Description:

Jessica Walsh is starting her freshman year at Nightshade High and trying to forget about the tragic events surrounding her brother’s graduation. She wants to have a normal high school experience. But that’s easier said than done in Nightshade. There’s a new guy at school who seems to be turning the girls into lovesick zombies. And Jessica has other worries—like her crush on a cute but moody lead singer, and the mysterious tattoo that appeared on her arm one day that lets her know whenever there is trouble brewing. Jessica learns she’s a Virago, a woman warrior chosen to fight evil whenever it threatens her hometown. But does a lowly freshman really have what it takes to keep Nightshade safe? ** ### Review **Praise for the Dead Is series** "[Perez] delivers a wise-cracking, boy-lusting, determined sleuth of a high school protagonist . . . this quick, lighter-than-air spoof of the undead, cheerleaders and popularity is pure pleasure."—*Publishers Weekly* "A fun ride from start to finish. Perez's smart and sassy style soars."—Mary E. Pearson, author of the Jenna Fox Chronicles "[A] quick, lively romp. . . . Teens looking for a breezy read will find plenty to like here."—*Booklist* "This super supernatural murder mystery is sassy, romantic, and spooky-fun!"—Cynthia Leitich Smith, author of* Tantalize* "Light romance and a paranormal plot are more tongue-in-cheek than scary, making this series a good introduction to the genre for younger readers."—*Booklist* "Breezy style and comic-book plot. . . . Fun."—*Kirkus * ### About the Author **Marlene Perez** is the author of eight books in the Dead Is Series, including *Dead Is The New Black, *an ALA Quick Pick for Reluctant Young Adult Readers. She lives in Orange County, California. Visit her website at **www.marleneperez.com**.