For example, Jaime Reed is entering the wildly popular YA paranormal field with a series. The first book is Living Violet and (while technically a January release) it debuted this week. If you like YA or have a daughter with a bookstore or e-reader gift certificate burning a hole in her pocket, check out Living Violet.
The synopsis
Samara Marshall is determined to make the summer before her senior year the best ever. Her plan: enjoy downtime with friends and work to save up cash for her dream car. Summer romance is not on her to-do list, but uncovering the truth about her flirtatious co-worker, Caleb Baker, is. From the peculiar glow to his eyes to the unfortunate events that befall the girls who pine after him, Samara is the only one to sense danger behind his smile.
But Caleb’s secrets are drawing Samara into a world where the laws of attraction are a means of survival. And as a sinister power closes in on those she loves, Samara must take a risk that will change her life forever … or consume it.
Living Violet is a fresh, funny voice in the paranormal genre, with a strong heroine of color and also explores the world of cambions: the offspring of incubi and humans.
The review
I received an advanced copy and sent it to a middle schooler I know who gobbles up YA paranormal, and this is what Jacque Howard (an aspiring writer herself) had to say:
Living Violet by Jamie Reed is an amazing read that any teenage girl would enjoy. It has romance, fantasy, and a little bit of comedy. When I read this book I couldn’t put it down! The lead female character, Sam, is smart, strong, and sarcastic. She wasn’t really interested in falling in love but she was interested in the boy with the strange violet eyes (Caleb). A little bit of action and an awesome story altogether. I defiantly would recommend this book to anyone who loves these genres. Can’t wait for the next book to be released.
You can read an interview with Jaime about her new series here.
Happy New Year everyone! Here's to more good books in 2012!
