(3) 4-6 In the small, struggling town of Timbers, Washington, lies creepy Still Cove. A bullying incident lands a group of kids, including narrators Nico and Opal, in the cove, where they find a mysterious island, a bizarre collection of antiques, and a pool of dark, swirling water. But at every revelation of the area's chaotic power, their curiosity leads them deeper into darkness. Alternating narration builds enthralling suspense in this supernatural series-starter.

Reviewer: Jeannie Coutant

(4) YA The Anvil, a planet-killing asteroid, is heading for Earth. Seemingly unconnected to this are two story lines: sixteen-year-old Min being "killed" by a strange man every two years only to awaken unharmed, and popular teen Noah dreaming of nothing but violence and death. Then Min discovers she and Noah are part of Project Nemesis, an apocalypse-related scientific experiment. Despite a convoluted plot, the fascinating premise and cliffhanger ending should entice readers.

Reviewer: Jenn Matters

(4) YA Virals series. Tory Brennan and her fellow Virals are targeted by the vicious Trinity, another "pack" of young adults with the same wolflike superpowers. Meanwhile, a shady government agency tracks both packs. This fifth entry is a little over-long, with much time spent on a predictable love triangle, but suspenseful action, surprising double-crosses, and some intriguing science make for an enjoyable mystery/sci-fi adventure.

Reviewer: Katie Bircher

(4) YA Virals series. With their science know-how, wolflike powers, and snarky banter, Tory and her "packmates" Shelton, Hi, and Ben investigate the kidnapping of two classmates. Stakes rise when Ella, a close friend of Tory's, is abducted. Though occasionally predictable (of course, Tory winds up in the kidnapper's clutches) and frequently implausible, this fourth entry in the sci-fi/mystery series is still a lot of fun.

Reviewer: Katie Bircher

(3) YA Tory (Virals; Seizure) and her science-whiz-kid "pack" try geocaching. They find coded--and increasingly frightening--messages leading them on a "game" across South Carolina's coastal islands to find the Gamemaster and stop the violence he threatens. Again, the kids' part-wolf superhuman abilities help (a bit) in solving the mystery; more believable dynamics among family and friends help ground the sci-fi elements.

Reviewer: Katie Bircher