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The Wildersongs Trilogy #1
Sorcery and Small Magics
Desperate to undo the curse binding them to each other, an impulsive sorcerer and his curmudgeonly rival venture deep into a magical forest in search of a counterspell—only to discover that magic might not be the only thing pulling them together.
Leovander Loveage is a master of small magics.
He can summon butterflies with a song, or turn someone’s hair pink by snapping his fingers. Such minor charms don’t earn him much admiration from other sorcerers (or his father), but anything more elaborate always blows up in his face. Which is why Leo vowed years ago to never again write powerful magic.
That is, until a mix-up involving a forbidden spell binds Leo to obey the commands of his longtime nemesis, Sebastian Grimm. Grimm is Leo’s complete opposite—respected, exceptionally talented, and an absolutely insufferable curmudgeon. The only thing they agree on is that getting caught using forbidden magic would mean the end of their careers. They need a counterspell, and fast. But Grimm casts spells, he doesn’t undo them, and Leo doesn’t mess with powerful magic.
Chasing rumors of a powerful sorcerer with a knack for undoing curses, Leo and Grimm enter the Unquiet Wood, a forest infested with murderous monsters and dangerous outlaws alike. To dissolve the curse, they’ll have to uncover the true depths of Leo’s magic, set aside their long-standing rivalry, and—much to their horror—work together.
Even as an odd spark of attraction flares between them.
Leovander Loveage is a master of small magics.
He can summon butterflies with a song, or turn someone’s hair pink by snapping his fingers. Such minor charms don’t earn him much admiration from other sorcerers (or his father), but anything more elaborate always blows up in his face. Which is why Leo vowed years ago to never again write powerful magic.
That is, until a mix-up involving a forbidden spell binds Leo to obey the commands of his longtime nemesis, Sebastian Grimm. Grimm is Leo’s complete opposite—respected, exceptionally talented, and an absolutely insufferable curmudgeon. The only thing they agree on is that getting caught using forbidden magic would mean the end of their careers. They need a counterspell, and fast. But Grimm casts spells, he doesn’t undo them, and Leo doesn’t mess with powerful magic.
Chasing rumors of a powerful sorcerer with a knack for undoing curses, Leo and Grimm enter the Unquiet Wood, a forest infested with murderous monsters and dangerous outlaws alike. To dissolve the curse, they’ll have to uncover the true depths of Leo’s magic, set aside their long-standing rivalry, and—much to their horror—work together.
Even as an odd spark of attraction flares between them.
416 pages, Paperback
First published October 15, 2024
509 people are currently reading
31.6k people want to read
About the author
Maiga Doocy
3books845followersMaiga Doocy lives in a house where the people are outnumbered by cats, has a serious tea habit, and loves sad songs. She likes to write stories that are full of bittersweet longing and as much unexplainable magic as she can get away with.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 2,005 reviews
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April 14, 2024Hello readers! I wrote this book and am here to answer a few questions I often get about what’s inside it. If you prefer to leap without looking, avert your eyes now. But if it makes you comfier to know what you’re getting into, read on!
Is this book cozy? I like to call it whimsical, but yes, it also has cozy elements. The stakes are personal rather than world-ending, and it is very character driven. However, these characters DO have some less than cozy moments so please mind the content warnings below.
Is it romantasy? It is fantasy with a very, very slow burn romance at its heart. Low on spice, high on tension and yearning.
Is it a standalone? Nope, it’s the first book in a trilogy! That said, there are no major cliffhangers in Sorcery and Small Magics, just threads to be picked up later.
Here are some content warnings:
� death of a parent (past)
� alcohol use
� power imbalance (there is magic that forces one character to follow another’s orders, though the power is not abused)
� guilt/self-loathing
� brief violence
Overall this book is lighthearted in tone but I hope these warnings help everyone take good care of themselves.
Now it’s time for me to vanish off of ŷ and back into my author cave, leaving this book in your hands. Happy reading!
cheers,
Maiga
Is this book cozy? I like to call it whimsical, but yes, it also has cozy elements. The stakes are personal rather than world-ending, and it is very character driven. However, these characters DO have some less than cozy moments so please mind the content warnings below.
Is it romantasy? It is fantasy with a very, very slow burn romance at its heart. Low on spice, high on tension and yearning.
Is it a standalone? Nope, it’s the first book in a trilogy! That said, there are no major cliffhangers in Sorcery and Small Magics, just threads to be picked up later.
Here are some content warnings:
� death of a parent (past)
� alcohol use
� power imbalance (there is magic that forces one character to follow another’s orders, though the power is not abused)
� guilt/self-loathing
� brief violence
Overall this book is lighthearted in tone but I hope these warnings help everyone take good care of themselves.
Now it’s time for me to vanish off of ŷ and back into my author cave, leaving this book in your hands. Happy reading!
cheers,
Maiga
October 29, 2024
when you’re cursed to obey your greatest rival who you maybe want to kiss a little.
this was just ella enchanted for the gays
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this was just ella enchanted for the gays
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Read
December 22, 2024cozy fantasy but not as cozy as emily wilde, a hard bar to beat. but if ur looking for homos and sick of str8 couples u can go for this one. would rec to people looking for slowburn, forced proximity, and grumpy/sunshine tropes! this also reminded me of nettle & bone with the endearing side characters helping the main characters on their quest.
January 4, 2025
This is the fastest I've devoured a book in a long time. One of the best reads of the year for me! 10/10, I miss Leo and Grimm already.
July 9, 2024
OKAY SO WHERE’S THE SECOND ONE????
rtc
rtc
December 1, 2024
Okay so this was fantastic, and I absolutely demolished it. The only reason that I didn’t read this entire book in one sitting was because I needed to sleep (gross).
I’ll admit, I’m kind of surprised at how polarising this book is, I feel like whenever I have seen it floating around on ŷ its either a DNF or a 5-star read, so I am pleased that in this instance I have come down firmly in camp 5 star.
Leo Loveage, a talented magic scriber who has a bit of a trauma induced talent blocker, finds himself magically tethered to his long-time nemesis, the very talented yet equally serious spellcaster Sebastian Grimm (honestly, I couldn’t imagine a more ‘handsome fantasy love interest� name if I tried).
I have seen people call this cozy fantasy, and I can kind of see why they would, but I don’t think that its entirely fair to the story. There is adventures and some pretty heavy personal stakes at play here, not to mention several scenes which pulled on my heart strings. But there is something about all of that which still feels warm and comforting in the prose, which I think lends itself to the idea of it being a ‘cozy fantasy�.
I think the real potential in this is going to happen when the whole trilogy has been released and the overarching story has played out. For people looking for romance, I would recommend perhaps waiting for the future releases because this is that real SLOW! slow burn (delicious). I can already tell with the investment I have so far that the eventual pay off will make me feral, but of course in the meantime I now get to enjoy the suffering of having to WAIT.
Rivals to lovers is a relationship trope that I have a bit of a fraught history with. It always seems like it would work for me and my tastes but so often it misses the mark. I think that it often comes down to the fact that there is not enough time and development put into the slow warming up of the relationship, and the building of respect, that the trope requires to do it justice. I can tell you unequivocally that this book is putting in that work. Leo and Grimm spend most of this book genuinely at odds with each other. Their rivalry comes from a mismatch in personal values and priorities due to their respective backgrounds and who they are as people and their conflict actually makes sense and is totally reasonable (the fact that this is shocking speaks to how shaky some ‘rivals to lovers� I’ve previously read have been).
