It is nice, once in a while, to read a book where you can truly identify with the characters and/or the setting. Living in and near Salem, Massachusetts for almost two decades, I could easily visualize the setting of this novel. Of course, there are creative differences between the real Salem and this fictional one, but the tone and textures remain true to the inspiration.

The story is that of a typical (??!!) hereditary Witch family trying to find their feet after the death of the husband. The teen daughter wants to see her mother happy again, so, against advice given y those more experienced in the Arts Magickal, she decides to do a love spell to pair her mother with a man she thinks is perfect for her. Needless to say, things aren't always as they appear.

She recruits help from a young man who is completely unschooled in the ways of Witchcraft and Magick. But, he trusts her and is willing to learn. He does a little research on his own; makes a mistake or two along the way; and is, in all ways, a typical young teen male. He is also making adjustments in his life, having just moved from Pittsburg (a big city) to Salem (a small city).

The pacing is good. The characters are true-to-life. The situations are believable. The writing is smooth and enjoyable. And, on top of all that, there is just the right blend of mystical and mundane.

If you are looking for a good Yule gift for the young Pagan teen on your list, this is the book to pick up a copy of this book. I recommend it heartily.