Christopher Nuttall

Ah - one of my favorite authors, Christopher G. Nuttall doing what he does best. Utilizing his contrary ingredients of democracy and despotism, favoritism and free competition, he spins a magnificent story of galactic proportions that hits painfully close to home - especially in these time and days of an America that is in danger of becoming the state of political elitism, the very anathema of our forefathers. 1000 families rule the galaxy and it is Nuttall's choice of names you will take notice of - you will find amongst those names the Kennedys and Roosevelt’s, etc. The intriguing complexities and perplexities of Democracy's Right make for a solid read and if you have read Nutall's three-volume series "Barbarian at the Gates" you will feel right at home.

M.K 2017… (meer)

Caitlyn Aguirre is the only magic-less person in her family in a world where magic is power and as a triplet, she was supposed to be extra strong. Resigned to her life as a zero, Caitlyn is dismayed to learn her parents are sending her to Jude's Sorcerous Academy with the hope that she'll overcome her magic problem. Or die trying.

This book sucked me into the story and I was all there for Caitlyn. The despair she felt regarding her magic and her position in society was terrible and I rooted for her as she pushed the bounds of her mind and creativity in finding a solution. She could be petty and jealous and envious at times but she was also brave and honourable and quick witted and I loved her.

On the other hand her family just sucks. Like her sisters were terrible but they were also twelve. Her parents and other adult figures though were disgusting. Although she seems to accept being turned into a frog and the target of all magic - I hated it. It seemed like she was being tortured and all adults and her own parents were turning a blind eye. It just made me mad.

I was glad she met Rose. I was a little unhappy with her fierce envy and jealous at the beginning of their friendship but she's also twelve and missed out on magic - I get it. Rose was fantastic. She was level headed and smart and loyal and I loved that her and Caitlyn develop a fierce and steadfast friendship.

But the bullying in this book is intense and I hated it. It seemed like every time Caitlyn turned around she was being punished for ridiculous things and like no one ever stepped in. The limits were so wide it was ridiculous. It just seemed like they were basically given free reign to kill, maim and torture. It made me anxious to read and I think that's honestly why I couldn't rightly give this book 5 stars. The whirlpool of emotions just made me feel sick.

That said, the world building was really interesting and I loved the focus on inventing and learning and testing the limits of magic. The plot was predictable with all the familiar elements of a magic school but the execution was strong and delivers a unique take on an old idea.

A worthwhile read for anyone after a progression fantasy or a magical school setting. 4 stars.… (meer)