A review by aliciawhatsthestory
Blood Like Magic by Liselle Sambury

adventurous dark mysterious fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

Overall, I really enjoyed this book. Set in the near future in Toronto, Canada where both sci-fi-esque technological advances like aesthetic genetic alterations and witchcraft exist, Voya’s story is really about coming of age and learning to trust yourself. The magic system in this world, the focus on Trinidadian culture and the witch community, and the family drama are all high points that really give this book its shape. 

I do wish that the love interest had been developed a bit more, though that is limited by the short amount of time that Voya is given. I also thought that the story of missing girl Lauren would be more central, since it is one of the first things mentioned in the book. The way that Lauren’s story is mentioned throughout but never really developed in any way made it a little difficult to be invested. Similar pacing issues and occasional confused moments in the plot are the reason this book is a four star instead of a five for me. 

Still, I found this book very easy to get sucked into and difficult to put down. I enjoyed Voya’s relationship with her family, especially, and I am looking forward to seeing that developed more in the second book as she steps into a new role. I’m hoping that some of the many vibrant side characters in this first book will get their chance in the spotlight in book two, as well. 

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