Without wanting to compare or sling mud at other books, I found myself thinking several times that the feelings and investment this book and relationship gave me was what so many other people seemed to have found in ‘Modern Divination� when that was doing the rounds, but never resonated with me and I missed out on.
The other thought that came to me on several occasions whilst reading this is that there is something about this that felt very reminiscent of the same feelings which I have gotten when reading HP fanfic in the past (intended lovingly). I’m not sure if it’s the magic college (Hogwarts), the Coterie and its entrance trials (aurors), magic induced forced proximity (a HP fandom staple) or elements of the dynamic and chemistry between Leo and Grimm reminding me of some of my favourite Drarry dynamics but I think that if you found yourself lurking in those fandom spaces you would probably find a lot of value here.
Such a fun fantasy adventure with a unique magic system and a delicious slow burn romance. I can’t want for more.
I’ll admit, I’m kind of surprised at how polarising this book is, I feel like whenever I have seen it floating around on ŷ its either a DNF or a 5-star read, so I am pleased that in this instance I have come down firmly in camp 5 star.
Leo Loveage, a talented magic scriber who has a bit of a trauma induced talent blocker, finds himself magically tethered to his long-time nemesis, the very talented yet equally serious spellcaster Sebastian Grimm (honestly, I couldn’t imagine a more ‘handsome fantasy love interest� name if I tried).
I have seen people call this cozy fantasy, and I can kind of see why they would, but I don’t think that its entirely fair to the story. There is adventures and some pretty heavy personal stakes at play here, not to mention several scenes which pulled on my heart strings. But there is something about all of that which still feels warm and comforting in the prose, which I think lends itself to the idea of it being a ‘cozy fantasy�.
I think the real potential in this is going to happen when the whole trilogy has been released and the overarching story has played out. For people looking for romance, I would recommend perhaps waiting for the future releases because this is that real SLOW! slow burn (delicious). I can already tell with the investment I have so far that the eventual pay off will make me feral, but of course in the meantime I now get to enjoy the suffering of having to WAIT.
Rivals to lovers is a relationship trope that I have a bit of a fraught history with. It always seems like it would work for me and my tastes but so often it misses the mark. I think that it often comes down to the fact that there is not enough time and development put into the slow warming up of the relationship, and the building of respect, that the trope requires to do it justice. I can tell you unequivocally that this book is putting in that work. Leo and Grimm spend most of this book genuinely at odds with each other. Their rivalry comes from a mismatch in personal values and priorities due to their respective backgrounds and who they are as people and their conflict actually makes sense and is totally reasonable (the fact that this is shocking speaks to how shaky some ‘rivals to lovers� I’ve previously read have been).
Without wanting to compare or sling mud at other books, I found myself thinking several times that the feelings and investment this book and relationship gave me was what so many other people seemed to have found in ‘Modern Divination� when that was doing the rounds, but never resonated with me and I missed out on.
The other thought that came to me on several occasions whilst reading this is that there is something about this that felt very reminiscent of the same feelings which I have gotten when reading HP fanfic in the past (intended lovingly). I’m not sure if it’s the magic college (Hogwarts), the Coterie and its entrance trials (aurors), magic induced forced proximity (a HP fandom staple) or elements of the dynamic and chemistry between Leo and Grimm reminding me of some of my favourite Drarry dynamics but I think that if you found yourself lurking in those fandom spaces you would probably find a lot of value here.
Such a fun fantasy adventure with a unique magic system and a delicious slow burn romance. I can’t want for more.
March 7, 2025
The book left me thoroughly angry, especially regarding the characters, who were decidedly unlikable. While I initially hoped the plot might redeem the story, it was frustrating that the main conflict only began halfway through, contrary to the expectations set by the blurb. This pacing may have offered character backstory, but it ultimately felt pointless when the characters themselves were so hard to engage with.
The magic system was indeed intriguing, with a lot of potential that could have added depth to the narrative. Unfortunately, it felt like we barely scratched the surface, as the story seemed to overlook it in favor of character development that didn’t quite hit the mark. It’s a shame, because with a more focused exploration of the magic, the overall experience could have been much better.
Sebastian annoyed me only occasionally, yet he came across more as a victim of circumstances rather than an active participant in his own story. His passive approach to enduring constant bullying from Leo was infuriating; he seemed more like a foil than a protagonist. I found him somewhat tolerable, but that’s hardly a compliment considering the alternative—Leo.
Leo is a prime example of hypocrisy at its worst. He condemned the other gentry for being snobbish and materialistic, yet embodied those very traits himself, and his self-awareness did nothing to mitigate this. His disdain for Sebastian's ambitions to secure a council seat was utterly out of touch. Coming from a wealthy background, Leo’s immaturity and incessant whining were frustrating, and I found myself wishing for some genuine character growth, but he simply remained stagnant. It’s hard to believe he would evolve meaningfully in any future installments.
The burden of the curse might have weighed on him, but there was absolutely no way to feel any sympathy for his character. Frankly, he comes across as a bully, and I have zero tolerance for bullies.
As for the romance, I anticipated a slow burn, but now I question the fundamental compatibility between Sebastian and Leo. Their relationship lacked the necessary depth for any real connection to develop. There was absolutely no way I could fathom how Sebastian would fall for someone like Leo.
I found myself thinking that they were better off without each other in their lives.
Finally, the curse that loomed over the narrative was shockingly treated with apathy by almost all the characters besides Leo. The blurb made it out to be this big thing, but it did not feel like it. The urgency to confront it was glaringly absent, lowering the stakes of the entire story.
In conclusion, I was profoundly disappointed with this book. My expectations were high, but I found myself relieved to have finished it—especially to be rid of Leo.
The magic system was indeed intriguing, with a lot of potential that could have added depth to the narrative. Unfortunately, it felt like we barely scratched the surface, as the story seemed to overlook it in favor of character development that didn’t quite hit the mark. It’s a shame, because with a more focused exploration of the magic, the overall experience could have been much better.
Sebastian annoyed me only occasionally, yet he came across more as a victim of circumstances rather than an active participant in his own story. His passive approach to enduring constant bullying from Leo was infuriating; he seemed more like a foil than a protagonist. I found him somewhat tolerable, but that’s hardly a compliment considering the alternative—Leo.
Leo is a prime example of hypocrisy at its worst. He condemned the other gentry for being snobbish and materialistic, yet embodied those very traits himself, and his self-awareness did nothing to mitigate this. His disdain for Sebastian's ambitions to secure a council seat was utterly out of touch. Coming from a wealthy background, Leo’s immaturity and incessant whining were frustrating, and I found myself wishing for some genuine character growth, but he simply remained stagnant. It’s hard to believe he would evolve meaningfully in any future installments.
The burden of the curse might have weighed on him, but there was absolutely no way to feel any sympathy for his character. Frankly, he comes across as a bully, and I have zero tolerance for bullies.
As for the romance, I anticipated a slow burn, but now I question the fundamental compatibility between Sebastian and Leo. Their relationship lacked the necessary depth for any real connection to develop. There was absolutely no way I could fathom how Sebastian would fall for someone like Leo.
