Guardian of the Dead- Fantastic Fiction

Karen Healy's book Gaurdian of the Dead was a wonderful book, full of imaginary creatures banding together to fight a group of nomadic creatures bent on taking over the world.  It is geared toward the higher level readers in high school, focusing on the main character who is dealing with all of the awkwardness of this age.  Ellie is at boarding school, and she meets a  young man that activates her magic.  Once she convinces him to tell her what is going on, she embarks on a journey with him that takes her into a world that includes magic stealing leprechaun-like creatures, a sleeping woman that guards the gates to the world of the dead, and just enough gore to keep even the guys interested.  This book also has a smidgen of romance for the teenage girl, but nothing too hot and heavy.  Plenty of drama and something for everyone in this age group.  Probably best for higher level readers in the 15-21 age group.