Perception by Kim Harrington

Kim Harrington is such a fantastic writer. I feel I must lead with that. I loved “Clarity” (click here for my review) and “Perception” did not disappoint. The plots aren’t blow-your-mind magical or creative, but they are so interesting and Ms. Harrington’s writing is so tight, well paced, and exciting. She doesn’t waste a single word. It’s really incredible. Aspiring writers, her books are a must read. Her plotting/pacing is true perfection.

This book picks up at the start of the school year shortly after the exciting events of the first book, “Clarity”. Our heroine, Clarity, is now famous after everything that went down in the last book. Instead of being a “freak” due to her psychic ability (she can read objects), she’s now been adopted by the popular clique as their new toy. Not all of the popular clique is happy about it though and continue to make her life unpleasant. She’d be more than happy to going back to the way things were, living life as a wallflower. That’s not an option for Clarity now. She soon draws the attention of someone whose admiration has gone from slightly creepy to downright frightening. Is it Justin, her ex-boyfriend who heroically saved her life? Or is it Gabriel, the hottie who has conflicted feelings about psychics, but who grew into a friend with potential for so much more in the last book? Well, read the book you silly kiddos. My lips are sealed.

Kim Harrington has twice now written books that have completely consumed my attention. I think “Clarity” and “Perception” would even appeal to the reluctant teen reader. They are books that are not to be missed, especially if you’re a fan of mysteries. These quick, well written books will blow you away. I really cannot get over how incredibly well paced and concise Ms. Harrington’s writing is. Fabulous job, Ms. Harrington. Simply fabulous!

I am giving away a couple signed book plates that Ms. Harrington sent me when I purchased a copy of “Clarity” in a charity auction. Just post a comment here and let me know what psychic power you’d want to have. The winner will be chosen on April 9th!

I was provided with an ARC by the publisher, Scholastic. “Perception” was released in February of this year.

Clarity by Kim Harrington

Simple, clean, and well crafted... that’s how I described Kim Harrington’s “Clarity” today when I was describing it to my younger sister. Kim Harrington adds a paranormal twist to a classic “who done it?” style murder mystery. Our heroine is Clare, a sixteen year old psychic, who can see the past and memories associated with objects. She’s from a family of “freaks” - her mother is a hippie telepath and her brother is a womanizer and oh yeah, a medium! Their little tourist town is shaken when a teenage girl is found murdered in her motel room and Clare is asked by her cheating ex-boyfriend (and son of the mayor) to help investigate along with the mysterious new hot shot detective’s delectable son. Will Clare be able to solve the mysteries of the murder and her heart? Well, you’ll just have to read to find out!

Harrington’s writing (unlike my own) stays away from what could become a teenage soap opera and remains solid and clean throughout. Sure, there is some lusty tension, but she keeps it clean and appropriate for its audience. Her story telling is simple, easy to read, and a lot of fun! I read this one when I was held hostage on the couch by a napping toddler. It made being unable to move (and being incredibly hungry!) so much FUN!

If you’re looking for a fun and light YA mystery, then you should grab a copy of “Clarity” as soon as possible. It is a solid debut novel that will leave you satisfied, but ready for more! I think Clare could end up being the Nancy Drew of this generation. What do you think? Leave a comment and let me know!

I received this ARC at ALA Midwinter from Scholastic. “Clarity” comes out next week on March 1st and is already in stock on Amazon.com! Pick up a copy at your local bookstore or online.