'These Witches Don't Burn' by Isabel Sterling is a young adult novel set in modern-day Salem, Massachusetts, following the story of a seventeen-year-old witch named Hannah who must navigate her complicated romantic relationships while dealing with the dark and dangerous world of witches. The book features a mix of light romance, magical realism, and a pinch of historical fantasy, offering a fast-paced and slightly predictable but enjoyable read. The story revolves around Hannah and her fellow witches as they face supernatural crises, ex-girlfriend drama, and mysterious threats, all while exploring themes of love, magic, and the complexities of balancing everyday life with the supernatural.
The writing style of 'These Witches Don't Burn' is engaging and immersive, with well-developed characters and a strong focus on emotional depth and character dynamics. The book delves into themes of LGBTQ representation, diverse relationships, and the struggles of young witches in a modern setting, creating a story that blends elements of action, romance, and mystery to keep readers hooked until the very end.
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Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings
Content warnings include abusive relationships, gaslighting, non-consensual kiss, parental abuse, and the death of a parent.
Has Romance?
There is a significant romantic element in the story, especially focusing on LGBTQ+ relationships.
From The Publisher:
"Infused with page-turning suspense, bittersweet romance, shocking twists, and tragic turns, Sterling has written a standout debut." -Dana Mele, author of People Like Us
Hannah's a witch, but not the kind you're thinking of. She's the real deal, an Elemental with the power to control fire, earth, water, and air. But even though she lives in Salem, Massachusetts, her magic is a secret she has to keep to herself. If she's ever caught using it in front of a Reg (read: non-witch), she could lose it. For good. So, Hannah spends most of her time avoiding her ex-girlfriend (and fellow Elemental Witch) Veronica, hanging out with her best friend, and working at the Fly by Night Cauldron selling candles and crystals to tourists, goths, and local Wiccans.
But dealing with her ex is the least of Hannah's concerns when a terrifying blood ritual interrupts the end-of-school-year bonfire. Evidence of dark magic begins to appear all over Salem, and Hannah's sure it's the work of a deadly Blood Witch. The issue is, her coven is less than convinced, forcing Hannah to team up with the last person she wants to see: Veronica.
While the pair attempt to smoke out the Blood Witch at a house party, Hannah meets Morgan, a cute new ballerina in town. But trying to date amid a supernatural crisis is easier said than done, and Hannah will have to test the limits of her power if she's going to save her coven and get the girl, especially when the attacks on Salem's witches become deadlier by the day.
Isabel Sterling's delightful, suspenseful debut is equal parts sweet romance and thrilling mystery. With everything she loves on the line, Hannah must confront this murderous villain before her coven-and any chance she has with the new girl-is destroyed.
Ratings (12)
Incredible (2) | |
Loved It (3) | |
Liked It (6) | |
It Was OK (1) |
Reader Stats (34):
Read It (12) | |
Want To Read (18) | |
Did Not Finish (2) | |
Not Interested (2) |
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These Witches Don't Burn?
About the Author:
Isabel Sterling is an LGBTQ advocate, dog mom, and author of These Witches Don't Burn, This Coven Won't Break, and This Spell Can't Last. When she's not writing, Isabel can be found crocheting projects she'll never finish, completing crosswords with her wife, and…
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