of her seventeenth birthday, Skye has been torn between two opposites: Light and Dark, the Order and the Rebellion, Devin and Asher.

But her decision shocked both sides—because she chose neither.

With the help of her friends, Skye forges her own path, setting out to gather an uprising of Rogues. The treacherous and elusive half-angels may be the key to maintaining the balance of fate and free will. But completing the mission her parents left unfinished is more difficult—and dangerous—than she could have imagined. And doing so comes at a cost: Her greatest love may now be a lethal enemy. Because it’s not just the Order that sees her as a threat who must be eliminated. The Rebellion does, too.

And both sides will do whatever it takes to win.

Dark days lie ahead, and if Skye is to survive, she’ll need to rely on her extraordinary powers and the strength of her will. Because she has a future—and a love—that’s worth fighting for.

Series Spotlight: Sea Breeze Series by Abbi Glines

Series Spotlight is a new weekly feature here on Once Upon a Series, where I will be highlighting a series that I would either like to read if I get a chance to, or would like to finish reading at some point. Hopefully it will give you all some ideas for other series to read... or if you've read something similar that you think other fans of the series featured would like, then please do mention it in the comments.

My pick this week is yet another one that I have had sitting on my TBR list that I am hoping to eventually get time to read at some point. Have you read this series? Let me know what you thought!

1. Breathe

Sadie White's summer job isn't going to be on the beach life-guarding or working at rental booths like most kids her age. With her single mother's increasing pregnancy and refusal to work, Sadie has to take over her mother's job as a domestic servant for one of the wealthy summer families on a nearby island.

When the family arrives at their summer getaway, Sadie is surprised to learn that the owner of the house is Jax Stone, one of the hottest teen rockers in the world. If Sadie hadn't spent her life raising her mother and taking care of the house she might have been normal enough to be excited about working for a rock star.

Even though Sadie isn't impressed by Jax's fame, he is drawn to her. Everything about Sadie fascinates Jax but he fights his attraction. Relationships never work in his world and as badly as he wants Sadie, he believes she deserves more. By the end of the summer, Jax discovers he can't breathe without Sadie.

2. Because of Low

Marcus Hardy had hoped to enjoy a year away at college while he put the summer he’d rather forget behind him. But instead, he’s jerked right back to the coastal town of Sea Breeze, Alabama due to a family crisis. His dear ol' dad found himself a girlfriend only a few years older than Marcus. So now his sister needs help dealing with their mother who is mentally falling apart. The only bright spot to returning is the fascinating red head who sleeps over several times a week. The problem is she's sleeping in bed with his new roommate, Cage York.

Willow “Low” Foster needs a place to live. Running to Cage’s apartment every time her sister kicks her out isn’t exactly a long term solution. Juggling her courses at the local community college and a part time job doesn’t produce excess income. But Cage has a new roommate and suddenly sleeping over at her best friend’s apartment isn’t such a bad thing. Not when she gets to see those sexy green eyes of Marcus Hardy’s twinkle when he smiles at her like he wants her there.

Even though Cage seems a little territorial where Low is concerned, Marcus finds time to spend with Low without upsetting his roommate. Cage may use his small college baseball star persona to sleep with every hot female in his path but he’s still under the disillusion that when he’s through sowing his wild oats, he’s going to marry Low. Marcus intends to change that assumption for both Cage and Low. Until his carefully laid plans come crashing down with a revelation he never expected. He’ll have to choose between Low or his family. Because once the truth comes out.... there’s no other choice.

3. While It Lasts

Maybe driving home after a few (or more) shots of tequila had been a bad idea, but hell, he did it all the time. The cops had to have been freaking bored to have pulled him over. He wasn’t even swerving! That’s Cage York’s story and he’s sticking to it.

Unfortunately, his baseball coach isn’t buying it. Cage has a free ride to the local junior college for baseball -- or he did, until he’d gotten a DUI. Now, Cage has to decide: does he drop out and give up his dream of getting noticed by a college in the SEC, and possibly making it into the Major Leagues -- or does he give in to his coach’s demands and spend his summer baling hay?

Eva Brooks planned out her life step by step when she was eight years old. Not once over the years had she lost sight of her goals. Josh Beasley, her next door neighbor, had been the center of those goals. He’d been her first boyfriend at seven, her first kiss at ten, her first date at fifteen, and her first tragedy at eighteen. The moment she’d received the phone call from Josh’s mother saying he’d been killed along with four other soldiers just north of Baghdad, Eva’s carefully planned life imploded in the worst way possible.

Cage isn’t real happy with his closet-sized bedroom in the back of a foul smelling barn, or his daily interactions with cows, but he knows that if he doesn’t make his coach happy then he can kiss his scholarship goodbye. Only a sick and twisted man would decide his punishment was to be working on a farm all summer. No hot babes in bikinis waiting to meet a Southern boy to make her vacation complete. Just him and the damned cows.

