There is a group practicing dark magic, which the three main characters cross paths with. This group tests their friendship and their knowledge of magic. But their group is also tested by two new members, one of whom Sam finds attractive and another who seems to be glued to James' side. So, there are moments of teenage jealousy and misunderstandings, but it blended well with the fantastical elements of the novel. I felt the book missed some opportunities in terms of the group dynamics. Also, the ending felt abrupt and incomplete, as though this is the first book in a series. However, I was sure it was a standalone, so it left me confused. I had a few unanswered questions and there were conflicts I felt could have been expanded on. I also felt important resolutions were left out. If it does turn into a series it was a good jumping off point for book two. I enjoyed the friendship between the leads, their continuously trying to discern their place in the group and with each other. Sam's character is easy to like and empathize with. His friends often misunderstand him or dismiss his distrust of others (especially as a gay student in a small Southern town). He is also the weakest magicker in the group; I was expecting some big reveal to come from this and his not remembering his dreams, but nothing came of that set up. Delia is desperate to be picked to enter a prestigious magical school (University/College). She is the youngest child in a family where her parent's were not looking for a third child. She has spent her life being forgotten and ignored, so she craves power. James has a very hard home life, but he is also the most impressive of their magic group. His magic seems to be instinctual, and he is able to create spells on a whim. His only problem is that, due to his volatile home life, he has resorted to alcohol and this leads down a frightening road. There were several important lessons throughout; power and the price of it, fighting violence with violence, being able to believe in two differing faiths, the power of words, etc. I really liked the take on religion being a means of practicing magic, but magic also existing outside of religion for those who do not believe. I also found the symbolism of the magical community being so like the LGBTQ community (tolerated, but often times misunderstood or frowned upon) to be so well written. A very fun, dark read, full of interesting characters and a great new take on how magic could exist in our world. Thank you to HarperCollins for providing me with an ebook in exchange for an honest review.
0 Comments
Your comment will be posted after it is approved.
Leave a Reply. |
Currently ReadingHorror
National Poetry Month Reads
Archives
April 2024
|