This is another lovely book from the folks at Unplugged. It was the second book I got from them, and the second I’ve read, and the second I’ve been completely blown away by. 

When Hayden turns 18, she’s called to her family lawyer’s office. There, she learns that she has inherited her mother’s house under three specific conditions; she has to look for the gifts left for her there, the gifts must be used to destroy her mother’s darkest secret, and Hayden mustn’t trust anyone, especially the ravens. 

If becoming old enough to legally buy cigarettes, vote, and gamble isn’t enough, imagine owning a house! Now factor in the fact that you haven’t been to the house in 10 years (since you’re mother disappeared), and you’ve got Hayden’s situation. So Hayden and her roommate Del go to Promise, Colorado for spring break, in hopes of figuring out what to do with Hayden’s inheritance. 

Once they hit Promise, things really amp up. Hayden learns about a coven-like group that seems pretty intent on telling her all about her mother, and the “gifts” that were left for her are beyond haunting. It’s a bit spooky, but mostly just full of mystery and thrill as Hayden tries to find out who – and what she is. 

This book was beyond incredible. It’s beautifully written, with some actual historical references, and a lot of really cool witch vibes. It may not be a good choice if you’re in a cabin in the woods, but for those of us comfy in our beds, it’s a must-read. I fell in love with Hayden immediately; she’s powerful and independent, but struggling with mental health stuff. It’s difficult, but promising. I also love her relationship with her roommate, Del. It’s something that you dream of having with a friend, and while I have a couple friends like Del, I haven’t lived with any of them. 

I adored reading What the Woods Keep, and I can not recommend it enough. But make sure you have time to read towards the end; this book becomes magnetic and needs to be read!