Oh -- and an uptight, snarky brunette with the biggest blue eyes he’s every seen. But she doesn’t count, because as hard as he’s tried to charm her out of her panties - he’s pretty sure she’d rather see him hung from the rafters than let him get a taste of her pretty little lips.

4. Just For Now

The day Preston Drake figured out that wealthy women paid well for a set of tight abs and a pretty face his life turned around.

The run down rat-infested trailer he had shared with his alcoholic mother and three younger siblings was now only a place he visited to pay the bills and stock the pantry with food.

He no longer worried about his family starving or living without electricity. The money he made entertaining rich older women more than covered his family’s needs and his own. He had it all figured out. Except…

There was this girl.

She was as innocent as he was tainted.

Amanda Hardy wished her knees didn’t get weak when Preston walked into a room. She hated the fact her heart raced when he flashed his smile in her direction. He had a different girl in his bed every night. He was the kind of boy a smart girl ran from. So, why was she coming up with ways to get close to him? Even when it was obvious he wanted to keep her at a distance.

Maybe her heart knew something the world didn’t. Maybe Preston Drake was more than just a pretty face.

5. Sometimes It Lasts

After waiting for his big break, bad boy Cage York is finally called up to prove his worth in the college baseball arena. But when Cage’s girlfriend, Eva, mourns the sudden loss of her father, it’s not Cage’s comforting arms she runs to, but those of her former fiancé’s twin brother, Jeremy.

Torn between his baseball dream and the girl of his dreams, Cage must prove he’s worthy of Eva’s love, or risk losing her to Jeremy forever.

6. Misbehaving

Jason is sick of living in his rock star brother’s shadow. So when he ships off to Sea Breeze, Alabama, he’s looking for a much deserved escape and a chance to blow off some envious steam. Falling for the local bad girl was definitely not the plan. But as the new duo enjoys some naughty fun in the Alabama sun, Jason learns that even though Jax is the musician in the family, he’s not the only brother who can rock someone’s world.

Stand-Alone Sunday Review: Shine by Candy Gourlay

Publisher - David Fickling Books
Publication Date - 5th September 2013
Paperback - 304 pages
Genre - Young Adult/Contemporary

Source - Received from publisher for review

Rating - 4 out of 5: I really liked it!

Reviewed by - Chrissie

Book Info -
This is not a ghost story even though there are plenty of ghosts in it. And it's not a horror story though some people might be horrified. It's not a monster story either, even though there is a monster in it and that monster happens to be me.

Forced to hide herself away from the superstitious island community of Mirasol, thirteen-year-old Rosa seeks solace online. There she meets Ansel95, and as the friendship moves from virtual to real, Rosa discovers that she's not the only one with something to hide...

From the author of the critically-acclaimed Tall Story, comes a haunting, intense and moving novel which weaves myths and ghosts into a modern setting. As Rosa's social life blossoms, how will she seize the freedom to be who she really is?

My Thoughts - When I first got this book through the post I have to admit that I was very intrigued by the premise. I don't usually like ghost stories, and I wouldn't really say that this is a ghost story to be honest, but I was intrigued about how a young girl who is obviously seen as a monster by society is forced to live out her life online, and how her relationship with this Ansel95 would develop.

Admittedly, there wasn't as much about her online friendships as I was hoping and it only really took up a small portion of the book, but I still found it really enjoyable and I read it in just one day as I wasn't able to put it down. Instead, Shine focuses on Rosa's life on a very small island whose population all seem to be incredibly superstitious. Rosa suffers from an illness known as the Calm, that leaves her with scarring and an inability to talk. As a result of this, she would be seen by the other people on the island as a monster and consequently lives her life in hiding. I have to say I found it completely shocking to see the level of fear and ignorance shown by the residents of Mirasol, and it was frightening to see the amount of hatred that they had for anybody with the Calm just because of an old ghost story.

Throughout this telling of Rosa's story, there are also sections written by Rosa's mother in the form of letters to her twin sister. Rosa's mother also had the Calm but died when Rosa was just five years old, so these sections were a look into the past and what life was like for Rosa's mother growing up with a twin sister who was not affected by the illness. At first, I had trouble understanding what these sections were for, other than providing an interesting look at another person's viewpoint of the illness. However, near the end it suddenly all becomes clear how the past and present are linked in an amazing climax that I just hadn't seen coming. For the last few chapters I was literally unable to move until I found out how it would all turn out.

Summary - A book that makes the reader think long and hard about superstitions, prejudices and how we treat people in general. A YA book that is a must-read for people of all ages.

