LOVE this debut novel!
346276
I.  LOVE.  This.  Book!!  Yes, some people may not be able to handle Bianca and all of her sarcasm and cynicism, but considering one of my best friends in high school could have been her twin, I totally understand her.  Bianca sure is angry at the world, but with everything that's going on in her life, I don't blame her for being a little "snarky."

When Wesley first referred to Bianca as a DUFF I was utterly shocked.  He disgusted me and I wanted to punch him for Bianca; I completely understood her hate for him.  After that, who cares if he's a charming hottie?!  But with all the frustrations dominating Bianca's life, and as much as she wants to think "she's fine," she ends up making out with him during their next encounter to relieve some stress.  Once this "enemies-with-benefits" thing starts, I was concerned about Bianca.  Starting a physical relationship without strings attached isn't a healthy outlet.  But Bianca, along with all the girls that will and should read this, discover the consequences and other ways to handle stress.  On the lighter side, I really enjoyed Bianca and Wesley's banter.  Bianca isn't afraid to be herself around him, cynicism and everything.

Young adult novels almost always include the main character's best friend(s), but it's rare to see something as true-to-life as Bianca's friendship with Casey and Jessica.  The dynamics of their friendship is dead on- the jokes and conflicts, for example.  They genuinely care about each other and look out for one another.

I truly hope teenage girls read this novel.  There is so much to be learned about self-esteem and the perception of yourself and others.  Once Wesley calls Bianca a DUFF, that's all she can think about.  But doesn't everyone feel like the ugly friend once in a while?  Despite Bianca feeling this way, all I focused on was how smart and dynamic she is.  She notices things about the people around her that most miss or ignore completely.  Then there's Wesley, he's the popular rich guy who has it all.  But as Bianca spends more and more time with him, she learns that maybe his life isn't so perfect after all.

The DUFF is one of the best books I've read, and I absolutely can't wait to read another novel by Kody Keplinger.  I'm even more impressed by this novel after learning that Keplinger is only 18 years old!!  Talk about impressive!  Once I started reading this, I couldn't put it down even though I had a stack of papers to grade.  In fact, I was sad when I finished because I wanted to keep reading :)  Congratulations on a job well-done, Ms. Keplinger!
2686828
A little background as to how I came across this book is through attending another authors signing. We got talking and Emily said she had a book coming out. Naturally, we all know what my question was. Well, I remember putting my hands up asking her to stop with that sounds like a book I would read. So I approached the publisher and then, the rest was history. I am thrilled to say that this debut novel does not disappoint. I even held off starting it so I could ensure minimal interruptions.
Summers with Juliette is an emotional story about mending broken relationships, forging new ones and saying goodbye to dear ones. I was drawn into the story about the small town with some even smaller minds that thrives on keeping the townships ghosts going through the rumour mill.
This book managed to make me cry, laugh and fall in love with the characters. I expected this book to hit me in the heart hard but it took it to the ideal I have about books. I look for books to not only entertain me, but for them to have me come out the end with questions about my own life, (yes, dare I say it - life lessons from fictional people). This is exactly what this book did. Several times I put the book down, saying to myself, wow  I really need to do more of that or I need to ring my bestie and make sure we catch up face to face soon. Dare I say it, this book changed me, and it was for the better.
I have made some predictions in the past and Im going to make it with this one. If this is the calibre of this authors writing, I cannot wait for her upcoming works. This book ticks all my boxes. My only complaint (and its a minor one) is that with the cast being large, I was getting hooked into one characters story and then the chapter would end and jump to anothers  frustratingly delicious.
I encourage everyone to spend a Summer with Juliette. Pack a drink, some sunscreen and some tissues. The hurt is real. Even looking at the cover, I get a lump in my throat but for so many reasons. The love, the laughs, the beautiful moments all wrapped up in this book.
I was kindly given an ARC of this book for my honest opinion. Getting this book for free has in no way, shape or form swayed my opinion. I will be buying a copy of this book also on release day.
2700757
This is a wonderful debut novel. Loved the alternating POV, the book's cozy vibes, the setting, characters and humor...Beth Ehemann knows how to deliver. After reading her heartfelt dedication, I liked the author even more, and I look forward to her future books!
2927277
This is a great debut novel.  I enjoyed the character of Rachel Goddard and will be purchasing other books in this series.  I actually bought this eBook a few years ago but had not read it.  I was scrolling thru the books on my iPad looking for an author that I was not familiar with and selected this one.  A good mystery that kept me engaged and guessing.  Now moving on to book 2 in the series!
4061280
What a beautiful debut novel from Kristy Love! Let me tell you, she sucked me in from the very beginning and never let me go.

The prologue completely gutted me. Kristy painted such a vivid picture, I felt as if I was actually there. I could feel the bite of the cold air, I could here the sharp sounds of bending metal  I don't want to give anything away, so Ill leave it at that!

