Rush by Jonathan Friesen

Jake has a compulsion to take risks. It clears his mind and frees him to think. He's always doing stunts and risking his life for the rush and thrill.

The only other risk/thrill Jake has is Salmone. She clears his mind the same way. They have strong feelings for each other, but Jake keeps her at a distance. Anyone too close to him ends up getting hurt.

Then Jake pulls a stunt that gets him expelled from school. His dad pulls strings and gets him into the forest firefighters' ring--one of the riskiest jobs around.

Jake is pumped--until everything he's ever cared about is put on the line.

Fast-paced and full of action. Jake is an interesting character and his need for thrills fuels this story. Lots of things happen here and it's all exciting. Ending wraps up almost everything.

Token of Darkness by Amelia Atwater-Rhodes

Cooper survived a horrible car accident only to be left with injuries, scars, and Samantha. He's the only one that can see her, so they assume she's a ghost. The only problem with that is Cooper can't find any record of a girl like her dying, so he doesn't know how he can help her. All Samantha wants is a body.

Brent runs into Cooper in the library when they both start researching ghosts. Brent can hear what other people are thinking and has been trying to control it. He can also see Samantha, but not for very long. Brent's ability draws the attention of Delilah, who is also interested in Cooper and his mysterious invisible friend. All Cooper wants to do is help Samantha. Delilah, however, has other plans.

The idea behind this story is interesting, and the telling is entertaining. However, there are some things that are mentioned but never resolved, and too many things going on for such a small book. A change of pace from vampires and shapeshifters, but only because there are neither in the book. Still paranormal with some romance thrown in.

Fire by Kristin Cashore

In the Dells, a kingdom is on the brink of civil war. King Nash inherited his father's mess--his father's only aim to please his close friend Cansrel, a human monster who could control thoughts and lived to see others suffer.

Cansrel's daughter, Fire, shares his abilities, but not his taste for suffering. She has hidden away her entire life to avoid controlling people, invading their thoughts, and being hunted. But the King calls on her to help avoid losing his kingdom, and she can't refuse the chance to undo the terror her father thrived on.

Just as fascinating as Graceling, Fire involves drama, action, adventure, and romance. There are many elements at play here, and it seems Fire is the focus in most of them, just as Katsa was. Her bravery and courage turn out to be her greatest assets.