Twelve-year-old Marigold Lafleur is the last of a long line of aromages: witches who blend scents into practical charms using aromagic. But ever since a terrible accident injured her father and damaged Luna Island, Marigold and her sisters, Birdie and Lou, have vowed to abandon their family legacy and mama’s way of life. Shunned by their neighbors and overlooked by their parents, Marigold relies on her big sisters above all else.

But when Marigold discovers a secret curse that threatens her family, her sisters can’t stop the impending danger. It’s up to Marigold and her best friend, Sam, to uncover the origins of the curse and break the spell. To do so, she must learn to trust her instincts and believe in her own unique magic or risk losing her beloved sisters forever.

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The cover makes it look like the sisters are one big happy trio of siblings. Not so fast. Birdie is moving out despite promising otherwise and Lou is always in a bad mood. The youngest, Marigold, fears the effects of a long ago curse is the cause and she must do whatever it takes to bring them back together again. Mom isn’t much help as she stays away from the conflict by cooking up more aromagic smells to help other families. The results are not always good.

Luna Island fits well as the setting for the magical mystery going on here.The third person narration stays with Marigold as she gets help from Sam to assist with ways to break the curse. Nothing seems to work. With Sam grounded for his part in the sleuthing, Marigold has to go it alone and reclaim the bond she’d always had with her sisters.

Each chapter begins with how a particular scent can help those in need, like this one—Spearmint will heal indigestion and a poor reputation. An enticing way to set up the upcoming scenes.

It’s really the mystery component that will have you guessing throughout and surprised by the outcome. The length might scare away a few young readers but those who like a family story with magical twists will enjoy the time spent on this island.

BOOK BIRTHDAY: April 12, 2022 PAGE COUNT: 336

FIVE MORE THINGS TO LIKE ABOUT: THE SISTERS OF LUNA ISLAND by Stacy Hackney

1. Sam is the greatest friend anyone could hope for. He’s faithful, supportive, and always there when needed. He’s the role model for how to be a best friend.
2. Middle school serves as the setup for much of the drama. It’s a true look at the various personalities and behaviors of this age group.
3. Using the various smells as the magic impetus is unique in these type of books. It provided added depth.
4. Despite the impending doom of the plot there are some heartwarming messages about friendships and family. I also loved that ending!
5. You really connect with Marigold and her character arc. She’s the real star of this show.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Stacy Hackney grew up in Virginia where she spent her early years forcing the neighborhood kids into performing plays she wrote, reading everything she could get her hands on, and singing in the school choir. She graduated from Wake Forest University with a BA in English literature and received a JD from the University of Virginia School of Law. She currently lives in Richmond, Virginia, with her husband, four sons, and their rescue dog named Albert. Stacy is the author of Forever Glimmer Creek and Sisters of Luna Island. Learn more at StacyHackney.com.

(Included on Stacy’s site is a well done reader’s discussion guide to the story)

I received a copy of the book to create this review. Comments are welcome below!