Series Spotlight: Beautiful Series by Jamie McGuire

Series Spotlight is a new weekly feature here on Once Upon a Series, where I will be highlighting a series that I would either like to read if I get a chance to, or would like to finish reading at some point. Hopefully it will give you all some ideas for other series to read... or if you've read something similar that you think other fans of the series featured would like, then please do mention it in the comments.

Well, there's not really a whole lot to say about my pick this week other than the fact that it is a series that I have seen good reviews for on a lot of blogs so I really, really want to read it!

1. Beautiful Disaster

Abby Abernathy is a good girl. She doesn’t drink or swear, and she has the appropriate number of cardigans in her wardrobe. Abby believes she has enough distance from the darkness of her past, but when she arrives at college with her best friend, her path to a new beginning is quickly challenged by Eastern University’s Walking One-Night Stand.

Travis Maddox, lean, cut, and covered in tattoos, is exactly what Abby wants—and needs—to avoid. He spends his nights winning money in a floating fight ring, and his days as the ultimate college campus charmer. Intrigued by Abby’s resistance to his appeal, Travis tricks her into his daily life with a simple bet. If he loses, he must remain abstinent for a month. If Abby loses, she must live in Travis’s apartment for the same amount of time. Either way, Travis has no idea that he has met his match.

2. Walking Disaster

How much is too much to love?


Travis Maddox learned two things from his mother before she died: Love hard. Fight harder.

In Walking Disaster, the life of Travis is full of fast women, underground gambling, and violence. Just when he thought he was invincible, Abby Abernathy brings him to his knees.

Every story has two sides. In Jamie McGuire's New York Times bestseller Beautiful Disaster Abby had her say. Now it's time to see the story through Travis's eyes

Waiting on Wednesday: Twigs by Alison Ashley Formento

"Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.

This week Amy has a "can't-wait-to-read" selection for you:

Twigs by Alison Ashley Formento

One pint-sized girl. Ten supersized crises. And it’s high noon.

They call her “Twigs,” because she’ll never hit five feet tall. Although she was born early, and a stiff breeze could knock her over, Twigs has a mighty spirit. She needs it, as life throws a whole bucket of rotten luck at her: Dad’s an absentee drunk; Mom’s obsessed with her new deaf boyfriend (and Twigs can’t tell what they’re saying to each other). Little sister Marlee is trying to date her way through the entire high school; Twigs’ true love may be a long-distance loser after a single week away at college, and suddenly, older brother Matt is missing in Iraq. It all comes together when a couple of thugs in a drugstore aisle lash out, and Twigs must fight to save the life of the father who denied her.

So, I have this on my list to read in 2014 just because, as far as I know, it's not out in the UK- America get their hardback edition of Twigs in September 18th 2013. If American publishing is like the UK if there's a hardback it's either out before, or the same time as, the paperback. I've not heard of different but for a brit like me, I've found I'm going to be waiting... And probably more than just two weeks, we'll see but there's a definitely a Pre-Order button here, and Goodreads has provided the September 18th date for hardcover. Maybe you'll buy it or had an ARC? If so, let me know what you think!

Stand-Alone Sunday Review: Shards and Ashes edited by Kelley Armstrong and Melissa Marr

Publisher - HarperCollins
Publication Date - February 13th 2013
Paperback - 384 pages
Genre - Young Adult (collection)

Source - Received from publisher for review

Rating - 4 out of 5: I really like it.

Reviewed by - Maddie

Book Info - Gripping original stories of dystopian worlds from nine New York Times bestselling authors, edited by Melissa Marr and Kelley Armstrong.

The world is gone, destroyed by human, ecological, or supernatural causes. Survivors dodge chemical warfare and cruel gods; they travel the reaches of space and inhabit underground caverns. Their enemies are disease, corrupt corporations, and one another; their resources are few, and their courage is tested.

Powerful original dystopian tales from nine bestselling authors offer bleak insight, prophetic visions, and precious glimmers of light among the shards and ashes of a ruined world

My Thoughts - The stories inside this collection could all be made into epic movies with shiny sets and action heroes, and I would pay ridiculously expensive cinema ticket prices and deal with the annoying popcorn vendors, just to see them. As I read each story I was imagining a set design, a cast list and, of course the soundtracks. They were all surprisingly detailed for short stories which might only be 40 pages long. They could also span millions of years or miles in such a short amount of time.

One of my favourites was Branded by Kelley Armstrong. It was the first time I had read any of her work and I am hooked. This book has actually introduced me to loads of new authors like Rachel Caine, Carrie Ryan and Nancy Holder. 

Any teenage reader who has walked into a book shop in the last year would have seen Beth Revis's name (author of the Across the Universe series) but like me, they may have not had the chance to read her books. Well I did have the chance, I was just too lazy.... But after reading her short story Love is a Choice from this collection, not only have I read a massive spoiler, I have finally started her books.