I found myself thinking that they were better off without each other in their lives.
Finally, the curse that loomed over the narrative was shockingly treated with apathy by almost all the characters besides Leo. The blurb made it out to be this big thing, but it did not feel like it. The urgency to confront it was glaringly absent, lowering the stakes of the entire story.
In conclusion, I was profoundly disappointed with this book. My expectations were high, but I found myself relieved to have finished it—especially to be rid of Leo.
September 11, 2024
I strongly feel like this was created in a lab to appeal to me specifically.
If I had to describe this book in one word it would be "FUN". It's incredibly funny, with the best character dynamic in existence, which is best described as ADHD x autistic (regardless of whether the characters are actually ND - they just really have the vibes, iykyk), with a little touch of enemies to lovers.
The romance is incredibly slow burn, and I would have liked it to have progressed a little further by the end, but that also just means I'm in for a treat in the next installments. Which I will be impatiently awaiting!
Everything about this book was so FUN and hilarious and comforting, and it has excellent rereading potential. This is definitely a new favourite for me!
If I had to describe this book in one word it would be "FUN". It's incredibly funny, with the best character dynamic in existence, which is best described as ADHD x autistic (regardless of whether the characters are actually ND - they just really have the vibes, iykyk), with a little touch of enemies to lovers.
The romance is incredibly slow burn, and I would have liked it to have progressed a little further by the end, but that also just means I'm in for a treat in the next installments. Which I will be impatiently awaiting!
Everything about this book was so FUN and hilarious and comforting, and it has excellent rereading potential. This is definitely a new favourite for me!
October 17, 2024
I laughed, I cried, I LITERALLY screamed and threw my kindle when I finished the book and realized I have no idea how long I have to wait for the second book.
I. Love. This. Book.
✩₊˚.⋆☾⋆⁺₊✧thank you netgalley and orbit for this arc!
Maiga Doocy’s debut novel is a cozy, gay, slow burn, fantasy romance with a unique magic system and incredibly lovable main characters.
Leovander Loveage is an unserious, lighthearted sorcerer and musician who’s reckless with everything except for powerful magic- which he refuses to touch. Sebastian Grimm is a grumpy, serious, talented sorcerer who is Leo’s polar opposite. As result, the two can’t stand each other and do their best to stay far apart�. that is, until they accidentally become magically bound to one another. The two must learn how to work together as they go on a journey through the dangerous Unquiet Wood to find a cure for the forbidden magic binding them.
The Positives:
I absolutely adored these characters. Loveage and Grimm are beautifully written and both go through strong character development. The world building is fairly strong - especially for a debut novel - and I loved the magic system.
I wouldn’t say this is a low stakes novel, but the stakes are personal rather than earth shattering,
If the idea of a gay, SLOOOWburn, fantasy romance with grumpy/sunshine, forced proximity, rivals-to-friends-to-????, and a sunshine-character-with-poor-coping-mechanisms-due-to-a-secret-tragic-past sounds up your alley, you should absolutely add this to your tbr.
The Not-Positives:
Now, while I definitely loved this book, I wouldn’t necessarily say it’s “perfect�. However, for a debut novel I was extremely impressed with how well written this was and with how much I connected emotionally to the main characters.
BUT.
Unfortunately the side characters were a bit lacking and felt slightly underdeveloped. Loveage and Grimm were the only characters I felt a connection to and there are a few side characters that I wish I knew more about. I’m hoping this will be resolved in future books!
I also think this book could use a map, though since I read an arc I can’t say for certain if there is or isn’t one included in the final copy.
In Summary:
Upon finishing, I ran to follow Maiga Doocy on instagram, saw that I could preorder a signed copy including extra goodies�. and immediately entered my payment information.
If you love funny, emotional, gay, character-driven fantasy�. I highly recommend checking this out.
I. Love. This. Book.
✩₊˚.⋆☾⋆⁺₊✧thank you netgalley and orbit for this arc!
Maiga Doocy’s debut novel is a cozy, gay, slow burn, fantasy romance with a unique magic system and incredibly lovable main characters.
Leovander Loveage is an unserious, lighthearted sorcerer and musician who’s reckless with everything except for powerful magic- which he refuses to touch. Sebastian Grimm is a grumpy, serious, talented sorcerer who is Leo’s polar opposite. As result, the two can’t stand each other and do their best to stay far apart�. that is, until they accidentally become magically bound to one another. The two must learn how to work together as they go on a journey through the dangerous Unquiet Wood to find a cure for the forbidden magic binding them.
The Positives:
I absolutely adored these characters. Loveage and Grimm are beautifully written and both go through strong character development. The world building is fairly strong - especially for a debut novel - and I loved the magic system.
I wouldn’t say this is a low stakes novel, but the stakes are personal rather than earth shattering,
If the idea of a gay, SLOOOWburn, fantasy romance with grumpy/sunshine, forced proximity, rivals-to-friends-to-????, and a sunshine-character-with-poor-coping-mechanisms-due-to-a-secret-tragic-past sounds up your alley, you should absolutely add this to your tbr.
The Not-Positives:
Now, while I definitely loved this book, I wouldn’t necessarily say it’s “perfect�. However, for a debut novel I was extremely impressed with how well written this was and with how much I connected emotionally to the main characters.
BUT.
Unfortunately the side characters were a bit lacking and felt slightly underdeveloped. Loveage and Grimm were the only characters I felt a connection to and there are a few side characters that I wish I knew more about. I’m hoping this will be resolved in future books!
I also think this book could use a map, though since I read an arc I can’t say for certain if there is or isn’t one included in the final copy.
In Summary:
Upon finishing, I ran to follow Maiga Doocy on instagram, saw that I could preorder a signed copy including extra goodies�. and immediately entered my payment information.
If you love funny, emotional, gay, character-driven fantasy�. I highly recommend checking this out.
![Profile Image for moonlight☾ [semi-hiatus].](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.gr-assets.com%2Fimages%2FS%2Fcompressed.photo.goodreads.com%2Fusers%2F1645500038i%2F37448930._UX200_CR0%2C0%2C200%2C200_.jpg&w=128&q=75)
January 27, 2025
Grimm shook his head, expression sober. “You have a rebel heart, Leovander Loveage. You will never be anyone but yourself.�
omg idk what i expected, but this was such a lovely read!!! i loved both the mc (Leo) and li (Grimm) and how their dynamic and back and forth banters were fun (i’ll never get tired of opposites attract), the side characters we came across of their lil adventure were interesting and i loved how they had their own motivations and goals that made them stand out to me (Sybilla? Jayne? i loved them), i loved how cozy this felt. i hope book two is released asap bc i NEED to see the progression of their relationship after how the book ended (especially bc of ). 👀🥹 as much as i loved Grimm though, there were moments throughout the book when i wished we also had his pov bc i wanted to know what he was thinking (particularly in situations where it felt like... ??) but, aside from that, i adored him. and of course, i just wanna hug and protect Leo forever. <3
omg idk what i expected, but this was such a lovely read!!! i loved both the mc (Leo) and li (Grimm) and how their dynamic and back and forth banters were fun (i’ll never get tired of opposites attract), the side characters we came across of their lil adventure were interesting and i loved how they had their own motivations and goals that made them stand out to me (Sybilla? Jayne? i loved them), i loved how cozy this felt. i hope book two is released asap bc i NEED to see the progression of their relationship after how the book ended (especially bc of ). 👀🥹 as much as i loved Grimm though, there were moments throughout the book when i wished we also had his pov bc i wanted to know what he was thinking (particularly in situations where it felt like... ??) but, aside from that, i adored him. and of course, i just wanna hug and protect Leo forever. <3
December 7, 2024
This was really good!!!
