UNSPOKEN MAGIC

Cryptozoologists seek to expose a magical town’s secrets—if they can find any proof.

Spring break in Aldermere promises local Finley Barnes “a week’s worth of quiet.” But the arrival of a Society of North American Cryptid Chasers film crew sends the whole town into a frenzy. While the crew may themselves struggle to find magic, what if something magical finds them? First, Fin spots a horselike shadow in the forest outside her cottage. Then, her friend Cedar learns of big tracks with “human-ish toes.” A run-in with a baby Bigfoot catapults the mystery into full-on crisis: Can they keep the creature a secret from everyone and reunite her with her herd? Lloyd-Jones’ follow-up to Unseen Magic (2022) adds more depth to the cozy Northern California town’s lore while maintaining its airy fog of intrigue. Deliberate pacing allows for secondary characters’ backstories to get some time in the limelight. While Fin’s previously revealed trauma is far from gone, this sequel presents a Fin with better coping skills for her anxiety. The specters of climate change, forest fires, and rising housing costs ground the magic with some present-day realities. Most of the cast is White by default; Cedar is cued Mexican American. The ending hints at more adventures—and possibly cryptids—to come.

A second cup of enchantment best savored slowly.