This book is ideal for middle-grade readers who loved Upside Down Magic and are ready for a more mature story. The story begins with Lavinia (Vin), who struggles to fit in at every magical school she attends. After being expelled once again, she’s sent to the Last Hope School for Magical Delinquents. There, Vin finally finds friends and the freedom to embrace her chaotic magic. But when mysterious attacks on students begin, Vin is quickly blamed. Can she and her friends uncover the real culprit before it’s too late?

This book weaves powerful messages for young readers through themes of magic, friendship, and self-acceptance. For anyone who’s ever felt like an outcast, Preto’s powerful message is that even amongst loneliness there is still hope in friendship and embracing who you truly are.

*Thank you to Nicki Pau Preto, ​​PENGUIN GROUP Penguin Young Readers Group | Viking Books for Young Readers and Netgalley for the ARC copy. I am freely leaving my honest review.