Will has suffered terrible tragedy in his short life, and it takes tremendous effort to just wake up everyday and function. He goes through the motions, literally just existing  until he meets Ryanne.

My heart hurt for the pain that Will has endured, and I wanted so badly for him to find peace. I fell in love with him from the very beginning.

Ryanne was a breath of fresh air. She has a great deal of responsibility laid on her shoulders, and she takes it all in stride. She has a quiet strength about her that I love.

There are so many things that I love about this book. One of the things that really stood out for me is that this is not a story where the couple meets and all their wounds are magically healed. While that may seem sweet and romantic, its just not real life. Problems don't magically disappear when a person falls in love. Will has real problems to deal with, and Kristy did a great job of telling his journey to recovery.

Great job, Kristy Love! I cant wait to see whats next!
646591
Great debut novel! The plot concept is a new and interesting one set in the future with a secretive group of immortals, that come to surface when the last immortal is born, Tarian Prescott.  Too bad someone wants him dead, in which a killer is on the loose and Tarian learns about a new world to where he belongs outside of what he thought his life was set to be.  Lies are weaved and secret governments are revealed, interesting conflicts and layers with Tarian and his girlfriend Delia.  Definitely worth your time to check this story out - can't wait for book two!
824972
Great pacing for a rollicking ride! What a fun debut novel!
2199892
I fell in love with this book and I fell hard. This book is a wonderful debut novel and I think readers who are looking for a good read, this is the one!
4896623
This is a truly beautiful debut novel!! Its whimsically, beautifully written and creates an almost magical sort of atmosphere that I just love! The narrator, young Walter Lavender Jr. is a finder of lost things  the one that has helped him find his voice to communicate, overcoming a speech impediment where his mind creates blocks on the physical muscles that allow speech. As a result, Walter is mostly mute and the one lost thing that he secretly searches the hardest for is his father  a pilot lost over the ocean. Its a sad and lovely book. His mother operates a magical bakery that reminds be quite a bit of the magical one that Vienne runs in Harris novel, Chocolat. Walters best friend is his golden retriever, Milton, and each word in this novel is as delectable as the fictional creations that Lucy creates in her kitchen. I imagine that an audio version would be equally delectable! I am thoroughly enjoying this one!!

 And it is one of those debut novels that keeps getting better and better! I absolutely love Walters story and the magic that brings him together throughout the city with a wide range of people. In his journey there are so many moments of beauty, wisdom  it is truly an excellent novel that I think will appeal to a wide variety of ages. Its a gorgeous debut and I definitely plan on continuing to follow this authors career!
372755
I rarely write reviews, but must chime in here, likely because my addled brain was up until 3am (!!) reading this fantastic book:  what a lovely debut!  The writing is strong, colorful, descriptive, and engaging. So often romance novels are too fluffy, too basic, like a generic procedural television show. This is like a rather complex The Good Wife episode in that you generally know what you're getting, but the journey there is whip-smart and fun. The flaws in the book are minor (nit-picks, really), but again the writing makes up for any minor concerns. The protagonist's voice is just so strong and charming. Bravo, and can't wait for book 2!!!!!
137172
CROSSING OVER, a wonderful debut novel by Jennifer Coissiere, tells the story of Rachelle Martin, whose mother passed away when she was 15, and how she has coped with her passing for the past 15 years. Rachelle has a beautiful voice, but an event she believes she caused so many years ago, hinders her from singing.

We are introduced to Rachelle's twin brother Raheem and we witness when he meets Leigh.  Leigh is very interesting to him but, she brings drama to the group when they start dating.  We also meet Rachelle's best friend Dawn and Raheems best friend Kenyon, both of whom have secrets.  The two have to hold it together for Rachelle when she decides it's time for her to sing again.

Coisssiere seamlessly weaves these lives together into a story that I enjoyed very much.  Fans of Christian fiction will enjoy this as it deals with real life issues, with a Christian faith storyline that is interesting, yet not preachy, and twists and turns with a bit of drama.  I look forward to her next book. Excellent read!

Reviewed by Linda Chavis
for The RAWSISTAZ(tm) Reviewers
1180822
Ms. Dikec spins a wonderful story with well-developed characters. I will be thinking of them for days to come and wondering what they are doing...the sign of a great job! I was pulled in to the storylines and swept along (and couldn't put the book down). Congratulations to her on an amazing debut! I look forward to reading more from this author
1358714
A lovely debut novel! This book will warm your heart and help you realize that we all have something to offer, even through, (or perhaps because of!), our own brokenness.

Spoiler alert!
Josie looks like the type of young woman that's got it all together. A meaningful job, good friends and a loving father...What more could a girl ask for?

Then she runs across an advertisement for volunteer mentors, and she decides to take a leap of faith and put herself out there....little did she know that her attempt at altruism would actually open a deep wound that had never really healed in her own life.

It turns out young Payton might be able to teach Josie a thing or two about truly healing, the power of forgiveness, and moving forward.
2430108
I really enjoyed this debut novel from this author. It was well written and easily flowed especially when changing POV'S.

