THE MONARCHS

Sorority witches confront consequences and reveal new truths in this follow-up to The Ravens (2020).

Life is (somewhat) back to normal at Westerly College after former coven member Tiffany went on a murderous rampage. Starting in the semester following the events of the previous book, Scarlett Winter and Vivi Devereaux are determined to leave the traumatic past behind them. Scarlett fills the position of Kappa Rho Nu president after her predecessor’s grisly death, and Vivi, though just a freshman, takes on the demanding role of social chair. Meanwhile, the Ravens grapple with squabbles with rival sororities, roller-coaster love lives, and hosting an important visit by alumnae (the titular Monarchs). Vivi also begins to unearth insights into her absent father, and Scarlett seeks to adjust Kappa traditions in order to avoid repeating previous mistakes. Conflicts surrounding interpersonal trust, reconnecting to one’s family, and a new aspect of this world’s original magic system are highlights, making sorority drama about one-upping their rivals through extravagant parties seem shallow in comparison. The first entry’s rapid pace continues here, however, with a storyline that never slows down before reaching a satisfying and tidy finish. Vivi is White; Scarlett is Black; and the rest of the cast includes a diverse array of ethnic and racial backgrounds.

Fans will certainly enjoy this duology closer.