Bitter Sweet Love

Gr 9 Up—In this prequel to Armentrout's forthcoming "The Dark Elements" series, Wardens, gargoyles who can also take human form, openly exist among people. Gargoyle Dez was adopted by Jasmine's clan after his people were killed by demons. As children, they were the best of friends. Then Jas's father, the Alpha Gargoyle of the New York clan, announced that Dez and Jas were destined to become mates. Dez disappeared, leaving Jas brokenhearted. Now, three years later, 21-year-old Dez is back and ready to fulfill his destiny as his childhood friend's companion, but 18-year-old Jas has other ideas. She uses their courtship to test him: He has seven days to meet all of her conditions and to earn back her trust. Will he succeeed? And what happened to Dez during the years he was gone? In this fast-paced fantasy, the plot is predictable, but the characters are endearing. Readers will enjoy the drama generated by the two protagonists, who are typical teens-plus the fact that they phase into gargoyles from time to time. Short chapters will appeal to reluctant readers, while the mix of romance and action will draw a male and female following. Fans of Armentrout's books and Sophie Jordan's "Firelight" series (HarperCollins) will enjoy this novella. Recommended for general purchase at high school libraries. [e-original]—Jeni Tahaney, Duncanville High School Library, TX