The Beautiful Ashes

Gr 9 Up—Twenty-year-old Ivy is looking for her younger sister Jasmine after she suddenly disappears. During her search, Ivy discovers the truth behind the strange visions that have afflicted her since childhood—she is able to see into the demon realm, and this just happens to be where Jasmine is trapped. With the guidance of the brooding, too-perfect male specimen Adrian, Ivy will stop at nothing to rescue her sister. However, there's a catch. It turns out that Ivy is the last descendent of the biblical hero David and is the only one that can find and wield a powerful relic to triumph over evil. Adrian is battling demons of his own with a dark past riddled with secrets that deeply conflict with his powerful attraction to Ivy. Unfortunately, there isn't a lot of world- or character-building to be had, and the plot can be groan-inducingly predictable at times. Ideally, the sequels will delve a bit more deeply to give the series some substance. Still, the pacing is tight and readers should fly through the story. Reluctant readers as well as fans of the "Twilight" books and other paranormal romances will eat this one up. A slightly steamy romance scene and the occasional curse word make this appropriate for older teens.—Kimberly Castle-Alberts, Hudson Library & Historical Society, OH