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March 11, 2010
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 | Small Magics by Erik Buchanan | Reviewed by Jeanette Cottrell |  | Publisher: Dragon Moon Press
http://www.dragonmoonpress.com
ISBN: 1896944485 Trade, 1896944507 Electronic Edition
Genre: Fiction
Subgenre: Fantasy
Release date: Aug 2007
Format: E-book, trade
Pages: 345
Price: $6 ebook/$19.95 trade | After four years of studying philosophy at the Royal Academy of Learning, Thomas Flarety is finally going home for a short vacation. His family, successful merchants, are proud of their academic son; at least, they always have been. Much to Thomas's shock, his return is marred by rejection and violence. His fond father has turned against him, apparently at Bishop Malloy's instigation. Thomas, beaten violently and ejected from his home, seeks refuge at the Smith's house, home of his best friends, George Gobhann and his sister, Eileen.
Gradually, the trio discovers Bishop Malloy's secret. Magic is real, not myth. The bishop is stealing small magics from unknowing people like Thomas's father, so he can gain power for himself. When he learns that Thomas, too, has magic power, he will stop at nothing to steal that as well, whether it means conspiracy, violence, or murder. The tale takes us from small villages to a great city, to the Royal Academy itself, and finally to seek the standing stones that are source to so much mystery.
Small Magics is an entertaining tale of what-ifs. What if you had a magic power that you never suspected? What if by losing it, you become a shadow of yourself? What would you do to recover your soul and the souls of those you love?
The characters are well developed and the action and sequence compelling. On occasion the story drags a bit, as author Buchanan has a tendency to over-explain small matters that most readers would accept as a matter of course. The protagonists are all in their teens or in their early-twenties, which somewhat limits the book's perspective. This, however, is true of most fantasy novels and doesn't appear to reduce their appeal.
Small Magics is beguiling entertainment. Character motivations are understandable and compelling, whether they agree, conflict, or are in deadly combat with each other. The color provided in village and festival scenes are as lively as that shown in a mob rebellion or sneaking into a cemetery at dead of night. This is a good read. Sit down with a cup of coffee, put up your feet, and read Small Magics. You'll be glad you did. | | |
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