Book Review: Change of Heart by Shari Maurer

SUMMARY:

In a world where the most stressful thing seems to be winning a soccer game or what to wear in the morning, you take some really basic things for granted.

Like the love of your parents.

Or hanging with your friends.

Or the beating of your heart.

When you’re 16 years old, it never occurs to you that you might die. Emmi Miller’s got a fabulous life. She has tons of friends, does great in school and is an all-star soccer player who played in Europe last summer. It even looks like Sam Hunter, a totally cute baseball player, might be interested in her. And then she gets a virus. No biggy, right? Until the virus goes to her heart and weakens it so much that, without a transplant, Emmi will die.

Will Emmi get a heart in time? Is Sam too good to be true? What about her new friend Abe, who has also had a transplant and guides her through these scary times — is he just being supportive or is there more going on between them? And will Emmi realize it before it’s too late?


OPINION: 5 STARS

A refreshing and new premise for YA but a tragically real situation for some, Change of Heart throws into question the value of life as a teenager. The natural mindset is invincibility but what happens when a teen goes from running across a soccer field to being high on a heart transplant list less than a month later? Though there have been other heart transplant books, this one is unique both in premise and execution.

Emmi is a well balanced character at the start, having some teenage moments but overall, motivated and determined. Her relationship with her parents is good more often than not and her love of soccer apparent. She is a strong athlete, a good friend, and has a bright future. But when she falls sick and the infection infiltrates her heart, things change. Her reactions, though irritating on the surface with her fits and tantrums, is understandable and heartbreaking. Her struggle to comprehend what is happening and her resistance to both the prospect of death and a long rather than short recovery lend reason to her responses. Each time she lashes out, it is clear she is lashing out at the situation more than the person. Throughout the entire book, she grows tremendously as a result of the dire situation she has faced. While some aspects take longer than others, Emmi comes to face things in her own time and manner. Even after her transplant, when her friends and boyfriend don't often come, Emmi is able to understand their side of it- no matter how much it hurts her.

Sam is a loveable character to start, spending time with Emmi and distracting her from her current state. Though driven by hormones at times, the way he cares for Emmi is clear. He also adds an intriguing element to the story because although he does care for Emmi and fell for her after she became so ill, he is still a teenage boy who is now having to potentially face death on account of her. Maurer does a splendid job painting him across the pages, giving reason to his actions in the same way she does Emmi. Though it isn’t necessarily the best, the reader can understand his motivations.

Abe adds another element, a teenage boy who has already had a heart transplant. He offers something to Emmi no one else can and is a highly likable, swoon worthy character. He’s easy going and laid back, and fully appreciative of his life. He understands Emmi’s fears and pain and adds plenty of comedic relief once he makes his first appearance. Though Emmi had been dating Sam, after her transplant and his sudden distance, she finds herself paying more attention to Abe. The teenage love triangle aspect of this book makes it a steady read, still keeping a young spark in a rough situation with no promise of final mortality.

As the plot progresses, it shifts between sickness and potential death and teenage love and feeling. Maurer blends and transitions amidst them seamlessly, keeping the pacing and flow smooth. Her writing is strong and compassionate, bringing Emmi to life. Some of the events and decisions are shocking and ones people could at first disagree with, the situation and personal realizations Emmi has come to help drive them. This book is a very perfect example of situational decisions, and the way her entire outlook and way of thinking changes comes across boldly. Also notable is Emmi's struggle with the knowledge that for her to live, someone has to die. This is a very hard concept for anyone to wrap their head around but also brings up how important organ donors are.

With several twists and a few very emotional, intense scenes, Change of Heart is a stunning debut. Wrenching but memorable, stunning and remarkable, this book is one that will make a reader appreciate their own life and health as well as give the reminder no one is invincible, regardless of age. Big events can drastically change a person and Maurer has portrayed that fantastically. Two fold with meaning, Change of Heart also stresses the important of organ donation and making those wishes clear in advance. It is simple to sign up to donate, many states even asking on driver's license applications/renewals. Without donors, someone like Emmi could be left waiting- sometimes too long- and this urgency also comes across as boldly as everything else Maurer has incorporated into this book.

Details:
Source: ARC received for review from the publisher free of charge in exchange for this honest review
Reading level: Young Adult
Hardcover: 288 pages
Publisher: Westside Books
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1934813362
ISBN-13: 978-1934813362

Author's Website

Organ Donor Registration

Teaser Tuesday

Teaser Tuesday is a weekly meme hosted by Should Be Reading.


This week's teaser comes from Michael Cadnum's Flash.

