"In thirteen-year-old Aster's family, all the girls are raised to be witches, while boys grow up to be shapeshifters. Anyone who dares cross those lines is exiled. Unfortunately for Aster, he still hasn't shifted...and he's still fascinated by witchery, no matter how forbidden it might be. When a mysterious danger threatens the other boys, Aster knows he can help -- as a witch. It will take the encouragement of a new friend, the non-magical and non-conforming...

As his extended family gathers for their annual Midwinter Festival magic competition, Aster decides to enter the contest meant for witches, despite the lingering discomfort and hostility of certain family members. Meanwhile, Ariel struggles to accept her new family's love while her estranged aunt attempts to lure her away by poisoning her self-esteem.