Wondrous Strange by Lesley Livingston

Rating: 4/5 Stars

Genre: Fantasy

Release Date: 12/23/08

About the Book: Kelley is an actress who recently moved to New York City and is taking part in a production of A Midsummer Night's Dream. When the lead actress is injured, Kelley gets her chance as Titania , Faerie Queen. Little does she know she's much closer to the Faerie world than she thinks...

Sonny Flannery is a member of Auberon's Janus Guard and is in charge of patrolling a portal to the Faerie world that happens to be in Central Park. When he meets Kelley, he finds himself guarding more than he bargained for. Kelley just might have a very powerful connection to the Faerie world-one that could change everything...

GreenBeanTeenQueen Says: Ok, I bought this one when it came out and I finally got around to reading it-I'm so glad I did and I can't believe it took me that long! Lesley Livingston creates the perfect fantasy that's great for readers like me who like their fantasy light and fun. I really loved that the magic was in New York and Central Park-it had a realistic feel to it. Yes, I know it's a fantasy, and it's fiction, but Ms. Livingston made me believe there was a portal in Central Park.

The relationship between Sonny and Kelley was so fun to read. I loved their banter and their scenes were fun and flirty. I would have liked to see their relationship develop a bit more, but this is the first of a series, so I can hope for more. I LOVE Kelley's roommate Tyff-I think she's my favorite character. She's so spunky and hilarious-I hope we see her again.

I would have liked a little more faerie back story, but again, with this being the start to a series, I'm sure we'll get more of that in the next book.

Since I was involved in drama for many many years in school, I loved the addition of the theater. Kelley is an actress, the actors in her company and the bossy director are something that will resonate with anyone with theatrical experience. I thought the theater and Shakespearean elements added to the story and made this a unique read-it stands out among the many faerie books that are appearing in YA.

Overall, this is a great read for fantasy fans or readers who might not typically pick up a book in the fantasy genre. The fantasy elements weren't so heavy that non-fantasy readers would feel overwhelmed and the contemporary setting will appeal to readers of realistic fiction. I'm looking forward to reading the sequel, Darklight and can't wait to see where Lesley Livingston takes me next!

Full Disclosure: From my own personal library!