calm* I didn't make it beyond the first 20 pages.
** I made it to the end, but I either skimmed or skipped large sections.
*** I might have skipped/skimmed, but I liked it and might read it again.
**** I read at least 95% of the book and it was good -- definitely will be reread.
***** I read every word, and I loved it! A favorite.
Bleeding Violet, by Dia Reeves ***+ This was a totally unique book. From the first sentence, I was caught up in a world I barely understood -- on Twitter, I called it a trip, and it is! About a girl who's bipolar, multi-racial, multi-cultural, and also happens to see demons and other-worldly beings, the story starts off with bizarre (though often humorous) comments and just gets stranger :) For me, the strongest pull was the MC and her feisty, go-get-em attitude. (upper YA, just released) POC Challenge!
All Unquiet Things, by Anna Jarzab **** I enjoyed this mystery -- in fact, if I compare it to other mysteries, it's easily one of the best. I liked the complexity of it all and how things were resolved. I also really liked the two MCs and their changing relationship through the book as they deal with the past and learn to trust one another more. The basic story: although his ex-girlfriend's supposed murderer is in jail serving time for the crime, Neily is unconvinced that the police have the right person, so when Audrey (his ex-girlfriend's cousin) comes to him for help in finding the true killer, Neily joins her. (YA mystery, recently released)
Scones and Sensibility, by Lindsey Eland ***+ This is middle grade, which is not my forte -- but it's a cute story. The narrative remains true to an Austen-esque MC (Polly), and her desire to match people together is sweet and naive. (upper MG, just released)
Riding the Universe, by Gaby Triana ***+ This is an interesting book because I haven't met many girls who are into motorcycles, so I enjoyed the unique perspective. The story: Chloe must work at her classes in order to keep her bike, given to her by her late Uncle Seth -- and she works with a tutor, not meaning to fall in love with him. (contemporary YA, came out 2009)