Welcome back to the beach – things are about to get even hotter.

Alice is still spending time with her sister on the pristine shores of “Soul Beach”, an online paradise for the young, beautiful and dead. But even paradise can become stifling and after Alice helped a young girl be set free, more and more of the “guests” are looking for her assistance.

If Alice can finally solve the mystery surrounding her sister’s murder than maybe Meggie too can be set free – but will that mean that Alice will lose her all over again? As if the drama on the beach wasn’t enough to deal with, the anniversary of Meggie’s death is fast approaching and it seems her killer has lined up yet another victim. Alice is sure she’s getting closer to uncovering the killer’s identity but the killer is getting closer to Alice too …

“Soul Fire” is the second stunning instalment in Harrison’s first YA trilogy and just as addictive and mind blowing as the first. This is the blend of mystery, paranormal and teen romance that will have readers of all ages utterly spellbound.

As every little piece of the puzzle is discovered, it seems four more turn up in its place and you will find yourself double guessing everyone right along with Alice. In this instalment,we spend more time in the real world and life on the beach takes more of a back seat. But that certainly doesn’t mean the malice and intrigue are any less. Harrison has done a brilliant job at hiding her perp in plain sight and as the cast of secondary characters expand you certainly won’t know who to trust or who to run from.

Not only has Alice matured in this instalment but so has the killer. He or she certainly seem to be getting more adept at completing their ghastly deeds without the authorities even realising, and even the reader starts to wonder just how delusional life on the beach may have made Alice.

“Soul Fire” has left me even more invested in the outcome of Alice and Meggie’s tale and it will be an excruciating wait to finally uncover just what really happened and the true secrets behind the beach.

This is a perfect, adrenalin filled ride and certainly a series to watch. Just make sure you read “Soul Beach” first for the full experience.  Harrison has handled a complex and emotional topic with sensitivity and given it her own fresh new spin. Life on the beach can certainly be addictive.

Soul Fire- Kate Harrison

Orion

399 Pages

ISBN: 9781780620237

Released: 10^th July 2012

“Their love could last forever- If it doesn’t destroy them first.”

Left heartbroken after the family revelations that have forbidden her relationship with Lucas, Helen must now face time in hell – literally. Tasked with breaking the curse that divides the Scion’s, Helen spends her nights wandering through the Underworld, trying desperately to find a way to put an end to the Furies. She’s running out of time though. Enemies are starting to gather and Helen’s endurance is just about at its limit.

One night, Helen stumbles across another person in the Underworld. Orion, a descendent of Adonis certainly lives up to expectations and with the power to control desire; he may just be the answer Helen has been searching for. Can she finally leave her feelings for Lucas buried in the past, or could the choice that saves her life totally shatter her heart? Can anyone really outrun fate?

“Dreamless” is the  sequel to the best-selling “Starcrossed” and yet again Angelini has delivered a compelling tale.  This time around, the action is hotter than ever and our team of Scion’s continue to unearth more gifts and curses that will have you just a little jealous, but at the same time relieved that you are completely one hundred percent mortal yourself.

Helen certainly finds her feet and her voice is stronger and more hypnotising than ever.  Her journey is so transfixing that you will be more than happy to spend a few sleepless nights wandering around the Underworld right alongside her. The love story does take more of a back seat this time around, as outside forces combine to keep our two “ star-crossed” lovers firmly apart. But it still maintains the theme that fate will not be outwitted.

I absolutely adore the way Angelini has laced Ancient Greek mythology throughout the plot in a way that doesn’t leave you feeling like it’s all one big history lesson.  Our leading cast shine, mortal and Scion alike, and the handful of God’s we get to meet face to face, and the beasties that hide in the shadows, all leap right from the page.

If you haven’t read this series as yet, seriously what are you waiting for? This is by far one of the best YA’s I’ve had the pleasure of discovering and I will certainly keep coming back to Helen’s world time and time again.

