Awakening Magic by Neely Powell

Awakening Magic by Neely Powell is a paranormal story, with a touch of romance, about a family of witches that have carved out a safe haven for themselves and others like them in north Georgia.  When an old enemy returns to their normally quite community they must use their strength as a family unit to protect and save the ones they love.

Brenna Burns, one of the Connelly coven witches, has recently returned to New Mourne after spending several years in Atlanta. She is not the only entity that has returned to the small town. You see, every generation a Woman in White demands a sacrifice of one of the coven’s own as a tribute. As a precursor to the sacrifice of one of the Connelly witches an evil settles over the town causing death and destruction.

Things appear to be different this time when Garth, the local sheriff, is killed by the Woman in White. She has always only demanded a Connelly witch. Unfortunately, none of the Connelly witches know for sure because pieces of their family book of magic and history are missing. Jake, a deputy and shape shifter, takes over the duties of Sheriff and joins the Connelly women to find a way to end the deaths. He discovers the Connelly women are not as united a front as everyone believes. It will be left to Brenna to find the missing pieces of the book and bring the family unit together to defeat this evil once and for all.

This is an excellent story about strong women and family bonds that just happens to include various paranormal elements. The plot has multiple twists that are unexpected and a lot of diverse characters. It made for a quick read. I also liked the romance between Jake and Brenna, though mostly in the background, it fitted in nicely with the story line.

I can easily say this book would make a great beach read. I recommend Awakening Magic to people who like paranormal stories and stories with an emphasis on family relationships.

I received a free copy in exchange for my honest review.