Magic blooms within plants, animals, and ancient fishponds across Hawaii in the sequel to Desert Spirals , continuing the discovery of self and nature in the Uncertain Ground YA fantasy trilogy. Lily denies the lure of the magically enticing lawn and greenery. Nevertheless, her first day at a new high school in Kaneohe, Hawaii, entangles Lily with a judgmental friend group. But the person she most wants to know is the inscrutable Makana-who prefers writing in her journal to discussions of magic, or anything else. Volunteering at the local children's center, Lily seizes the chance to share her circus skills in a new context. Opportunities expand to try out her own magic and Makana's, until lies and secrets rebound against Lily. Suffering reprimands from her boss and rejections from friends, Lily questions her choices and her ability to handle magic, to confront someone whose denial of magic endangers others, or to even teach juggling! Navigating through peer pressure, parental networking, and ancient fishponds leads to awkward but amazing self-discoveries. But conflicts with others spawn poor decisions.

Can Lily stand strong, both magically and socially, to harness her own power and help those who need her? Nature will have its way.