About This Book
A parent would reach for this book when their teenager is grappling with the isolating effects of grief or feeling like an outsider in their own world. It is particularly resonant for teens who feel that their intense emotions or 'differences' are seen as problems to be fixed rather than strengths to be harnessed. Set in 1911 New York, the story follows Frances Hallowell, a young woman who is sent to a school for witches after a traumatic event. While the plot involves magic and mystery, the emotional core focuses on the heavy burden of losing a sibling and the moral complexity of seeking justice versus seeking revenge. This is a sophisticated historical fantasy that balances atmospheric world-building with serious themes of autonomy and self-discovery. Parents might choose it to help a teen navigate the 'grey areas' of growing up, where right and wrong aren't always clear and finding one's community requires discernment. The 1910s setting provides a safe distance to explore timeless issues of gender roles and societal expectations. It is best suited for mature readers aged 14 and up due to its darker tone and depictions of violence.
