The Obsidian Eye ( Sisterhood Sleuths Book 1): A Sisterhood Sleuths Mystery of Secrets, Codes, and Hidden Power

by Cathy Warshaw

Two small-town sisters. One mysterious artifact. No time to waste.When sisters Chloe and Lily from Upland, California discover a cryptic artifact called the Obsidian Eye, their small-town lives erupt into a race against time. As they unravel clues tied to secret societies, ancient mysteries, and local legends, danger lurks at every turn.

With help from a martial artist, a hacker, and a robotics genius, the sisters' courage and bond are pushed to the limit. From Upland's quiet streets to Mt. Baldy's shadowy trails, the stakes couldn't be higher.

The Obsidian Eye is perfect for teens who love decoding puzzles, uncovering secrets, and chasing thrilling adventures.

The Obsidian Eye is Book 1 in the Secret Societies and The Sisterhood Sleuths mystery series.

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Genres: Mystery, Young Adult

284 pages, Paperback

Published April 29, 2025

About the author

Cathy Warshaw is an award-winning author, songwriter, and teen empowerment coach who transforms stories into sparks of courage. She is the creative force behind the acclaimed 8-book global mystery series Secret Societies and the Sisterhood Sleuths, a world where puzzles, secrets, and high-stakes adventures collide with life-changing lessons.

Through her books, original music, mobile app, board games, and empowerment merchandise, Sisterhood Sleuths Magazine and Podcast, Cathy equips teens with the tools to face challenges head-on—with confidence, resilience, and a sense of purpose. Her work doesn’t just entertain—it ignites. With every page turned, every lyric sung, and every mystery unraveled, she inspires young people to trust their voices, embrace their strengths, and write their own destinies.

Living in Upland, California, with her husband Brian and their two loyal dogs, Charlie and Bailey, Cathy continues to weave history, culture, and empowerment into thrilling adventures that remind us: the greatest mystery of all is discovering the hero within.


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Reviews

[Normand A.]

After finishing The Obsidian Eye and watching the Q&A, I appreciated how much trust the author places in her readers. Cathy’s insights into pacing and clue placement showed that nothing in this book is accidental. The mystery unfolds in a way that encourages readers to think critically rather than passively consume the story. This led to a lively book club discussion where everyone had different interpretations. The Q&A made the experience richer and more engaging.

[Patrick K.]

The Q&A gave The Obsidian Eye a depth that surprised me. Hearing Cathy explain her motivation for writing strong, curious young women into a mystery made the story feel both timely and empowering. The themes of secrecy, friendship, and truth felt more grounded after understanding the author’s perspective. This is the kind of book that works beautifully in a group setting because it opens the door to meaningful conversation. The Q&A was the perfect companion to an already compelling story.

[Ultimate World]

Book Review: The Obsidian Eye by Cathy Warshaw

The Obsidian Eye, the first installment in Cathy Warshaw’s Secret Societies and the Sisterhood Sleuths series, is a heart-pounding young adult mystery that fuses secret codes, ancient artifacts, and sisterly bond into one irresistible thrill ride.

Sisters Chloe and Lily, two spirited teens from the quiet town of Upland, California, are thrown into a whirlwind adventure after discovering a strange object—the titular Obsidian Eye. From that moment on, their ordinary lives morph into an extraordinary race to uncover the artifact’s origins, unravel its secrets, and outsmart the dark forces willing to do anything to claim its power.

What makes this novel shine is its blend of mystery, technology, and heart. Chloe and Lily aren’t just puzzle-solvers—they’re emotionally grounded and fiercely loyal to each other, even as danger intensifies and the mysteries deepen. Alongside a brilliant supporting cast—a martial artist, a hacker, and a robotics prodigy—the girls embark on a journey that is as cerebral as it is action-packed.

Set against the eerie backdrop of Mt. Baldy and the hidden corners of Southern California, Warshaw crafts a world where legends meet logic, and history holds modern-day consequences. Teen readers will love the high-stakes treasure hunt, clever codes, and the empowering message that young people—especially young women—can be brave, brilliant, and bold leaders in their own adventures.

Perfect for fans of National Treasure, Nancy Drew, and Stranger Things, The Obsidian Eye is a fast-paced, brain-teasing mystery with heart and soul. It’s a fantastic kickoff to a promising series that promises even deeper conspiracies and sister-powered sleuthing ahead.

Get ready to decode your next favorite read.

