HIT ME WITH YOUR BEST CHARM

A teen ventures into the woods in search of her missing father.

Seventeen-year-old Nova Marwood’s father disappeared in the Longing Woods near Prior’s End seven years ago, but she’s never given up on him and has secretly searched the woods for clues. Following her psychic friend Aurora’s advice, Nova’s mother begins to accept his death and plans to have him legally declared dead. Nova goes to Madame Aurora’s fortune-telling tent at the Fall Festival, planning to discredit her as a fraud, but finding it empty, she fools around with Aurora’s crystal ball—and accidentally curses her friend Kiara Mistry. Everyone Nova develops a crush on falls for Kiara instead, and Nova can understand why—she’s irresistible. When Kiara and friends plan an excursion into the woods seeking the rumored wishing well that can undo the curse, Nova joins them, swearing to help but planning to save her father instead. Strange things happen in the woods even as Nova learns more about the others and grows closer to Kiara. The explorations of ancestry, family, truth, and grief add realism, balancing the paranormal setting and shenanigans that feel ideal for younger YA readers. Nova’s bond with her father, shown through her memories, shines, and the inevitable romance between Nova and Kiara is sweet. Despite the intriguing setup and strong pacing, the ending is rushed, and the resolution feels too easy and pat. Nova reads white, and names cue ethnic diversity in the supporting cast.

Spookily entertaining but ultimately disappointing.