Spell Weaver Author: Megan Derr Title: Spell Weaver Series: Part of LT3's Peacock Collection Genre: Fantasy Pairing: M/M Rating: Four Petals On the Author's Website: This book is not currently posted on the author's website. Summary: Myka's dream was to someday own his shop, making and spelling suits that were prized throughout the world. Instead, he rejected an apprenticeship with a master who proved to be reprehensible—and untouchable—and lost everything. Now, he works in a derelict shop in the wrong part of town, and it's only a matter of time before he's caught spelling without a license or thrown out by his odious landlord. The only bright part of his days are the occasional visits from his best client, Johan, a man who works in the palace and always brings the finest suits to have spelled. When he accidentally leaves behind an invitation to the royal ball, Myka takes it, determined to have one evening where he can enjoy himself—and perhaps even spend time with Johan as something other than a spell weaver. Maggie's Review:
I received this book as an ARC through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. The fairy tale plot is one Derr does well and despite writing many different stories set in that theme every single one Derr releases reads as unique and interesting. Spell Weaver is another such book. Myka is a poor tailor, except his job isn't to sew suits, it's to sew spells. Every stitch he puts into a suit adds a layer of magic that Myka skillfully weaves to make his clothing even more exotic. The magic in the book was definitely the best part. I've never read about someone adding spells to clothing with so much depth before and the way Derr included even minor details like the gloves the highest caliber of spell weavers wear to denote their rank was wonderfully written. However, the magic in the book was also limiting in a way. Derr built a world around Myka, his shop, and his magic, but it was clear from the first moment that there was a much wider world to explore. There were hints of possibilities, of additional magics and peoples out there, but Derr kept this story entirely confined to this one, singular bit of magic. It felt like this story could go to amazing heights with just a touch more depth to the world, and instead it remained simply good and entertaining. The limiting works because this is clearly meant to be only a short story, but the squandered potential is a shame. I also enjoyed the romance in the book. Myka is mooning over Johan, who brings his suits to be spelled at Myka's shop. As with most fairy tales, circumstances occurred that allowed Myka to go to the ball and maybe find his true love. The romance was sweet, with enough depth to be believable, and I liked how Myka and Johan worked together. Maggie's Recommendation: Spell Weaver is yet another wonderful fairy tale themed story from Derr. It is unique with interesting magic and a well-formed romance. I did think the depth to the world building was a touch lacking, but overall I enjoyed reading this story and I do recommend it.
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Magnolia's Reviews
Maggie reviews paranormal and fantasy novels and novellas. She also interviews authors and hosts giveaways. Archives
April 2018
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