Description
Misshelved Magic
S. R. Crickard
Adelina is content to be a humble librarian with no magic, organizing ordinary books and leaving the magical section of the library to the management of the mysterious creature called a cervara…until she finds a misshelved spellbook that refuses to stay in its proper place. Despite warnings from the College of Magic and her superiors, she decides to return the book to the magical section, where she befriends the mysterious creature. Contrary to what she’s been told, the cervara is trying to protect humanity from dangerous magic by hoarding it in the library. But is it also hiding an even greater danger?
Leon is a mage in his final year at the college who needs to write something impressive for his final thesis. But when he meets the charming Adelina, and she confides her discovery to him, Leon’s world turns upside down. He’s forced to try to mediate between the mysterious creature and the power-hungry magi who surround him, all while trying to pursue his favorite librarian.
Can Adelina and Leon protect the cervara from the world—and the world from the dangers of the library? Or will both sides be destroyed by the secrets they hide and the greed that drives them to seek forbidden knowledge?
Megan –
Magic, a librarian and romance? Who could ask for more? I really enjoyed disappearing into this book world. A world where magic exists and is used, but only those who test positive for magic. Adelina is a librarian at the College of Magic and discovers the spell section and its many mysteries. She meets the Cervara, who I have to say I just loved. Especially X and Monoculle. We soon discover the Cervara are doing a very important job, far more than the other mages realize.
I loved all the twists and turns this story took, and the romance between Leon and Adelina. It was so sweet and those two make such a good couple together, especially as they work to find out about the Cervara and the truth behind magic.
The author did a great job grounding her story world with a bit of faith, I appreciated how the characters are taught to deal with magic and the part Perichor plays in the actions the Cervara take.
I think this book would appeal to anyone who enjoyed the Harry Potter books. There are hints of faith woven throughout the book, which I really appreciated, but they are done seamlessly and not in a preachy way. I really didn’t want to put this book down, I couldn’t wait to find out how it would all end. The ending was perfect and very hope-filled. It surprised me as I wasn’t really sure how the author could tie everything up so well. I’m really hoping there will be more books in this series, or at least in this world.
*I received an early copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.
Candide –
Misshelved Magic by S. R. Crickard was an great read.
I really liked the story and the author did a great job with the background settings and events.
The characters were very relatable and I enjoyed reading it.
I think my favourite part was the relationship the main female character has with her « friends » (the Cervara).
— I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publishers. I was not required to provide a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone. —
joanna.colclough1 –
Exciting mystery, cute romance, immaculate Victorian vibes, plus magic! Sometimes deliciously dark and scary, but very palatable. Creative magic system and characters, with thrillingly chilling illustrations – a really neat touch! I really loved the cervara! Haunting.
Religion itself was never really obviously discussed – just a sense of a Higher (Highest) Being, and questions about what comes after death. It’s neat how it’s woven into the story.
I look forward to learning more about the magic system in the next books.
I was worried that this book would end in a cliff hanger, but was very pleased when things wrapped up nicely leaving a fresh page for the next books!
If a 13 year old likes scary books, this is a good one for them!
I received an ebook from the publisher in order to give a review. All opinions are my own.