Impressive debut...can't wait for more!
587679
This was a very enjoyable read with enough storyline twists to keep you on your toes and reading to see what was going to happen next.  Cali is one tough chick, and I appreciate that she wasn't sad and pathetic because of her past.  Zev was hot, tough, sweet...the perfect combination!  There were a couple of things I felt were left unanswered when it came to Cali's Dad and his business and the mafia, but maybe those will be answered in future books in the series.  But, never fear, if you hate cliffhangers and are a sucker for a great HEA, this book will not disappoint.
758073
When I pick up a book to read, I am hoping for several things.  A story definitely worth reading, characters that will stay with me, and my desire to read more.  Chasing Shadows did not disappoint on all three accounts.  I fell into the dynamics of each character with ease and became not only intrigued with the protagonist and her bondmate, but the supporting characters as well.

After finishing this book, I see there is so much more to come, and that is a great thing.  I have my eye on this author.  I think that I, like many others, have fallen into the need to know more about Juliette and Lochlan.  Bravo to Christina Moore!  With this being her debut novel, I am thrilled about her next release, which I hope will be very soon!
3487072
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Ilsa Madden-Mills has set a very high standard with her debut novel.  Very Bad Things is an excellent start and I will watch with interest for more from Madden-Mills.

I absolutely loved Nora.  She had the ideal mix of intelligence, sass and vulnerability.  Nora tried really hard to be bad, to rebel against the perfection expected of her by her mother.  Of course she failed terribly at being bad, but she did bust through the boundaries set for her and found enough of herself to be happy.  I loved her obsessions with words, her people watching and the way she assigned animals to people.  She was intelligent, funny, sexy - an all round fabulous female character that I couldn't fault.

I equally loved Leo.  He was such a wonderful 'parent' for Sebastian and desperately wanted to do the 'right' thing.  He fought so hard to protect his heart and struggled to actually understand what it was he was feeling.  Hiding behind things like age difference and an inability to take a risk with his heart meant that he treated Nora terribly, more than once, and yet I couldn't judge him harshly for it because it was never his intention.  I know, I know that sounds ridiculous, he didn't mean it, therefore it was OK ... which is not exactly what I mean ... it was more that he was so terrified of hurting Nora and giving her his heart that he ended up doing exactly what he was afraid of.

There are so many other wonderful characters in this story too and the potential for more stories about any number and combination of them is definitely there.  Sebastian, Leo's brother was a particular favorite, as was Teddy (I absolutely adored the interactions between Nora and Teddy).

Madden-Mills has a wonderful writing style.  It is incredibly easy to read - I particularly liked the start of each chapter which had a quote of relevance from (mostly) one of the characters in the story, they were cute and quirky and completely appropriate.  Very Bad Things is not a long read, but it is engaging and definitely sucked me in, invested me in the characters and had me wondering precisely how it was going to turn out.  I was cheering for Nora the entire time and was really happy with how the ending came together.
2889915
What a refreshing new voice!!  Wonderful debut book by this new author, I couldn't put it down but didn't want it to end.  The multiple points of view works in such a remarkable way, really provides insight into all the major characters.  I loved it early on, but once Abby referenced my all-time favorite book (Owen Meany) and used my all-time favorite word (phantasmagorical) she wins my loyalty forever.  I'm ready and waiting for the next novel.
2929479
I love it when the cover of a book perfectly reflects the tone of the story within, and that's what happened here. The characters are alternately brooding and funny and all too real.  They tugged at my heart on several occasions, pulling me completely into their world. A great debut.

Liked the book but had no ending.  What if I never read anymore in this apparent series?  Would have liked it tied up.  Loved Rayne and she had a pretty decent supporting cast. For the most part good 1st effort.

Good in every aspect. I like and actually expect that a novel is well constructed and make sense and is generally well written I am always impressed when this characteristics can be applied to a debut novel.but when those characteristics are present in a debut novel of a series I reach my nirvana! I will not only read the next book of this series but I will wait impatiently and buy its sequel right when it come out because I definitely cant wait to see how Rayne's journey continues. Awesome read!
1563220
My Thoughts: When I heard about this novel, I knew I had to read it. It sounded so freaking good and it was! So happy I gave this debut a chance!

We are introduced to Meg aka the girl with more than one name. She's in the witness protection program along with her mother, father, and little sister. They have moved town to town quite a few times already on what Meg believes something her father seen. She hates moving and changing her name but she deals with it.

She ends up in a small town and meets a boy at her school. His name is Ethan and he's so adorable! She instantly clicked with him but knows she needs to stay away from him. No point in putting down roots just to have to leave him behind. She's been there and done that.

She finds herself falling for him and actually liking the town. She gets a job making pizzas and things are setting down a little bit. She's getting into a routine and she knows that is bad.

After a while, she becomes a little paranoid and things change for her. She starts to realize why the family is in witness protection and that scares her the most. I loved Teeny. She was such a cute little sister.

