Rival Magic

· Simon and Schuster
5.0
1 review
eBook
288
Pages
Eligible
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About this eBook

“Clever, fast-paced fantasy punctuated with surprising twists and plenty of girl power.” —Kirkus Reviews
“Full of fierce girls, fabulously fun magic, humor, and so much heart. I loved it!” —Stephanie Burgis, author of The Dragon with a Chocolate Heart and Kat, Incorrigible

A young wizard’s apprentice discovers that the best magic is not the biggest or the brightest, but the magic unique to you, in this cinematic middle grade fantasy in the tradition of Kiki’s Delivery Service and The School for Good and Evil.

Antonia may not be the most powerful wizard the world has ever seen, but she’s worked hard to win her place as apprentice to renowned sorcerer Master Betrys. Unfortunately, even her best dancing turnip charm might not be enough when Moppe, the scullery maid, turns out to be a magical prodigy. Now that Betrys has taken Moppe on as a second apprentice, Antonia’s path to wizarding just got a bit more complicated.

But when Betrys is accused of treason, Antonia and Moppe are forced to go on the run. To prove their master’s innocence—and their own—the rivals must become allies. As their island province teeters on the brink of rebellion, they’ll face ancient spells, vengeful mermaids, voice-stealing forests, and one insatiable sea monster.

Ratings and reviews

5.0
1 review
Jenn Reese
27 May 2020
I absolutely loved this book. The main characters are nuanced and interesting, as are their relationships to each other, to their mentors and parents, and to their very allegiances and countries. The world-building is so rich -- an island nation and a mainland nation struggling to deal with generations-long conflict and scarce natural resources -- but it is revealed in such an organic, easy way that it's always understandable and intriguing. For example, how amazing that the magical word for "purple" has been lost, making the purple dye that the island produces a valuable resource. Plus, this book is perfectly paced -- swift, with all the brushstrokes in the right place, and without sacrificing any of the heartfelt character moments. A masterful feat! All the skill the author harnessed to write the book creates what feels like an effortlessly exciting adventure, full of magic just brimming with sense of wonder. There are ancient spell, lost crowns, talking animals, mermaids... you name it! And yet even with all of this, the story never loses its focus on the main characters and their growing friendship.
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About the author

Deva Fagan writes fantasy and science fiction for all ages. When she’s not writing, she spends her time reading, doing geometry, playing video games, hiking, and drinking copious amounts of tea. She is the author of several books, including Rival Magic, Nightingale, The Mirrorwood, and A Game of Noctis. She lives in Maine with her husband and their dog. You can find her online at DevaFagan.com.

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