Monday, August 9, 2010

Queen in Exile by Donna Hatch

When Princess Jeniah's country is sacked by enemies, she is concealed away to a neighboring country by Kai, one of its most elite knights. On the way, and against tradition, she falls in love with him. She eventually returns to her own country with the help of the Darborians, in an attempt to overcome the enemy, and become queen.

In this magical fantasy, Hatch does a wonderful job in creating an alternative world with depth that involves politics, traditions, and society norms. It is a great love story. The plot keeps you guessing, and is no way predictable. QIE has well developed characters that grow through their adventures.

To read the first chapter of Queen in Exile and to learn more about author Donna Hatch.

Four stars out of five!

My Double Life by Janette Rallison

My Double Life by Janette Rallison

Everyone wonders what it is like to be a celebrity for a day.

What a fun book! Any teen would love this story about Elexia, a witty honor student from a poor family, who is a dead ringer for pop star Kari Kingsley. When Elexia's picture gets posted on the Internet, Kari's manager calls and offers her a job as Kari's double. Unbeknown to her fans, Kari is knee deep in debt for gambling and a shopping addiction. And to add into the mix, Kari's father happens to be Elexia's mother's celebrity idol.  

This rags-to-riches story is fun, whimsical, and has a touch of sweet romance. MDL is a laugh-out-loud ride that keeps you enthralled to the last page. Readers will relate easily to the realistic, likable characters, including the Nazi-ish manager. My Double Life's well thought-out plot is executed smoothly like a great movie. 

Five stars to author Janette Rallison!