Fallen by Lauren Kate

Kate, Lauren Fallen, 452 p. Delacorte (Random), 2009. $17.99. Language: PG (18 swears, no “f”). Lucinda (Luce) has been sent to the Simon & Cross Boarding (read reform) school after the death of her boyfriend. This way she can be near home, but away from those who knew her before and blame her for the death. But, she is miles away from anything she ever experienced. Enter Cam, who is not only gorgeous, but also seems to be interested in Luce; and Daniel, who draws Luce to him like a lodestone to her magnet, but wants nothing to do with her. Luce doesn’t know it yet, but the two of them have been involved in a centuries old love triangle that always ends badly – for Luce. On the surface, this is just the kind of unrequited, not-to-be-allowed romance that teens seem to yearn for, what with Twilight being the perfect example. But for teens that want more, this first in the series fails to deliver. A gorgeous cover will catch many eyes – and I can only hope that #2 brings some depth to the tale. I would point students at Hush, Hush by Becca Fitpatrick if they want a fulfilling dark romance. HS – OPTIONAL. Cindy, Library-Teacher