[Tanya Quevedo]

This is a first in a series written by a fellow resident in my city. Her first ever book at that. Cathy did send me a digital copy to read and provide feedback.

Now let me begin by saying, this is not my typical genre of choice. I lean towards psychological thrillers, popcorn thrillers, and horror. Sooo with that said; I did struggle to finish this read. Not that it’s not a good book, it is just not my usual reading choice.

I rated four stars because it is a very well written, very descriptive book. Keeps you entertained and being this is set in my own city, makes me wonder what actual secrets lay underground.

I am being nit-picky with how the characters had cell service underground and on Mt Baldy, we all know there’s no cell service in the mountain lol but again that’s being nitpicky.

I feel like I’d watch this as a movie for sure.

Great book for teens who love a good mystery adventure book.

Also! Kudos on the strong fmc :)

[Willie P.]

Watching the Q&A after finishing The Obsidian Eye gave me a new appreciation for how deliberately this story was constructed. Cathy’s insight into the themes of observation and hidden power made me rethink several scenes, especially those that felt subtle at first. The mystery doesn’t rely on spectacle but on attention to detail, which makes it especially rewarding for readers who enjoy thinking alongside the characters. Our book club found that the author’s explanations deepened our discussions and helped us connect more emotionally to the story.

[Linda C.]

The Obsidian Eye was engaging on its own, but the Q&A added a level of connection that most books don’t offer. Hearing Cathy talk about how the setting reflects secrecy and small-town dynamics helped me notice details I missed on my first read. The way the sisterhood works together feels more realistic once you understand the author’s focus on collaboration rather than a single “chosen” hero. This book sparks excellent discussion about loyalty, ethics, and power, which made it perfect for our book club. The Q&A made us feel like participants in the story’s creation, not just readers.

[Olin B.]

This book already stood out as a smart YA mystery, but the author Q&A elevated it into something truly memorable. Cathy’s insights into the symbolism behind the Obsidian Eye itself helped me understand the recurring themes of perception and truth. Knowing why certain questions were left unanswered made the ending feel purposeful rather than open-ended. Our book club had one of the best discussions we’ve had in months because the Q&A gave us so much to unpack. This is a story that respects its readers and invites them to think.

[Debra J.]

After watching the Q&A, I realized how intentional The Obsidian Eye really is. Cathy’s explanation of how she balances suspense with emotional growth made me appreciate the quieter character moments just as much as the twists. The sisterhood’s bond feels authentic because it’s rooted in shared curiosity and trust, not clichés. The Q&A helped clarify how the mystery is meant to unfold gradually, encouraging readers to think alongside the characters. This book is an excellent choice for readers who enjoy mysteries that also have heart.

[Doris J.]

What stood out to me most after the Q&A was how much thought Cathy put into empowering young readers without talking down to them. The Obsidian Eye challenges readers to pay attention, question authority, and notice what doesn’t quite add up. Hearing the author discuss her process made the story feel even more clever and deliberate. Our book club appreciated how the mystery doesn’t rely on shock alone but builds tension through observation and teamwork. The Q&A made this feel like a shared reading experience rather than a solitary one.

[Ray E.]

The Obsidian Eye became even more compelling after watching the author’s Q&A. Cathy’s discussion about secret societies as metaphors for hidden systems in everyday life added a surprising level of relevance. The characters’ curiosity now feels like a reflection of the reader’s own desire to understand the world more clearly. The book sparked thoughtful discussion in our group, especially about how knowledge can be both empowering and dangerous. The Q&A added context that made the story resonate far beyond its pages.

[Jonathan A.]

The Obsidian Eye is a mystery that invites readers to slow down and think, and the Q&A reinforced that intention. Cathy’s explanation of how she structured the story made the pacing feel purposeful. Our book club appreciated how the mystery unfolds in a way that encourages discussion rather than competition to “solve” it first.

[Stephen D.]

After watching the Q&A, I found myself wanting to reread parts of the book. Cathy’s insights helped me notice small details that felt even more meaningful the second time around. This is a story that grows with reflection, making it ideal for group discussion. The Q&A felt like a thoughtful extension of the book.

[Britt King]

Fun read! Target audience is young adult so quick fast read compared to my usual books. Treasure hunt type of story line with lots of action. Enjoyed it but be prepared...the story doesn't really end and continues in book 2!

[Angela S.]

