Cinder and Ella

by Melissa Lemon

If you like fairy tales this one is a fun one.  Not really a traditional fairy tale, but gives an explanation as to who Cinderella might have been.  Cute and fun; a little dark, but nothing scary.  Ages 12+ (there's a little kissing).

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Too Stubborn to Die

by Cato Jaramillo

This is the tale of a Holocaust survivor, in her own words.  Cato shares her story of pain, sorrow, sadness, horror, and peace.  It isn't necessarily a book of joy, but there's truly inspiration to find the best in the worst of situations and to be true to yourself no matter what.  It was a quick read; I was sucked in immediately.  Definitely recommend for anyone who needs a boost in a non-sappy, painfully realistic way.  There's a little language, implications of graphic abuse, and thorough descriptions of death...just be prepared, especially if a young person reads this - may be best to discuss throughout.

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Diva

by Jillian Larkin

This third book in the Flappers series was released earlier this year...I've been waiting!  Prohibition is becoming sort of an obsession with me when it comes to historical periods.  I love the drama, romance, even the violence that was so prevalent then.  This book has it all:  romance, intrigue, laughter, sadness, music, drama, and violence.  What a great ending to the series!!

****

Ingenue

by Jillian Larkin

I have been waiting to read this book for a while now.  It is the second in the Flappers series.  I love the format that's used.  Each character's viewpoint is a chapter, similar to a soap opera.  All the storylines intertwine and relate, eventually coming together in the end.  Fun book!  Set during Prohibition-era New York/Chicago, young people make their way in life.

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