CHARMED

Los Angeles teen witch Indigo returns in this follow-up to Hexed (2014), honing her magic skills rapidly as she uncovers information about Los Demonios, an other-dimensional prison used by both the Family, a society of witches and warlocks, and their sworn enemies, the Priory, who are sorcerers.

Picking up just weeks after the events of the first novel, Indie has returned home from her warlock boyfriend Bishop’s house. Though panicked about her friend Paige’s whereabouts since she was kidnapped by a sorcerer, she’s still expected by her aunt and legal guardian, Penny, to attend high school and abide by house rules. Swift pacing moves the action along quickly, and the emotional drama between Indigo and her aunt is convincing and provides balance. Romance fans will find Bishop and Indie’s chemistry swoon-worthy, though descriptions of his tangled hair, tattoos, and leather jacket feel repetitive. A romantic subplot involving Indigo’s attraction to Cruz, another guy who helps her in Los Demonios, resolves abruptly, feeling tacked on rather than integral to the story. Still, Krys’ ear for the good quip continues to please: “Sorry I took so long. Dude just wouldn’t die.”

Snappy dialogue, a satisfyingly epic battle, and unexpected heroes make for a conclusion that will satisfy readers of the first installment