The Other Book by Philip Womack

Edward Pollock lives at Oldstone Manor, a boarding school for boys. Every day is predictable...until Edward finds an odd book in the library and strange things start happening to him. He discovers that he has been chosen to protect the Other Book, a magical object which has enough power to cause horrible destruction in the wrong hands. But then a new substitute teacher takes a peculiar interest in Edward and he must fight for his life -- and for other things that he isn't sure he even understands.

This was an interesting concept, although I had difficulty getting into this book at first. It's definitely not a light-and-fluffy read; it actually has a similar feel to some of the old medieval romances (e.g., stories about King Arthur's court and other books written in that time period). The plot felt a little bit haphazard to me and didn't have a fully satisfying ending, but it was a decent read if you prefer serious books. I would recommend this to fantasy fans who would prefer something set in the real world that is a little darker or less fluffy.

• If this book sounds interesting, consider these: The Abhorson Trilogy, Storm Thief, Erec Rex: The Dragon Eye, or Swoon

The Seer and the Sword by Victoria Hanley

When Princess Torina is nine years old, her father returns from conquering their neighbor, Bellandra to gain their magical sword; the king brings her Torina two gifts: a crystal that shows her the future, and Landen, the former prince of Bellandra, to be her slave. The princess frees Landen and they secretly become friends over shared interests, but as they get older they slowly grow apart. One day years later, Torina's world falls apart and Landen is accused of plotting against the kingdom. The two of them are the only ones who know the truth - but will it be enough to save the kingdom?

Overall, this book was a good read with an interesting plot; there were some points that seemed a little too convoluted or coincidental, but I enjoyed it anyhow. The characters are realistic and likeable, and everything is tied up well at the end of the story. I would recommend this book to fantasy fans who want something a little different, or who enjoy stories that have some romance and happy endings.

• If this book sounds interesting, consider these: Princess Ben, , The Two Princesses of Bamarre, or The Goose Girl

Now You See It... by Vivian Vande Velde

Wendy is a fairly average high school student until she accidentally discovers a random pair of sunglasses on her front lawn. Since they just happen to match her prescription, she wears them to school when her own glasses get broken. But that's when things start to get strange - some people look completely different when she's wearing the glasses...and she starts seeing things that aren't 'really' there. When the two students who look 'different' realize that Wendy can see what they actually look like, suddenly they are very eager to chat with her. Very quickly, Wendy finds herself in over her head and must turn toward some unexpected people for help.

I enjoyed this book. Wendy seemed a little juvenile at times, but overall, the story was interesting and unpredictable and the characters were realistic. The book moves pretty well for the most part. Fantasy readers who like stories about fantasy in the real world or about the division between the real world and 'faery' should definitely check this out for a quick read.

• If this book sounds interesting, consider these: Fablehaven, Wicked Lovely, The Lightning Thief, or Keys to the Kingdom