Three years ago, Sophie Mercer discovered that she was a witch. It's gotten her into a few scrapes. Her non-gifted mother has been as supportive as possible, consulting Sophie's estranged father—an elusive European warlock—only when necessary. But when Sophie attracts too much human attention for a prom-night spell gone horribly wrong, it's her dad who decides her punishment: exile to Hex Hall, an isolated reform school for wayward Prodigium, a.k.a. witches, faeries, and shapeshifters.

By the end of her first day among fellow freak-teens, Sophie has quite a scorecard: three powerful enemies who look like supermodels, a futile crush on a gorgeous warlock, a creepy tag-along ghost, and a new roommate who happens to be the most hated person and only vampire student on campus. Worse, Sophie soon learns that a mysterious predator has been attacking students, and her only friend is the number-one suspect.

As a series of blood-curdling mysteries starts to converge, Sophie prepares for the biggest threat of all: an ancient secret society determined to destroy all Prodigium, especially her.

Maybe its the high school teacher in me, but I instantly loved this book. I was absorbed in Sophie's initial battle to fit in and to adapt to the high school life as paranormal as it was. Her magical twist just made the story even better. There were the mean girls, the nerds, the cool kids and the friendly kid. I loved it. Then there was this really interesting magical system all wrapped up in a school environment. Enter teacher mode! How cool it would be to be a teacher at a magical school. I kept getting caught up in that idea as I read this book Anyway Sophie has some real serious imperfections, but that makes her more realistic, and more likable. She may not be the perfect student, but she has a good heart. What's more, this school is diverse. There are shapeshifters, werewolves, fae, witches,  vampires, and even demons attending Hex Hall. So many supernatural ethnicities all within the pages on one book!!

I give Hex Hall 4.5 out of 5 stars

I give the audio book performance 4.5 out of 5 stars

Lady Renegades by Rachel Hawkins

Just as Harper Price starts coming to terms with her role as David Stark’s battle-ready Paladin, protector, and girlfriend—her world goes crazy all over again.

Overwhelmed by his Oracle powers, David flees Pine Grove and starts turning teenage girls into Paladins—and these young ladies seem to think that Harper is the enemy David needs protecting from.  Ordinarily, Harper would be able to fight off any Paladin who comes her way, but her powers have been dwindling since David left town…which means her life is on the line yet again.

Lady Renegades completes the Rebel Belle series. In many ways this book was more complete and less rushed than Miss Mayhem, however it in no way came close to the fun and excitement I felt when reading Rebel Belle. The book did end neatly, but almost abruptly. Everything tied up in a neat bow so to speak, but I felt there were still a few questions I wanted answers to. This book was more serious than the original, and although it was interesting, that level of seriousness this book  zapped some of the humor away. Overall this book is worth reading and I would recommend the investment. 

I give Lady Renegades 3.75 out of 5 stars

I give the audio version 5 out of 5 stars

Miss Mayhem by Rachel Hawkins (Book 2 in Rebel Belle Series)

Life is almost back to normal for Harper Price. The Ephors have been silent after their deadly attack at Cotillion months ago, and her best friend, Bee, has returned after a mysterious disappearance. Now Harper can focus on the important things in life: school, canoodling with David (her nemesis-turned-ward-slash-boyfie), and even competing in the Miss Pine Grove pageant.

Unfortunately, supernatural chores are never done. The Ephors have decided they’d rather train David than kill him. The catch: Harper has to come along for the ride, but she can’t stay David’s Paladin unless she undergoes an ancient trial that will either kill her . . . or make her more powerful than ever.

Like most second books this book was not as good as the first installment, however it was still a good book and worthy of reading. It filled in a lot of information about the characters and the relationships between the characters grew. The combo of magic and southern culture were still endearing and lend the book an unique perspective.  The book is action packed and never boring. However, be prepared, this book, like most second-in-the series-books ends in a cliffhanger. 

I give Miss Mayhem 3.5 out of 5 stars
I give the audio book 4.5 out of 5 stars

ARC Review The Witch of Willow Hall by Hester Fox

In the wake of a scandal, the Montrose family and their three daughters—Catherine, Lydia and Emeline—flee Boston for their new country home, Willow Hall.
The estate seems sleepy and idyllic. But a subtle menace creeps into the atmosphere, remnants of a dark history that call to Lydia, and to the youngest, Emeline.
All three daughters will be irrevocably changed by what follows, but none more than Lydia, who must draw on a power she never knew she possessed if she wants to protect those she loves. For Willow Hall’s secrets will rise, in the end…

This book was dark and gloomy and even very sad at times. It had a slow moving plot, but as it progressed the intrigue and mystery increased and before long I could not put it down. I had to know what was going to happen next. I was enthralled. I was captivated by Lydia and all she was going through. I felt so deeply for her character. This is a book that forces the reader to feel. The reader will gradually realize that they are invested in what is occurring. I laughed with Lydia and I cried with her. I was shocked with her and at times I was angry for her. Yes this book has witchcraft in it, but the book does not revolve around the witchcraft. The family scandal is more center to the storyline, and what a scandal it was. This book is not for the younger reader, it is for a more mature, older audience, however it is a great read. Differnt from my usual, but as this author's debut novel she should be proud. I look forward to reading more from Hester Fox.  
I give The Witch of Willow Hall 4 out of 5 Stars