"The Wicked Deep" by Shea Ernshaw is a young adult novel that combines elements of mystery, romance, and the supernatural to create a chilling and atmospheric story. Set in the small town of Sparrow, Oregon, the novel follows the lives of three sisters who were drowned as witches in the town's harbor two centuries ago. Every summer, the sisters return from the dead to seek revenge on the descendants of the townspeople who condemned them. The story centers around Penny, a local girl who is drawn to a newcomer in town, Bo, who has a mysterious connection to the sisters and their curse. Ernshaw's writing is lush and descriptive, creating a vivid and eerie atmosphere that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. The novel explores themes of revenge, forgiveness, and the power of curses, while also delving into the complex relationships between the characters. One of the strengths of "The Wicked Deep" is its unique and intriguing premise, which is sure to captivate readers from the very beginning. The novel also features a diverse cast of characters, including a non-binary character, which adds depth and richness to the story. While the novel is marketed towards young adults, its complex themes and atmospheric writing make it a great read for anyone who enjoys a good ghost story or a tale of revenge. Fans of authors like Maggie Stiefvater and Nova Ren Suma are sure to enjoy "The Wicked Deep." Overall, "The Wicked Deep" is a haunting and beautifully written novel that will leave readers questioning the power of curses and the consequences of revenge. It is a must-read for fans of young adult fiction and anyone looking for a chilling and atmospheric story.
Maggie Stiefvater
The Scorpio Races
This book shares the eerie, magical realism found in 'The Wicked Deep'. Both books feature a small, isolated community with a dark secret that puts the protagonists in danger. In 'The Scorpio Races', the secret revolves around mythical water horses that rise from the sea every year, and the deadly race that takes place on the beach.
Learn MoreV.E. Schwab
The Near Witch
This novel by Victoria (V.E.) Schwab shares the haunting, atmospheric tone of 'The Wicked Deep'. Both books take place in small, isolated communities where the line between the natural and supernatural worlds is blurred. In 'The Near Witch', a young girl named Lexi must uncover the truth about a mysterious stranger who has arrived in her village.
Learn MoreBrenna Yovanoff
The Replacement
This novel shares the dark, eerie tone of 'The Wicked Deep'. In 'The Replacement', Mackie Doyle is a replacement - a changeling left in place of a human child by the fae. When Mackie's younger sister is kidnapped by the fae, he must venture into their world to save her. The supernatural elements and haunting atmosphere will appeal to fans of 'The Wicked Deep'.
Learn MoreHolly Black
The Coldest Girl in Coldtown
This book shares the dark, supernatural elements of 'The Wicked Deep'. In 'The Coldest Girl in Coldtown', Tana wakes up after a party to find her ex-boyfriend and his entire family turned into vampires. She must navigate the dangerous world of Coldtown, a quarantined city for vampires and those who seek them out. The supernatural themes and dark atmosphere will appeal to fans of 'The Wicked Deep'.
Learn MoreHolly Black
The Darkest Part of the Forest
This novel shares the dark, supernatural elements of 'The Wicked Deep'. In 'The Darkest Part of the Forest', a small town is home to a horned boy who has been trapped in a glass coffin for years. When Hazel and her brother Jesse discover the coffin, they unleash a series of events that threaten to destroy their world. The supernatural themes and dark atmosphere will appeal to fans of 'The Wicked Deep'.
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