Witch Eyes

June 1, 2011

A bewitching blend of paranormal romance and intrigue.

Braden's witch eyes enable him to see the world, unfiltered, as a mashup of memories and magic. He lives in seclusion while his uncle trains him to handle the sensory overload and physical toll of his impressive natural abilities. When a dark premonition spells doom for Uncle John, the signs compel Braden to seek answers in Belle Dam, a small town in Washington that is besieged by two feuding families of witches. While both sides would gladly use Braden as a weapon, he attempts to stay neutral and focused on unlocking the mysteries in his visions. Characters who withhold information are given internal justification and believable motives, making them more than merely plot devices. Unraveling everyone else's complicated secrets traps Braden into keeping some of his own, especially from love interest Trey. The two boys' palpable connection and fledgling relationship is balanced with the intrigue and interwoven seamlessly into the plot, resulting in a well-paced novel that takes advantage of every tension available. The story's climax is logical and earned, leading to a denouement filled with bittersweet consequences. 

Tracey's promising debut neither panders nor patronizes, trusting readers to solve Belle Dam's complex mysteries alongside a capable, self-assured hero. (Paranormal romance. 12 & up)

(COPYRIGHT (2011) KIRKUS REVIEWS/NIELSEN BUSINESS MEDIA, INC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.)

September 1, 2011

Gr 9 Up-Braden was given the gift of sight, a rare power that allows him to see and feel everything around him in its raw form. No distortions, lies, or spells can alter his vision but, like most abilities, his comes with a price-intense physical pain. Raised by his Uncle Jonathan, Braden has spent his whole life training and trying to master his gift. Unfortunately, his uncle refuses to shed any light on why he has this ability and what the future will bring. Then, a powerful vision convinces Braden that fleeing to Belle Dam will save his uncle's life and possibly give him the answers he seeks. But the town is embroiled in a feud between two powerful witch families that both want to use the teen for their own purposes. Staying neutral becomes difficult and knowing whom to trust even more so. Braden's gift seems to be the key to unraveling the secrets of the town, but are he and the residents capable of handling the truth? Tracey spins a clever paranormal story with lots of suspense and intrigue. The complex characters drive the plot and add to the perplexity and mystery. Braden is a likable and strong character whose romantic feelings for his father's enemy's son must withstand family secrets and deception. A satisfying read that will continue in the next installment.-Donna Rosenblum, Floral Park Memorial High School, NY

Copyright 2011 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.