The Girl Who Was Supposed to Die by April Henry

SYNOPSIS:  Cady wakes up one day as a man is dragging her away to be killed.  She has no memories, and has to fight her way out.  When she meets Ty, who has mercy on her and tries to help her, she discovers horrible clues as to whom she is.  If they are true, she may not want to remember her previous life.

AUNT SHARON'S TAKE:  I like mysteries, even if the plot or writing isn't as great as I would like.  This book was one of those.  It was definitely entertaining, and thrilling.  However, it wasn't the most amazing or thought-provoking book I've ever read.  Basically, it was an easy, entertaining read.  As far as content goes, there was some strong and disturbing violence, and some language content.

AUDIENCE:  Young Adult

RATING:  PG13 for Violence

STARS:  2 1/2

BOOKS LIKE THIS:  The 39 Clues, I'd Tell You I Love You, but Then I'd Have to Kill You

Across the Universe by Beth Revis

SYNOPSIS:  Elder is destined to rule the ship headed for another planet, captaining it to its landing.  Amy has been cryogenically frozen for hundreds of years, headed for the same planet as cargo on Elder's ship.  With years before they land, she is thawed mysteriously.  When she sees how the people are living on the ship, she realizes that some things need to change, and tries to show Elder that view.

AUNT SHARON'S TAKE:  This book started out all right, with an interesting plot, and believable characters.  Before long, however, there were several distasteful scenes, including strong sensuality and sexual references.  In the end, the writing quality and story were lacking, and I would recommend skipping this book, especially due to the strong content.

AUDIENCE:  Young Adults and Adults

RATING:  PG13 for Strong Sensuality and Sexual References, Violence, and Language

STARS:  1

BOOKS LIKE THIS:  Tandem, The Golden Compass