Prophecy Girl

Gr 8 Up—Amelie Bennett was born to be a Guardian, a race descended from angels and created to slay Crossworld demons. Despite her impulsive nature, she is good at her training, but it's her senior year at St. Michael's and she needs to pass her examination and receive her Watcher bond assignment. Jackson Smith-Hailey is the new Examiner and wants little to do with her, but there is a definite attraction (and maybe more) between them. There's not much time for romance, though, because something is killing off important Guardians. The Elders think it might be Amelie because she carries Lucifer's bloodline and is possibly part demon. Is she a killer, part of an ancient prophecy, or a girl in the wrong place at the wrong time? White's debut novel has most of the textbook paranormal elements—New Orleans setting, angels, demons, vampires, werewolves, and a love/hate relationship. Despite all the busy elements, something about Prophecy Girl works. Snarky Amelie is full of insecurity and bravado. She comes across as a likable heroine and readers will root for her and Jack. The plot moves along quickly, although readers may find themselves skimming over some of the history of the bloodlines. At times the inclusion of vampires and werewolves feels forced and too convenient, but paranormal fans will be too caught up in Amelie and Jack's relationship to mind.—Heather Webb, Worthington Libraries, OH