Watching the Q&A helped me see the book not just as entertainment, but as a story with purpose. The themes of bravery and critical thinking feel especially relevant for younger readers, and the author’s passion for empowering them really comes through.

[Anastacia C.]

The author’s discussion about character development gave me new insight into why the sisters feel so real. Their fears, doubts, and determination all feel earned. That authenticity is what made the story resonate with me long after I finished reading.

[Karen A.]

After reading The Obsidian Eye and watching the author’s Q&A, what stayed with me most was how intentional the story feels. The mystery is layered, but it’s the relationship between the sisters that truly anchors everything. Hearing Cathy speak about her inspiration made me appreciate how carefully the emotional core was built. This isn’t just a fast-paced mystery it’s a story about trust, courage, and believing in your instincts.

[Maria S.]

Watching the Q&A helped me see the book not just as entertainment, but as a story with purpose. The themes of bravery and critical thinking feel especially relevant for younger readers, and the author’s passion for empowering them really comes through.

[Nichole M.]

After watching the Q&A, I found myself wanting to reread certain sections of the book with fresh eyes. Knowing more about the author’s intentions added another layer of appreciation to the story’s structure and pacing.

[Arturo J.]

The author’s Q&A added meaningful depth to my reading experience. Understanding her thought process behind the clues and pacing made me notice details I might have overlooked the first time. I especially appreciated how the story balances suspense with heart. The sisters’ bond feels authentic, and that emotional realism made the mystery even more compelling.

[Alice A.]

The Q&A gave me a new appreciation for the themes woven into the story. Courage, curiosity, and moral choice aren’t just ideas here they’re lived experiences for the characters. The author’s insights helped me see how intentionally those themes were developed, especially through the sisters’ decisions under pressure.

[Karon C.]

After watching the Q&A, I found myself reflecting on how the story encourages young readers to trust their instincts and think critically. The mystery unfolds in a way that invites readers to form their own theories, and the author’s explanation of her process made me respect the structure even more.

[Anna T.]

The Q&A added a personal dimension to the book that I really appreciated. It reminded me that behind the mystery is a writer who cares deeply about her readers and the message she’s sending. That awareness made the story feel more meaningful and thoughtful.

[Charles M.]

This is the kind of book that invites discussion long after the final page. We found ourselves debating trust, secrecy, and whether knowledge is always a good thing. A thoughtful and entertaining read.

[Angela T.]

The sister dynamic is the emotional core of the novel, and it’s beautifully done. Chloe’s cautious logic paired with Lily’s creativity made for a compelling investigative duo our group instantly connected with.

[Linda H.]

Perfect for discussion-driven readers and book clubs.
Layered themes, ethical dilemmas, and an intricate mystery make The Obsidian Eye an excellent choice for group reading. Warshaw’s storytelling encourages debate, theory-building, and reflection hallmarks of a truly engaging mystery novel.

[Meg]

This intriguing mystery begins with sisters and amateur sleuths Chloe and Lily Hastings, and their discovery of a strange artifact. The two sisters are no strangers to uncovering mysteries in their beautiful hometown, but this puzzle quickly turns into something much bigger than they could have guessed, introducing a worldwide conspiracy with ancient roots.
The girls find themselves caught in a centuries-old conspiracy involving secret societies, hidden places, coded messages and terrifying, powerful adversaries. Fortunately, it also introduces them to new friends. Their new allies have a wide range of skills and abilities.  Each character brings something unique to the group, and their skills are all needed.  With seven more books in this series, there will definitely be time to develop their personalities and relationships further. Seeing the new friends combine their different strengths and work with different personalities helps make this adventure so fun.

Chloe and Lily are the heart of this story. Their disparate personalities mesh and clash in realistic ways, and both of their strengths will be needed to solve the mystery and then to survive. Their sisterly affection feels completely genuine, which helps to ground the more fantastic elements of the story. Sisterhood is at its core, but The Obsidian Eye is not just a sister story—it’s a friendship story and a mystery adventure, too.

Overall, The Obsidian Eye is a great story for younger readers who want to join warm characters in solving puzzles that mix ancient legend with modern-day adventure.  This book sets the stage for a series that promises even more surprises, challenges, puzzles, and deeper friendships as the friends dive further into these secrets. The ending is solid and satisfying, but it's clear that more adventures and further danger await the friends.

