Books matching: magic as power
100 result(s)
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- #1
Save:A Sudden Wild Magic is a book that delves into the themes of parallel universes, magic, conservation, sacrifice, harmony, and gender equality. The story follows a group of magicians on Earth who discover that another world has been manipulating them and causing disasters. In a desperate attempt to stop this, they plan to send a capsule full of women to disrupt the manipulation. The book explores the consequences of actions, morality, and the complexities of dealing with large issues in a fictional work. Diana Wynne Jones brings her typical flair for magic, characterization, and drama to play in this densely detailed story, creating a mix of humor, fast-paced action, and serious themes.
- #2
Save:The Forgotten Beasts of Eld by Patricia A. McKillip is a fantasy novel that follows the story of Sybel, a secluded wizard woman living with legendary animals. When a man brings her a child to raise, her solitary life changes as she learns about love, hate, and revenge. The book reads like a fairy tale, with stylized characters, idealized settings, and a plot that delves into themes of romantic relationships and human emotions.
The wizardHeald coupled with a poor woman once, in the king’s city of Mondor, andshe bore a son with one green eye and one black eye. Heald, who had twoeyes black as the black marshes of Fyrbolg, came... - #3
Save:'A Thousand Nights' by E.K. Johnston is a retelling of the Arabian Nights story set in the ancient Middle East. The book follows a desert girl forced to marry a king possessed by a mythic demon who has killed hundreds of wives before her. Through the power of mind, magic, and a will to survive, the protagonist transforms and navigates the challenges of her new life in the palace. The writing style is described as poetic, with an air of mysticism that immerses readers in the desert setting and the richly woven storyline filled with authentic details.
The creatures that live here crawl beneath a crippling sun, eking what living they can from the sand before they are returned to it, as food for the sand-crows or worse. We are not troubled by the sun... - #4
Save:The Tears of the Rose is a tale of Princess Amelia, a young widow who must navigate grief, betrayal, and power struggles in the Twelve Kingdoms. Set in a world of civil strife and magical confrontations, the story follows Amelia's transformation from a naive and self-centered teenager to a powerful woman and heir to the throne of Avonlidgh. Through her journey, readers witness the unfolding of the High King's dark actions, the complexities of familial relationships, and the struggles of a young woman finding her purpose in a world she never truly understood before.
It wasn’t even that difficult. My grief, my rage, they bloomed large in my heart, too huge to escape through such a small channel as a tear duct. All that he had been, so glorious, so handsome, full o...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series The Twelve Kingdoms ) - #5
Save: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 ... - #6
Save:"Ruinsong" by Julia Ember is a dark fantasy novel that follows the story of two young women, Cadence and Remi, in a world where magic is wielded through enchanted songs. Cadence, the queen's Principal singer, uses her magical songs to torture the queen's enemies, mainly the nobles. Remi, the daughter of a Viscount, wishes for the queen's oppressive reign to end. The book explores themes of power, rebellion, and sacrifice as the characters navigate a world filled with intricate world-building, dark magic, and sapphic romance. The writing style immerses readers into a world where the beauty of music clashes with the destructive force of magic, creating a unique and original setting.
The plot of "Ruinsong" is driven by the characters of Cadence and Remi, who are complex and fully developed. The story delves into their struggles, desires, and relationships, particularly focusing on their evolving connection amidst a backdrop of oppression and rebellion. The author weaves together elements of magic, politics, and romance to create a captivating narrative that explores themes of resilience and standing up against cruelty. The book's pacing, while slow at times, builds towards a climactic ending that poses questions about sacrifice, trust, and the limits of power.
I LIGHT THE CANDLESand hum as the prayer chimes begin. The heat from each candle propels a tiny wooden fan connected to an individual music box. The bronze bells inside the boxes each emit one note, p... - #7
Save:In the series 'Promethean Age' by Elizabeth Bear, the book 'Hell and Earth' is a sequel to 'Ink and Steel' where the poets Christopher Marlowe and William Shakespeare navigate intrigues involving rebels, sorcerers, faeries, and even the Devil himself to shape the future of England and humanity. Set during the final years of Elizabeth I's reign and into James I's era, the tale delves into darker themes while seamlessly blending historical elements with fantastical elements. The writing style is noted for its intricate plot, rich language, and vivid imagery that brings to life an Elizabethan age filled with plots, treason, and dark magic.
It is too Late: the life of all his blood Is touch’d corruptibly; and his pure brain, Which some suppose the soul’s frail dwelling-house, Doth, by the idle comments that it makes, Foretell the ending ...
(Also, see 4 recommendations for the series Promethean Age ) - #8
Save:Spell Bound, the final installment of the Hex Hall trilogy by Rachel Hawkins, follows the journey of Sophie Mercer as she navigates the world of Prodigium, demons, and saving the world from evil forces. The book is praised for its engaging plot filled with twists and turns, where Sophie learns about her family's secrets, uncovers the true intentions of the Council, and faces a war that puts her powers and her courage to the test. The writing style is noted for its humor, charm, and the well-developed characters that keep readers hooked till the end.
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Hex Hall ) - #9
Save:'The Final Empire' in the 'Mistborn' series by Brandon Sanderson follows the story of Vin, a young thief with extraordinary abilities, as she becomes involved in a plot to overthrow the immortal emperor. Set in a world plagued by slavery, crime, and political corruption, the story unfolds with intricate magical systems and complex characters facing moral dilemmas and making compromises. The rebellion to dethrone the seemingly unkillable Lord Ruler and free the oppressed Skaa forms the central conflict, providing a mix of action, intrigue, and character development.
Vin watched the downy flakes drift through the air. Leisurely. Careless. Free. The puffs of soot fell like black snowflakes, descending upon the dark city of Luthadel. They drifted in corners, blowing... - #10
Save:Mother of Learning is a web novel by Domagoj Kurmaic, also known as Nobody103, that follows the story of Zorian, a wizard trapped in a time loop at a magic academy. The book focuses on Zorian's journey of learning and developing his skills as he tries to figure out the mysteries of the time loop. Readers praise the detailed world-building and the progression fantasy elements in the story, which keep them engaged throughout the series. The book is described as a blend of fantasy epic and time loop narrative, with a strong focus on character development and magical realism.
Standing in Rea’s home, Zorian ignored the curious gazes leveled at him from Rea and Haslush and kept silent, calmly considering things. A million questions swam through his head. Why were these three...
