This review originally posted at More Than Just Magic 
 One of the really challenging things about putting together YA Pride is finding more than just contemporary titles to feature. Thankfully there are amazing books like Witch Eyes! A paranormal tale with a great mystery and a pair of star crossed lovers. 
 Witch Eyes is primarily the story of one, young, witch named Braden. First of all can I say how much I love that this book didn't stray into the whole "witches are girls, warlocks/wizards are boys" because seriously do we really need to gender witches? But anyways, back to Braden. Braden has lived a secluded with his uncle, but he has questions. Lots of questions that his uncle just can't answer. So he returns to his family's home in Belle Dam to find some answers. 
 I loved Braden. I loved his personality. He was strong, and stubborn and hilariously sarcastic. I think Braden and I would be great friends. I also loved that he's continuously asking why. I can instantly relate to a character who is never happy with the status quo. And even though he gets scared like a normal person he still barrels in head first when things need to be done. He learns new things, asks tough questions and at times even puts himself in the line of fire. Overall, I found him an admirable and interesting character and I really enjoyed reading about them. 
 I was also blown away by the way Scott Tracey described the magical moments in this book. Primarily when Braden takes off his glasses and observes the world around him with his witch eyes. Gorgeous writing! Poetry really. It's a really unique style and magic system. I wish it had been explained a little bit more, because I have a lot of questions about the mechanics. But it is the first book in a series so I'm hoping there's more explanations to come. 
 I'm still a little unsold on the love story element. In Belle Dam there are two competing families. The Lansings and the Thorpes. Braden is the son of Jason Thorpe, and unfortunately for him he falls for a boy named Trey - the son of Catherine Lansing. It's sort of a Romeo and Romeo story. I did find myself rooting for Trey and Braden but I'm not 100% pro-Trey in general. I found him a little short sighted and dramatic. But again this is the first book of a series so who know what might happen. 
 Recommendation: Witch Eyes is one of the first witch books I've really enjoyed. It's a compelling story and the magic system is fascinating. An incredibly unique book.