These two young adult novels by Utah author Cindy Hogan are both suspense novels with a hint of romance. They are scheduled to be released on Oct. 20.
*****
"ADRENALINE RUSH," by Cindy Hogan, O'Neal Publishing, $13.99, 360 pages (f) (ages 14 and up)
A madman is running amok in the world, kidnapping thrill-seeking teens to use as trained assassins to bring down high-level public figures considered to be corrupt. Christy has just completed her training for field work as a spy and is assigned to infiltrate a group of high school kids in hopes she can discover who the villain is before he brings down the government of the United States.
Author Cindy Hogan brings back Christy, the star of Hogan's Watched series, in this intense thriller filled with adventure, passion and a whole lot of excitement.
Taking on the identity of an adventurous teen, Christy — using the name Misha — joins a group of high school misfits. She believes these young people, bent on seeking the ultimate thrill, may be the next kidnap victims. But then she discovers that there is another group at the same school that is just as likely to be the target, so she reaches out to create ties with them, trying to cover all the bases.
To be ultimately successful in her quest, it will take everything Misha has to withstand the brainwashing and challenges she encounters when she meets up with the leader of the kidnappers. But the other teens who have been kidnapped and trained to be merciless killers? Her newly learned spy skills will be put to the test in this dangerous assignment.
Like in her other books, Hogan includes a romance element that will likely keep the attention of young women. Nothing unseemly or inappropriate happens, but Misha does have a difficult time deciding which boy she really wants to pursue.
****
"GRAVEDIGGERS," by Cindy Hogan, O'Neal Publishing, $13.99, 342 pages (f) (ages 14 and up)
In her new book “Gravediggers,” Cindy Hogan brings us a new hero, ready to find justice for the father he loves.
Ten years ago, Billy’s father was killed in a tragic accident, and he and his mom were left alone to fend for themselves. Living in the small town of Halls, Tenn., made things bearable because everyone loves Billy’s mom and they all pitched in to help.
But something bothered Billy about his dad’s death, and he is determined to do something about it. That’s why he plans to go to college the next year and then become an agent for the FBI when he finishes his schooling.
With his best friend, Henry, and his new heartthrob, Amanda, Billy is ready to pursue clues that should have been followed 10 years earlier. But others in town are not pleased with the direction the young man is headed in his search for truth.
When Billy finds an old Army box filled with untold treasure, he wonders what secrets are attached to the box — if it something that will help find his father’s killer or something even more sinister. With Amanda and Henry by his side, Billy is determined to answer all his questions — even if it means losing the trust of his good friend, the sheriff and his mother.
A well-written mystery, “Gravediggers” is an enjoyable read that is spellbinding as readers follow the clues to solve the murder. Hogan has created a nice trio of characters that are good kids trying to do a difficult job. And of course, there is the romantic interest between Billy and Amanda to keep everyone on their toes.
Written for teens and young adults, “Gravediggers” has no inappropriate language or events that would be offensive.
If you go ...
What: "Adrenaline Rush" and "Gravediggers" launch party with author Cindy Hogan
When: Saturday, Oct. 26, 11 a.m.
Where: The King's English, 1511 S. 1500 East, Salt Lake City
Web: kingsenglish.com, cindymhogan.blogspot.com
Note: Places in the signing line are reserved for those who purchase a copy of the featured books from The King's English.
Mike Whitmer lives in West Valley City and writes at mtwhitmer.blogspot.com. He is a teacher and loves reading, fly-fishing and sleep (when he can get it). His email is grundelwalken@gmail.com.