Several months ago, I signed up for the 2010 Debut Author Challenge being hosted by the wonderful Story Siren (Krisit). I have been terrible at posting my reviews on her site. So in some ways you would think I had done nothing towards this challenge. But I have and I am going to write one large update right here. For more information about the Debut Author Challenge click here.January
Scones and Sensibility by Lindsay Eland - Twelve year old Polly is a hopeless romantic who loves Pride & Prejudice and Anne of Green Gables. As she travels about town delivering, scones and other baked goods from her parents' bakery, she schemes about ways to play matchmaker for friends and family. Hilarity ensues and some lessons are learned. Read my review here.
February
The Reinvention of Edison Thomas by Jacqueline Houtman - Edison "Eddy" Thomas is a middle school student, who loves to tinker with inventions but struggles to understand innuendos of those around him. After coming in 3rd in a school science fair, Eddy begins to tinker with another invention which leads him to some interesting lessons, new friends, and a lesson in understanding bullying. Read my review here.
March
Under My Skin by Judith Graves - I love stories that are filled with paranormal beasties, great characters (especially kick-butt heroines), resident hotties, and humor! This one has it all. It has probably been one of my most fun debut reads. Fans of Urban Fantasy/Paranormal Romance will love this. Read my review here.
April
The Witchy Worries of Abbie Adams by Rhonda Hayter - This middle grade debut is filled with magic, humor, history lessons, and some great fun. Middle grade girls will especially love Abbie and her magical ways. Read my review here.
13 to Life by Shannon Delany - Between Judith Graves and Shannon Delany, I am becoming more and more a werewolf fan. I really enjoyed this book. I read it in one sitting. Love the characters, the mythology, and the overall story. Read my review here.
May
Sea by Heidi R Kling - Fifteen year old Sienna (Sea) lost her mother in an airplane accident over the ocean. Three years later her father decides to take her to assist with orphan victims of the tsunami. Her journey provides her with experiences that lead her to grow emotionally and personally. Read my review here.
Cinderella Society by Kay Cassidy - How many teen girls wish that they were cool, popular, and dating a hunk? Fifteen year old, Jess learns that it isn't all about appearances but that it really is an issue of girl empowerment and good battling evil. Read my review here.
June
Shadow Hills by Anastasia Hopcus - So often in Urban Fantasy/Paranormal Romances, a human girl falls in love with a supernatural boy or vice a versa. Hopcus has main characters that are equally matched with secrets of their own. Great characters, well developed story, and I am already pining for book two. Read my review here.
July
The Shadows (The Books of Elsewhere #1) by Jacqueline West - A haunted house, a curious 11 year old girl, talking cats, enchanted glasses, and a mystery. This was a great read. What a wonderful Middle Grade debut novel. One of my favorite reads this year. Read my review here.
The guidelines of the challenge encourage participants to read at least 12 debut novels. I am 3/4 of the way to the minimum goal. However, I am determined to read closer to 25 books by debut authors. Guess I should get reading if I am going to meet that goal...
-Aly
