Another Faust by Daniel and Dina Nayeri

One night, in cities all across Europe, five children vanish - only to appear, years later, at an exclusive New York party with a strange and elegant governess. Rumor and mystery follow the Faust teenagers to the city’s most prestigious high school, where they soar to suspicious heights with the help of their benefactor’s extraordinary “gifts.”

But as the students claw their way up - reading minds, erasing scenes, stopping time, stealing power, seducing with artificial beauty - the side-effects of their own addictions. And as they make further deals with the devil, they uncover secrets more shocking than their most unforgivable sins.

At once chilling and wickedly satirical, this contemporary reimagining of the Faustian bargain is a compelling tale of ambition, consequences, and ultimate redemption. [borrowed from Amazon.com]

I really tried to love this book. I read some stellar reviews and was super excited, headed out to my local bookstore and picked up a copy the day it came out - but sadly it fell flat for me.

I loved the idea of this book. The premise was fantastic - kids selling their souls to the devil in exchange for being beautiful, popular, intelligent, etc. But in the end, I just couldn’t relate to any of them. Don’t take me wrong, I once also dreamed of being the most beautiful girl in a room or excelling beyond my peers in academics, what kid hasn’t? But I just never warmed up to any of the characters.

I will admit though, that the story had a great ending and the last 100 or so pages were real page-turners. Another Faust is a dark, thought-provoking novel that requires the reader's full attention - but sadly, it just never caught mine.

GIVEAWAY: On that note, I feel I need to pay this one forward. I'm gladly giving away my gently read copy because I'm sure someone will like this. The reviews are mostly four or five stars - so obviously readers are enjoying it.

I'm opening this one to FOLLOWERS ONLY. You guys deserve an upper hand on some of these giveaways and this one is perfect for that.

As always, leave a comment for one entry. If you'd like extra entries just say so in your comment or separate comments (extra entries for Twitter, sidebars, Facebook, etc.) Make sure to leave an e-mail address, especially if you are leaving a comment under Anonymous.

Rules: This contest is open internationally. Winner will be drawn Saturday, October 31.