The Connelly Boys

September 1, 2020

Gr 8 Up-Scarlet lost her mother to cancer a few months earlier and now she has moved to Ireland to live with the father she barely knows. She is drawn to the four Connelly brothers, especially the oldest, Jack. There are rumors about the Connelly family; that they are descended from a witch who was burned and that Jack has his own curse. When Scarlet somehow banishes a demon that was attacking Jack, she begins to discover that she may have some magical powers of her own. After her father is attacked, Scarlet and the Connelly boys must team up and try to save him. In this audio edition of the first book in the "Celtic Witches" series, listeners will learn about some folklore and traditions while uncovering truths about the characters. There is a fantasy aspect throughout, yet listeners will also feel the adventure that fills in the rest of the story. Velez has crafted characters that are multifaceted and easy to root for. Piper Goodeve's narration is wonderfuls. VERDICT A strong addition to any high school or public library collection.-Elizabeth Kenyon, Merrillville H.S., IN

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