Transcendence by C.J. Omololu

While on a visit to London, Nicole--who goes by Cole--experiences a strange vision and by chance, runs into Griffon at the Tower of London, a boy who knows exactly what Cole is going through. They meet again in San Francisco and when they do, romance will spark and Cole will learn much, much more about her former lives. Not only that, but a rogue Akhet (someone who remembers their past lives) is out for revenge and their target? It's Cole.

There's something about C.J. Omololu's writing style that I absolutely love. It flows so nicely and to be honest, I got swept up in Transcendence. I loved how Cole's visions of her past lives came on and how it's simply that some people can remember their past lives and those that can are known as Akhet. Actually, I have a feeling that it's much more complicated than that, but I feel like we didn't get too much of their (Akhet) background and I'm really hoping that the next book will elaborate on it--there's a society that's really only been mentioned briefly in Transcendence. I mean, it's mentioned, but I personally would've liked more of it.

As for Cole, I quite liked her. She'd rather figure things out for herself and she's not really willing to accept things automatically--okay, with one big exception, but to accept that particular thing makes sense. Not only that, but she feels bad about--er, I probably shouldn't tell you that. Let's just say that she feels like remembering her past lives is a bit like cheating. Then there's Griffon, who is half African American and half Caucasian (you'll meet his father early on), and I can't say that I'm in love with him just yet. I mean, I like him and he has Cole's best interests at heart, but, well, you'll see. Let's just say that the next book ought to be interesting. Veronique was also a very interesting character and as to why that was, well, you'll have to read Transcendence to find that out.

So in case you couldn't tell, I really did enjoy Transcendence and I'm so, so happy that there's going to be another book because Transcendence has left me with a ton of questions--and I'd like answers for them. If you enjoy books that involve reincarnation, then definitely pick up a copy of Transcendence!

Overall Rating: ★★★★ and a half.

Transcendence by C.J. Omololu

Publisher: Walker & Company

Release Date: June 5, 2012

Edition: e-ARC

* Received for review via publisher and NetGalley.

Fracture by Megan Miranda

Delaney spent eleven minutes under the frigid lake waters; long enough to die and there was little doubt in anyone's mind that when they pulled her out of the water, she was dead. But by some miracle, she survives. Only now she's pulled towards the dying, those who aren't long for this world. There's someone else like her too, an older boy named Troy who emerged from a coma when he should've died and although she's glad that she's not the only one, she can't help but feel that Troy doesn't share her views on what should be done with their unique ability.

In the words of the Eleventh Doctor, "Oh... lovely. You're a cheery one." But wait, let me explain! Delaney can be a pessimist. That is to say, she doesn't like old things and she certainly doesn't like ancient ruins. Why? Because they're decaying and will ultimately disappear, leaving no trace behind. I can understand the logic behind this, but it seems to be something that Delaney is almost stuck on--which again, would make sense considering her brush with death and the fact that she's, well, a teenager (because yes, I used to be like that as a teen too). She can be a bit of a wimp at times which is also understandable but more importantly, she does get over it as the story progresses--although I'd say that it takes a while.

But let me take a moment to talk about Decker, Delaney's best friend and the boy who pulled Delaney out of the lake. He is... just... I like him a lot, okay? He's impossibly sweet and someone that Delaney sees as "just a friend" for quiet some time. For crying out loud, he left the hospital and her side once while she was at the hospital... in a coma. If you've been looking for a book in which the friend actually stands a very good chance, read this. On the other hand there's Troy who shares Delaney's ability and at first, he doesn't seem like that bad of a guy; however, appearances can be deceiving and well, let's just leave it at that. Er... he gets scary.

For once I also liked one of the minor characters--Janna. She's Delaney's competition for valedictorian and Carson's younger sister. Janna actually proves to be quite nice to Delaney considering the fact that she's her competition for valedictorian and well, you know, the fact that Delaney and Carson have shared a kiss or two. Delaney's mother was another character that I thoroughly enjoyed--although not precisely in a cheerful manner. She really does love her daughter but considering her own childhood, it's not easy for her after Delaney's lake accident. There's a particular scene featuring both Delaney and her mother that very nearly made me cry.

Overall the plot was wonderful and I love the fact that this was a standalone. Everything moves along smoothly and ultimately, I really loved Fracture! If you've been thinking about picking up a copy, definitely do so! I hope that you enjoy it as much as I did!

Overall Rating: ★★★★ and a half

Fracture by Megan Miranda

Publisher: Walker & Company

Release Date: January 17, 2012

Edition: e-ARC 

* Received for review via the publisher and NetGalley.