Dreamless (Starcrossed #2) –Josephine Angelini

Pan Macmillan

ISBN:978-0-330-52974-7

503 Pages

Released May 22^nd 2012

12 year old Riley Bloom certainly leads a full life for someone that’s well, dead. Riley’s desperate to not only prove herself as a Soul Catcher, but to finally turn 13 as well.  She’s been tasked with some difficult cases before- but this one could prove to be her toughest yet.

Riley’s off to Rome to convince long-dead gladiator, Theocoles, that’s it’s time to move on. Only problem is Riley isn’t the first one that has been sent to deliver the message and none of the others have ever returned. But everything is sent into a spin when she meets the charming Messalina who gives Riley a make-over to end all make-overs, turning her into a beautiful teen. Looks like first love could be making an appearance on Riley’s horizon. In a world this enchanting, will Riley ever want to leave?

Whisper is the fourth instalment in the Riley Bloom series and even though I haven’t read any of the previous three I found that the story was quick to pick up and downright fun. Riley is an intriguing and loveable heroine who certainly rocks the afterlife with style.

Whisper is set at the younger end of the market but Riley is just so adorable you’ll find yourself well and truly hooked. Noel’s writing style is fresh and funky and her sense of timing is spot on. There are some passages that are a little high on the gore side, especially considering the target audiences age bracket, but since we are talking gladiators, it does work.

Noel has incorporated romance, action, growing pains and the supernatural in a fresh new way that will appeal to all ages. Whisper is a perfect fast read that will leave you smiling and make you realise that there’s a little bit of Riley hiding in everyone.  A solid 4 out of 5.

Whisper-Alyson Noel

Pan Macmillan

194 Pages

ISBN:978-1-4472-0047-5

Released:  May 1 2012

“Generations of readers have grown up reading Isobelle Carmody’s stories. This book is for those who did not grow out of their love of enchantment.”

“Metro Winds” is a collection of six short stories that will entice you to look at the world around you differently. Teeming with killer plot twists, secrets and shadows and an amazing array of characters that scream for your attention and of course that all important sprinkling of magic; Carmody has definitely hit the mark and then some.

I’m not usually a fan of short stories but Metro Winds grabbed me from the very beginning. The world is vivid, vibrant and a pleasing balance between the familiar and the unfamiliar. The characterisation is excellent. The twists and turns will keep you guessing and each story is fresh and fast-paced and uniquely fantastic. I seriously could not pick a favourite out of the six. All delighted and entertained in their own special way and certainly pack that Carmody punch that fans have come to enjoy.

Metro Winds: introduces us to a young girl sent far from home who discovers who true purpose in the deep, dark, mysterious tunnels of the metro. A beautiful tale of destiny and finding one’s true self.

Dove Game: a young man embarks on a trip to the other side of the world to fulfil strangers dying wish. A sightseeing trip to one of the most romantic cities on earth, teeming with the fantastical that will transport you.

The Girl Who Could See The Wind: takes us back to colonial Australia and the magic that hides in plain sight.  A bittersweet tale with a magnificent ending. This one certainly gives all your emotions a solid work out.

The Stranger: Case is on a mission to find an end to his story and soon finds that all endings mean new beginnings. A tale full of twists and turns and a conclusion you will never see coming.

The Wolf Prince: Step into the realm of faeries as a mother weaves magic to summon a princess bride for her son.  One for those of us addicted to the supernatural and who dream of a little magic in our everyday lives.

The Stranger: a search for the one thing no-one should ever lose – your shadow. A perfect way to end the collection.

“Metro Winds” will not fail to satisfy fans but is also a way to discover Carmody’s genius for the first time.  Even if short stories are something you would never usually consider reading, definitely give this a go. It’s one magical ride that I will not forget in a hurry.

Listen to Dark Matter Magazine interview Isobelle.

Metro Winds- Isobelle Carmody

Allen and Unwin

ISBN:978-86508-444-2

386 Pages

Published April 30 2012

Life has certainly taken a strange twist for 16 year old Daire Santos. If it’s not bad enough that whole murders of crows have started “mocking” her, the glowing people no one else can see keep popping up at the most inopportune times. Not to mention the grandmother she’s never met who disappeared off the face of the earth all those years ago suddenly reappearing. She must be going crazy right?

