These Witches Don't Burn

By: Isabel Sterling

Narrated by: Kristen DiMercurio

"Infused with page-turning suspense, bittersweet romance, shocking twists, and tragic turns, Sterling has written a standout debut." --Dana Mele, author of People Like Us

Hannah's a witch, but not the kind you're thinking of. She's the real deal, an Elemental with the power to control fire, earth, water, and air. But even though she lives in Salem, Massachusetts, her magic is a secret she has to keep to herself. If she's ever caught using it in front of a Reg (read: non-witch), she could lose it. For good. So, Hannah spends most of her time avoiding her ex-girlfriend (and fellow Elemental Witch) Veronica, hanging out with her best friend, and working at the Fly by Night Cauldron selling candles and crystals to tourists, goths, and local Wiccans.

But dealing with her ex is the least of Hannah's concerns when a terrifying blood ritual interrupts the end-of-school-year bonfire. Evidence of dark magic begins to appear all over Salem, and Hannah's sure it's the work of a deadly Blood Witch. The issue is, her coven is less than convinced, forcing Hannah to team up with the last person she wants to see: Veronica.

While the pair attempt to smoke out the Blood Witch at a house party, Hannah meets Morgan, a cute new ballerina in town. But trying to date amid a supernatural crisis is easier said than done, and Hannah will have to test the limits of her power if she's going to save her coven and get the girl, especially when the attacks on Salem's witches become deadlier by the day.

Isabel Sterling's delightful, suspenseful debut is equal parts sweet romance and thrilling mystery. With everything she loves on the line, Hannah must confront this murderous villain before her coven--and any chance she has with the new girl--is destroyed.

Critic reviews

Praise for These Witches Don't Burn

“Though this is not a coming-out story, Hannah’s proud lesbianism is prominent in this thoroughly entertaining mystery. With the presence of a fluffy romance and the promise of an action-packed sequel, readers will drink this one up.” —BCCB

"A quick, fun read with magic and light romance." —VOYA

“Propelled by suspenseful paranormal drama, Sterling’s debut also touches on deeper subject matter in its thoughtful depiction of the manipulative, potentially abusive relationship between Hannah and Veronica.” —Publishers Weekly

“Sterling’s rich, magical world dazzles readers with its fantastic intricacies. Suspense, romance, and wit go hand in hand, and the thrills run right up to the last page.” —Richelle Mead, #1 international bestselling author of The Glittering Court and Vampire Academy series

"An enchanting mystery, simmering with intrigue. Once you start These Witches Don't Burn, you'll be utterly spellbound." —Sarah Glenn Marsh, author of the Reign of the Fallen series

"These Witches Don’t Burn is an original, thrillingly romantic spin on the classic teen witch tale. Infused with page-turning suspense, bittersweet romance, shocking twists, and tragic turns, Sterling has written a standout debut. Never sentimental, often sweet, but unafraid to break your heart, the writing is as lovely, vibrant, and ruthless as its characters." —Dana Mele, author of People Like Us

"An enchanting debut from Isabel Sterling. I'd be in for the note-perfect f/f romance alone, but These Witches Don't Burn perfectly blends a fun teenage relationship story with a delightfully dark and twisty supernatural thriller. A lovely witchy book full of complicated girls and a world rich with queer characters. It'll leave you wanting a coven of your own." —Britta Lundin, author of Ship It and writer on Riverdale

"Sterling's debut meshes high magical stakes with the raw, real human emotions of broken hearts and new love, creating a book that's utterly bewitching in every way." —Dahlia Adler, author of Under the Lights

“A fun, fresh contemporary fantasy with one of the most endearing and authentic casts I've read. Complicated friendships, deeply relatable romantic entanglements, and Salem's long history make this book an unforgettable read.” —Katherine Locke, author of The Girl with the Red Balloon

awesome book

I haven't read a book in a year. I couldnt get into anything. this book was full of action and suspense

This is both an Author and a Narrator to follow.

Between the author's brilliant crafting of story to the narrator's moving and realistic delivery, once I started this book I wasn't able to stop until it was finished. The characters were well developed, the plot laid out thoughtfully and not overly predictably, and while I guessed the mystery correctly, I also wasn't entirely sure I was 100% right until the reveal.
The way teen angst and emotion is handled is really compassionate and raw, particularly those early stages of grief.
The narrator didn't just bring emotion to the dialog, but as this was told first person, she really brought out the main character's voice throughout the entire narrative.
I wouldn't change a single thing about this book.
A sequel from Morgan's perspective would be something I would read for sure.
Or any sequel for that matter.

pretty decent

main character lacked agency and was constantly being rescued by males, but was overall decent.

Loved it!

The book is so good! I felt all the emotions.
I love the performance, she was good at distinguishing the characters.

Excellent witchy fantasy novel

I love the relatable moments of queer teen life combined with the fantasy storyline of witches. I appreciate that several of the characters are LGBTQ. This is the most gripping teen novel I have read in a long time. I can’t wait for the sequel!