Set in the mysterious, and seemingly time-trapped South, “Beautiful Creatures” by Kami Garcia and Margaret Stohl test the boundaries of good and evil.

After the death of his mother and his father’s withdrawal, Ethan Wate’s life could not feel any more pitiful. Everything changes, however, when Lena Duchannes comes to town. As the niece of the town’s “Boo Radley,” Lena is looked down upon.

Like everyone else in Gatlin, South Carolina, Ethan refuses to become friends with her. Yet, there is something that draws him to her that he cannot deny. Their lives soon become intertwined as they share puzzling dreams and the ability to communicate through each other’s thoughts.

Through the shroud of mystery and secrecy, Ethan discovers that Lena is a caster, a being similar to a witch. Lena has six months until her sixteenth birthday when she will be claimed by either the dark or light. Their love is tested as she resists turning evil and struggles to control her quickly growing powers. Together they face the ominous future and the question of whether they will lose each other in the end.

“Beautiful Creatures” is original and fast-paced. Although the novel is told from Ethan’s perspective, the reader is able to get a good feel for each character. All the characters are fascinating and well developed, which makes the read enjoyable. The magical world that Garcia and Stohl have created lies beneath the surface of the mortal world, making it realistic and believable. The writing is masterly crafted, with typical teenage language, yet lyrical at times.

This novel is a great read for those who enjoy paranormal romance with a touch of Civil War intrigue. “Beautiful Creatures” is recommended for older teens.