The Graces

Gr 9 Up—Local legend says that the Grace family are witches—able to bend the world around them to suit their purposes. River wants desperately to believe in their magic, to believe that Summer Grace could really become her best friend, that handsome Fenrin Grace might be attracted to her, and even that she could learn to control such gifts in herself. But as she comes to learn the family's secrets (and admit her own), unexpected death is the result, and now there's no way back. Or is there? Can the Graces be relied on to help her, or will they simply retreat, leaving her alone and desperate again? Although lacking the lush prose and historical backing of Maggie Stiefvater's work, this story will appeal to the same group of urban fantasy lovers. River's coming-of-age story as she learns she can't rely on others but must accept responsibility for her own actions will resonate with teens. Explicit language, multiple underage drinking scenes, and a short love scene make this title more appropriate for more mature readers.