Publisher: CreateSpace
Publication Date: November 7th 2011
ISBN: 1467943401
Genre: YA romance / paranormal
Book Synopsis: Nalena Maxwell has been branded ‘The Waste’ at her new school, due to her mom's obsessive paper hoarding. Nalena desperately wants something to change in her life, but when she receives a sign (and it's the wrong dang one) inviting her into a mysterious, ancient community, too much changes. What she knew of her family, what she thought of her life and what she believed about her future, is no longer applicable. Seventeen years worth of family skeletons come crashing into Nalena's life and it is the boy...the one that smiles at her like he wants to hear everything she'll ever say...that already knows her powerful secrets. But it is only Nalena that can choose between protecting the life that is already crumbling beneath her feet and the one that might sacrifice everything she could ever have.My Thoughts: Very nifty cover, isn't it? It is very different from the covers that are popping up all over the place with the pretty gowns and such (although, I like those too). I think that this cover ties so beautifully with the content.
Cornerstone is a fast-paced novel, that sometimes tugged at my heart, and at other times made me smile, or laugh!! When I started this book, I expected a simple story about a girl who's mother had a paper hoarding problem, and their many struggles. However, it was so much more, and the author even threw a paranormal twist that was a very exhilarating surprise. The originality of this story is one that should be commended!!!
Nalena is a very interesting character with many facets. She is an outcast among her peers, they have given her the nickname "The Waste". She is often picked on / talked about. When a boy starts paying her some attention - a popular boy - showing up at the library - things really start to happen. Nalena finds out she is not disliked by everyone. Garrett is a hottie!! I was drawn to him very early on - hoping and wishing that the two would get together. The romance that builds between them is a gradual, unrushed process - much to the reader's delight!!! And, Garrett's family - how fun!! I hope we see more of them in future installments of the series.
I think the biggest downfall in reading this book is having to wait for more!!! I am wrapped up in these characters and the story. I was somewhat shocked at the end, and I am very impatient!!!
