The Thirteen    by Susie Moloney Order:  USA  Can William Morrow, 2012 (2011) Hardcover, Softcover, e-Book      Reviewed by Ricki Marking-Camuto Witches and suburbia make for an excellent combination as Susie Moloney proves in her highly entertaining novel, The Thirteen, which has been compared to The Stepford Wives and The Witches of Eastwick. This is one novel that fans of Lifetime horror movies will not want to miss. Sixteen and pregnant, Paula Wittmore was sent away to school shortly after her boyfriend and father died weeks apart. Now, twelve years later, she is forced to return to the idyllic Haven Woods, daughter Rowan in tow, when her mother is mysteriously taken ill. Little does Paula know that the events that led to her homecoming were set in motion by her mother's frenemy and the mother of her childhood best friend, Izzy Riley. After a member of their coven, Chick, found a spectacular way out, Izzy was determined to replace her with Paula to bring their number back up to thirteen. The remaining twelve are already seeing the effects of Chick's betrayal and know they must get their number back up – and make an unholy sacrifice – or the dark father will take away everything he has given them. Time is quickly running out for them – and for Paula and Rowan. Moloney is an excellent storyteller. She doles out little hints about the secrets of Haven Woods, enticing the reader to keep turning page after page. Also, her writing style is unique as some passages have almost a stream-of-consciousness aspect to them. This can take a little getting used to, but really adds to the atmosphere. The characters themselves are rich with potential, and even the minor characters are fleshed out enough to make them memorable. The Thirteen is a must read for those who enjoy light horror. Susie Moloney is an amazing author who really knows how to spin a yarn. Note: Opinions expressed in reviews and articles on this site are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of BookLoons. Find more Fantasy books on our Shelves or in our book Reviews