PERHAPS A GIFT VOUCHER FOR MUM?: MOTHER'S DAY
Lucy D. Briand lives in Ottawa, Canada with her comic book fanatic husband and her nonchalant Siamese cat. By day she works full time as a public servant for the Government of Canada, but by night her creative mind takes over and conjures up supernatural young adult gear-head romance stories. When not working, reading, writing, or watching way too much TV, Lucy likes to dress up as her favorite comic book characters, go on road trips to her happy place, Walt Disney World and play ridiculous amounts of board games. She's also a huge NASCAR Sprint Cup fan.
"""Gr 9 Up-Lexi Adams has a knack for mechanics, an abusive stepfather, and dead parents. When the teen is struck by lightning, she gains the ability to manipulate metal, allowing her to accentuate her already impressive mechanical skills. When NASCAR team owner Dean catches wind of Lexi's skill and her stepfather's abuse, he takes her under their team's wing. The protagonist must keep her abilities a secret, as she is frightened she would be locked up and tested like a lab animal. The NASCAR team's driver, Colton, is intrigued by Lexi-and so is archenemy Carl, owner of a competing team. Once Carl realizes Lexi's supernatural abilities, he attempts to blackmail her with near-deadly consequences. The entire narrative would be strengthened without the supernatural (and underunexplained) plot device, as Briand excels at describing the fast-paced, fuel-laced NASCAR life. VERDICT For readers looking for a light, action-packed, paranormal read with a unique setting."" -Amanda C. Buschmann, Atascocita Middle School, Humble, TX. Library Journals LLC"