Luckily for Daire her grandmother seems to have all the answers and a holiday in a padded cell may just be avoided. Although moving to the backwoodsy New Mexico town of Enchantment certainly isn’t high on Daire’s list.  Throw in some huge magical family secrets and two smouldering identical twins that are as different as night and day, and Daire’s about to learn more than she ever imagined not only about this world, but those who lay either side.

Most likely, if you haven’t read any of Noel’s previous creations you’ve certainly seen them on the shelves or heard the buzz. I must say after finally delving into one of her worlds, I totally get what all the fuss is about. Fantastical, fast paced and fresh action and the supernatural team up to bring us a tale that breathes some fresh air into the genre.

Noel’s obvious research and love for telling a story shines through, and even with the more “out-there” elements, Daire’s story feels real. In saying that though, the elements of magic and spirituality are heavy throughout and unless you like your action with a liberal dose of the theory behind it, you may not enjoy this as much as I did. The balance between the light and dark elements is perfect and I must admit that for me the scariest thing was how realistically the twisted side of human nature was shown.

Sadly, the characterisation did let the overall story down, the only one who truly seemed “polished” was Daire’s grandmother Paloma. The supporting cast were a little lack lustre and Daire often fades into the background when she should be taking centre stage.  That said, this is the first instalment and I am hoping with Daire’s growth, she will find her feet and her supporting cast will also become more rounded.

Fated is apparently set in the same world as “The Immortals” series and I’m sure fans will enjoy the return visit as much as I enjoyed the new discovery. Daire’s story certainly promises to bring much more magical mayhem and action.  The second instalment “Echo” is due to hit shelves in November.

This is a solid 4/5 star read and looks slated to be a series that will totally hook you.

Fated (Soul Seekers#1) Alyson Noel

Pan Macmillan Australia

440 Pages

ISBN:9781447206804

Released: 1 June 2012

“She will not stand alone.”

It’s been five years since the Darkswarm attacked the Keep of the Winds, leaving a trail of blood and destruction in their wake and irrevocably changing Malian, the Heir of Night’s, life forever.  Now thought to be dead in the wilds of Jaransor, Malian has been anything but idle in her exile. Not only has she developed her own powers into something the Swarm should respect (if not fear), she’s been hunting down every rumour of the presence of the Derai magic workers. Malian is more determined than ever that her people will not fall victim to the twisted dark tide of magic heading their way.

But not all accept tales of Malian’s death. Her enemies are on the hunt once more. Suspicion falls on the two heralds so instrumental in her survival, Tarathan and Jehane, who find themselves caught up in a web of intrigue and murder at the Ijiri Festival of Masks. Fleeing to save their own lives, they bring word of death on the wall and a call of duty and honour that Malian must answer.

Yet, despite five years of searching, the legendary weapons of the Derai’s greatest hero remain lost. Without them a return to the wall promises only defeat and death. Does Malian really stand a chance?

This Gathering of the Lost not only easily matches the brilliance of its predecessor but in many ways it surpasses it. Like all good epic fantasy sequels it’s bigger and better than ever and with another killer ending.

Lowe has taken the world to a whole new height that will leave you utterly addicted to the series. The action has been amped up another octane, the magic is more compelling than ever and the political intrigue perfectly woven throughout the plot.

I was staggered by the complex characterisation in the first book  - but this time I was left breathless.  Lowe has done a magnificent job of shaping and changing her characters, especially Malina and Kalan, by the events that have befallen them without losing that essential spark that had the reader so invested in their journey in the first place. The five year gap between adventures not only feels real when it comes to the characters, but for the reader as well.

Lowe has achieved a balance of light and dark throughout and the well-placed twists and turn will have the pages simply flying by. This is the series all lovers of fantasy young and old simply must have on their bookshelves. Lowe looks set to become a household name of the genre. I certainly can’t wait to see what new twists and turn she brings us next with “Daughter of Blood”.