"The seller at the flea market had said the stain was cranberry juice, but Bruce called the garment his dead-guy jacket, convinced the previous owner had been stabbed. He liked that- a coat with a vivid backstory." -- pg 24 in the ARC, subject to change

Summary:

When two teenage brothers bungle a bank robbery, their attempt to hide the evidence is witnessed—aurally—by Terrence, a legally blind neighbor. Terrence tells his girlfriend, Nina, and her brother, who then disappears with a handgun. Nina is afraid of what he might do to the brothers. But she also has every reason to fear what the brothers will do to Terrence.

Flash ingeniously interweaves the stories of two who are hellbent on a destructive path, two who stand in their way, and one whose actions may be the spark to set the whole thing off.

Author Interview: Amy Holder

Have you guys heard of Amy Holder yet? What? You haven't? Shame on you! Okay, I forgive you. I'll let this one slide but you will now know the name! She is an up and coming 2011 debut author, hitting us with the fantastic looking The Lipstick Laws. Not only does her book look, well, fantastic, but she's pretty darn awesome too! So without further ado, I bring you a getting to know you interview with Amy!

What is the most fearless thing you've done to date?

What HAVEN'T I done that's fearless? I eat fear for lunch. My middle name is McFearless. Okay, not really. I'm not the biggest risk taker you'll ever meet. Hence I write fiction, where I can make my characters take the risks. That being said, I do think it takes a certain amount of courage to be an author and put your work out there on display for strangers to read and critique. Other than that, I've been snorkeling in the ocean off of Costa Rica. I guess that's not super high on the fear spectrum...but I could have been eaten by a large shark, mind you.

If you could step into someone else's shoes for a day, whose life would you like to experience?

I'd love to step into JK Rowling's life for a day. Not only would it be amazing to take a vacation in her brilliant imagination, it would be fun to feel what it's like to be the world's best known, most loved (and wealthy) author.

What is the most private thing you're willing to share?

I'm allergic to Pepto-Bismol and throw up pink when I take it. This happened to me twice in elementary school. Yes, I was that kid. I haven't taken it since. TMI? I thought so.

We all know everyone has at least one secret fantasy person- a celeb, etc they wouldn't mind some time with. Who's your fantasy?

This question is making me blush like a giddy schoolgirl. I confess, I think Henry Cavill from The Tudors is deliciously divine. *Fanning face* It's time to move to the next question before I overheat...

Of all the people who've read your upcoming release The Lipstick Laws thus far, which one was both the hardest to pass over and the best one to see their thoughts?

I was simultaneously the most interested in and the most nervous about getting my editor's feedback. Waiting for my editorial letter made me bubble over with nerves and anticipation. I worried that there would be a big red line through my whole manuscript with a deadline of two days to change everything. Thankfully, I had nothing to worry about. My editor and I are on the same page, and her editorial guidance has been so helpful to both my story and me as a writer. I feel lucky to have her in my corner.

What upcoming book are you most looking forward to reading?

Sorry, I can't choose just one. First, I'm a ginormous fan of Sophie Kinsella and am looking forward to her new book, Mini Shopaholic. I'm also really looking forward to Jackson Pearce's new release, Sisters Red. As far as debuts go, I'm very excited for Denise Jaden's 2010 young adult debut, Losing Faith. And, of course, I can't wait to get my hands on the many great upcoming reads by my fellow 2011 debut authors.

What is one of the most notable, life changing books you've read to date?

Gosh, this is a tough question... there are so many fantastic books (fiction and non) to choose from. One that has stuck with me since reading it as a Psych major in college is A Child Called "It", by Dave Pelzer. I'm not sure if it's the most notable book I've ever read, but it was definitely life changing because it made me appreciate my life more by opening my eyes to a harrowing life experience so unlike mine. It also gave me insight into the endless capabilities and resilience of the human spirit. I'm amazed at all the author went through in his childhood, and still came out on top to be able to pen such a poignant series.

What kind of cookie would you describe yourself as?

I'd describe myself as an ooey, gooey Nestle Toll House cookie cake with lots of frosting scribbled on top because I'm sweet, quirky, soft on the inside, and a lover of words (especially words made of frosting). Not to mention, I get a cookie cake every year on my birthday. Yummo!

Thank you Amy for stopping by and congrats on your debut release! The Lipstick Laws is slated for a spring 2011 release. Want to find out more about Amy and keep up with her? Check out her blog!


Book summary (As found on goodreads): At Penford High School, Britney Taylor is queen bee. She dates whomever she likes, rules over her inner circle of friends like Genghis Kahn, and can ruin anyone's life as easily as snapping her perfectly manicured fingers. Just ask the unfortunate few who have crossed her.

For April Bowers, Britney is also the answer to her prayers. With zero friends and nothing close to a boyfriend, April is so unpopular, kids don't know she exists. That is, until Britney notices her. One lunch spent at Britney's table, and April is basking in the glow of popularity.

But Britney's friendship comes with a price tag.

How much is April willing to pay?