Rating: 4 ⭐️
The premise was so fun. Basically, the wrong spell gets cast and now Leo is compelled to do everything Grimm says. And can never leave his side. And may be falling in love with him?
I loved that the magic is a two-party system. One who writes and one who casts. And then adding song to the mix just made it so nice and cozy 🥰
The characters were also so cute. Especially Leo. I loved his character quirks and penchant for tomfoolery. Watching his character development was a ✨delight�
I was so excited when I realized this would be a trilogy!! Let’s goooooooo! I’m definitely ready to see more from the characters.
── ⋆⋅☆⋅� ───── ⋆⋅☆⋅� ───── ⋆⋅☆⋅� ──
Pre-read:
Very excited for this one. My last couple Fairyloot reads have been a little underwhelming but I have high hopes!!
Rating: 4 ⭐️
The premise was so fun. Basically, the wrong spell gets cast and now Leo is compelled to do everything Grimm says. And can never leave his side. And may be falling in love with him?
I loved that the magic is a two-party system. One who writes and one who casts. And then adding song to the mix just made it so nice and cozy 🥰
The characters were also so cute. Especially Leo. I loved his character quirks and penchant for tomfoolery. Watching his character development was a ✨delight�
I was so excited when I realized this would be a trilogy!! Let’s goooooooo! I’m definitely ready to see more from the characters.
── ⋆⋅☆⋅� ───── ⋆⋅☆⋅� ───── ⋆⋅☆⋅� ──
Pre-read:
Very excited for this one. My last couple Fairyloot reads have been a little underwhelming but I have high hopes!!
February 25, 2025
ughhh this was so good! How am I supposed to wait for the next one?!
Sorcery and Small Magics is a debut that's small-scale and focuses on two characters and the curse that's keeping them together. It's in first person POV from Leo, who is a spell writer, as he has to work with his nemesis Grimm, a spell caster. Despite never getting along, they're forced to work together for a class and there's a miscommunication that results in a powerful spell being cast that... well, it could've gone better.
The Characters:
This is a very character-driven story and Leo + Grimm will be the make it or break it point for if you end up liking it. Particularly Leo, since it's told from his POV. Leo is privileged and powerful and ridiculously gifted... but refuses to use high magics. Instead he limits himself to creating cantrips and small, controllable spells while also building a reputation as a frivolous partyer-- all to mask the deep well of power he has access to but is too frightened to use.
Grimm comes from the opposite, as he grew up in an impoverished area where your occupation is a choice made out of necessity rather than desire. He's incredibly disciplined and no-nonsense, and despite being very good at what he does, his own magic also comes with weaknesses.
When forced to work together, they discover that they have more in common than they ever thought, and that their magics complement each other quite well.
The Romance:
It's a slow-burn, grumpy x sunshine, nuisances-to-lovers, forced proximity and I thought it was executed very well. I enjoyed seeing how their affection grew over time, even while they refused to admit it. I'm not sure what the special ingredient is that makes me buy into a romance, but I can say that this one had me grinning to myself and feeling all melty/gooey inside. It doesn't overrun or overshadow the story, so I wouldn't be overly concerned if you're not very into romance.
The World-building:
The glimpses we get into this world are charming at every turn. There's some super lovable monsters that behave like giant, deadly, playful puppies; there are magical griffin feathers; there are towers built of enchantment with rooms that are always serving your favourite meal or doors with untold mysteries behind them.
A (threatening) aside:
If the sequels don't include more interactions with one particular side character and their bizarre monstrous pet, I'll be very cross!!
The Magic System:
In this world, magic essentially requires two people: a writer and a caster. Most casters cannot write their own spells, and most writers cannot cast magic. There are low level spells that are fairly simple, and there are high level spells that can also have an associated cost (usually energy/stamina).
And I won't spoil more than that, because I think it's fun to learn with the characters, but it also includes new magic. The kind that isn't taught in schools. Something that is powerful but not understood, that can carry both great opportunity and significant consequences. I absolutely love when magic systems are expanded throughout the story, so I honestly can't wait to see how it's further built upon in future installments.
Every time I remember the series name, I get very excited to see where this is going.
Overall:
This was utterly delightful and charming from beginning to end. I found it well-written and fleshed out. It doesn't have an overabundance of explanation and details, but nor does it have a litany of plotholes. Currently it has a 4.43 rating on ŷ; and while I know it will go down once it's out of the ARC phase, I think it will ultimately be enjoyable for a large audience of people and remain at the very least ~4.
Audiobook Notes:
The narrator is British and he does a really good job translating the text. I always found his narration to be engaging and properly emotive, without taking center stage over the text. He doesn't do a lot to differentiate the characters, but I would still highly rank him among all male narrators I've listened to.
Thank you to Hachette Audio and NetGalley for granting me an audio ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Sorcery and Small Magics is a debut that's small-scale and focuses on two characters and the curse that's keeping them together. It's in first person POV from Leo, who is a spell writer, as he has to work with his nemesis Grimm, a spell caster. Despite never getting along, they're forced to work together for a class and there's a miscommunication that results in a powerful spell being cast that... well, it could've gone better.
The Characters:
This is a very character-driven story and Leo + Grimm will be the make it or break it point for if you end up liking it. Particularly Leo, since it's told from his POV. Leo is privileged and powerful and ridiculously gifted... but refuses to use high magics. Instead he limits himself to creating cantrips and small, controllable spells while also building a reputation as a frivolous partyer-- all to mask the deep well of power he has access to but is too frightened to use.
Grimm comes from the opposite, as he grew up in an impoverished area where your occupation is a choice made out of necessity rather than desire. He's incredibly disciplined and no-nonsense, and despite being very good at what he does, his own magic also comes with weaknesses.
When forced to work together, they discover that they have more in common than they ever thought, and that their magics complement each other quite well.
The Romance:
It's a slow-burn, grumpy x sunshine, nuisances-to-lovers, forced proximity and I thought it was executed very well. I enjoyed seeing how their affection grew over time, even while they refused to admit it. I'm not sure what the special ingredient is that makes me buy into a romance, but I can say that this one had me grinning to myself and feeling all melty/gooey inside. It doesn't overrun or overshadow the story, so I wouldn't be overly concerned if you're not very into romance.
The World-building:
The glimpses we get into this world are charming at every turn. There's some super lovable monsters that behave like giant, deadly, playful puppies; there are magical griffin feathers; there are towers built of enchantment with rooms that are always serving your favourite meal or doors with untold mysteries behind them.
A (threatening) aside:
If the sequels don't include more interactions with one particular side character and their bizarre monstrous pet, I'll be very cross!!
The Magic System:
In this world, magic essentially requires two people: a writer and a caster. Most casters cannot write their own spells, and most writers cannot cast magic. There are low level spells that are fairly simple, and there are high level spells that can also have an associated cost (usually energy/stamina).
