Hallowmere series proves haunting, unforgettable

 I first stumbled upon the Hallowmere series by Tiffany Trent at my friendly Books-A-Million a couple of weeks ago, and when I read the author information, I decided immediately to purchase the first two books. You see, finding another YA author who grew up in Southern Appalachia makes me happy, so I thought I would check out the books. Much to my delight, I am enjoying every word, as I have read the first three and plan to read the rest this summer. I was hooked  by the first book in the series, In the Serpent’s Coils, as it is filled with mystery, magic, and a wide variety of characters.

Set in 1865, Corrine has just lost her father, a soldier, and her mother, a nurse, to the Civil War and is sent to live with her cold and callous Uncle William in Virginia. However, when she begins to hear strange voices coming from a Hawthorne bush in the yard, voices that bid her to steal a unique stone in her uncle’s study, Corrine is sent away to Falston Manor, a home for girls like Corrine–girls who have problems, girls who are unwanted by their families.

And the more Corrine tries to make the most of her experience at Falston, the worse things seem to become. First of all, there are the visions–dark dreams fortelling the disappearance of several girls, hallucinations of her lost father, and even ghosts of Civil War heroes. And let’s not forget the handsome and caring Rory, who seems to know the secrets behind Corrine’s suddenly altered behavior. But should she trust him? Should she trust anyone? 

In a dark tale of suspense, romance, and mystery, Trent captures the ancient power struggle between humans and faeries–and the vindictive, manipulative strategies of the dark Unhallowed. With a cast of characters ranging in ethnicity and upbringing, Trent also brings to life social, racial, and cultural issues that are still relevant to teens today. I promise that after you read In the Serpent’s Coils, it won’t be long before you rush out to read the second in the series, The Venom’s Sweet Sting. Trent’s characters, setting, and mysterious faeries will haunt your thoughts for days to come.