Glitch by Heather Anastasiu

Must admit that while curious about Glitch, I was prepared to be underwhelmed because really. Did we need one more YA dystopian romance hybrid? Zoe is a teen girl (of course), part of the Community where everyone is implanted with a computer chip so they don't feel emotions. Everything is calm, unlike when humans and their emotions caused strife and war and unhappiness.

Then Zoe starts to malfunction - glitch. Her implant isn't working right and she can feel emotions.

I enjoyed Heather Anastasiu's world building which while not unique, was interesting. And Zoe was certainly a likeable character. Glitch is the first in a trilogy so I'm sure the next book while have Zoe getting more involved with the Resistance and having to struggle more with which boy to give her heart to.

Due August 2012.

Monster in my Closet by RL Naquin

 Urban fantasy is certainly a subgenre that is overflowing with series. So, for me to read beyond the first few chapters, a book has to have something different, something special. Monster in my Closet charmed me with Our Heroine's voice - smart and sassy and dare I say it? Quirky. I like that instead of the typical badass with tats and leather pants, Zoey dresses funkily with no leather or hidden knives/guns upon her person. When she feels threatened one night, what does she grab to confront the intruder? A toilet brush! Loved it!

My only complaint and it's a very small one is that the boyfriend's secret was clearly telegraphed so the big tell all moment was a bit anticlimactic. But! I really enjoyed this and I'm looking forward to more of Zoey's adventures.

Due out in July 2012.