And I won't spoil more than that, because I think it's fun to learn with the characters, but it also includes new magic. The kind that isn't taught in schools. Something that is powerful but not understood, that can carry both great opportunity and significant consequences. I absolutely love when magic systems are expanded throughout the story, so I honestly can't wait to see how it's further built upon in future installments.
Every time I remember the series name, I get very excited to see where this is going.
Overall:
This was utterly delightful and charming from beginning to end. I found it well-written and fleshed out. It doesn't have an overabundance of explanation and details, but nor does it have a litany of plotholes. Currently it has a 4.43 rating on ŷ; and while I know it will go down once it's out of the ARC phase, I think it will ultimately be enjoyable for a large audience of people and remain at the very least ~4.
Audiobook Notes:
The narrator is British and he does a really good job translating the text. I always found his narration to be engaging and properly emotive, without taking center stage over the text. He doesn't do a lot to differentiate the characters, but I would still highly rank him among all male narrators I've listened to.
Thank you to Hachette Audio and NetGalley for granting me an audio ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
December 23, 2024
4 stars. Written with true whimsical charm and containing a queer romance I'm absolutely dying to see progress further, Sorcery and Small Magics is a great debut to scratch that cozy fantasy itch.
June 28, 2024
Thank you to Orbit Books and NetGalley for the ARC!
I thought I would enjoy this book; sadly, I did not. I flew through this, not because I was enjoying it, but because I wanted to get it over with and off my digital shelf. :/
The first two chapters grabbed my attention, but not long afterward, the book went downhill for me. The pacing was incredibly slow in certain parts, and this book was far more “cozy fantasy� than I was expecting (I don’t vibe with cozy fantasy, for what it’s worth). Leo Loveage was a protagonist I found deeply annoying, and I don’t say that lightly. My threshold for “annoying protagonist� is relatively high; I can sympathize with immature protagonists if I understand why they are the way they are, and I generally enjoy Walking Disaster-type characters.
Unfortunately, Leo Loveage didn’t work for me. At all. As it turns out, I can’t stand characters who constantly and intentionally make their lives worse for themselves. He didn’t have any goals or ambitions other than to fail as a sorcerer and waste his life, and I wasn’t given enough background to sympathize with why he would act that way. Whenever Grimm called him out for his privilege, I was like “yeah, he’s right, why am I in this whiny nepo-baby’s head again?� His behavior was finally explained near the 75% mark of the book, but for me it was too little, too late. That explanation should have come much earlier.
His interactions with Sebastian Grimm were also not enjoyable to read about. I love slow-burn romances; Jane Austen’s Persuasion is still one of my favorite romances of all time. And I enjoy a good enemies-to-lovers or rivals-to-lovers arc. But Leo’s constant antagonizing of Grimm felt mean-spirited and juvenile rather than humorous or endearing. I felt zero chemistry between the two. Even when the romantic relationship begins to develop, it’s completely ruined by the nature of the forced proximity curse between them so it left me feeling icky rather than swoony. Seriously, I don’t understand what the author was thinking. And I don’t trust anyone who’s been raving about this book for its queer romance.
Let’s talk about the elephant in the room, which is the fact that this book feels like it started as The Untamed fanfic. The whole premise of the book was fanfic AF, and that’s another thing I don’t say lightly. I don’t, on principle, have an issue with fanfic that’s turned into published fiction. But there are just some ideas that work as an interesting AU/thought experiment in fanfic but feel cringe in original fiction, IMO.
On to the comparisons with The Untamed specifically. I could have forgiven just the using of the “opposites attract�/“rivals to lovers�/“free spirit falls for reserved LI� tropes. But the similarities were a bit too close. Leo Loveage is the chatty, alcohol-loving, free-spirited, rule-breaking, prank-playing main character who practices forbidden magic with a musical instrument, FFS. Sebastian Grimm is the quiet, law-abiding, reserved love interest who is literally described as viewing the world in black and white and constantly lectures Leo about the dangers of forbidden magic. Seriously, need I say more? Unfortunately, the similarities are so close that they invited constant comparison. I do not enjoy a reading experience where I’m constantly thinking that another book did the same idea better—that Wei Wuxian’s antics were endearing whereas Leo Loveage’s antics were just immature and cringeworthy, and that Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji always had palpable romantic tension in their interactions while Leo and Grimm’s relationship had as much romantic tension as a piece of stale white bread.
What bothered me even more was the similarities between the magic system and Chinese cultivation. The system of scriving was reminiscent of paper talismans, and—even more damning—the portrayal of sorcerers studying sword forms as part of their studies. That’s a deeply Chinese influence. Once I made that connection, it was hard not to feel like this book featured Chinese fantasy traditions with a European coat of paint slapped on top.
There was an interesting theme regarding trauma, but the emotional “breakthrough� that happens feels like it came out of nowhere, with no buildup, and could be read as a “love conquers emotional wounds� message which I generally dislike. All in all, this book had the emotional resonance of a wet paper towel for me.
I thought I would enjoy this book; sadly, I did not. I flew through this, not because I was enjoying it, but because I wanted to get it over with and off my digital shelf. :/
The first two chapters grabbed my attention, but not long afterward, the book went downhill for me. The pacing was incredibly slow in certain parts, and this book was far more “cozy fantasy� than I was expecting (I don’t vibe with cozy fantasy, for what it’s worth). Leo Loveage was a protagonist I found deeply annoying, and I don’t say that lightly. My threshold for “annoying protagonist� is relatively high; I can sympathize with immature protagonists if I understand why they are the way they are, and I generally enjoy Walking Disaster-type characters.
Unfortunately, Leo Loveage didn’t work for me. At all. As it turns out, I can’t stand characters who constantly and intentionally make their lives worse for themselves. He didn’t have any goals or ambitions other than to fail as a sorcerer and waste his life, and I wasn’t given enough background to sympathize with why he would act that way. Whenever Grimm called him out for his privilege, I was like “yeah, he’s right, why am I in this whiny nepo-baby’s head again?� His behavior was finally explained near the 75% mark of the book, but for me it was too little, too late. That explanation should have come much earlier.
His interactions with Sebastian Grimm were also not enjoyable to read about. I love slow-burn romances; Jane Austen’s Persuasion is still one of my favorite romances of all time. And I enjoy a good enemies-to-lovers or rivals-to-lovers arc. But Leo’s constant antagonizing of Grimm felt mean-spirited and juvenile rather than humorous or endearing. I felt zero chemistry between the two. Even when the romantic relationship begins to develop, it’s completely ruined by the nature of the forced proximity curse between them so it left me feeling icky rather than swoony. Seriously, I don’t understand what the author was thinking. And I don’t trust anyone who’s been raving about this book for its queer romance.
Let’s talk about the elephant in the room, which is the fact that this book feels like it started as The Untamed fanfic. The whole premise of the book was fanfic AF, and that’s another thing I don’t say lightly. I don’t, on principle, have an issue with fanfic that’s turned into published fiction. But there are just some ideas that work as an interesting AU/thought experiment in fanfic but feel cringe in original fiction, IMO.
