A fascinating book that captures your imagination for its entirety and then releases it to explore new thoughts and feelings, this is a wonderfully clever foray into the difficulties faced by young women on the cusp of adulthood. The story takes place in two time frames in one location, formally called Salem Village now Danvers in Massachusetts. We hear from two inhabitants; Ann in 1706 who makes a confession and Colleen in 2012, in her final year of school and under pressure to perform. The author encourages you to connect the two times, to feel the pain and confusion, to question and evaluate, however there is a twist of mystery in this tale and just as you think you are finding an answer, it swirls off in front of you again. Whilst fiction, Howe explains how her story links to true events in the authors note at the end. This is a fabulous re-imagining of ‘The Crucible’, full of suspense and tension, yet there is a warmth and compassion that makes this a read not to be missed by older teens. ~ Liz Robinson
| Primary Genre | Young Adult Fiction |
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