Dad Magic: The Monarch Children Saga: Book One - A Deep Dive Review

In Benjamin Twigg's "Dad Magic: The Monarch Children Saga: Book One," modernity and magic intertwine in the vibrant, queer-affirming city of Spellford. Meet Brent Abernathy, a father grappling with teenage daughter Victoria's complexities while uncovering his own magical heritage within the Mage's Union. His journey takes an unexpected turn when he discovers Victoria's mysterious lineage and the looming threat of the Code Weavers, a dangerous underground rebel group. Joined by his best friend, Paxton Grimtusk, Brent must confront his past, unravel the truth about Victoria, and save Spellford from impending disaster. This urban fantasy adventure blends heartwarming familial bonds with thrilling magical action, promising a captivating read.

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4.8 / 6 ratings

Review Dad Magic

"Dad Magic" completely charmed me! From the moment I stepped into the vibrant, magical world of Spellford – a place where smartphones coexist seamlessly with spellcasting – I was hooked. Benjamin Twigg has crafted a truly unique urban fantasy that feels both incredibly inventive and surprisingly relatable. The blend of modern technology and fantastical magic is handled with such finesse; it never feels forced or jarring, instead adding a layer of delightful originality to the story.

What truly shines, however, is the heart of the novel. Brent Abernathy, the single dad mage at the center of the story, is a character I instantly connected with. His struggles as a father, his grappling with his past, and his unwavering determination to protect his daughter, Victoria, are both poignant and deeply human. The emotional depth of his journey resonated with me profoundly; it wasn't just a fantastical adventure, but a story about love, sacrifice, and the messy, beautiful reality of family.

And speaking of family, the relationship between Brent and his teenage daughter Victoria is beautifully portrayed. Twigg captures the complexities of their bond with sensitivity and honesty, showing both the challenges and the immense love that exists between them. Their dynamic felt authentic and added a layer of warmth and relatability to the fantastical elements of the story.

Victoria herself is a fantastic character. Watching her navigate the typical teenage experiences – school, friendships, first crushes – alongside magical mayhem and family secrets adds a vibrant energy to the narrative. The story doesn't shy away from the challenges of adolescence, blending the everyday with the extraordinary seamlessly.

Then there's Paxton, the half-orc best friend – seriously, what a sidekick! His presence adds a constant stream of humor and unwavering loyalty to the narrative, providing much-needed levity and emotional support amidst the darker moments. The easy banter and deep friendship between Brent and Paxton is a highlight, and their dynamic adds another layer of charm to the already engaging story.

The plot itself is a captivating blend of mystery and adventure. The unfolding conspiracy involving the Mage's Union and the Code Weavers kept me guessing until the very end. I found myself completely invested in unraveling the secrets surrounding Victoria's lineage and the looming threat to Spellford. The pacing was perfect, keeping the story moving forward at a brisk yet satisfying pace.

But beyond the exciting plot and well-developed characters, "Dad Magic" also shines in its representation of queer characters and relationships. It's refreshing to see this aspect integrated so naturally and thoughtfully into the narrative, adding to the richness and authenticity of the world. It's a story that celebrates love and acceptance in all its forms.

Overall, "Dad Magic" is more than just a captivating fantasy novel; it’s a heartfelt story about family, friendship, and the power of love in the face of adversity. It's a debut novel that surpasses expectations, leaving me eagerly awaiting the next installment in the Monarch Children Saga. This is a book I wholeheartedly recommend to anyone who enjoys urban fantasy with a generous helping of heart, humor, and a dash of magical fast food.

Information

• Dimensions: 6 x 0.93 x 9 inches
• Language: English
• Print length: 370
• Publication date: 2024

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