The Testing

The Testing by Joelle Charbonneau

It has been a decade since anyone from Five Lakes was chosen for Testing for the University. But when Cia is chosen, it is not the celebration she thought it would be. Her father warns her of the potential dangers she faces, but nothing can prepare her for the fierce competition. With only one person she can trust, Tomas, Cia has to do things she never imagined she would when she was selected. Only the strongest and smartest will survive The Testing. This book is the perfect "next pick" for fans of the Hunger Games.

Book 2, Independent Study, is a satisfying second installation of this trilogy. Cia is now at the University, but the tests are not over. But this time, Cia is prepared, and there are people who have their eyes on her...some who are watching to protect her, and others waiting for her to make a mistake so they can strike. But Cia is stronger than even she imagined as she seeks a way to bring the truth about the Testing to light.

The Lord of Opium

The Lord of Opium by Nancy Farmer

In this long-awaited sequel to The House of the Scorpion, El Patron is dead, and Matt finds his status elevated from clone to human. Matt wants to help those that have been enslaved by El Patron, but he doesn't even know where to begin, or who he can trust to help him. With Opium locked down, the threats from outside the boarders are gone, but inside, Matt has a lot to learn before he can truly be the Lord of Opium. Do not read this book without going back to read the first one. Both are excellent examples of dystopian fiction.

Who Needs Magic

Who Needs Magic by Kathy McCullough

In this sequel to Don't Expect Magic, Delaney is searching for the next client who needs her fairy godmother services. What she doesn't expect to find, is another fairy godmother. Ariella makes Delaney look like a dud as a fairy godmother, and when both Ariella and Delaney try to help two different girls fulfill their wish with the same boy, the competition becomes fierce. In Delaney's rush to help Jeni find true love, she misses out on what is right in front of her. Does she really need magic, or can the magic happen all by itself?