The Diviners by Libba Bray

Description

“The Diviners” is a young adult supernatural fiction novel written by Libba Bray. It was published in 2012 and is the first book in “The Diviners” series. Set in the 1920s, the novel combines elements of historical fiction, mystery, and the supernatural.

The story is primarily set in New York City during the Roaring Twenties, a time of jazz, flappers, and Prohibition. The protagonist, Evangeline O’Neill, is a young girl from Ohio who possesses a secret supernatural ability. She can read objects and gain glimpses into the past, a power she keeps hidden from most people.

Evangeline is sent to live with her uncle in New York City after her secret ability is exposed. Once there, she becomes involved in a series of occult murders that seem to be connected to a sinister force from the city’s dark past. As more bodies turn up, Evangeline and a group of diverse and gifted individuals, known as the Diviners, come together to investigate and try to stop the occultist killer.

The novel delves into themes of identity, societal expectations, discrimination, and the clash between the modernizing world and the supernatural. It combines elements of mystery, horror, and the supernatural to create a suspenseful and atmospheric story.

“The Diviners” received positive reviews for its rich historical detail, well-developed characters, and atmospheric setting. The book’s success led to the release of several sequels, including “Lair of Dreams” (2015) and “Before the Devil Breaks You” (2017), with a fourth and final book in the series, “The King of Crows” (2020). Libba Bray’s series has captivated readers with its blend of historical fiction, the paranormal, and compelling storytelling.