[Meghan]

The Obsidian Eye by Cathy Warshaw is a captivating young adult mystery thriller that follows two small-town sisters, Chloe and Lily, as they stumble upon a cryptic artifact known as the Obsidian Eye. What begins as a curious discovery quickly spirals into a high-stakes adventure, pulling them into a web of secrets, danger, and historical intrigue.

Chloe’s bold determination and Lily’s quiet intellect make them a powerful team as they navigate clues, decode hidden messages, and outrun those who will stop at nothing to claim the artifact’s power. Warshaw’s writing shines with suspense, vivid settings, and heartfelt moments of sisterly bond.

The story is rich with historical depth and ethical questions about the past without ever losing its fast-paced, edge-of-your-seat momentum. Readers will be drawn in by the puzzle-like plot, the emotional layers between the sisters, and the thrilling sense of mystery that unfolds with every chapter.

While the pacing starts slowly as the world builds, it quickly gains steam, delivering a payoff that’s both clever and satisfying. Warshaw blends real-world issues with thrilling fiction, making The Obsidian Eye more than just a mystery, it’s a story about trust, legacy, and finding strength in unexpected places.

Perfect for fans of adventure, history, and smart, courageous heroines. Five stars!

[_sassy_39]

The Obsidian Eye is a Young Adult mystery thriller and the first installment in the Secret Societies and the Sisterhood Sleuths series. The story centers on two sisters, Chloe and Lily Hastings. During a visit to the Upland Public Library, they meet Evelyn Greene, a mysterious librarian.

Chloe shares that she’s been researching Upland, The Society. Together, they solve a cryptic puzzle that leads them to a hidden door. Inside the secret room, Lily discovers a drawing of a black gemstone labeled The Obsidian Eye. Concerned for their safety, the sisters learn of a Safe Haven located outside the city limits.

There, they meet Gil, a man who has been tracking The Society for years. He assures them that if they stand against The Society, he’s on their side. The Society seeks to reshape the world in its own image—one that excludes people like Gil, Chloe, and Lily.

Gil invites them to continue their mission in an underground tunnel known as the Safehouse. As Chloe and Lily dig deeper, they begin to feel like they’re part of something much greater than themselves.

The narrative is easy to follow, and the suspense kept me hooked until the very end. I especially loved the vivid world-building and the author’s imaginative take on this secretive world. Teen readers who enjoy solving mysteries and uncovering secrets will find this book an exciting read. The story is fast paced and there are no dull moments in it.

[Vivek]

There’s something irresistible about stories that begin in quiet places. The Obsidian Eye starts in sleepy Upland, California—but within pages, we’re thrown into a mystery that feels epic in scale. It’s like Warshaw took ordinary life and sliced it open to reveal something glowing inside.

Chloe and Lily’s dynamic is what kept me locked in. Their personalities don’t clash—they complement. Chloe’s the risk-taker, Lily’s the strategist. Together, they don’t just survive the adventure—they outthink it, and that makes the story smarter than most YA mysteries.

The pacing is pure momentum. No lull, no wasted scenes. Even quiet moments carry tension. I especially liked how the Obsidian Eye itself became almost a character—it holds so much intrigue and danger.

What stood out most was how developed the world felt. Side characters weren’t just there to fill space—they shaped the path forward. It made everything feel alive, like you could step into Upland and follow the trail yourself.

For a first-in-series, this book hits all the right notes. It closes the loop of one mystery, but leaves enough mystery glowing at the edges. I’ll definitely be following Chloe and Lily to their next big discovery.

[Readers Choice]

The story is set in Upland, California, where sisters Chloe and Lily Hastings find themselves drawn into a mysterious and dangerous world. For months, Chloe has been obsessed with a secretive group known as The Society—an organization so powerful that those who question it tend to disappear without a trace.

During a visit to the public library, the sisters stumble upon a hidden room. There, Lily uncovers a strange artifact called The Obsidian Eye and quickly realizes that The Society is aware of their presence. Chloe becomes convinced that the Eye is watching them.

Fleeing to a place called Safe Haven, the sisters meet a man named Gil, who claims to be an ally in their fight against The Society. Gil, a long-time researcher of the group, offers them valuable insight and invites them to a Safehouse to plan their next move.

This gripping adventure takes readers from ordinary life to the heart of a deep and thrilling conspiracy. Chloe and Lily’s journey is filled with suspense, discovery, and danger. I thoroughly enjoyed this novel—its immersive world-building and fast-paced plot kept me hooked from start to finish.