This story is about love, romance and loss. It will have you laughing out loud to holding back a few tears to get angry and then back to happy again.

In the beginning, we learn about the two main characters Zhoe and Jared and how opposite their worlds are and that they have a person that connects them. At first they have no clue that they have someone that connects them but they definitely have instant chemistry the first night the meet.
I don't want to give to much away but one of them finds out the link that connects them and we have to wait and see if their honest and upfront with the information and how the other one will react to the news.

I enjoyed Zhoe's character. She is a strong heroine and I'm so proud when she finally stand up to her father about her plans for her future, although it's at an awful time it was so great for her and you'll have to see if it affects her relationship with him afterwards. I'm also glad she has a great friend Angelica to lean on for support.

Now Jared, he is an Alpha Hottie! I loved him. He had a tough upbringing and carries a lot on his shoulders but he is a strong and determined guy even though he views himself and keeps telling Zhoe that he's damaged. Im glad he has great friends to make him feel wanted and cared for.

" I know I don't love her yet, but there is no doubt that I could love this girl. I could fall head over heels for her. I could love her with every ounce of my shattered soul if I'm not careful."

I recommend to anyone who enjoys a great story about two complete opposites that haven't had it all perfect, but in spite of there obstacles they come out stronger."
2357170
NOTES FROM THE TEENAGE UNDERGROUND is a fantastic debut novel! It starts out with three best friends, Gem, Lo, and Mira, trying to come up with ideas for their summer project. The summer before was their Satan Summer; they dabbled in all things occult. The summer project has a theme, goals, and guides. This year, they want to do something spectacular; it could be their last summer project--who knows what the future will bring?

Lo is usually the one with ideas, but this time, Gem has some ideas of her own. Their theme for the year is Underground, whatever that means. Ug for short. Their guide? This is where Gem is inspired. She sees some of his work--four films of kissing couples playing over and over--at the National Gallery, and she decides, with a bit of help from her artsy mother, Bev, that Andy Warhol should be their guide into the world of the Underground (which at first kept making me think of riding the subway a lot...). She does some research into Andy Warhol, his work, his life, and the people around him, and then comes up with a goal: to make an Underground film.

During the course of this project, Gem realizes a lot of things about her life and her relationships. She feels like her friendship with Lo and Mira is an isosceles triangle; the two of them are close together, and Gem is all alone at one end. She's also being pressured to make some decisions about her future, as all seventeen-year-olds are. Her mother and Sharon, school counselor and Gem's godmother, want her to go to University, but Gem's a lot more interested in film school. Speaking of her love of movies, she's starting to think she could love something else at Video City, where she works--her coworker, Dodgy. On top of all of this, Gem's father, Rolf, has always been out of the picture, just sending the occasional weird haiku from where he lives out in the wilderness--but now it looks as though he could be stepping back into Gem's life, at least for awhile.

This summer is a turning point in Gem's life. When it's all over, Gem will be different. Her life will be different. This much is pretty obvious. But how will things change?

I really, really loved this book. It was a lot of fun to read, and the idea of the summer project was very interesting, something that set this book apart from a ton of others. Almost all young adult literature is about things changing, as that's what's always going on for teenagers, but Simmone Howell's novel had something that makes it stand out in my mind! If it's got Andy Warhol and obscure movies in it, it's got to be different.

Gem is a wonderful character. I really felt, while reading this, as if I knew her. She's very interesting, and what goes on in her mind is fascinating. I couldn't put this book down! I woke up at one in the morning, for some reason anxious to finish this book. That almost never happens to me! As I'm writing this, it's a little bit difficult to explain what about this book is so amazing, but there's something. It really captures the teenage experience. Simmone Howell obviously remembers this time in her life very well! I'm going to have to revise my `Best of 2006' list to add this one! This is a must read!

Reviewed by:  Jocelyn Pearce
3318139
What an amazing debut novel!  Karla does an amazing job of making you feel like you know Casey and Jake and of course Remmy too.  I can't even begin to tell you how many times I laughed out loud while reading this novel and then at the end, she made me cry!  But she does eventually make everything all better.  Any author that can make me laugh out loud as well as cry is a must read for me.  To be able to write that well is a true talent.  For the most part, this is a very light-hearted read, that does get a little "deep" towards the end.  I am so glad I took a chance on Karla and read this novel.  I can't wait to read the rest of her books!
1168488
FANTASTIC READ!! This is a don't miss! A perfect stand alone romance that you won't want to end!

This Debut Novel absolutely knocked me off my feet. Cane and Jada, don't have a typical romance, and some drama helps to give the book an extra kick.

I think my favorite part about this authors writing style is all her quips and quotes! They really set her book apart. Not to mention it is written very well. Some debut novels can seem choppy or rushed, but not this one. It is written with the skills of a veteran.

I cannot wait to read more books from this author!