Frozen Fire

by Tim Bowler

Summary: Dusty's brother disappears without a trace, and then her mother leaves without an explanation. Dusty remains behind in an empty house with a devastated father. A phone call from a mysterious young man makes her think he knows something about her brother's disappearance, but danger seems to follow him. He knows things he shouldn't, people are getting hurt, and the cops warn Dusty that the boy may not be what he seems. In fact, he may not even be human.

My thoughts: The opening words of this story pull you in immediately. The words "I'm dying," uttered by a stranger on the phone. While it's slow in some parts, the unusual story kept me reading. I liked this book, but I'll warn you, all the questions you have will not be answered. Sometimes that's okay, though!

The Maze Runner

by James Dashner

Summary: When Thomas wakes up in the Glade, the only thing he can remember is his name. He's surrounded by other guys his age, who certainly aren't making his transition to a strange new world any easier. He's clearly the new guy, and the rules the Gladers have created for themselves don't make any sense at first: don't leave the maze, never get caught in the maze after dark, and don't ask questions. Until one night, through a tiny window in the maze, he sees what everyone is afraid of--a terrifying creature called a Griever. The Grievers come out at night, and kill everyone in their paths. The Gladers have made a life for themselves, and have become accustomed to their routines. They have jobs, and friends, and a crude form of government. A group called the Runners explores the maze by day to try to find a way to escape. Their routine hasn't been altered in years. But the day after Thomas arrives, everything changes...

My thoughts: The Maze Runner is a sort of sci-fi Lord of the Flies. I love the way the characters interact with each other. It's exactly how I imagine teenaged guys would treat each other in this situation. The suspense/mystery element is really well done. I truly couldn't put this book down, and when I had to, I was thinking about when I could pick it back up. Hunger Games fans, give The Maze Runner a try!