A little Nazi side venture has created a handful of kids on the cusp of adulthood that have strange abilities, like invisibility, premonition, and fire. However, each miraculous person must carry a battery to power their ability. Think of it as a little handicap. Gretel is my favorite of this group as she is the most complex and curious I cant guess whose side shes on. Her brother Hans also has depth and I often felt he was a good person trapped in horrible role.

UK Warlocks negotiate with these other-worldly beings who have the power to alter our plain of existence, like the weather. However, these beings have to be paid in blood. Young Will, who recieved the basic Warlock training as a child, is recruited by Marsh, who works for the British war effort, to pull off some questionable counter-Nazi activities.

As the story unfolds, each side commits atrocities. I found myself thinking that the Germans were honest with themselves while the Brits felt the need to go with the ends justify the means. Interesting to have those two things side by side. The dark complexity of this novel drew me in and kept me on the edge of my seat. The ending set the book up perfectly for the sequel, having me wondering what Gretels plan is, how Marshs family will move forward, and will Will self-destruct.

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