Mean Girls meet The Craft in this contemporary retelling. #WitchesBeBitches Lucas and Melrose survived their not-so-fairy-tale childhood and are now trying to live a normal life. But the teens' dark past is summoned after three new girls arrive at their high school with a wicked agenda. Soon the siblings are lured back into the world of magic where evil witches can distort reality. They must uncover the deception before all the ingredients for a deadly potion are gathered. Or this time, there may be no escape.
Assessment:
Plot/Idea: Potion is a straightforward story that, for all its magical content, conveys a heartfelt message about belonging and the power of personal strength to do what’s right. Vann integrates romance into the fantasy storyline, lending it a sweet angle that deepens the plot.
Prose: Vann writes in a charismatic and familiar style that immediately endears readers to the story. There are minor bumps when chapters alternate between different viewpoints, but the relatable prose helps gloss over any rough transitions.
Originality: Potion draws from common young adult conflicts and gives them a fantasy spin to create a pleasant balance of tension and entertainment.
Character Development/Execution: Lucas is well-defined and authentic, while Melrose fades into the background against the energy of the story’s villains. Star’s transformation is slow in coming, but touching to watch when it finally arrives.
Date Submitted: May 05, 2022
