Gallows Hill is a story that discloses many issues that are relevant to adolescents. Unfortunately, divorce is a fairly common phenomenon today. Sarah Zoltanne, as well as Kyra Thompson, must learn to settle their differences when they learn that Sarah's mother is marrying Kyra's father. Another issue raised in Duncan's book is gaining acceptance from one's peers. Sarah is an outcast even before she is deemed a witch simply because she is not from Pine Crest.
Many teens have to deal with rejection from their peers, much like adults.
Finally, Duncan addresses the issue of autonomy in Gallows Hill . She presents Sarah as a young girl who is on a journey of self-discovery. She is constantly trying to find her place in this world. Duncan probably wrote this story to entertain her audience, while providing a place between the covers of this book where readers may learn a valuable lesson. The book's strong point is confronting issues that all teenagers face, as well as offering ways to cope with those issues.