I can't go on and on about this one, because I'll give away way too many details and I don't want to spoil it for you. I saw a few things coming but never to the extent it went too.

I adored all the characters and there were a lot of laugh out loud moments with Ethan. I loved his group of friends and even his sister a little bit. Meg and Ethan together= Loved!

Awesome characters, even more awesome plot, great 2013 Debut!

Overall: I really loved this one to pieces! I loved Meg and the way she looked at things. I liked how she tried to keep a level head. I loved the plot of this and how fast it went. I got so wrapped up in the story, I lost track of time and I was down before I knew it! This will probably end up as one of my favorite 2013 debuts! This rocked!

Cover: Love it! Love how she is barefoot!

What I'd Give It: 5/5 Cupcakes
________
Taken From Princess Bookie
4291271
This book was amazing, and I think will be loved by fans of YA fantasy everywhere. It's such a strong debut, and leaves you wanting more. The main character is a Fireblood, a girl who has the elemental power to manipulate fire. She's never been able to control it, and is hunted by others (Frostbloods) who want to exterminate all the Firebloods, and when the book opens, have almost succeeded. That said, this is a very simple explanation...it's a far more complex situation than I've described here, and Blake has crafted a well-developed fantasy world to play with in future books. Honestly, when I finished the last page I found myself eager and impatient for the next book...I don't want to wait! On the other hand, the sequel is coming later this year, so I won't have to wait long. *grabby hands*
728565
This is one of those debut books that is not only captivating, but it is full of WOW moments. It's a book about choices, and freedom to think. It's full of characters I fell in love with and a world so realistic, it's a bit scary to think about being in. Possession is an amazing debut that will take readers into a unique world and introduce you to some amazing characters. This is one book I could not put down and it had me thinking about it long after I finished it.

I adored Violet, the story's strong, snarky, independent thinking heroine. In a world controlled by the Thinkers and technology, she's someone who thinks for herself, and because of that is deemed a baddie. Not that I blamed her for breaking so many rules. I wouldn't want to live in a brainwashed community either. Torn between the baddie Jag, and the goodie Zenn, Violet discovers she's a key player in plot full of twists and deception.

I thought Elana did a great job with her love triangle between Jag, Violet and Zenn. It's one that really fit well with the story and made a lot of sense. I'd elaborate more, but than I'd be spoiling it. As side from Violet, my other favorite character is Jag. There's a lot to his character and I loved getting to know him, and watch the romance between he and Violet grow.

Much of the story is centered on Jag and Violet's escape to get to the Badlands and then on to the Seashore to seek freedom. Both characters have a lot in common. They're broken, strong, independent and find a source of inner strength in each other. They are also wanted by the director for their special abilities, so he can use them to help control the people. Had I been in their shoes, I would have ran too, who wants to help a corrupt director brain wash people. Their journey on the run is full of deception, action, near death experiences and mixed with a bit of romance. I loved every moment of it.

This is one dystopian debut I couldn't get enough of. I was literally glued to the pages, and I feared if I put the book down I might miss something. This is a clean cut, fabulously addicting book with a killer ending! I'm eagerly awaiting to find out what happens next for Violet, Jag and Zenn. I highly recommend picking this book up today.
455009
I have seen this novel flourish from one of the first drafts into the final publication stages. It is a phenomenal story that should not be missed! Jean Carroll meticulously blends fact with fiction into a seamlessly invigorating tale that is sure to surpass the test of time. This is just the first installment of a series that is guaranteed to reinvent and ignite a fresh movement in the genre and bring true story telling back to mainstream literature. I feel blessed to have watched this project take off, and now that it is building momentum, there is no stopping this story, or its author, from dominating the scene! Such an incredible debut! What a debut!
3140542
The Golem and The Jinni is Helen Wecker's debut novel.....and oh boy, what a debut!

 We're quite used to books about 'supernatural' beings - vampires, werewolves, witches and more. But Wecker's two protagonists aren't as 'famous'.

 Otto Rotfield wants a wife to take with him when he emigrates to America. But, he wants her to fit the mold he has imagined. To that end, he approaches a man steeped in mystery and asks him to create a Golem - a creature made entirely of clay and destined to serve its master's every command. She is a masterpiece. When Otto falls ill on the boat journey, he manages to  animate the Golem before he dies. And so this creature lands in New York City in 1899, uninformed as to the ways of the world, how to behave, what to expect and how she will hide among the humans. It is her good luck that an old rabbi recognizes her for what she is - and takes her in.

 Not far away in Little Syria (Lower Manhattan) a local woman brings a battered copper flask to the neighbourhood metalworker for repair. When he erases one of the intricate designs that encircle the flask......you guessed it - a Jinni is released. The Jinni faces the same challenges as that of the Golem - he has been trapped in the flask for thousands of years.

