What a unique piece of historical fiction! I read this book a few months ago, so I am epically behind blogging. However, I am excited to review this read, since I thought it was a fresh, exceptionally written YA historical fantasy thriller. I was surprised by how much I ended up liking this book…as usually is the case getting books from thrift stores (“…Will this be my cup’o’tea or no?”). Anyway, let’s dive in!
Summary
1907. Wheeler, AK. Young Verity and her sister Lilah find themselves in new territory as they are both adopted into new families. While Verity tries to get used to her new guardians on a family farm, Lilah is whisked away by the lovely and kind schoolteacher. However, Verity soon realizes that things are not always as they appear to be when she notices that something is a bit off about the town. She learns about a local superstition that ties to an eerie well, a supposed witch, and a mysterious connection that her own birth family has to the town. Realizing her sister is in danger, Verity must muster her courage and fight the dark secrets that someone in town is trying desperately to hide.
Likes
Setting. I’m always a sucker for stories set down south since it always seems like the perfect setting for creepy tales. Turn-of-the-century America is also a setting that I do not see very often in YA novels, so it was refreshing to read a story in an era I am interested in learning more about.
Family tropes. Is family what you are born into or those you choose? Sometimes it’s both and this story includes effective examples of both.
Mystery. The mystery surrounding the town and the superstitious legends all come full circle, which I always like to see in a thriller.
Dislikes
Predictable love twist. *SPOILER* I did not doubt that the sudden disaffection for Verity by her love interest, Able, after learning about the witchcraft that was going on. I couldn’t help but assume “I’ll bet he’s under a spell” from the antagonist. And I was right!
Author
I believe this is Goodman’s debut novel. I was such a fan and I hope she will write more stories like this soon! You can follow her on Instagram: @sgoodmanbooks.
