Murder Under Redwood Moon by Sherril Dodd is set in the small, secluded community of Boulder Creek, nestled in the coastal Santa Cruz Mountains and is home to Arista Kelly, a young witch whose powers are still developing.
Fifteen years earlier, when it was discovered that Arista, at just eight years-old, was in mortal danger from her own uncle, her desperate parents sought the help of her great-aunt Bethie.
Separated from her parents under mysterious circumstances, at such a young age, she has forgotten why she was so cruelly separated from her loving parents. Until the age of twenty-three, she has benefited from the nurturing and teachings of her Auntie Bethie and has enjoyed a peaceful and gentle life.
When young women who share Arista’s general physical description start disappearing, her aunt grows worried. This concern is heightened by the disturbing visions Arista experiences—each one more terrifying than the last.
Arista comes from a long line of empathic and sensitive people. Her family believes she has the potential to become the most powerful of them all—but her Uncle Fergus, a warlock who practices dark magick wants to take her power… if he can find her.
The young witch enjoys the support of her great-aunt, a strong network of friends, and her best friend, turned sweetheart, Shane. But will all the safety precautions she and her great-aunt have put in place be enough to protect her from the dark forces her uncle unleashes?
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It has a solid plot with just the right blend of mystery and the supernatural. While suitable for young adults, it is equally engaging for readers eighteen and older.
The ending was satisfying, with the author cleverly raising enough questions and foreshadowing future dangers for the young psychic—perfectly positioning us to be eager for the next book in the series.
The book was beautifully edited, and the language is simple yet elegant. I rate this book 5 out of 5.