Eleven houses

This fresh, atmospheric paranormal romance from the author of The Black Coats (2019) follows Mabel, a teen living on the haunted, isolated island of Weymouth, in Nova Scotia. Eleven founding families reside in the houses on the island and have for generations. Mabel and the other teens in the novel are preparing for the Storm, a once-in-a-decade natural disaster that brings not only a hurricane but also a dangerous portal between the living and the dead, so when the handsome, mysterious Miles enters the picture, Mabel's attraction to him feels risky. The island setting is a character of its own, with distinct world building and enticing backstory about the troubled history among the families, but the characters make it special, as the residents come up with schemes to protect themselves from the Storm. The powerful chemistry between Miles and Mabel drives much of the plot, as she learns about him and his secrets. But can she guard her own heart? An engaging story about survival, romance, and the importance of breaking from damaging traditions.

The residents of Weymouth Island have a secret. Hidden off the coast of Nova Scotia, their island is a gateway between the living and the dead. Roughly every decade, the Storm comes, bringing the dead up from the ocean. They're drawn to the foundation stones of each of the eleven houses of the island's families: Cabot, Beuvry, McLeod, Gillis, Nickerson, Pope, Pelletier, Des Roches, Bodhmall, Grimes, and Mintus. The dead attempt to reach the mainland, but the family members prepare by laying traps. Seventeen-year-old Mabel Beuvry knows the Storm's danger; the last one killed her father. Her mother turned to alcohol, and her younger sister became agoraphobic. Now, Mabel and her House Guardian, Jeff, care for their estate. The arrival of Miles Cabot is a bright spot--he and Mabel feel an instant, almost mystical, connection. But the island's inhabitants fear their attachment, blaming Miles for changes they sense, and rumors swirl of an impending Great Storm. Oakes' swoony, gothic tale blending elements of White Walkers andThe Fog features an original history that vividly breathes life into Weymouth. Historical journal entries explain the island's rituals and beliefs, and a surprise twist and action-packed fight scenes against the dead keep the suspense alive. Most characters are white, the Nickersons are the island's only Black family, and Miles is described as having generically "Asian heritage." A robust plot and worldbuilding makes for an engaging, atmospheric read. (map, list of Storm years, list of houses)(Fantasy. 14-18) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.