New Beginnings, Old Wounds

Katy Swartz relocates to a small town in West Virginia with her mother, seeking a new beginning after her father's death. The move is meant to be a fresh start, but Katy struggles with the isolation and the absence of her father. Her mother, a nurse, works long hours, leaving Katy to adjust to her new life alone. The eerie house they move into amplifies her sense of displacement. Despite her reluctance, Katy is determined to make the best of her situation, even as she grapples with her grief and the changes in her family dynamics.

Mysterious Neighbors, Unseen Forces

Katy's curiosity is piqued by her new neighbors, the Black siblings, Daemon and Dee. Dee is friendly and eager to befriend Katy, but Daemon is aloof and antagonistic. Despite his rudeness, Katy is drawn to Daemon's striking looks and mysterious aura. A chance encounter with Daemon leaves Katy feeling unsettled, as she senses an inexplicable connection between them. As she tries to navigate her new friendships, Katy becomes increasingly aware of the strange occurrences around her, including the unsettling feeling of being watched and the odd behavior of the townspeople.

Unwanted Attention, Unseen Dangers

Katy's life takes a dangerous turn when she is attacked by a stranger in a parking lot. Daemon arrives just in time to save her, displaying abilities that defy explanation. The incident leaves Katy shaken and confused, as she struggles to reconcile Daemon's heroics with his previous hostility. The attack also raises questions about the true nature of the Black siblings and the secrets they are hiding. As Katy grapples with the reality of her situation, she realizes that her new life is far more complicated and perilous than she ever imagined.

Secrets Revealed, Trust Tested

Daemon reveals to Katy that he and his sister are aliens, beings of light from a distant galaxy. This revelation shatters Katy's understanding of the world and forces her to confront the reality of her new friends' otherworldly origins. Daemon explains the dangers they face from those who seek to exploit their powers, and the risk Katy now poses due to the trace left on her by his abilities. Despite the shock, Katy is determined to understand and accept the truth, even as it tests her trust in Daemon and Dee.

Alien Truths, Human Reactions

As Katy processes the revelation of Daemon and Dee's true nature, she grapples with fear, curiosity, and a growing bond with the siblings. Despite Daemon's warnings to distance herself, Katy is drawn to the mystery and allure of their world. Her friendship with Dee deepens, and she begins to see Daemon in a new light, recognizing the vulnerability beneath his bravado. The knowledge of their alien origins changes everything, but it also brings Katy closer to understanding her own strength and resilience.

Dangerous Discoveries, Uncertain Alliances

Katy's determination to uncover the truth about the Black siblings leads her into dangerous territory. She learns about the existence of other aliens and the threats they face from both human and alien forces. As she delves deeper into their world, Katy realizes that her involvement puts her at risk, but she is unwilling to turn back. Her growing feelings for Daemon complicate matters, as she struggles to balance her desire for answers with the need to protect herself and those she cares about.

Unraveling Mysteries, Facing Fears

As Katy confronts the mysteries surrounding the Black siblings, she must also face her own fears and insecurities. The danger she faces is real, but so is the strength she discovers within herself. With Daemon and Dee by her side, Katy learns to navigate the complexities of their world, embracing the challenges and opportunities it presents. Her journey is one of self-discovery and empowerment, as she learns to trust in herself and the bonds she has formed with her new friends.

Unexpected Allies, Unseen Threats

Katy is drawn deeper into the world of the Luxen, discovering their abilities and the dangers they face. Dee demonstrates her powers, revealing the extraordinary capabilities of their kind. Katy is both fascinated and envious, but the reality of their situation is sobering. The Luxen are constantly under threat from the Arum, their dark counterparts. As Katy becomes more involved, she realizes the gravity of the situation and the risks she faces by being associated with them. Her relationship with Daemon becomes more complex as she grapples with her feelings and the danger that surrounds them.

Secrets Deepen, Bonds Strengthen

As Katy spends more time with Daemon, their connection deepens, despite his aloofness. They share moments of vulnerability and understanding, revealing the complexities of their relationship. Daemon's protective nature is evident, but so is his struggle with his feelings for Katy. The tension between them is palpable, and their interactions are charged with unspoken emotions. Katy is drawn to Daemon's strength and mystery, but she is also wary of the secrets he keeps. Their bond is tested as they navigate the challenges of their intertwined lives.

Dangerous Games, Hidden Desires

The chemistry between Katy and Daemon reaches a boiling point, leading to a passionate encounter that leaves them both reeling. Their attraction is undeniable, but so are the complications that come with it. Daemon's feelings for Katy are conflicted, torn between his duty to protect his kind and his growing affection for her. Katy is equally conflicted, struggling to reconcile her feelings for Daemon with the danger he represents. Their relationship is a delicate balance of desire and restraint, as they navigate the complexities of their emotions and the threats that loom over them.

Confrontations and Revelations

The Arum, dark and malevolent, pose a constant threat to the Luxen and those associated with them. Katy finds herself in the crosshairs of their deadly game, forced to confront the reality of the danger she faces. With Daemon and Dee by her side, she learns to harness her own strength and resilience. The confrontation with the Arum is a turning point for Katy, as she realizes the depth of her connection to Daemon and the lengths she is willing to go to protect those she cares about. The battle is fierce, and the stakes are high, but Katy emerges stronger and more determined than ever.

