Step into the thrilling world of Darkness Rising, where a small town hides big supernatural secrets! Penned by Canadian author Kelley Armstrong, this young adult paranormal trilogy follows 16-year-old Maya Delaney as she uncovers her skinwalker abilities in the isolated town of Salmon Creek on Vancouver Island. Blending heart-pounding action, romance, and coming-of-age struggles, the series captivates readers with its unique mix of the supernatural and the everyday.
Darkness Rising is more than just a fantasy tale—it’s a journey of self-discovery set against a backdrop of genetic experimentation and corporate conspiracies. With its diverse cast and vivid Vancouver Island setting, the trilogy has carved a special place in the hearts of young adult fantasy fans. Ready to explore this gripping saga? Let’s dive in!
How Darkness Rising Began
Kelley Armstrong, a prolific author known for her Women of the Otherworld series, launched Darkness Rising as a companion to her Darkest Powers trilogy. Inspired by her love for paranormal tales and teen narratives, Armstrong crafted a new story in the same universe, focusing on a fresh set of characters. Set in the fictional Salmon Creek, the series was born from Armstrong’s fascination with isolated communities and the secrets they hold, drawing on Vancouver Island’s rugged beauty to ground the supernatural in a tangible world.
Published between 2011 and 2013, Darkness Rising emerged during the peak of young adult paranormal popularity, riding the wave of Twilight and The Hunger Games. Armstrong’s goal was to create a trilogy that felt distinct yet familiar, weaving scientific intrigue with ancient mythology like skinwalkers, inspired by Native American lore. The result? A series that feels both modern and timeless.
The Heart of Darkness Rising
The trilogy kicks off with The Gathering (2011), where Maya Delaney, a Native American teen adopted by the park ranger, begins to unravel the mysteries of Salmon Creek after her friend Serena’s drowning. Strange events—like mountain lions trailing her and a paw-shaped birthmark—hint at her skinwalker heritage. In The Calling (2012), Maya and her friends, each with unique supernatural powers, flee a suspicious forest fire and survive a helicopter crash, relying on their abilities to navigate the Vancouver Island wilderness. The finale, The Rising (2013), brings a thrilling conclusion as Maya confronts the powerful St. Cloud Corporation and her own past, with fan-favorite characters from Darkest Powers making a cameo.
The series shines through its themes of identity, trust, and resilience. Maya’s journey as a skinwalker—able to shift into a cougar but risking her humanity with each transformation—mirrors the universal teen struggle to find one’s place. The Vancouver Island setting, with its dense forests and isolated vibe, amplifies the story’s tension, while genetic experimentation adds a sci-fi edge. Armstrong’s conversational style and knack for blending romance (hello, love triangle with Rafe and Daniel!) with high-stakes action keep readers hooked.
Unlike its predecessor, Darkest Powers, which focused on necromancers and werewolves, Darkness Rising explores less common supernatural beings like skinwalkers and benandanti. This fresh take, paired with a strong female lead and diverse supporting cast, makes the trilogy stand out in the crowded young adult fantasy genre.
Why Darkness Rising Resonates
Darkness Rising has left a lasting mark on young adult fantasy, particularly for fans of paranormal tales with strong character arcs. Its blend of mythology and science appeals to readers who love stories that feel grounded yet fantastical. While some fans found the trilogy’s ending abrupt, others praise its emotional depth and crossover with Darkest Powers, which ties up loose ends for both series. The series’ exploration of ethical dilemmas—like the morality of genetic experimentation—resonates with today’s socially conscious readers.
Armstrong’s ability to craft relatable teens in extraordinary circumstances has kept Darkness Rising a beloved, if underrated, gem. Its Pacific Northwest setting and focus on Native American mythology add cultural richness, making it a standout in a genre often dominated by European-inspired fantasies. For fans, it’s a nostalgic reminder of early 2010s YA fiction, with a modern edge that still feels fresh.
- Publication Years: 2011–2013
- Number of Books: 3 (plus novellas)
- Setting: Salmon Creek, Vancouver Island
- Genre: Young Adult Paranormal Fantasy
Grab The Gathering and dive into Darkness Rising’s spellbinding world of skinwalkers, secrets, and survival!