Ink Exchange

Ink Exchange

By: Melissa Marr

352p
Harper Collin

ISBN-10: 0061214701
ISBN-13: 978-0061214707

Annotation:
Seventeen-year-old Leslie wants a tattoo as a way of reclaiming control of herself and her body, but the eerie image she selects draws her into the dangerous Dark Court of the fairies where she draws on inner strength to make a horrible choice


Summary:
In her second novel, Marr further examines the fairy realm. We are introduced to the character of Leslie as she attempts to deal with the an abusive and distant father, a drug addicted brother and friends whom seem stranger than usual, all why trying to keep a job and good grades so that she can escape to college and never return.

In addition to fleeing Leslie has only one other desire, and that is to get the perfect tattoo, and after months of searching she finally decides on that of a symbol with wings. This symbol happens to be the mark of the Fairy King of the Dark Court and through it he can feed himself and his followers on her emotions, its only side effect is that it leaves the victim not only under his control but also completely devoid of any emotion, positive or negative. This forces Leslie to make a decision, to risk feeling the pain and anguish she has dealt with for her entire life or feel nothing.

Teens have fallen in love with Marr's writing style. With the third installment of this series being released late April. This novel is perfect for the Twilight fans still hungry for more of the fantastical but having already devoured Meyer's series.

Hero

Hero
By Perry Moore

432p
Publisher Hyperion

ISBN-10: 1423101960
ISBN-13: 978-1423101963

Annotation: Intermingling superhero fantasy with relationship and sexuality issues, HERO follows the tumultuous life of Tom Creed, a teen with a lot to hide. Although he’s a star basketball player, Tom is alone with burgeoning superpowers that he feels he must keep from his father, a fallen, embittered superhero.

Summary:

Tom Creed is a normal everyday teen, minus the budding superhero abilities and his closeted sexuality. Winner of the LAMBDA literary award in the category of Children/Young Adult. This novel is the perfect blend of the quintessential superhero and the coming-of-age novel.

Trying to not disappoint his father Tom attempts keeps both of his true identities a secret, but once the League, things begin to change. Tom is now surrounded by people that share his ability and as he begins to feel accepted by the League, he begins to explore other aspects of his lifestyle that he has been unable to accept.

This novel may not be for everyone, but has a special place in any collection. This novel is the perfect blend of genres and encourages the ideas of self acceptance and while it may not be perfect for all teen readers, this novel will find a special place in many LGBT teens.