The Testing by Joelle Charbonneau

A blurb from the author's website: 

Keep your friends close and your enemies closer. Isn’t that what they say?
But how close is too close when they may be one in the same?  

 The Seven Stages War left much of the planet a charred wasteland. The future belongs to the next generation’s chosen few who must rebuild it.  But to enter this elite group, candidates must first pass The Testing—their one chance at a college education and a rewarding career.

Cia Vale is honored to be chosen as a Testing candidate; eager to prove her worthiness as a University student and future leader of the United Commonwealth. But on the eve of her departure, her father’s advice hints at a darker side to her upcoming studies – trust no one.

But surely she can trust Tomas, her handsome childhood friend who offers an alliance? Tomas, who seems to care more about her with the passing of every grueling (and deadly) day of the Testing. To survive, Cia must choose:  love without truth or life without trust.

My Take

“The Testing”, the first in a trilogy, was fabulous!   While it did remind me of the Hunger Games, it’s very different as well.  As Cia went through the testing she came to understand her own strength, yet also held on to her humanity.  She realized that in working together and connecting to other human beings that we are ourselves stronger.   The building relationship between her and Tomas was not too over the top, and added a great element to the story.  I would definitely recommend this book and am already anticipating the next book in this series.  Btw, on the right side bar I've posted a free link to read the prequel and see the trailer.  Please go check it out.  Enjoy!  I’m giving this one 5 grade A kisses!

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free as part of an early book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

The Art of Wishing by Lindsay Ribar

Here's a quick quip from the book's goodreads page:

He can grant her wishes, but only she can save his life.

Margo McKenna has a plan for just about everything, from landing the lead in her high school play to getting into a good college. So when she finds herself in possession of a genie's ring and the chance to make three wishes, she doesn't know what to do. Why should she put her life into someone else's hands?

But Oliver is more than just a genie -- he's also a sophomore at Margo's high school, and he's on the run from a murderer. As he and Margo grow closer, she discovers that it will take more than three wishes to save him.

A whole lot more.

My Take

I loved this book!  I could not put it down.  It moved like the wind and swept me up into just as easily.  It also gets one to thinking what you would do if you were granted three wishes.  It does require thought and planning.  You begin to see missteps and where things could go terribly wrong.  This book was just so enjoyable but at the same time very white knuckleish in places.  The characters were great.  Margo while likable is not too nice and I think that's a great thing.  Oliver...well don't we all wish we had a guy who could be exactly who'd we like him to be and grant our deepest wishes?!  :)  Definitely put this one in the TBR pile.  Right on the top.  I've giving this one 5 magical kisses!!

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free as part of an early book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Who's In First, What's In Third? Tackling POV

So lately I've been giving point of view alot of thought. Predominately, I've written in first person. I find that easiest for me. While third may sound easy, it's a challenge.

I've also been told that most middle-grade (MG) and young-adult (YA) works are first person. My work-in-progress needs to be in third person. I have the main character banished to another planet and would like to be able to show what's happening in her absence as well as what's going on with her. It's time to expand my horizons; broaden my reach, so to speak and try something new with my writing. I'm thinking third person omniscient is the way for me to go.

I've been reading up about writing in different points of view. Here's an excellent, brief blog explaining different POV when writing for children, and their pros and cons. http://tpbweb.com/media/catalog/930.pdf
What are your views on different points of view? I'd love to hear your thoughts.

Times, They Are A Changin’

I’ve been reading some of the hubbub surrounding e-books. Change can indeed be scary for some. I think it’s interesting to see the world of books evolve though. The whole subject got me thinking about e-readers (Kindle and the like).

Do you think that e-readers and the availability of e-books could boost readership in young adults? I know how boys in particular love their electronic devices. Okay maybe the younger crowd, as a whole like the latest gizmos. I’m thinking maybe teen boys would be more likely to read if they could do it on something that felt similar to a gaming device. There’s the wonderful benefit of having over one thousand books in your hand. No one knows what titles you’re reading. The dictionary feature is awesome where kids are concerned; it’s as simple as moving the cursor to the word and the definition displays at the bottom. The Kindle will even read to you, if you choose. With the titles being cheaper, you can afford to buy more.

In short, I think it’s the wave of things to come, like it or not. I think there are definite benefits and they should be realized. I know the e-books are cheaper than printed books. However, they are probably cheaper to produce as well. As authors, we hope for heightened sales of e-books, and I think that’s a possibility in this techno-advanced world of ours.