This was a really interesting read! Like Walton's prior book, this one involves generational threads with magic. In THE PRICE GUIDE TO THE OCCULT, we have a family, whose magic was lessened by the effects of a spell several generations ago, living on an isolated island. The spell is set to 'expire' with Nor, a teen girl traumatized by a mother who wanted everything and was willing to sacrifice anything, including her daughter, to have it.

The voice and setting are strong. You can really get the feel of being a local at a place where tourists flock seasonally, where the atmosphere always has a tinge of magic (and as the novel goes on, not always good magic). Like many young adults in small towns like Nor's island, Nor and her friends wonder about the future, if they'll always be on the island (which some would like, while others would feel trapped by) or who might leave (and not return). Nor left high school and got her GED, if I remember correctly, which was refreshing to see. Sometimes she and her best friend joke about homework, but Nor's decision is never looked down upon.