Battle of Light and Shadow

The final showdown with the Arum is a test of strength and courage for Katy and Daemon. The battle is intense, with both sides wielding their powers in a deadly dance of light and shadow. Katy's newfound abilities are put to the test as she fights alongside Daemon, their bond strengthening in the face of adversity. The Arum are relentless, but Katy and Daemon's determination and unity prove to be their greatest weapons. The battle is a turning point for both of them, as they confront their fears and embrace their true potential.

New Beginnings, Uncertain Futures

In the aftermath of the battle, Katy and Daemon are left to pick up the pieces and face the uncertain future that lies ahead. Their relationship has been tested and strengthened, but the challenges they face are far from over. The threat of the Arum still looms, and the secrets of the Luxen world continue to unravel. Katy and Daemon must navigate the complexities of their relationship and the dangers that surround them, as they forge a new path together. Their journey is just beginning, and the future is filled with both promise and peril.

Characters

Katy Swartz

Katy is a young woman thrust into a world of danger and intrigue. Her curiosity and determination drive her to uncover the secrets of the Luxen, even as she grapples with the risks involved. Her relationship with Daemon is complex, filled with tension and unspoken emotions. Katy's bravery is tested as she faces the Arum threat, and she emerges stronger and more resilient. Her journey is one of self-discovery and empowerment, as she learns to navigate the challenges of her new reality.

Daemon Black

Daemon is a powerful Luxen with a fierce protective streak, especially when it comes to his sister Dee and Katy. His feelings for Katy are conflicted, torn between his duty to protect his kind and his growing affection for her. Daemon's enigmatic nature and aloof demeanor mask a deep vulnerability and a desire for connection. His relationship with Katy is a delicate balance of desire and restraint, as he struggles to reconcile his feelings with the dangers they face.

Dee Black

Dee is Daemon's twin sister and Katy's closest friend. Her loyalty to her brother and her desire for a normal life often put her in difficult situations. Dee's friendship with Katy is a source of strength and support for both girls, as they navigate the challenges of their intertwined lives. Dee's energetic and friendly nature is a stark contrast to Daemon's aloofness, and she serves as a bridge between Katy and the Luxen world.

Ash Thompson

Ash is a member of the Thompson triplets, who are also aliens like the Black siblings. She harbors feelings for Daemon and is openly hostile towards Katy, viewing her as a threat. Ash's jealousy and possessiveness create tension and conflict, particularly when Katy becomes more involved with Daemon and Dee. Despite her antagonistic behavior, Ash's actions are driven by a desire to protect her family and maintain the status quo.

Matthew Garrison

Matthew is a teacher at Katy's school and a figure of authority among the alien community. He is aware of the Black siblings' true nature and is involved in maintaining their secrecy. Matthew's interactions with Katy are marked by a sense of caution and control, as he seeks to protect the alien community from exposure. His presence adds an element of mystery and tension to the unfolding events.

Baruck

Baruck is a member of the Arum, the dark counterparts to the Luxen. His malevolent nature and relentless pursuit of power make him a formidable foe. Baruck's presence is a constant threat to the Luxen and those associated with them, and his actions drive much of the conflict in the story. His confrontation with Katy and Daemon is a turning point, forcing them to confront their fears and embrace their true potential.

Plot Devices

Alien Abilities

The alien abilities of the Luxen and the Arum are central to the narrative. These powers include manipulating light, healing, and moving at incredible speeds. The abilities are both a source of strength and a potential threat, as they attract unwanted attention from those who seek to exploit them. The presence of these abilities creates tension and conflict, as Katy navigates the complexities of her new reality and the dangers it presents.

The Trace

The trace is a residual mark left on humans who come into contact with the Luxen's powers. It makes them visible to the Arum and those who seek to harm them. The trace is a significant plot device, as it places Katy in danger and complicates her relationship with Daemon and Dee. It serves as a constant reminder of the risks involved in her newfound knowledge and the need for caution and secrecy.

Secrecy and Trust

The theme of secrecy and trust is woven throughout the narrative, as Katy uncovers the truth about her neighbors and the world they inhabit. The need to keep their alien nature hidden creates tension and conflict, as Katy struggles to balance her desire for answers with the need to protect herself and those she cares about. Trust becomes a fragile and precious commodity, as alliances are tested and relationships evolve in the face of danger and uncertainty.

Analysis

"Obsidian" delves into themes of identity, belonging, and the complexities of human (and alien) relationships. Through Katy's journey, the narrative explores the challenges of adapting to new realities and the courage required to embrace the unknown. The book highlights the importance of trust and the strength found in forming connections, even amidst fear and uncertainty. The interplay between light and shadow serves as a metaphor for the duality of human nature and the constant battle between good and evil. Ultimately, "Obsidian" is a story of empowerment, resilience, and the transformative power of love and friendship.

Last updated: February 3, 2025