11/01/2024
Gr 5 Up—In this series sequel, it is Abby Shepherd's 14th birthday. As familiar readers will know, she is a witch and part of a coven. Among all the changes happening in her life—a potential breakup and her mom buying a house in the middle of nowhere—she and her fellow witches now face the mystery surrounding the great New England Vampire Panic, which is an old folktale they learned from a book in the library. The town of Willow Cove is cursed, and someone (or something) is imprisoned in a tiny cell beneath Whispering Hill. Abby's ex-boyfriend Robbie's stepmom, who is also her mentor and coven leader, says the coven has been summoned to the council and a rite of passage will determine if they are to remain intact. Abby's coven has the circle of protection, but will it be enough to face their foes? Fantasy fans will enjoy these witch tales. Readers do not have to be familiar with the first entry, but those who have enjoyed book one will be pleased with this follow-up. VERDICT A pleasant second installment with plenty of action and scares.—Lisa Gieskes