 And chance being what it is, these two beings - one of earth and one of fire - meet, and each  recognizes that the other is not of this world.  Their lives are entwined in ways they could not imagine....and someone else is watching them...

 Oh, where to start! The setting is beautifully brought to life by Wecker. The lives of immigrants, the wealthy, the tenements, daily life, night life, attractions such as Central Park and more provide a rich and detailed background for Wecker's novel.

 The Golem and the Jinni are both mythical creatures, but Wecker's writing made them very real and 'human'. I found myself so caught up in their story, rooting for them and hoping they would find happiness. The supporting cast of characters is just as well drawn and equally compelling.

 This was such a unique and different idea for a novel.  Middle Eastern mysticism mixed with Jewish folklore and dipped into New York City's rich history. And under Wecker's skillful pen, it really works.

 But such is the stuff of magical stories -  dastardly villains, good vs. evil, sacrifice, love won and lost, fast friendships and more. And this is the feeling that Helene Wecker's novel gave me - that I was sitting in a beautiful silk tent somewhere in the desert, reclining on pillows and listening to Scheherazade spin one of her 1001 tales. I was enthralled from first page to last.  Wecker has truly woven a magical debut.
355316
BANGING DEBUT NOVEL...I WILL DEFINITELY BE READING MORE FROM IMANI HILTON!!!!
2816953
What an excellent debut novel! I really enjoyed Next Stop: Nina, both for the time travel and the character development. Nina starts out as a lost soul, but eventually finds herself (and love) in this quick, exciting read filled with mystery and wonder. I can't wait to read more from Robin Raven!
2888049
It's a great debut novel, and it really draws you in from start to finish!  Highly recommended!  I can't wait til book 2 comes out!
4643851
A compelling read.!! The writer transports you to a world you want to explore more, but also make sure you can leave again! A brilliant debut and multi level read that makes you look forward to his next work
3035589
Jancz-Urban brings together some pretty disparate elements to make an entertaining and surprising read.  Given the teaser on the book cover, it is hard not to wonder where fact and fiction separate here in the author's real life.  Jancz-Urban's style is such that the reader feels like the story is being shared personally, by a good friend, during an intimate conversation.  The author/narrator takes you in as a confidante in a very engaging and personal manner.  There is a very positive, empowering subtext to this novel.  Give in!  Surrender!  Acquiesce! You will enjoy this debut novel!
2692520
A great read mixing romance, mystery and suspense with an occasional touch of humor and a surprise ending.
The heroine is an unlikely leading lady who surprisingly adapts to a bizarre situation and completely unfamiliar surroundings.  The male lead is the quintessential hero who is confident, sexy, macho and impressively capable.
The story hooks you from the very beginning and leaves you eager to get to the sequel.  "Happily Ever After" appears to be tenuous at best and the characters are so compelling that you simply can't wait to discover the outcome of their continued journey.
I thoroughly enjoyed this story and I think it's an impressive, well written debut book for Ms. James.
4082171
I've just spent the past couple of days discovering a whole new world of fantasy creatures and tales (many from Russian traditions). And what a fabulously entertaining time it's been. Amy's debut novel has kept me wrapt right up to the last sentence... and now I am left waiting with bated breath for the next installment.

While it could be argued that the plot is fairly typical of the genre, (unsuspecting, but uber-powerful heroine must undergo a baptism of fire to save the world), the team of characters being recruited as fellow-protectors / saviours, and the tales and backgrounds from which these characters are drawn, give a refreshingly different look to the plotline.

The sheer variety of supernatural beings, all in one place, could have been rather messy, but it all seems to work brilliantly. Shape Shifters, Death Spirits, Gods, Supernatural hunters / warriors, Firebirds, Fairytale Heroes - there's something for everyone. As an Ozzie, it's got to be a first to find an Australian supernatural thrown into the mix!! And who knew a Thanatos could be so kick-ass!!

It is the characterisation of the various 'Supes' that ensures the novel doesn't get too cheesy or bogged down. One of my favourite aspects of the book is the strong, confident personality of each and every character (no wussy whimsical Damsels in Distress in this tale!!) All have a strength of character which makes the interactions and conversations entertaining to say the least. I admit I laughed out loud several times at the antics, arguments, and personality clashes involved when several 'dominants' are forced into close proximity. Izrayl especially, had me alternating between laughing hysterically, and swooning with passionate imagination. I always knew I was a 'dog' person for a reason.

I have to admit I like a little romance mixed in with my fantasy, and this book also meets this desire... though again, not really in the typically formulaic method. Although we are faced with the original resistance to the various pairings (with some original name-calling, entertaining insults, and full-on combat scenes)... it doesn't drag out for several chapters; The characters are generally fairly quick to realise who/what they belong with, and the relationships progress without the usual dithering.

Fantastic debut novel; extremely entertaining, and can't wait to find out what happens in the next exciting episode.