On to the comparisons with The Untamed specifically. I could have forgiven just the using of the “opposites attract�/“rivals to lovers�/“free spirit falls for reserved LI� tropes. But the similarities were a bit too close. Leo Loveage is the chatty, alcohol-loving, free-spirited, rule-breaking, prank-playing main character who practices forbidden magic with a musical instrument, FFS. Sebastian Grimm is the quiet, law-abiding, reserved love interest who is literally described as viewing the world in black and white and constantly lectures Leo about the dangers of forbidden magic. Seriously, need I say more? Unfortunately, the similarities are so close that they invited constant comparison. I do not enjoy a reading experience where I’m constantly thinking that another book did the same idea better—that Wei Wuxian’s antics were endearing whereas Leo Loveage’s antics were just immature and cringeworthy, and that Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji always had palpable romantic tension in their interactions while Leo and Grimm’s relationship had as much romantic tension as a piece of stale white bread.
What bothered me even more was the similarities between the magic system and Chinese cultivation. The system of scriving was reminiscent of paper talismans, and—even more damning—the portrayal of sorcerers studying sword forms as part of their studies. That’s a deeply Chinese influence. Once I made that connection, it was hard not to feel like this book featured Chinese fantasy traditions with a European coat of paint slapped on top.
There was an interesting theme regarding trauma, but the emotional “breakthrough� that happens feels like it came out of nowhere, with no buildup, and could be read as a “love conquers emotional wounds� message which I generally dislike. All in all, this book had the emotional resonance of a wet paper towel for me.
January 25, 2025
3.5/5 stars. Enjoyed this but was shocked to discover it was a series. I’ll definitely be tuning in for book two because I need Leo and Sebastian to be endgame. I felt like there could’ve been more to this novel but like I said, it was somewhat enjoyable, just not a new favorite.
December 26, 2024
Did I read this in two sittings? Yes. I don’t know what to tell you: an antagonistic slowburn is my very specific kryptonite.
THE PREMISE: if you like accidental bond Drarry, you’ll love this book. It’s a curse gone wrong, then a whimsical romp through some magical woods.
TROPES & VIBES:
- Cozy MM fantasy
- Grumpy x sunshine in a way that gives autism x ADHD (aka: my fave kind)
- The singing monsters made me inexplicably cry
- Accidental bonds x forced proximity
- Music as magic
- Chaotic disaster mc
MOOD: read if you want something that feels kind of like Carry On by Rainbow Rowell or In Other Lands by Sarah Rees Brennan
4.5⭐️ No 🌶�
THE PREMISE: if you like accidental bond Drarry, you’ll love this book. It’s a curse gone wrong, then a whimsical romp through some magical woods.
TROPES & VIBES:
- Cozy MM fantasy
- Grumpy x sunshine in a way that gives autism x ADHD (aka: my fave kind)
- The singing monsters made me inexplicably cry
- Accidental bonds x forced proximity
- Music as magic
- Chaotic disaster mc
MOOD: read if you want something that feels kind of like Carry On by Rainbow Rowell or In Other Lands by Sarah Rees Brennan
4.5⭐️ No 🌶�
Shelved as 'dnf'
October 27, 2024It’s time to be honest with myself� this was a DNF when I put it down four months ago. I may try this again later when the next book is out.
I found the characters a bit cliche and I really don’t enjoy reading about characters that (mostly intentionally) make their lives unnecessarily difficult and are unreasonably unpleasant to the people around them. I’m literally stuck at a scene where one of the main characters is about to do something incredibly stupid on purpose. I can’t get back into it knowing that’s what awaits me.
Other than that I don’t really know what has kept me from picking this back up. There’s nothing that wrong with it, I just don’t want to.
I found the characters a bit cliche and I really don’t enjoy reading about characters that (mostly intentionally) make their lives unnecessarily difficult and are unreasonably unpleasant to the people around them. I’m literally stuck at a scene where one of the main characters is about to do something incredibly stupid on purpose. I can’t get back into it knowing that’s what awaits me.
Other than that I don’t really know what has kept me from picking this back up. There’s nothing that wrong with it, I just don’t want to.
December 17, 2024
4.25 so cute!!! This is my style of cozy fantasy.
The sloooooooowest of burns.
The sloooooooowest of burns.
October 17, 2024
Snazzy opener:
I have no complaints about the road trip itself, about the worldbuilding, about the breadcrumbs laid for future installments of this planned trilogy, or, for the most part,* about the prose. Sorcery and Small Magics gets 3.5 stars rounded up rather than 5 stars because the relationship between Leo and Sebastian isn't well worked out. Partly this is because of an aspect of the spell's nature that I can't describe without a minor spoiler, but since it's a very minor spoiler given that we're in forced-proximity, mutual-hostility, road-trip trope country: The compulsion spell is revealed to be a love spell, which Leo somehow fails to notice until it's pointed out to him directly. This obliviousness is explained by his never having been in love before, but you'd think the very novelty of the feeling might have announced itself to him, no? Also, since it's a love spell and Leo is something of a tomcat, I'd expect building sexual tension, at least on his part; but if it was there, it was too subtle for me.
There are missteps in Sebastian's characterization, too. Appropriately appalled at having so much power over Leo, he makes a concerted effort to avoid giving commands -- yet at the same time, he repeatedly objects to Leo's risky search for a way to lift the spell, not seeming to understand why Leo's more and more desperate to get free. There's also a whole rigmarole late in the book with Leo being urged to explain to Sebastian that the spell's leash keeps shortening. (This isn't a spoiler; it's been happening all along.) But how has Sebastian not noticed that whereas when the spell first took effect they were able to spend time apart, Leo now needs to keep him in sight and even to sleep in the same room?
tl;dr -- This was fun despite its flaws, and I'll look out for the next in the series. Thanks to Orbit and NetGalley for the ARC.
*Aside to the publisher: Please explain to your copyeditors and proofreaders how "lay" and "lie" work and how to avoid the "I" hypercorrection. I have a few other points to make, too, if you'd care to get in touch.
... by the time the night was over, I was drunk, my nose was bleeding, and Sebastian Grimm was furious with me.Leo and Sebastian both attend the Fount, a sort of magical university; Leo's a scriver, meaning he writes spells, and Sebastian's a caster, meaning he does the actual casting. Leo's a scapegrace who sticks to cantrips and charms, because when he writes Grandmagic (self-explanatory, yes?), bad things happen; Sebastian's a talented rule-follower. A series of unfortunate events results in Sebastian casting a spell that leaves Leo subject to Sebastian's commands and also, as time goes on, suffering physical pain that can only be alleviated by proximity to Sebastian. All attempts to undo the spell having failed, the only solution is of course to undertake a road trip, in search of a hermit sorcerer who has a reputation for being able to solve unsolvable magical problems.
It should be noted that only one of these things was unusual.
I have no complaints about the road trip itself, about the worldbuilding, about the breadcrumbs laid for future installments of this planned trilogy, or, for the most part,* about the prose. Sorcery and Small Magics gets 3.5 stars rounded up rather than 5 stars because the relationship between Leo and Sebastian isn't well worked out. Partly this is because of an aspect of the spell's nature that I can't describe without a minor spoiler, but since it's a very minor spoiler given that we're in forced-proximity, mutual-hostility, road-trip trope country: The compulsion spell is revealed to be a love spell, which Leo somehow fails to notice until it's pointed out to him directly. This obliviousness is explained by his never having been in love before, but you'd think the very novelty of the feeling might have announced itself to him, no? Also, since it's a love spell and Leo is something of a tomcat, I'd expect building sexual tension, at least on his part; but if it was there, it was too subtle for me.