Book Review: Knight Angels Book of Love by Abra Ebner

SUMMARY:

When seventeen-year-old Jane Taylor witnessed her father's death, something happened to her. Ever since, her thoughts have been consumed by death, going so far as to foresee the ever-changing deaths of those around her. Sixteen-year-old Emily Taylor resented her sister's closeness with their father, who died when she was six. With the strange ability to read minds, she drowns the voices out with drugs, sending Jane over the edge. When seventeen-year-old Wes Green was adopted, he moved in next door to Jane, finding in her a childhood friend turned high-school crush. All summer, the pain in his bones seemed unwarranted. He was done growing long ago. When senior year starts, however, the pain only gets worse. The foreseen changes are not expected, and far too animal for his taste. When Max Gordon found himself standing above the dying body of an innocent seven-year-old girl, he saw in her eyes something he hadn't seen in the century he'd spent roaming Earth. Her father was already dead, but there was hope to save her. Jane was her name, and already she was all he ever wanted. It was his job to bring her back, and it was his job to protect her - the biggest mistake of his life. When these four teens enter Glenwood High their senior year, no one but Max could understand the future ahead of them. Drawn together by blood and friendship, they each hide a dark secret that will soon bind them together. Max has to protect Jane, Jane wants to be normal, Wes wants Jane to love him, and Emily just wants the voices to stop... But their fate just wants them dead.

OPINION: 5 STARS

Incorporating several intriguing elements and seamlessly navigating multiple perspectives, Knight Angels is a fantastic addition to fantasy and supernatural books. With a well balanced mix of romance, action and back story, this book will carve its own niche in an ever advancing genre. All the characters are introduced early, some seen through the eyes of another before the reader is able to see inside their head. Ebner does a fantastic job showing how one person views another is not always right and the assumptions they make- and therefore the reader takes on- can not always be taken at face value.

Jane is a prominent character throughout the book, driving a large part of the action. She is an intriguing mix of self importance, independent and alone. Her family situation is a gloomy one, leaving her to feel as though she has to take care of both her mother and out of control younger sister. Dependent on but also taking advantage of her neighbor’s intense devotion and infatuation with her, Jane is a character the reader will feel mixed emotions for from the start. The access given into her head, however, helps pull her out as sympathetic. She develops smoothly throughout the book, showing skepticism when it’s necessary and even resisting things she has some proof to the truth about.

Emily is Jane’s sister, fitting into the druggie stereotype and enhancing it with her black and revealing clothing styles. She flaunts her seeming lack of chastity, often earning her free pills. Through Jane’s eyes, she is an immediate turn off but as with her sister, the access granted into her mind help twist the reader’s perspective of both her and her reasons for wanting and needing the constant drugs. Emily is a very different personality than her sister but the underlying connections they share is clear. Though they fight and push away more than help and appreciate each other, the love is constant. Her special abilities play a large in both the person she’s become and the way the story plays out and though it isn’t a unique ability, Ebner handles it fantastically.

Wes is the neighbor, in love with Jane and too blinded by it to see past Emily’s rough exterior. Battling his own demons and unknown occurrences, he finds himself in some interesting situations. As the story progresses, he becomes a highly sympathetic character and his abilities are also handled smoothly, fitting into not only the present but a part of the backstory as well. He is loveable and tender but also fiercely protective and loyal.

Max is different from the others but having portions of the story set in his perspective add a fantastic element to the entire story. He’s the supernatural creature yet he isn’t completely shrouded in mystery. His history and reasons for being in Glenwood are known to the reader before the other characters know, adding a bond not often seen in supernatural books. His history is a fantastically developed one, still playing a large role in the present and Ebner unfolds everything at a steady pace.

This book is filled with twists and the romance never washes out the mystery and plot. In some places, it even drives everything. Ebner is certainly skilled at building her characters and world, and the thought and development that went into the entire book is very evident. The writing is strong, crafting vivid and fluid imagery and evoking intense emotions. The switches between character mindsets also comes across smoothly, tying up one before moving on to another or switching at the right moments to a new perspective on the same events. The reader will feel a strong bond to all four characters rather than one.

Intertwining both new and often used supernatural elements, multiple character mindsets, and striking writing make Knight Angels a superb reading experience. Emotional and entertaining, engaging and endearing, this book will hold appeal for a range of readers. The plot is fantastically well developed and the book ends in a way to tie up much of the current events while still leaving things open for the next installation. Strong characters help drive this book more, making it an overall hit and certainly one that comes with high recommendation.

Details:
Source: Received for review from the author free of charge in exchange for this honest review
Paperback: 368 pages
Publisher: Crimson Oak Publishing LLC (April 7, 2010)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0982272588
ISBN-13: 978-0982272589

Author's Website

In My Mailbox

Welcome to June everyone! Since I haven't done it yet, I'm combining this IMM with my May wrap up post. This week was slower for books which works for me and the ones I got are all very awesome, especially since I wasn't as reading productive, having focused more on my WIP revisions.

