Books matching: magic and its consequences
76 result(s)
- #1
In a kingdom plagued by a deadly bramble that thrives on magic, an alchemist discovers a way to destroy it but faces the dilemma of using magic to do so. The story delves into the consequences of magic, the complex character of the alchemist, and the desperate struggle to save the kingdom from the deadly spread of the bramble. Set in a fantastical world steeped in mythology and magic, the novella presents a gripping tale of sacrifice, love, and the battle between magic and alchemy.
It’s difficult to sell your last bed to a neighbor. More difficult still when your only child clings like a spider monkey to its frame, and screams as if you were chopping off her arms with an axe eve... - #2
Flora Segunda follows the adventures of the protagonist, Flora Fyrdraaca, a teenage girl living in a large, magical house with her eccentric family. The story unfolds as Flora discovers hidden secrets within her home, befriends a banished butler, and delves into the world of magic. The book is set in an alternate California with influences from Spanish and precolumbian elements, creating a unique and imaginative world. The writing style is described as witty, whimsical, and filled with clever details that defy cliches, making the story engaging and original.
BLASTED HECK, I’m supposed to be writing my Catorcena speech, where I am supposed to be celebrating the fabulousness of my House, the glory of my family, the fantasticness of my future. But I can’t th... - #3
Salt Magic Skin Magic by Lee Welch is a Victorian era m m romance novel with elements of fantasy and magic. The story follows Lord Thornby, who is physically trapped on his remote estate by unknown forces, leading to a dark and eerie atmosphere. The plot unfolds as a trained magician named John Blake arrives at the estate to unravel the mystery behind Thornby's imprisonment, ultimately forming a deep bond as they work together to confront the malevolent energy within the cursed house. The writing style of the book is described as beautifully phrased with literary descriptions, creating a gothic, historical, and fantastical story that keeps readers engaged with its twists and turns until the very end.
Soren, Lord Thornby, opened the rectory field gate and checked the back of his left hand for the hundredth time. He’d written the word ‘leave’ on his skin in black ink. His hands had trembled as he’d ... - #4
The Books of Magic by Neil Gaiman is a graphic novel that follows the story of Timothy Hunter, a young boy with the potential to become the most powerful magician on Earth. Introduced to the world of magic by four mysterious men - John Constantine, the Stranger, Dr. Occult, and Mr. E., Timothy embarks on a journey through past, present, alternate worlds, and the future of magic. Throughout the story, he faces the choice of embracing the magical world or rejecting it, encountering various DC Universe characters like Etrigan, Zatanna, and the Endless along the way. The plot is a blend of myth, fantasy, and coming-of-age elements, with a focus on the beauty and price of magic, as Timothy navigates the dangers and wonders of this new realm.
The graphic novel is praised for its gorgeous illustrations, compelling story, and the way it introduces readers to the magical realm of the DC Universe. Neil Gaiman's writing style shines through, offering a sense of the mythic and beautiful with an underlying current of danger that adds to the allure of the world of magic. The book is described as a captivating journey that not only explores Timothy's potential as a magician but also delves into the complexities of choice, destiny, and the power of imagination, making it a must-read for fans of fantasy and magic-themed narratives.
- #5
Vassa in the Night by Sarah Porter is a contemporary retelling of the Russian folktale featuring Vassa, a teenage heroine living in Brooklyn with her stepmother and sisters. The story unfolds as Vassa finds herself working at a peculiar convenience store owned by a witchy and ruthless proprietor. The book blends magical realism with dark humor, whimsical imagery, and elements of horror, creating a surreal and fantastical world where the boundaries between reality and dreams blur. The narrative is filled with puzzling riddles, magical madness, and eerie characters, making it a modern fairy tale that is both captivating and unconventional.
People live here on purpose; that’s what I’ve heard. They even cross the country deliberately and move in to the neighborhoods near the river, and suddenly their shoes are cuter than they are, and ver... - #6
The Witch's Boy by Kelly Barnhill is a fantasy novel that follows the story of Ned, a boy who survives a tragic accident that takes the life of his twin brother. Ned's mother, a witch with powerful magic, transfers his brother's soul into Ned's body, causing the villagers to believe that the wrong boy survived. When bandits attempt to steal the magic, Ned must protect it and is joined by Aine, the daughter of the bandit king, on a journey to save their world from an impending war. The book explores themes of friendship, courage, and the power of magic, set in an enchanting and vividly described world.