There are missteps in Sebastian's characterization, too. Appropriately appalled at having so much power over Leo, he makes a concerted effort to avoid giving commands -- yet at the same time, he repeatedly objects to Leo's risky search for a way to lift the spell, not seeming to understand why Leo's more and more desperate to get free. There's also a whole rigmarole late in the book with Leo being urged to explain to Sebastian that the spell's leash keeps shortening. (This isn't a spoiler; it's been happening all along.) But how has Sebastian not noticed that whereas when the spell first took effect they were able to spend time apart, Leo now needs to keep him in sight and even to sleep in the same room?
tl;dr -- This was fun despite its flaws, and I'll look out for the next in the series. Thanks to Orbit and NetGalley for the ARC.
*Aside to the publisher: Please explain to your copyeditors and proofreaders how "lay" and "lie" work and how to avoid the "I" hypercorrection. I have a few other points to make, too, if you'd care to get in touch.
August 8, 2024
Leo is a walking disaster, just trying to keep it together to pass his final year at the Fount, a school for sorcerers.
Shouldn’t be too hard right? Only thing is, his rival, the perfect Grimm, the best caster, is partnered with him. Then, they unknowingly fall victim to a curse which compels Leo to do whatever Grimm says. If authority finds out, they’re both screwed.
To break the curse, they must brave the strange and sprawling Wilderlands beyond the borders, where magic flourished unhindered, producing all sorts of odd creatures and plant life. Picture giants, flowers which can kill you, dogs with mouths for eyes.
"You're usually kept apart because anything else is more trouble than it's worth for the rest of us, but that's not the same thing as avoiding each other. Those restrictions were put in place because you both seem incapable of doing just that.�
Leo is a scriver, someone who writes spells, whereas Grimm is a caster. However, Leo refuses to write anything more powerful than small magic or charms as any time he attempted to write Grandmagic, it twisted to something wrong.
I liked how this was used to explore trauma and uncertainty and fear.
This was grumpy and sunshine troupe, non-stop talking, annoying each other as if it’s a sport. This is also sloooow burn.
Also, prepare yourself for an infuriating main character in Leo. Someone who seems to cause chaos wherever he goes (accidentally but normally purposefully).
Those bones had always been there, but their function had been silent, invisible. Then suddenly, with each painful breath, I was aware of them - their placement and their flaw. Perhaps it was dramatic to compare love to an injury, but that's how this felt. Like something that needed to be mended.
This reminded me of Carry On by Rainbow Rowell, but I enjoyed this a lot more!
This was a fun break between longer, more intricate reads! I literally finished it in a day!
Recommended cozy high three stars! 🌟
Thank you to Little Brown Book Group for providing an arc in exchange for a review!
Shouldn’t be too hard right? Only thing is, his rival, the perfect Grimm, the best caster, is partnered with him. Then, they unknowingly fall victim to a curse which compels Leo to do whatever Grimm says. If authority finds out, they’re both screwed.
To break the curse, they must brave the strange and sprawling Wilderlands beyond the borders, where magic flourished unhindered, producing all sorts of odd creatures and plant life. Picture giants, flowers which can kill you, dogs with mouths for eyes.
"You're usually kept apart because anything else is more trouble than it's worth for the rest of us, but that's not the same thing as avoiding each other. Those restrictions were put in place because you both seem incapable of doing just that.�
Leo is a scriver, someone who writes spells, whereas Grimm is a caster. However, Leo refuses to write anything more powerful than small magic or charms as any time he attempted to write Grandmagic, it twisted to something wrong.
I liked how this was used to explore trauma and uncertainty and fear.
This was grumpy and sunshine troupe, non-stop talking, annoying each other as if it’s a sport. This is also sloooow burn.
Also, prepare yourself for an infuriating main character in Leo. Someone who seems to cause chaos wherever he goes (accidentally but normally purposefully).
Those bones had always been there, but their function had been silent, invisible. Then suddenly, with each painful breath, I was aware of them - their placement and their flaw. Perhaps it was dramatic to compare love to an injury, but that's how this felt. Like something that needed to be mended.
This reminded me of Carry On by Rainbow Rowell, but I enjoyed this a lot more!
This was a fun break between longer, more intricate reads! I literally finished it in a day!
Recommended cozy high three stars! 🌟
Thank you to Little Brown Book Group for providing an arc in exchange for a review!
March 5, 2025
Light and whimsical and wonderful. Sorcery and Small Magics definitely isn’t reinventing the wheel - it is, very literally, A Marvellous Light x Ocean’s Echo - but its familiarity was exactly what I was in the mood for when I picked this up. I absolutely tore through this book. I read more than half of it in one sitting.
Leo and Sebastian are archetypical characters, certainly, but never flat or unbelievable ones. The tropes and archetypes make it really easy to slip into the story, but the character backgrounds and their well-paced relationship development keep the read feeling rewarding. One thing that does set Sorcery and Small magics apart from other, similar romantasies is the fact that it is book one of a trilogy about these characters - that makes this an ULTRA slow slowburn. They’ve still got two books to go.
I loved this world, this quest, this magic system - this is just a very well constructed book, all things considered. Multiple elements are woven in early on to be revisited later at key moments, and we move from one setting to the next at a rate that feels exciting but still leaves time to feel immersed in this enchanting world.
Where is book 2?? Give me more
Thanks to Orbit for providing me with an eARC in exchange for an honest review!
Leo and Sebastian are archetypical characters, certainly, but never flat or unbelievable ones. The tropes and archetypes make it really easy to slip into the story, but the character backgrounds and their well-paced relationship development keep the read feeling rewarding. One thing that does set Sorcery and Small magics apart from other, similar romantasies is the fact that it is book one of a trilogy about these characters - that makes this an ULTRA slow slowburn. They’ve still got two books to go.
I loved this world, this quest, this magic system - this is just a very well constructed book, all things considered. Multiple elements are woven in early on to be revisited later at key moments, and we move from one setting to the next at a rate that feels exciting but still leaves time to feel immersed in this enchanting world.
Where is book 2?? Give me more
Thanks to Orbit for providing me with an eARC in exchange for an honest review!
November 30, 2024
2.5
it started off really promising but the main character was probably the only thing worth reading for. the plot was whatever but the romance felt so lackluster
it started off really promising but the main character was probably the only thing worth reading for. the plot was whatever but the romance felt so lackluster
November 16, 2024
yeahhhhh buddy
the climax pushed this one over the edge for me
that's what she said
the climax pushed this one over the edge for me
that's what she said
June 21, 2024
super readable, but as a story this felt incomplete. i didnt really buy the slowburn romance--partly because i found Grimm to be a very inscrutable character, and partly because i wasnt feeling any tension whatsoever between these characters (slowburn only works if there is, in fact, a "burn")--and i didnt like how this ended so abruptly. it felt like a one-book story that was split into two books just for the sake of it. but the writing really is great. a lot of the debuts i read feel like theyre trying too hard, but the writing in this one strikes the perfect balance between earnest and funny. too bad the story and the character work didnt follow suit...
December 26, 2024
Oh nooo…they hate each other. That’s terrible. 🙂↔�
I don’t read a lot of fantasy anymore because usually I don’t have the brain power, but this one was a total win!
