BROKEN WISH

In a fantasy version of 19th-century Germany, a daughter tries to make amends for her mother’s past mistake.

Agnes Heinrich once promised friendship to her neighbor Mathilda, a rumored witch, in exchange for a fertility tonic. Fearful of community backlash, Agnes’ husband, Oskar, convinced Agnes to drop her end of the bargain and ignore Mathilda’s attempts to reach out. Years later, despite moving away, the Heinrichs suffer the consequence of Agnes’ broken promise. For every two fortuitous events that occur in the family, a tragedy is sure to follow. Sixteen-year-old Elva Heinrich discovers her mother’s old letters from Mathilda and decides to ask for Mathilda’s help to break the family curse. Elva has another reason to seek out their former neighbor: When Elva gazes at her own reflection, she catches a glimpse of events past and future. Her parents urge her to keep this ability hidden, but Elva believes that with Mathilda’s help, she can master her power. Elva’s receptive attitude toward magic sets her apart from the townsfolk, whose superstitious fears are the main source of conflict. Their cruel gossip and prejudice serve to highlight the book’s themes of trust and self-acceptance. Allusions to classic fairy tales and the folklore research of the Grimm Brothers add a touch of familiarity to the fictional setting. Characters are cued as White.

A promising series opener with an unexpected ending that will leave readers wanting more.