The narrative unfolds through the perspectives of Ned and Aine, two resilient characters who undergo personal growth and transformation throughout the story. As they join forces to confront ancient problems and face magical challenges, their bond strengthens, creating a compelling and engaging dynamic between the protagonists. The Witch's Boy weaves together elements of adventure, fantasy, and mystery, offering readers a fast-paced and imaginative tale filled with richly developed characters and captivating storytelling.
- #7
'Spiritwalk' in the series 'Moonheart' by Charles de Lint is a captivating and immersive tale that continues the story set in Tamson House. The book intricately weaves elements of mythology and folklore into a modern urban setting, creating a lyrical and evocative narrative that draws readers in. With a blend of fantasy and reality, the story follows a new cast of characters who find themselves entangled in the supernatural forces surrounding Tamson House, leading to major life changes and unexpected twists.
De Lint's writing style in 'Spiritwalk' is praised for its ability to make characters come alive and for the way he intricately weaves multiple storylines together. The book is noted for its beautiful prose, vivid descriptions, and deep messages that resonate with readers on living wisely. Despite some challenges with the pacing and complexity of the characters, 'Spiritwalk' is commended for its ability to transport readers to a world where magic, mystery, and everyday life intersect.
On September 23, 1906, one of Canada’s most notorious lumber barons went for an afternoon ride in the Gatineau Mountains and never came back. He left behind a flourishing lumber business and an extens...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Moonheart ) - #8
The Crimson Queen by Alec Hutson follows a variety of seemingly disjointed POVs connected by the enigmatic Crimson Queen, Cein d'Kara. The plot shines by presenting a world where magic is forbidden, and those with magical abilities face a test that determines their fate as a Pure or their death. The story unfolds through multiple characters' viewpoints, revealing a complex and immersive narrative that incorporates chosen ones, prophecies, and a boy who plays a central role. With a mix of familiar fantasy tropes and unique elements like mysterious assassins and shape shifters, the book offers an engaging plot that keeps readers hooked.
How long had he been waiting? He knew, and yet he did not know. Time bled differently down here, so far removed from the sky and sea; usually it became thinner, more attenuated, moments stretching int... - #9
The Blood Mirror, the fourth book in the Lightbringer series by Brent Weeks, continues to surprise readers with unexpected twists and turns in the plot. The story revolves around complex characters like Kip, Gavin, Teia, and Karris, each facing personal challenges and moral dilemmas in a world where no one is perfect and societal aims are not clear-cut. The writing style of the book is described as engaging, with detailed world-building and character development that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.
Like a house slave sweeping dirt into a pile, Orholam had heaped together all the earth’s horrors and sin. Whistling a nursery song, he gathered barbarities and cruelties and outrages as Gavin lay on ...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Lightbringer ) - #10
'White Cat' by Holly Black is the first book in the 'Curse Workers' series, introducing readers to a world where curse workers possess unique abilities that can influence dreams, luck, memories, and even kill with a touch. The story follows Cassel, a seventeen-year-old boy from a family of workers, who discovers his memories are being manipulated. As he delves into the criminal world his family is involved in, Cassel is torn between his desire to be good and the allure of his family's lifestyle. The book presents a blend of mystery, suspense, dark magic, and coming-of-age themes, set in a world reminiscent of our own but with supernatural elements.
The narrative is crafted in a way that keeps readers engaged with its intriguing plot twists, complex characters, and a mix of mystery and excitement. Through Cassel's perspective, readers navigate a world where trust is scarce, memories can be altered with a touch, and the consequences of using magic are deadly. With a focus on family dynamics, moral dilemmas, and the exploration of a society where curse work is both feared and sought after, 'White Cat' sets the stage for a series that promises a unique and immersive reading experience.
The night is quiet, the kind of hushed middle-of-the-night quiet that makes every shuffle or nervous panting breath echo. When the black outlines of trees overhead rustle, I jerk in surprise. My foot ...