Step into the thrilling world of Darkest Powers, where ghosts, werewolves, and sinister secrets collide in a heart-pounding young adult paranormal adventure! Penned by Kelley Armstrong, this gripping trilogy follows Chloe Saunders, a teenage necromancer whose life unravels when she starts seeing ghosts. Blending coming-of-age drama with supernatural intrigue, Darkest Powers hooks readers with its unique take on identity, power, and conspiracy.
Set in a world where supernatural abilities hide beneath everyday life, the series captures the angst and excitement of adolescence while unraveling the dark motives of the mysterious Edison Group. Whether you’re a fan of paranormal romance or fast-paced fantasy, Darkest Powers delivers a chilling yet relatable tale that’s hard to put down.
How Darkest Powers Began
Kelley Armstrong, already a celebrated author of the Women of the Otherworld series, ventured into young adult fiction with Darkest Powers, launching the trilogy in 2008. Inspired by her love for paranormal storytelling, Armstrong crafted a universe where teens grapple with extraordinary powers amid real-world struggles. Her goal was to create a fresh narrative that resonated with younger readers while retaining the suspense and depth of her adult novels. The result was a trilogy that seamlessly blends supernatural elements with the emotional turmoil of adolescence.
The Heart of Darkest Powers
The Darkest Powers trilogy comprises three core books: The Summoning (2008), The Awakening (2009), and The Reckoning (2010). In The Summoning, Chloe Saunders, a 15-year-old aspiring filmmaker, discovers her ability to see and raise the dead, landing her in Lyle House, a supposed home for troubled teens. As she uncovers the home’s dark secrets, she teams up with fellow supernatural teens—a sorcerer, a werewolf, and a witch—to escape. The Awakening follows their desperate flight from the Edison Group, a shadowy organization behind their genetic alterations, while Chloe grapples with her out-of-control necromancy. The Reckoning wraps up the saga with high-stakes action, romantic tension, and revelations about the group’s powers.
The series shines through its exploration of themes like self-discovery, trust, and the ethics of power. Chloe’s journey from a scared teen to a confident leader mirrors the universal struggle of finding one’s place in the world. Armstrong’s style is fast-paced yet character-driven, with a setting that feels both familiar and eerie, grounding the supernatural in relatable teen dynamics. The trilogy also tackles darker themes, like manipulation and betrayal, making it a thought-provoking read for young adults.
Why Darkest Powers Resonates
Darkest Powers has left a lasting mark on the young adult paranormal genre, captivating fans with its blend of suspense, romance, and supernatural flair. Its realistic teen characters and slow-burn relationships set it apart from vampire-heavy paranormal trends of the late 2000s, offering a fresh perspective on urban fantasy. The series’ connection to Armstrong’s broader Otherworld universe delights longtime fans, while its accessible storytelling draws in new readers. Even years after its conclusion, Darkest Powers remains a beloved comfort read for fans seeking adventure and emotional depth.
The trilogy’s impact extends to its passionate fanbase, who cherish its nuanced characters like Chloe and the brooding werewolf Derek. Short stories and novellas, like those in Darkest Powers Tales, expand the universe, keeping readers engaged. Its enduring appeal lies in its ability to balance heart-pounding action with heartfelt moments, making it a standout in young adult literature.
- Publication Years: 2008–2010
- Number of Books: 3 core novels, plus novellas
- Genre: Young Adult, Paranormal, Urban Fantasy
Ready to dive into a world of ghosts and secrets? Grab The Summoning and unravel the mysteries of Darkest Powers today!