title: Violet Raines Almost Got Struck by Lightning
author:  Danette Haworth 
description: "A coming-of-age tale that is as full of sass as its uniquely named protagonist. At 11, Violet is caught betwixt and between childhood and adolescence. She remains very much a child, reveling in hollowed-out tree trunks and playing Barbies with her best friend's little sister. However, just like the ominous atmospheric changes occurring prior to turbulent weather, Violet's growing awareness of a developmental shift among her peers leaves her unsettled and unsure. Caught in this transformation is Violet's relationship with Lottie, which is complicated by the upheaval caused by newcomer Melissa, who has one foot firmly planted in adolescence. Rumblings of romantic changes in her friendship with Eddie also add to Violet's confusion. Haworth deftly explores Violet's ambivalence toward growing up with an authenticity that will resonate with readers, who will appreciate her competent management of such crucial tween issues as best friends, fidelity and impending maturity. Violet is a worthy ally for readers navigating their own stormy evolution." -"Kirkus Reviews"<br /><br />From Kirkus Reviews
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  > > > A NEW HISTORICAL ROMANCE FROM THE CREATOR OF THE TIGRESS SERIES
  
  BRAVING THE STORM
  
  Evelyn was drawn to fierce power. It was her one wild trait. Thunderstorms
  always found her outside, soaked to the skin, daring the heavens to strike her
  down. Perhaps that was why she walked directly toward Jie Ke now, into his
  dance of fists and feet that was just like a storm. He did not stop. She'd
  known he wouldn't.
  
  His blows continued. With his eyes firmly fixed on her, he began a. series of
  furious punches and jumping kicks, assaulting the air around her. She was
  safe; so long as she stayed absolutely still, he would not touch her. But one
  breath, one hair out of place, and she knew she could be knocked unconscious.
  It was his silent dare. How steady were her nerves when eight stone of weight
  was aimed right between her eyes?
  
  Evelyn smiled. Part of her wanted to close her eyes and lift her face to the
  sky as she did in a thunderstorm, but she could not break the hold he 