Mini Reviews (III)

Mini Reviews of a few non-vampire books I've read recently:


The Clearing by Heather Davies
Amy, a sixteen-year-old recovering from an abusive relationship, moves to the country to start a new life with her aunt. In the clearing at the back of Aunt Mae’s property, she makes an amazing discovery—Henry, a boy stuck in the endless summer of 1944. But when the past and present come crashing together, both of them must find the courage to face what is meant to be, even if it means losing each other forever. . .
This is the magical story of Amy, an insecure and abused girl, and Henry, a boy who are afraid to let go of the past. I love how this story was told from both Amy and Henry's point of view, and how they grew as persons throughout the book. The ending perhaps wasn't what I had wished for, but it felt realistic and I do believe that it was "meant to be".
Rating: 4 of 5


Gone by Michael Grant
In the blink of an eye, everyone over the age of 15 disapperars. Left are children - no cops, no doctors, no adults. And no way to get help. Hunger threatens, sides are being chosen and the world, and those within it, are changing. And on your 15th birthday, you'll disappear, just as everyone else.
This book reminded me a lot of Lord of the Flies, where each children is coping in it's own way. Some children are using threats and violence to become leaders, some worry about the toddlers and food, and some are looking for answers and a way out. Just as Lord of the Flies, this is a creepy story in a horrible new world. The characters in this book are all under 15, and therefor I believe that this book is more suitable for younger teens. But prepare for a violent, sometimes scary story, with both good and bad characters. Enjoyable for both boys and girls.
Rating: 3 of 5


The Ex Games by Jennifer Echols
Hayden and Nick used to be a hot item, but their brief affair ended with a highly publicized breakup. When Hayden wins the girls' division of a local snowboarding competition, Nick is unimpressed, claiming that Hayden wouldn't have a chance against a guy. Hayden calls Nick's bluff and challenges him to a head-to-head boarding contest. Their mutual friends quickly take sides, the girls on Hayden's and the boys on Nick's, making for an all-out battle of the sexes. This friendly competition is bound to get heated - and they might end up igniting some old flames. . .
If you love romantic comedies, this book is for you! This is a laugh-out-loud funny book filled with romance, friendship, adventure and snowboarding. Hayden & Nick were two fearless, stubborn and fun characters - one minute they're flirting, the other minute they're fighting, and they're constantly pissing each other off, both by mistake and on purpose. Who's going to win the battle of the (s)exes?
Rating: 4.5 of 5