If you are new to young adult and you want to discover some of the most exciting authors from the genre, read this book. If you are like and me and you were growing tired of YA books then try reading Shards and Ashes. Now I can't wait to start reading the forgotten pile of books next to my bed.

The one problem with a collection of dystopian short stories, is you need a break between all of the gloominess. Apocalypse after apocalypse can be tiring. Oh, and I hate the cover but I am just picky. I would give this book four out of five stars.

Series Spotlight: Elements of Power by Heather James

Series Spotlight is a new weekly feature here on Once Upon a Series, where I will be highlighting a series that I would either like to read if I get a chance to, or would like to finish reading at some point. Hopefully it will give you all some ideas for other series to read... or if you've read something similar that you think other fans of the series featured would like, then please do mention it in the comments.

Today we've chosen...

Elements of Power by Heather James

To start reading straight away, you can purchase Fire from: Amazon / Kobo / Barnes and Noble. The following books will be available at the retailers seen above.
You can find out more about Heather James, author of the series, over at her blog.

#1. Fire 
Is control over the elements a gift, or a curse?

Enter a world where it's normal to spark flames in your fingertips, or produce gale-force winds with a flick of your wrists.

Roxy thinks that she is in control of everything: with flames flaring at her fingertips and an equally fiery attitude, what more could she need? But then she meets Brae, a prince from a rival Realm, who turns her assumptions of superiority upside down.

Jasmine has none of Roxy’s confidence or intensity. But she does have a secret - and Brae - and she’s not going to give either up willingly.

 #2. Water 

Water pooled around my feet, rising at an alarming rate. I stared - panicked - at the palms of my hands, willing the water gushing out of them to stop as miraculously as it had begun.
I only sneezed!

Cover now revealed and final release date
to follow... After some editing methinks!

Jasmine is struggling to control her new powers, causing floods and fires with an accidental flick of her wrist. In a desperate attempt to master at least one aspect of them, she travels to the Brizan Realm, where she comes closer to discovering the truth about her parents than ever before. But not everyone wants their secrets revealed.

Alone, powerless and, for the first time in her life, afraid, Roxy has only one thought occupying her mind: escaping Cinaer's clutches before it's too late. Her flight will take her across the ocean, but not in the direction she is expecting. Before she can try and get back to Brae, she needs to rescue herself.

Despite being on opposite sides of the world, the girls soon find themselves closer than ever.

Water is the second novel in the Elements of Power series and is due to be released Autumn 2013. Keep an eye on James' website for more details. Of course, you can buy and read in time for the sequel, Fire (see that big Amazon button?).

You saw a teaser of Water in the first paragraph of its synopsis. The first two lines of Water... So, as I haven't read it yet either and I've read Fire I gladly accepted the offer of also giving readers of Once Upon A Series an excerpt, today it's an exclusive glimpse inside Water, continuing from the synopsis...

Excerpt continued...

But there wasn't time to complain about how it had started. I needed to make it stop. The water was already up to my ankles, drowning my feet along with my favourite boots.

My hair, streaked with vibrant violet strands, hung in drenched ringlets down my back as I reached, desperate, for the door to my bedroom, but the force of the water pushed me back from the handle before I could grip it.

I screamed in frustration. This was not happening! I was stuck in my own bedroom, water rising up rapidly around me. All I had to do was open the door, but I couldn't even do that because my hands were the source of the water!

It was up to my knees now. At this rate, it wouldn't take long to fill the room entirely and then…

No. I wasn't going to think about that. I was going to stop the water before then. I could do that. I could control my powers; I would not let them kill me.

Stop, stop, stop, I willed.

Think of something dry, Jasmine. Think of the Helian Realm, all that sunshine and heat.

The force of the jets increased. "No!" I screamed again.

The water was already at my waist. Tears were streaming from my eyes—as if I wasn't already producing enough water to contend with.

I spotted my dressing table by the window, the top of which was above the water line, for now. I climbed up onto it, dripping, and directed my hands towards the part of the room furthest from me; the bathroom door. Now, if that had been open, I would have been okay—I could have held my hands over the plug hole in the bath until the water stopped.

That was what I had done last time.

And the time before that.

But, of course, this morning I'd had to kick the bathroom door shut on my way out, hadn't I?

The water had already made it over the top of the table. I wanted to tear at my hair, clench my fists or hit something really hard. But I couldn't—my hands were completely unusable.

Defeated and frustrated, I settled for standing on my dressing table, cursing my out-of-control powers at the top of my lungs.

And then the bedroom door burst open and a torrent of water poured down the stairs...

Waiting on Wednesday: SOULMATES by Holly Bourne

"Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.

