Shadow Hills by Anastasia Hopcus

Ever since her sister’s strange death, Phe Archer has suffered from a series of disturbing nightmares. Phe isn’t sure how these terrifying dreams are related to her sister or herself, but she’s determined to find out. With few clues to aid her, Phe decides to enroll in Devenish Prep in Shadow Hills, Massachusetts—the subject of her sister’s last diary entry. Upon arrival, Phe senses that there’s something really strange about the town, and it’s only partly the creepy hidden cemetery and the strange things all the “townies” can do. There is something deeply wrong with the town of Shadow Hills, and Phe is determined to find out what, even if it means risking her own life.

Shadow Hills is an enthralling story sure to please all fans of the paranormal. It is very heavily hinted from the beginning of the book that there is something supernatural is at work, and thus, it’s not very surprising to anyone but protagonist Phe when it does. In this constantly growing genre, it is difficult for any novel to be truly original, but I’d say that Hopcus manages to come remarkably close. I think this is because while the mysteries of Shadow Hills are rooted in science, Phe’s own strange powers are more mystical. It’s always a little strange to see science and the supernatural combined, but it works surprisingly well in Shadow Hills. This, in turn, contributes to a thrilling and action packed story sure to engage most readers.

Shadow Hills will be enjoyed by fans of Sisters of Misery by Megan Kelley , Firespell by Chloe Neill, The Dark Divine by Bree Despain, and Guardian of the Dead by Karen Healey.

Rating: 4.25

Review copy from publisher EgmontUSA