The Gathering of the Lost-Helen Lowe

Orbit

555 Pages

ISBN: 978-0-356-50057-7

Released: April 2012

In the not too distant future our throw-away lifestyle has left the economy in ruins and more people are out of work and homeless than ever before. The dotcom boom has well and truly imploded and our “rubbish” is having its day in the spotlight once more.

Perry and Lester are turning the techno rubbish of the past into new inventions. From seashell toast making robots to Boogie Woogie Elmo’s capable of driving smart cars- for these two the only obstacles are the limits of their imaginations.  “New Work” is the new technological era and pretty soon bankers are criss-crossing the nation micro-investing in start-up ventures just like Perry and Lester’s. Together they are breathing new life into the economy and journalist Suzanne Church is on hand to record it all.

Not everyone is on board with this brand new economic belief system though and pretty soon the guys find themselves out of business. They may be down but they are certainly not out. After all they can still invent things. That is until a rogue Disney exec grows jealous of their rising popularity and convinces the authorities that their amazing 3D printers are being used to make AK-47s.Things are about to get bad. Really bad!

This novel is utter genius. Not only does it force the reader to take a closer look at their own use and often waste of technological devices, the relationships between our three main players will warm the heart of even the most cynical.  Perry and Lester raise geek power to a whole new level of awesomeness and their creations are absolutely awe-inspiring to behold. As for our intrepid reporter … well for those of us not as techno savvy as some, Suzanne’s layman point of view certainly helps with clarification and cuts through some of the harder concepts.

Doctorow has brought to life three amazingly complex and well rounded characters who not only standout as individuals but mesh well as a trio. The supporting cast is made up of such a range of different and intriguing personalities. They all take their turn at centre stage with full force. When I first read the blurb I must admit that for a girl who was raised on Disney movies, the idea of a twisted exec working for our favourite mouse was a little mind-blowing – but I must admit it became my favourite twist by far.

An astounding ride with a truly poignant and heart-warming ending that will leave a lingering smile on your face. Makers is fast paced, edgy and an all around moving tale that shines the spotlight onto some of the evils lurking in society. This is certainly a tale everyone can learn from techno junkie or not.

Makers-Cory Doctorow

Harper Collins

ISBN:978-0-00-732522-1

416 Pages

“If night falls, all fall”

Malian has spent her whole life being trained to rule. As the Heir to the Keep of Winds, the oldest on the mountain range known as the Wall of Night, she is expected to uphold the long held traditions of her people at all costs- even if it is personal. The ancient enemy lurks and threatens to cast the world in shadow but Malian has never really experienced any of the threat first hand. That is until the enemy launches a direct attack on her home.

The Keep becomes a bloodbath as the twisted magic of the enemy sweeps through, slaying warrior, priest, woman and child alike. Fleeing to the Old Keep Malian manages to escape with her life but with the greatest danger her own dormant magic flares to life. In a world where magic has become a source of fear and those “cursed” with the old gifts are segregated in the Temples, Malian finds herself faced with a dire choice. To accept her powers and her destiny, she must be prepared to pay the price.

This has to be one of the best YA fantasy novels I’ve read in a long time. Teeming with beasties, mind blowing magic and a protagonist who captures your heart and attention from the very first passage, The Heir of Night ticks all the right boxes and more. The world is fresh and enthralling and the secrets and characters that roam the walls of the Keep will have your imagination running wild.

Lowe has painted a vivid tapestry full of colour that you are instantly transported into Malian’s life and the world comes to life right before your very eyes.  The action is thick and fast and the more harrowing and highly emotional scenes are crafted with such skill it’s like it’s happening to you. The characterisation is astounding. The entire main cast are well developed and their personalities leap of the page but leave enough mystery surrounding them that the part they may play is not given away too soon. The differing viewpoints throughout the story also add a refreshing depth without losing any of the pace or the strength of the authors voice.

I found myself totally swept away and all 447 pages flew by in a flurry just like the storms that sweep the Keep. This is certainly one of those novels that causes the outside world to cease to exist and Malian will firmly plant herself feet first into your imagination. Book two, The Gathering of the Lost is already on shelves and I can’t wait for the next nail bitting adventure.