This week Amy has a "can't-wait-to-read" selection for you:

SOULMATES by Holly Bourne

Every so often, two people are born who are the perfect matches for each other. Soulmates. But while the odds of this happening are about as likely as being struck by lightning, when these people do meet and fall in love…thunderstorms, lightning strikes and lashings of rain are only the beginning of their problems.

Enter Poppy, the 17-year-old cynic with a serious addiction to banana milk, and Noah, the heart-throb guitarist; residents of mediocre Middletown, sometime students, and…soulmates.

After a chance meeting at a local band night, Poppy and Noah find themselves swept up in a whirlwind romance unlike anything they’ve ever experienced before. But with a secret international agency preparing to separate them, a trail of destruction rumbling in their wake, (and a looming psychology coursework deadline), they are left with an impossible choice between the end of the world, or a life without love…

Unlike the last three or four WoW's this isn't a book we've known a lot about, we haven't yet made efforts to get this & we aren't reviewing it... yet. Guess what? Still so eager to read it but it's unlikely to just land on Amy's doorstep, unfortunately. But anyway, what do you think? Does it intrigue you too? Is this enough to go on? Maybe there is hype, I just have yet to see it...

Review: The Screaming Staircase by Jonathan Stroud (Lockwood & Co #1)

Publisher - Random House Children’s Books

Publication Date – August 29th 2013

Softcover – 440 pages

Genre – Young Adult; Paranormal

Source - Received from publisher for review

Rating - 4 out of 5: I really liked it

Reviewed by - Amy

Book Info- 

When the dead come back to haunt the living, Lockwood & Co. step in . . .

For more than fifty years, the country has been affected by a horrifying epidemic of ghosts. A number of Psychic Investigations Agencies have sprung up to destroy the dangerous apparitions.

Lucy Carlyle, a talented young agent, arrives in London hoping for a notable career. Instead she finds herself joining the smallest most ramshackle agency in the city, run by the charismatic Anthony Lockwood. When one of their cases goes horribly wrong, Lockwood & Co. have one last chance of redemption. Unfortunately this involves spending the night in one of the most haunted houses in England, and trying to escape alive.

Set in a city stalked by spectres, The Screaming Staircase is the first in a chilling new series full of suspense, humour and truly terrifying ghosts.

My Thoughts- I thoroughly enjoyed reading about the mystery and ‘The Problem’; despite such an unordinary story arch I felt it all linked well enough and frankly- many elements just seemed to click for me. I suppose I love quirks, in the main novel itself, the characters and the way in which it flowed! I couldn’t figure out whether the series is supposed to be futuristic (but not very far in the future) or an alternate universe but either way this is intriguing. The history behind the issue of ghosts is one that is hard to summarize; clues keep being given as we discover much about the ‘lay of the land’. The book’s a perfect mystery with action plentiful also.
Each of the characters in Lockwood & Co’s trio are epic- Lockwood, Lucy and George are such an entertaining bunch- and Lucy, protagonist of ‘The Screaming Staircase’ is a solid character, sophisticated beyond her years. The connection I had to her was sort of ruined by the fact that sometimes I had to hunt down definitions for more than the odd word frankly.
Lucy’s vocabulary- it’s extraordinary. She’s supposed to be my age, maybe even younger. Oh, and, at one point, she said she didn’t read a lot in the circumstances. As a child, she just didn’t so I wonder, where did she get these words from? I think she’d have mentioned finding a dictionary as a ghost’s source or something... Was the only way to eradicate a ghost, once, to skim the dictionary until you learnt dozens of new words? Even though, I think, the novel is written in hindsight it’s not exactly appropriate in my opinion.
Lucy’s charming, sure, and an interesting character but one thing I’d very much enjoy is to hear the sequel(s?) from other point of views as we don’t discover much about Lockwood, and even less about George as a result of Lucy’s narration. Basically, I get the impression her perception of the trio is jaded. The agency seemed so fresh from Lucy’s eyes yet she’s the newest recruit and I wonder how long it’s been around... You discover so much about her, her background and just HER that it’s peculiar- too jaded. How did Lockwood come to set it up, for instance? Talking about agency- it’s something the characters very much have. Their lives are very restless and they seem to have a lot of power for ‘children’ as it were.
My criticisms aside, I shall just sit and wait for the story to be continued in a novel which looks very promising now.

Summary- I enjoyed the way the Lockwood and Co. has such intricacies; it was a very surreal ride but who cares? I loved the imagination- everything just seemed more exciting and I was gobsmacked quite frequently. Event after event, I found myself falling deeper and deeper into a fantastically engaging adventure. I would recommend this but not for reluctant readers as such- if the size of the book hasn’t put a kid (teens included) off they’re probably good to go...

