For the teen grappling with a newfound, powerful identity and the fear of what that might mean for their relationships and safety. It explores self-discovery amidst supernatural danger.
A parent might reach for this book when their teen is navigating a new, powerful part of their identity and feels isolated or afraid of how it will change their life. "Witch Rising" follows sixteen-year-old Izzy, who is training to use her newfound witch powers while battling a growing evil that threatens her town. The story masterfully blends supernatural battles with the relatable struggles of high school: shifting friendships, secrets, and a complicated new romance. It's a strong metaphor for accepting responsibility and finding your strength, exploring themes of trust, self-confidence, and the blurry line between good and evil. For teens 13 and up who love fantasy and mystery, it provides a thrilling escape while normalizing the fear and uncertainty that come with self-discovery.
Descriptions of monsters, dark magic, and threatening situations can be frightening for some readers.
Character DeathMild
Some secondary characters are killed by magical forces, but the events are not graphically detailed.
Romantic ContentMild
The story includes a love triangle, romantic tension, and some kissing.
Moral AmbiguityModerate
The lines between good and evil are deliberately blurred, challenging simple definitions and forcing choices.
Sensitive Topics
The central theme is good vs. evil, but it is presented with significant moral ambiguity. The narrative encourages questioning history and motivations, suggesting that evil can have understandable origins. The approach is metaphorical and secular, exploring internal struggles with power and temptation. Peril and character death are present but handled within a fantasy context. The resolution is hopeful for the main character's personal growth but ends on a significant cliffhanger, leading into the next book.
Ideal Reader
A teen, aged 13-16, who feels like they are keeping a secret or have a part of themselves they cannot share. They may feel overwhelmed by new expectations and enjoy fantasy worlds with complex characters and moral questions, similar to fans of "The Chilling Adventures of Sabrina" or "The Mortal Instruments."
Parent Prep
No specific pages need previewing for a mature teen reader, but parents should be aware of fantasy violence, scary scenes with monsters, and a romantic subplot. Starting with the first book in the series, "The Belles," is highly recommended for context, as this is a direct sequel. The parent hears their teen say something like, "I feel like no one understands what I'm going through," or "What if I mess this up? It feels like too much pressure." The parent may observe their teen withdrawing while grappling with a new role or identity.
Age Experience
A younger teen (13-14) will likely focus on the action, the mystery, and the romantic triangle. An older teen (15-18) may connect more deeply with the themes of moral ambiguity, the burden of leadership, and the importance of questioning authority and inherited beliefs.
What Makes It Special
Unlike many "chosen one" stories where the path is clear, this book excels at exploring the protagonist's fear of her own power and its potential for corruption. The focus is less on mastering magic and more on mastering oneself, wrapped in a compelling mystery about the true nature of good and evil.
Read plot summary
In this sequel to "The Belles," Izzy is a newly discovered Belle (a witch of light) struggling to control her powers while a sinister force known as the Darkness grows stronger in her town of Anchor Beach. When a powerful new boy, Tor, arrives with a connection to the Darkness, Izzy must navigate shifting allegiances, uncover secrets about her family's past, and decide who to trust. The plot balances magical training and battles against dark forces with the relatable pressures of high school, evolving friendships, and romantic tension.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.
Discussion Prompts
1
Tor is a complicated character who is not purely good or evil. Do you think Izzy was right to trust him? When is it okay to trust someone even when others warn you not to?
2
Izzy fears her own power, worrying that it could be used for darkness. Have you ever felt scared of a new skill or responsibility? How did Izzy's feelings compare to your own experience?
3
The Belles and the Darkness have a long, complicated history. How did learning more about the past change the way Izzy viewed her role? Why is it important to question the stories we are told by our elders?
4
Izzy has to keep her identity a secret from most people, including her friend Chloe. How does this secret affect their friendship? Do you think Izzy is right to keep it from her?