For Review:
Forbidden by Tabitha Suzuma
Hunger by Jackie Morse Kessler
Summer In Paris by Michele Ashman
The Jaguar Stones: Middleworld by J&P Voelkel


From Kiersten White as part of my auction prize pack- A very awesome Paranormalcy T-shirt! I tried to get Toby to actually wear the shirt but his legs are entire too short. Not to mention, the neck part slid right down his body, getting stuck over his hips. We had a little fight with that and I settled for these pictures. But, the shirt is awesome! Thanks Kiersten!!

Now on to my May Wrap Up and books read:

1. The Journey Home by Michael Baron
2. The Tension of Opposites by Kristina McBride
3. Crossing by Andrew Fukuda
4. The Secret To Lying by Todd Mitchell
5. Compromised by Heidi Ayarbe
6. Amy and Roger's Epic Detour by Morgan Matson
7. A Field Guide for Heartbreakers by Kristen Tracy
8. Change of Heart by Shari Maurer
   
9. Spirit Bound by Richelle Mead
10. The Emerald Talisman by Brenda Pandos
    
11. Forget You by Jennifer Echols
12. The Naughty List by Suzanne Young
13. So Many Boys by Suzanne Young
14. The Girl Next Door by Selene Castrovilla
    
15. Knight Angels by Abra Ebner
16. Right Behind You by Gail Giles
17. Paranormalcy: Kiersten White

Overall, May was a good month for me. I started the early chapters of a new WIP and am working rapidly on revisions of my addict boy before I send it off for a full manuscript editorial critique. While I wait for that to come back, I'll jump even more into the new kid. I'm very excited about both of them! I hope everyone had a good May too!

IMM is a weekly meme hosted by The Story Siren.

Book Review: The Emerald Talisman by Brenda Pandos

SUMMARY:

To be normal, sixteen-year-old Julia Parker would shed her empathic gift in a second. Life has been difficult since her mother's mysterious disappearance ten years earlier - an event she witnessed, but can't remember. Julia's situation becomes more complicated after a near death experience from a blood thirsty stalker. As high school students go missing it is clear there is a connection to her own experience--past and present. Someone has to stop the madness and a chance encounter with a creepy psychic foretells that only Julia is the key to stopping the madness, but it may require the life of the one she loves.


OPINION: 3 STARS

The interesting premise and backstory is one of the biggest features of The Emerald Talisman. The first chapter is intriguing and grabbing although the pace drops off for awhile after the initial spark before coming together strongly for a bold climax and ending. Definable and developed characters help bring the book more to life and the new take on vampires make it stand out more.

Julia starts out as a strong character, her personality and views coming off from the start, though it seemed to lapse some in the middle when she became infatuated after one quick meeting with Nicholas. I admit, her instant, disabling obsession did detract for me as there was a large chunk of the book that focused on her yearning for him with little in return. Although teenagers do fall in love quickly, whether they realize it at the time or not, I wasn’t sure there was enough to substantiate the level of her emotions. Despite this, Julia is still an enjoyable character and her empathy is a very bold aspect of the story. The descriptions and use of it are fantastic, adding a very high element to the book. Her family situation is heartbreaking but the interactions are strong and often. Her father and brother both very clearly love her and care about her and their habits come through the pages to bring the set up to life.

Nicholas is a unique character, taking on a new form of vampire and adding a refreshing element to the book. His involvement with Julia is well played out smoothly and the way her empathy correlates to him is fantastic. A mix of creepy, overprotective and caring, Nicholas takes on both the mold of “bad boy” while still being separate from the general cliché of male romantic lead.

Apart from the lagging portions, the plot plays out pretty smoothly. Overall, the writing creates good mental pictures for the reader with the most notable aspect being Juila’s empathy. Her use and reliance on it is strong and Pandos never lets it fall by the wayside or become complacent with it. At times when a reader might not even consider the empathy, it comes back into play. A few other characters and creatures also pull the book to life. The purpose and use of the talisman is also original, coming into play much earlier than the reader will realize. The ending ties up some of this plot but still leaves things open for the next book, spurring enough reader curiosity.

Overall, this is a good start to a series and ends with a great tie up for the majority of this book’s events but still leaving enough unanswered to pique a reader’s interest for the next book. Bold characters even if some of their actions and responses are cliché or overdramatic also play a large part in bringing this book, as a whole, to something well worth the read. The intrigue is certainly present and Pandos has a strong start to continue the series and I have high hopes her overall writing and story telling abilities which are already good will grow to become something great.

Details:
Source: Review copy received from the author free of charge
Paperback: 282 pages
Publisher: Obsidian Mountain Publishing (March 24, 2010)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 057805339X
ISBN-13: 978-0578053394

Author's Website