THE WINTER FROST

In this sequel to The Equinox Test (2024), three friends use their magical gifts to unravel a complicated plot to upend their world’s magical structure.

Amethyst has been feeling heartsick ever since her adoptive mother’s disappearance, an event that coincided with a student’s disappearance from the Brooklyn School of Magic. Her mother is also accused of stealing a wand, which is an “unthinkable crime.” Amethyst believes that her mother is trying to contact her, and she wants to try Heart Leading to find answers to her whereabouts—but to succeed, Amethyst needs to quiet her logical mind. Her friend Rose tries to help, but their fragile, newly mended friendship and different temperaments complicate the process. The night before she and Rose leave for a winter break visit in Chicago with their friend Lavender, Amethyst learns that her mother’s in danger. She enlists the assistance of Lav, Rose, and Rose’s older brother in her plan to save her mom. Against a backdrop of conflict between Land Walkers and Merfolk, Amethyst discovers a shocking secret about her mom. The characters’ relationships reflect tween friendship dynamics, and the kids accommodate each other’s growth and change. Amethyst and Rose’s relationship weathers upheaval, while Lav becomes more aware of his magical skills. The combination of action and humor gives the story strong reader appeal. Amethyst and Rose present as brown girls, and Lav reads white. Final art not seen.

A lively and absorbing exploration of identity and family told through a magical lens.