Looking for a YA novel that combines magic, mystery, and compelling character development? These Witches Don’t Burn by Isabel Sterling delivers just that, and in this review, we’ll break it all down.
Rating
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ (4/5)
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Bookish Essentials
Genre: Young Adult / Fantasy / Magic / Coming-of-Age
Series: Book 1 of These Witches Don’t Burn (2 Books)
Reading Age: 14+
Published: 2020
Pages: 336
Reading Order: 1) These Witches Don’t Burn, 2) This Coven Won’t Break
Read These Witches Don’t Burn by Isabel Sterling Now or Eventually?
Read this witchy YA novel now if you’re craving a fun, fast-paced magical mystery with heart and sass. Perfect for a weekend binge or an easy weeknight escape.
From the Jacket of These Witches Don’t Burn
“Sterling’s rich, magical world dazzles readers with its fantastic intricacies.” —Richelle Mead, #1 international bestselling author of Vampire Academy and The Glittering Court series
Hannah’s a witch, but not the kind you’re thinking of. She’s the real deal, an Elemental with the power to control fire, earth, water, and air. But even though she lives in Salem, Massachusetts, her magic is a secret she has to keep to herself. If she’s ever caught using it in front of a Reg (non-witch), she could lose it. For good. So, Hannah spends most of her time avoiding her ex-girlfriend (and fellow Elemental Witch) Veronica, hanging out with her best friend, and working at the Fly by Night Cauldron selling candles and crystals to tourists, goths, and local Wiccans.
But when a terrifying blood ritual interrupts the end-of-school-year bonfire and evidence of dark magic begins to appear all over Salem, Hannah’s sure it’s the work of a deadly Blood Witch. However her coven seems less than convinced, forcing Hannah to team up with the last person she wants to see: Veronica. With everything she loves on the line, Hannah will have to test the limits of her power if she’s going to save her coven.
“Infused with page-turning suspense, bittersweet romance, shocking twists, and tragic turns, Sterling has written a standout debut.” —Dana Mele, author of People Like Us
Always Eventually Review
These Witches Don’t Burn by Isabel Sterling is a fast-paced, fun, and emotionally grounded YA fantasy that delivers both magic and meaning. With a fully developed magical world and a strong, relatable protagonist, this book stands out as a compelling read for fans of witchy, character-driven stories.
From the start, the world-building shines. Sterling has crafted a reality where witches walk among us. Magic isn’t just tossed in for flair—it has rules and consequences, which lends authenticity to the story. Hannah, our protagonist, is part of an elemental coven in Salem, Massachusetts, and the city’s magical undercurrent adds flavor to every page.
The book’s emotional depth is just as strong. Hannah is recovering from a toxic relationship with her ex-girlfriend, Veronica, and it’s refreshing to see a teen heroine navigating trauma with honesty and strength. Sterling doesn’t shy away from showing Hannah’s internal struggle as she mourns the relationship while learning to stand her ground and open herself to new love.
A fun whodunnit thread runs through the book, keeping the stakes high and the pages turning. Someone is targeting Hannah’s coven, and the mystery unfolds with enough twists to keep readers guessing. The pacing is excellent—especially for busy readers looking for a book that hooks quickly and never drags.
There are plenty of lively, interesting characters throughout. And while some criticism has surfaced online about underdeveloped side characters, I didn’t find this detracted from the story. Not every character needs a detailed backstory in a fast-moving, first-person narrative like this one. In fact, the varying depth adds to the novel’s sense of mystery.
Now for a few small critiques. Referring to non-magic users as “Regs” felt overly slangy, though it’s a minor quibble. A more notable moment comes when Hannah, who is being stalked by someone dangerous, heads into the woods with a potential love interest. The decision made sense in the context of teenage impulsiveness, and the author addresses it, but it made Hannah seem careless in a way that temporarily took me out of the story.
There’s also the curious contradiction of her working in a magic-themed store (Fly By Night Cauldron) while simultaneously trying to hide her true identity. It raises questions about how secrecy works in this world, but not enough to detract from the overall experience.
Despite those nits, These Witches Don’t Burn is a standout novel. The dialog is prominent, but never overdone. Sterling expertly balances Hannah’s inner voice with narration and action to create an immersive experience. The story’s suspense and heart make it a genuine page-turner.
Final Verdict: A suspenseful, witchy read with heart and heat. Highly recommended for fans of YA fantasy with LGBTQ+ rep, mystery, and strong emotional arcs.
If You Liked Isabel Sterling’s These Witches Don’t Burn, Try
- The Bone Charmer, by Breeana Shields
- The Secret Circle, by L. J. Smith
- The Witch’s Kiss, by Katherin & Elizabeth Corr
Thanks for stopping by!
Love stories with heart and magic? Check out my novel, Forgotten Cove, the first book in the Hailing Cove series by T.G. Elsher.
Elle Wildes was a normal teenage girl. Or at least she thought she was until her mother sent her to her grandma’s house in Hailing Cove. Anticipating a boring summer, Elle’s world is turned upside down when she realizes the sleepy coastal town holds its own mysteries and those from her past as well.
When Elle’s forgotten memories come back to haunt her, she discovers the secrets of her family’s lineage and the responsibilities that come with it. But with two dreamy guys vying for her attention, she is taken on a roller coaster ride of heartache and betrayal as she discovers her identity in an unknown magical town.
Reader Praise
What can I say about T.G. Elsher’s debut novel, Forgotten Cove? Elsher is a gifted storyteller who immerses readers in the enchanting world of Hailing Cove, where witchcraft and magic blend seamlessly with a cast of loveable, deeply human characters. Elle Wildes, the relatable protagonist, navigates her powers, friendships, and heartbreak with authenticity that pulls at your heartstrings. The book masterfully combines mystery, romance, and coming-of-age themes, keeping me hooked from the first page to the last. The emotional climax, written with breathtaking beauty, moved me to tears. T.G. Elsher may well be this generation’s L.J. Smith, creating stories that are both magical and profoundly moving. I truly couldn’t get enough!
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