THE MIDWINTER WITCH by Molly Knox Ostertag
(Scholastic, November 2019)
Magic has a dark side…
Aster always looks forward to the Midwinter Festival, a reunion of the entire Vanissen family that includes competitions in witchery and shapeshifting. This year, he's especially excited to compete in the annual Jolrun tournament - as a witch. He's determined to show everyone that he's proud of who he is and what he's learned, but he knows it won't be easy to defy tradition.
Ariel has darker things on her mind than the Festival - like the mysterious witch who's been visiting her dreams, claiming to know the truth about Ariel's past. She appreciates everything the Vanissens have done for her. But Ariel still craves a place where she truly belongs.
The Festival is a whirlwind of excitement and activity, but for Aster and Ariel, nothing goes according to plan. When a powerful and sinister force invades the reunion, threatening to destroy everything the young witches have fought for, can they find the courage to fight it together? Or will dark magic tear them apart?
Select praise for THE MIDWINTER WITCH:
Booklist starred review: "The craftwork is on- point...with smooth pacing, endearing characters, gripping plots, and clean, colorful, expressive artwork."
Kirkus review: "This solid addition to the series should please fans and newcomers alike."
School Library Journal review: "A heartwarming, wintry adventure."