A magical school, where a chaotic bisexual is forced to work with his nemesis, the serious brooding Mr. always perfect.
A magical system that’s easy to understand and actually explained within the first few chapters so even my one remaining braincell could understand it.
From „whoops I accidentally cursed my enemy� and them needing to get rid of said curse again, to these two bonding over childhood trauma in the dark and dangerous woods full of magical creatures, to being so emotionally constipated they can’t even tell each other they’re in love after they saved each others lives. This was absolutely perfect and I need the next book immediately! The best thing is that there’s not a super mean cliffhanger, so I might actually survive the wait time.
If you loved A marvellous light or Carry on you’ll love this too, because this was the best mix out of these two.
I don’t read a lot of fantasy anymore because usually I don’t have the brain power, but this one was a total win!
A magical school, where a chaotic bisexual is forced to work with his nemesis, the serious brooding Mr. always perfect.
A magical system that’s easy to understand and actually explained within the first few chapters so even my one remaining braincell could understand it.
From „whoops I accidentally cursed my enemy� and them needing to get rid of said curse again, to these two bonding over childhood trauma in the dark and dangerous woods full of magical creatures, to being so emotionally constipated they can’t even tell each other they’re in love after they saved each others lives. This was absolutely perfect and I need the next book immediately! The best thing is that there’s not a super mean cliffhanger, so I might actually survive the wait time.
If you loved A marvellous light or Carry on you’ll love this too, because this was the best mix out of these two.
November 4, 2024
Many thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
2024 has been a year of many good books I've enjoyed, but somehow I've managed to only pick up one that's left me with a five-star feeling and it's left me wondering for months on end - where is my next five-star read lurking? It only took a few chapters for me to warm up to our narrator Leo - I absolutely loved his voice and humour. Add to that a magic school setting with a rival character who is true to his name - Grimm - and you've already got a pretty good starting point.
If I've learned anything about myself as a reader and romance, it's that I love opposites attract and I love slow burn - the slower the better. This book does both perfectly well. Leo and Grimm are completely different in so many ways which leads to so many hilarious clashes that the odds of these two finding any common ground seems nearly impossible. Their dynamics were so much fun to read about and gradually see the shift over the course of the novel. That being said, as this is a trilogy, I was a wee bit worried what this would mean for the series. As it stands, it was so perfectly done in this first instalment that it leaves more than enough room for the follow up - I was nothing but a little frustrated that I didn't already have the second book on hand to see how things will further develop. I would also be very interested to see Grimm's point of view in the sequel, but I would just as happily follow Leo again as I truly loved his narrative.
Romance aside, it is generally speaking quite a standard European-esque fantasy world, but the magic system is interesting and I enjoyed that it requires at least two people to work together. I also like the new forms of Magic Leo and Grimm have been exploring as well as the Unquiet Wood. I'll never say no to a magic forest that may be as magical as it is deadly. I hope we will return to this setting in future instalments as I think there is still much left to be explored. I enjoyed the monsters which were equally terrifying and loveable if given the chance.
The pacing was great, the side characters were likeable and I genuinely can't think of a single thing I did not enjoy about this book. Leo and Grimm in particular will go down as some of my new favourite characters but as a whole, I am both eager to see how their story continues as well as what happens next in their world. And here we are - at long last, my second five-star read of 2024 - better late than never!
October 15, 2024
A slow burn grumpy/sunshine enemies-to-lovers MM romance between a scriver (one who writes spells) and a caster (one who casts spells). After being paired together during school, these two find themselves mixed up in a spell that they need help undoing. There’s talk of a sorcerer in the woods who may be able to create a counterspell, so the two embark on a quest.
This was so enjoyable to read and to be immersed in this magical world. I loved the magic system and how it’s set up as a two person system. This book gave me the vibes of Sword in the Stone with Merlin and Madam Mim, Ella Enchanted, that 1989 animated movie Happy Ever After, a bit of Rapunzel. This was a very slow burn romance, which I appreciated as this is set to be a trilogy. This really sets up future explorations of their relationship in subsequent books. I look forward to continuing with their journey. 4.25
Thank you NetGalley for an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This was so enjoyable to read and to be immersed in this magical world. I loved the magic system and how it’s set up as a two person system. This book gave me the vibes of Sword in the Stone with Merlin and Madam Mim, Ella Enchanted, that 1989 animated movie Happy Ever After, a bit of Rapunzel. This was a very slow burn romance, which I appreciated as this is set to be a trilogy. This really sets up future explorations of their relationship in subsequent books. I look forward to continuing with their journey. 4.25
Thank you NetGalley for an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
November 4, 2024
Slow burn cozy fantasy, with magic school and eventually a magical forest. Nothing challenging, in fact the opposite of it, very easy, and that is its flaw, if any. It is oh so s l o w but it worked for my particular mood, and there were some cool details all round, the magic system. Ending is very slow burn but also clearly hinting at some development (right, come on, I bet that feather is oh so intact..) and I will probably check the sequel. One needs to be in the right mood for cozy and unchallenging though.
April 26, 2025
“there’s no point in building a giant, mysterious tower in the middle of the woods if you’re going to ruin it by being sensible about interior design features.�
god it's refreshing to find a fantasy book that is genuinely funny, has original characters, an interesting plot, and a coherent magic system without being the most pretentious, convoluted and poorly written thing to ever grace the earth.
i may be a little partial due to the fact that this reads exactly like drarry fanfiction (sue me) and it's a slow burn where you can just kinda barely sorta see the flame but regardless it is truly worth a read!
(fair warning, you will be crushed when you realise the second one isn't out yet)
“must you conduct yourself in a way that entices people to stab you in your sleep? i, the person who’s sharing a tent with you, will be quite peeved if we’re murdered simply because you couldn’t be polite.�
god it's refreshing to find a fantasy book that is genuinely funny, has original characters, an interesting plot, and a coherent magic system without being the most pretentious, convoluted and poorly written thing to ever grace the earth.
i may be a little partial due to the fact that this reads exactly like drarry fanfiction (sue me) and it's a slow burn where you can just kinda barely sorta see the flame but regardless it is truly worth a read!
(fair warning, you will be crushed when you realise the second one isn't out yet)
“must you conduct yourself in a way that entices people to stab you in your sleep? i, the person who’s sharing a tent with you, will be quite peeved if we’re murdered simply because you couldn’t be polite.�
January 20, 2025
I went into this completely blind and I enjoyed it. There weren't enough stakes in it for me to rate this higher than a 3.5 but it was a quick easy read that had me giggling and smiling.
I liked both characters, Leo more so, and I enjoyed their dynamic. I found Leo plenty annoying at certain parts but he always seemed to win me over within a few pages. What I love the most though, is how when they finally do fall in love in the following books there's now going to be a question of if it's genuine or if it's an after effect of the spell, whether he'd feel the same way if the spell had never happened and I think that's the kind of light angst that'd guarantee I'll be coming back to read the sequels!
I liked both characters, Leo more so, and I enjoyed their dynamic. I found Leo plenty annoying at certain parts but he always seemed to win me over within a few pages. What I love the most though, is how when they finally do fall in love in the following books there's now going to be a question of if it's genuine or if it's an after effect of the spell, whether he'd feel the same way if the spell had never happened and I think that's the kind of light angst that'd guarantee I'll be coming back to read the sequels!
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