Waiting on Wednesday: The Elites by Natasha Ngan

"Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.

This week Amy shares some more from her "can't-wait-to-read" selection with you, today's pick is:

  The Elites by Natasha Ngan 

'There is a rumour that the Elites don’t bleed.’
Hundreds of years into the future, wars, riots, resource crises and rising sea-levels have destroyed the old civilisations. Only one city has survived: Neo-Babel, a city full of cultures – and racial tension.

Fifteen-year-old Silver is an Elite, a citizen of Neo-Babel chosen to guard the city due to her superior DNA. She’d never dream of leaving – but then she fails to prevent the assassination of Neo Babel’s president, setting off a chain of events more shocking and devastating than she could ever have imagined. Forced to flee the city with her best friend Butterfly (a boy with genetically-enhanced wings), Silver will have to fight to find her family, uncover the truth about Neo-Babel and come to terms with her complicated feelings for Butterfly.

Packed full of adventure, romance, exoticism and the power of friendship, The Elites is a highly compelling and beautifully written novel from a supremely talented debut author.

{And Natasha isn't just talented but she's a lovely tweep too... She told me the book is a rollercoaster so if you can cope with highs and lows you may want to join me in waiting... Or you could be more practical and outgoing than I and basically just ask for an ARC. Yeah, you do that. My teen bloggers friends have grabbed some & are like, "ARC's are avaliable... Umm, Amy, what are you waiting for?" In truth, for my TBR to disappear into my reader's mouth. I just don't have room/time to devour them all at once (I mean, how big do you think my mouth is?) or even so soon but still, I'm waiting and TBRing this!}

Review: The Taming of Lilah May (Lilah May #1) by Vanessa Curtis

Publisher - Frances Lincoln Children’s Books
Publication Date - 12th May 2011
Paperback - 182 pages
Genre - YA contemporary (realistic)
Source - Borrowed from library
Rating - 4.5 out of 5: I really liked it (+ a bit more amazing)
Reviewed by - Amy

Book Info -
I'm Lilah May and I'm ANGRY.
So angry that I'm about to be excluded from school, my parents can't control me, and only one person in the world understands me. And that's my best friend, Bindi.

I haven't always been this way. It all started with my brother Jay. And what no one realises is that it's all my fault.

(By the author of Zelah Green, Queen of Clean, which has been shortlisted for the Waterstones Prize, The Nasen/TES Prize 2009 and winner of the Manchester Children's Book Awards 2010.)

My Thoughts-
I'm not sure if this has been even nominated for awards. I'm sorry for that non-sureness but I cannot lie; it should win some. Just like Zelah Green did. I reviewed them too and pretty much really liked them too. But this- this book is different. Still contemporary but more surprising.
Firstly, do you know one of the things I love about Lilah May? (Come on! Be physic.) You're not going to believe it but... the made-up words. I love it, I'm sometimes known for "inventing words" but I didn't think of the epic word, "Shockerola!" Lilah did. The thing about Lilah is, she does that to deal with her anger. I don't know how it works but as soon as that word, or maybe her personal favourite 'Groo', is uttered... Well, she seems better for it. So, I support her in what you may think is mad. I love these words, less so the latter.
How many books do you know dealing with anger management? It's not exactly a topic for children. It's not meant to be. Neither are some of the other themes and things brought up in 'The Taming Of Lilah May'.
The mixture of the cover, page length and whatnot may bring a younger audience in that is intended for. But I think 11+ are the best bet.
The length deceives for another reason. You may wonder how much can be packed into it and why the sequel needs to be a separate book at this length. But actually, many longer books don't pack a punch like this one. Drugs are mentioned. There's a hint of multiculturalism (Bindi's family want her to have an arranged marriage and this was discussed a little bit but it was a sub-plot.) If you don't mind hearing about another sub-plot, I'm not wanting to wreck part of the book but well... it's not an integral part, I'm including the below for a reason (you are welcome to skip this paragraph in italics if this is your preference!):
Small spoiler: One of the characters actually gets a teen girl pregnant and surprisingly, with all that goes on, Lilah copes quite well. I get a feeling she's more annoyed about the boy's part in it compared to the girl's. But even if this is not the case, the book handles it in a mature way (and boy, isn't it fab it's handled at all?). The consequences are shown but you don't have to read the other explicit stuff which is best left out, as I'm a teen reading books for teens y'know :P
This was totally unexpected but this part just amped up the rating. Although that is common it's really not dealt with as much as other issues- like mental illness (I know that's unique but not as unique from what I know).
All the relationships were dealt with in a sensitive and amazing way! I felt a connection to Lilah which proves it's not just characters I relate with more (sorry to mention Zelah again!) that Vanessa portrays well, it's all of them. This isn't a fluke. I truly believe you will love all Curtis' books...

