Author: Rachel Hawkins
Format: e-ARC
Print Length: 304 pages
Publisher: Disney-Hyperion
Published: May 14, 2013
Fifteen-year-old Izzy Brannick was trained to fight monsters. For centuries, her family has hunted magical creatures. But when Izzy’s older sister vanishes without a trace while on a job, Izzy's mom decides they need to take a break.
Izzy and her mom move to a new town, but they soon discover it’s not as normal as it appears. A series of hauntings has been plaguing the local high school, and Izzy is determined to prove her worth and investigate. But assuming the guise of an average teenager is easier said than done. For a tough girl who's always been on her own, it’s strange to suddenly make friends and maybe even have a crush.
Can Izzy trust her new friends to help find the secret behind the hauntings before more people get hurt?
Rachel Hawkins' delightful spin-off brings the same wit and charm as theNew York Times best-selling Hex Hall series. Get ready for more magic, mystery and romance!
My Opinion
(Thank you Hyperion for sending me an e-ARC through NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review.)
Isolde and her momma are still grieving the loss of her sister. But Brannick’s aren’t given a holiday to grieve. After moving to a new town they discover a vengeful ghost is out for well… revenge. Can Izzy save the day before someone else gets hurts?
Izzy is a hilarious character to watch, having been home schooled her entire life. It was amusing to see her navigate the halls of high school, first dates and first crushes. Armed with only a TV series and the words of her almost friend Torrin, she sets out to do what she does best. Capture the paranormal baddie.
Izzy is someone you want as a friend. She is kind, smart and well she can beat up anyone who is bullying you. I enjoyed that she has the same self-esteem issues that other girls have but on a downscaled level.
There was not a lot of action in this book- which caused it to stall a little in the middle. Torin is a noteworthy character. He is supposed to be an evil warlock, but honestly he seemed more like a lovesick sidekick. I am hoping that his role will pick up more in the future books. The ending was a bit of a game changer. I would be interested in finding out how it plays out, if Hawkins were to write a sequel to this one.
Those that read this book expecting it to be like the Hex Hall Series are going to be disappointed. If on the other hand you read this book as a standalone book than you will be captivated.
My Rating 3.5 out of 5 stars
Favorite Quote “And quite frankly, I’m hoping the romance of Dexter and Isolde ends up with a lower body count.”
Other Characters
Dexter- new friend of Isolde, each other’s crush
Romy- Isolde’s bestie, head of the Paranormal Management Society
Anderson- member of the PMS
Torin- evil warlock trapped in Izzy’s mirror