Tuesday, January 12, 2010

Need

Title: Need
Author: Carrie Jones
Age Level: Young Adult (Grades 7-12)
Publisher: Bloomsbury USA Children's Books
Copyright: 2008
ISBN: 9781599903385


Zara has always had a need to understand things. She can name almost any phobia and believes that if she can name it, she can conquer it. After her father dies, she slips into a deep depression and her mother sends her to live with her grandma Betty in northern Maine. Upon her arrival in Maine, she begins attending school and is promptly taken in by a group of loyal (if somewhat outcast) friends. Not heeding her grandmother's advice to be in the house before nightfall, Zara loses control of her car on a dark and icy road and is rescued by mysterious, handsome Nick. Add a little pixie dust and a stranger who follows her everywhere to the list, and soon Zara begins to realize that things aren't exactly what they seem. In fact, there is magic and danger beyond her wildest imaginations encroaching on her safe, controlled little world.

I absolutely LOVED Need. It had all of the elements for an entertaining adult novel with none of the smut. I believe that one of the marks of a book's true success is if it can transcend age groups. Although this book is really aimed more towards teens, I think it would even be appropriate for mature tweens and even adults. I love that Jones has written a romantic science fiction/fantasy novel that involves a creature other than vampires. The writing is good, the storyline flows well, the characters are loveable AND respectable (a rare combo,) and the book is just REALLY good. I can't recommend it enough. If you liked Twilight, you will love Need.

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