Summary-
Having said the above, especially this one. This is a gem, dealing with topics you probably haven't read about (or rarely, if you have). I enjoyed it thoroughly although felt the mystery didn't suit the book as well, for as long as it carried out. It does hook the reader as we wait to know background information about Jay, Lilah's brother, who disappeared. Yet I hated not knowing until probably halfway through! I'm sorry to say this wasn't the best, I absolutely don't think Jay deserved it all (though of course he's her brother) and was more moved for Lilah and her parents in the main storyline. I just wished I'd known what had Lilah in such twists earlier. Now I do know, I have a good idea of what to expect in the sequel and may read that too. There is sure to be a lot of 'punch' in that too so if you've read that/decide to read that in future please let me know!

Talking about the sequel, as always...

Other books in the series:

1. The Taming of Lilah May (LM #1)

2. Lilah May's Manic Days (LM #2)

Waiting On Wednesday: Demonosity by Amanda Ashby

"Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.

This week Amy has a "can't-wait-to-read" selection for you is:

Demonosity by Amanda Ashby

"An ancient myth + a mean girl + a reluctant warrior = a lively take on good vs. evil.

The Black Rose--a powerful ancient force--has been let loose and has taken up residence in Celeste Gibson, popular girl at Cassidy Carter-Lewis' high school. Thomas Delacroix is the spirit of a fourteenth-century knight who is devoted to protecting the Black Rose, but he needs a contemporary living being to take on the challenge. That's where Cassidy comes in. She's a quirky high school junior who just wants to dress in her vintage clothes, hang out with her best friend, and take care of her father, who is recovering from surgery. She's the last person who would ever volunteer for such a task, but no one actually asked her. Now, like it or not, she finds herself training before dawn and battling demons at parties, the mall, and even at school. But hey, no one ever said high school was going to be easy. . ."

Doesn't the synopsis sound good? I thought that a while back when I added it to my to-read pile and hoped to win it in a Goodreads Giveaway. I didn't win it but kept it on my to-read pile because why wouldn't I want to read this in the future? I don't know if it's in a series but I imagine it could be... I hope to, someday, get my hands on this basically (hence using it for today's WoW & actually stealing the spotlight from Chrissie!). Would you like to read it? Why/why not? Anyway, also share what you're waiting for if you like...

Stand-Alone Sunday Review: Maggot Moon by Sally Gardner

Publisher - Hot Key Books
Publication Date - 3rd January 2013
Paperback - 280 pages
Genre - Young Adult Dystopian

Rating - 5 out of 5: It was amazing!


Reviewed by - Maddie

Book Info - When his best friend is suddenly taken away, Standish Treadwell realises that it is up to him, his grandfather and a small band of rebels to confront and defeat the ever present oppressive forces of The Motherland.

Friendship and trust inspire Standish to rise up against an oppressive regime and expose the truth about a planned moon landing in this original and spellbinding book.

My Thoughts - I’ve always thought Sally Gardner wrote differently and I think I have found out why.  She has had dyslexia for most of her life, not a life threatening problem but for a girl who loved stories it made her dreams of becoming an author seem impossible.  Of course, she fought past annoying teachers and patronising type fonts to write award winning children’s books like I, Coriander (can you tell I slightly obsess over her?).

Because of this, her characters like Standish from Maggot Moon look at life differently.  He lives by the rules and propaganda of a slowly imploding government regime called The Motherland.  The Motherland is trying to beat the ‘enemy’ by getting the first man on to the moon before the enemy can, even if they have to fake it.   We aren’t told much about the setting and time span but I’m guessing they are not more technologically advanced than the 1960s.  I have heard some say it is an alternative dystopian history of 1960s England.

Standish is resilient to this regime and so were his parents but after they were eradicated by the motherland, he went to live with his resourceful grandfather.  Standish’s friend Hector and his grandfather are now his only allies against his school bullies and the sinister motherland.

To most of Standish’s world he is useless because of his inability to read but to him and his few like minded friends his dyslexic mind is limitless.  Like Hector says, he’s like ‘a breeze in the park of the imagination’.  His dyslexia lets him write in short, piercing chapters with a fondness for colourful metaphors. 

There are also small illustrations on the margins of some pages showing a fly infestation of a rotting rat, yeah it’s yucky but it’s also intriguing.  I didn’t really fully understand this but friends tell me it reflects the fall of a totalitarian government (it’s more likely they just want to sound clever).

With a bright, inked cover this book looks like it was written for children or younger teenagers.  If I had read this book as a child with its dark themes it might have made me terrified for countless nights, not that I wouldn’t have enjoyed it.  People who complain about kids reading horror stories do not know about my brother’s dedication to the Goosebumps series.  Anyway...

