Lament: The Faerie Queen's Deception, by Maggie Stiefvater

First of all, what a cool last name--Steifvater--I love finding people with last names that are harder to spell than mine :).

This book grabbed me from the beginning, and I could NOT put it down. I read the whole thing in one day, while camping this weekend. Sorry, hubby, you and the kids go have fun--I'm reading!

Lament has all the same elements that Twilight has (or at least, the first chapters of Twilight that I dragged myself through): A quirky girl with self-esteem issues, a dangerous and totally hot guy, a "should I or shouldn't I" kind of relationship, bizarre happenings...Oh, but THIS book is incredibly well-written!

Deirdre is an immensely talented harpist with a real future at becoming a professional musician, despite her...unusual...pre-show ritual. On the day of a huge competition, Luke walks into Deirdre's life. Dreamy Luke. Mysterious Luke...

Now, you all know I'm not into romance novels. But when they involve such engaging characters (take a note here, Stephenie, "engaging"--not whiney or mean) I can't help but get sucked into the story. And there is a real story here--not just the romance! Deirdre's relationship with Luke is just the door that opens her to a whole new world right in her own town...one of faerie and deception.

I can't wait to read more by this author. Her voice is unique--contemporary, but not rude. Really strong characterization skills. And perfect pacing. From what I understand, there is a sequal to this, but it's not out yet. I'll be looking for it, for sure!