Always a Witch

Gr 8 Up—Seventeen-year-old Tamsin Greene has finally found the Talent that her grandmother prophesied, yet her experiences still set her apart from her magical family. When sinister Alistair Knight from Once a Witch (Clarion, 2009) reappears, and Tamsin becomes aware that he has traveled back in time to destroy the Greenes, she must stop him. The danger increases exponentially when she becomes a maid to the powerful Knight family, the deadly magical enemies of the Greenes, in mid-19th-century New York City. In the process of trying to save her family, the teen is faced with the reality of her grandmother's prophecy and its life-changing implications for her and her Talent. Deft plotting and sinister characters and setting make for an enjoyable and gripping read, and a gentle romantic subplot adds to the appeal. Tamsin is an interesting and believable character, and the 19th-century figures are briefly but vividly drawn. Although this book will be most enjoyed by fans of the first title, MacCullough's prologue, judicious explanations in the body of the novel, and a satisfying ending will allow librarians to recommend it as a stand-alone novel.—Sue Giffard, Ethical Culture Fieldston School, New York City