I like how inclusive the cover and the drawings inside are.  A ten year old could be attracted to this book as could a sixteen year old.  Parents will probably hate that (there is some swearing and violence) but this is one of the few books trying to bring political dystopia to the children’s market.  The mysterious plot and unique narration completely sold this book to me.

Waiting On Wednesday: Teardrop by Lauren Kate

"Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.

This week my "can't-wait-to-read" selection is:

Teardrop by Lauren Kate (Teardrop #1)

Never, ever cry...

Eureka Boudreaux's mother drilled that rule into her daughter years ago. But now her mother is gone, and everywhere Eureka goes he is there: Ander, the tall, pale blond boy who seems to know things he shouldn't, who tells Eureka she is in grave danger, who comes closer to making her cry than anyone has before.

 

But Ander doesn't know Eureka's darkest secret: ever since her mother drowned in a freak accident, Eureka wishes she were dead, too. She has little left that she cares about, just her oldest friend, Brooks, and a strange inheritance - a locket, a letter, a mysterious stone, and an ancient book no one understands. The book contains a haunting tale about a girl who got her heart broken and cried an entire continent into the sea - and something about the story is uncannily familiar.

 

Eureka is about to discover that the ancient tale is more than a story, that Ander might be telling the truth... and that her life has far darker undercurrents than she ever imagined.

Review: French Kiss by Sarra Manning (Diary of a Crush #1)

Publisher - Atom
Publication Date - 30th May 2013
Paperback - 240 pages
Genre - Young Adult Contemporary Romance

Source - Received from publisher for review

Rating - 3 out of 5: I liked it

Reviewed by - Amy

Book Info - New town, new college, new people, Edie's feeling overwhelmed. What if nobody wants to be her friend? But then something happens that turns her life upside down: Edie spots Dylan. Messy-haired, pouty, frustratingly elusive Dylan...

Fast forward to the college trip to Paris and things are really heating up. In between the shopping, the clubbing, the kissing and the making up, something happens between Edie and Dylan that changes both their lives for ever.

But do boys like Dylan ever play for keeps?

My Thoughts - I didn’t particularly enjoy Diary Of A Crush, it was definitely not the best romance. It was acceptable but the main characters don’t seem to even know each other that well yet seem to find themselves attracted to each other (when they aren’t in complete and utter moods). Dylan was mainly a jerk, well... he was most of the time! He’d have a moment when he’d take Edie’s coat or defend her but most of the time he really wasn’t boyfriend material.

I didn’t like how at one point Edie refers to her ‘kick-ass facilities’. She wasn’t particularly kick-ass... She wasn’t lame but she was endearing and it’s really hard to imagine her actually be venomous, she’s got a bit off an evil-glare but if I’m honest that seems to come pretty naturally at puberty... She was definitely a hilarious character, as she said: ‘fluffy little baby bunny rabbits are more intimidating than me’. That was just so funny... in fact, it might describe the whole book. (see summary) Just read the first page, I mean it’s got that little fact file that’s all like ‘name, age, lives, height, weight, hair, eyes, favourites...’ I totally rolled my eyes- I remember when I used to read books that were in diary format & had that! The protagonists weren’t 16 though... But Edie’s sweet sixteen & (seldom) kissed... Once again though we find a girl who just doesn’t seem to be deserving of being part a love triangle- there was not a lot that made her stand out. She’s just moody, a catastrophe of embarrassment and seriously inconsiderate. The thing I like is she didn’t change for other people... I appreciated the beautiful quote: “I was ‘up myself’ and ‘weird’. Better than being a bunch of cookie-cutter deadheads”... It’s pretty self-explanatory really, isn’t it?

I probably wouldn’t be her friend, she feeds off Drama and has a muddled personality... It’s hard not to pity her though and get some giggles from her...

Summary - It’s a bit fluffy, rather cute, not intimidating... If you’re looking for an easy read this might be it!

Other books in the series:
1. French Kiss
2. Kiss and Make Up
3. Sealed With a Kiss

Waiting on Wednesday: Nameless by Lili. St. Crow

"Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.

This week my "can't-wait-to-read" selection is:

Nameless by Lili. St. Crow (Tales of Beauty and Madness #1)

When Camille was six years old, she was discovered alone in the snow by Enrico Vultusino, godfather of the Seven-the powerful Families that rule magic-ridden New Haven. Papa Vultusino adopted the mute, scarred child, naming her after his dead wife and raising her in luxury on Haven Hill alongside his own son, Nico. Now Cami is turning sixteen. She's no longer mute, and keeps her faded scars hidden under her school uniform only opening up to her two best friends, Ruby and Ellie and to Nico, who has become more than a brother to her. But her past is now coming back to haunt her.