
Reach for this book when your teenager is grappling with the shifting landscape of high school friendships, particularly the painful feeling of being left behind as a best friend changes or finds a new social circle. It is a witty, supernatural exploration of loyalty that asks how far we should go to protect those we love, and when a friendship might actually be becoming toxic. Set in a Catholic girls' school, the story follows Jane as she discovers her friend Allison has literally sold her soul for popularity and beauty. The book uses a demonic pact as a metaphor for the 'deals' teens often make to fit in. While it involves paranormal elements like demons and soul-trading, the core is a grounded look at jealousy, accountability, and the messy process of growing up. It is an excellent choice for readers who enjoy humor paired with deeper questions about morality and self-worth.
Characters face supernatural threats and demonic contracts.
Some creepy descriptions of demonic transformations and the underworld.
The book deals with body image, popularity, and social hierarchy through a metaphorical, supernatural lens. While it takes place in a religious setting, the approach to the demonic is more urban fantasy than theological. The resolution is hopeful but realistic about the fact that friendships change as people grow.
A high schooler who feels like an outsider and is frustrated by the 'performance' of social media or school popularity. It’s perfect for the teen who uses wit as a defense mechanism and is currently mourning a friendship that has drifted apart.
Read cold. Parents should be aware there are mentions of soul-selling and typical teen rebellion, but the moral compass of the protagonist remains strong. A parent might see their child being cast aside by a long-time friend or notice their child becoming obsessed with physical perfection and social status at the expense of their character.
Younger teens (12-14) will enjoy the 'mean girl' tropes and the fantasy elements. Older teens (15-17) will better appreciate the satirical take on private school life and the nuanced exploration of codependency in friendships.
Unlike many YA paranormal novels that focus on romance, Devilish is a 'friendship love story.' It prioritizes the platonic bond between two girls over a romantic subplot, which is refreshing in the genre.
Jane Jarvis is a cynical, smart senior at a Providence Catholic school whose world is rocked when her shy, overlooked best friend Allison suddenly becomes beautiful, popular, and cruel. The catalyst is Sarabeth, a seemingly sweet girl who is actually a demon collecting souls. To save Allison, Jane must navigate a literal contract with the devil, discovering that the price of popularity is higher than anyone realized.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.
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