The Heir of Night- Helen Lowe

Orbit

ISBN:978-0-356-50008-9

447 Pages

Find out more about the Wall here: http://helenlowe.info/index.html

Acknowledging the fact that she was different from everyone else wasn’t hard for Wendy Everly. She’d always known she didn’t quite belong, although not to the extent of not even being human. Fitting in with her strange new life as a troll princess certainly hasn’t been easy but running away back to the “normal” world may just be the worst mistake she’s ever made.

Kidnapped and imprisoned by her birth family’s enemies, Wendy soon learns that the line between good and evil isn’t always clearly defined and some of the truths she has taken for granted may just be lies after all. And of course there are the feelings for Finn that just won’t go away- even with the arrival of a new dangerous hottie she can’t help being drawn to. Can Wendy make it back home to Forening safely and be the Queen in waiting her people desperately need?

Amanda Hocking has created a world that will have you wanting to pack your bags and immerse yourself in it fully. In Torn, the second book in the Trylle trilogy we start to see the emergence of a stronger, more determined Wendy with fantastic results.

Secrets are revealed that will not only leave Wendy reeling but the reader as well. The constant arrival and growth of fascinating characters bringing new twists and turns certainly amps up the volume. Some of your preconceived notions about some recurring characters will be flipped on their head and others will be re-affirmed. The most delightful part of this instalment for me was that we finally get to see behind Elora’s queenly mask to the woman and mother within. There are plenty of laughs, drama and oh my moments that the pages will fly by so fast you’ll wonder where they went.

Wendy is such a complex and delightful lead to get to know. Her journey feels like your own. Hocking has given us a heroine fully flawed who constantly breaks not only all the princess rules, but obliterates the typical princess mould and breathes new life into the fairy tale realm. And of course the fact that we have not one, but two candidates, for Prince Charming’s job adds to this.

There truly is a very good reason this trilogy broke the self-publishing sales records. If you haven’t discovered Wendy’s world you seriously need to put Switched and Torn on your to read list asap. You’ll never think of trolls the same way again.

NB: Make sure you keep an eye out for the all new short story included in the back.

Torn-Amanda Hocking

Pan McMillian

291 Pages

ISBN:978-1-4472-0570-8

Releases March 1 2012

I have been a willing hostage to the imagination of Garth Nix for almost half my life, so of course when I found out there was a new novel being released, I was more than a little excited. And the verdict? Wow! If you have entered one of Nix’s worlds before, you know that Nix is a master storyteller not to be missed, and A Confusion of Princes certainly doesn’t disappoint.

Meet Prince Khemri. Taken from his parents as a small child and equipped with biological and technological improvements, he is now an enhanced human being, trained for the glory of taking his place as one of the Princes of the Empire. If he dies and is deemed worthy, he may be fortunate enough to be re-born. Which is just as well, for upon his graduation, his dreams of instant glory and gratification are soon shattered. The Empire is well versed in secrets and half-truths and Khemri soon finds that he is only one of ten million princes- and they all want each other dead. This may be the greatest game of chess ever played- and we are all the pawns.

A Confusion of Princes is more than just advanced tech, heroic battles, far flung space and alien life forms. This is a tender tale of love and one young man’s fight to regain humanity. This is a space opera at its epic best. Khemri is a strong and commanding lead who will have you fully vested into his plight. Told entirely from his point of view, this is his memoir and his “voice” will wrap itself completely around you have you desperate to see just what mayhem he stumbles upon next.

The world is visually rich and will transport you right into the thick of the action and the complex layers surrounding the mysterious Empire will have you digging through trying to find the truth at its core. The added bonus of an all new short story set in the world certainly adds to the enjoyment.

Even if Sci-fi isn’t your normal genre of choice, A Confusion of Princes is certainly worth stepping outside of your comfort zone. This is a stellar intergalactic adventure with a lesson for us all.

A Confusion of Princes- Garth Nix

Allen and Unwin

337 Pages

ISBN:978-1-74175-861-0

Released April 8 2012