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A review by whit2ney
There's Magic Between Us by Jillian Maria
adventurous
funny
inspiring
lighthearted
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
5.0
My overall praise is for the brilliant balance between the sapphic romance scenes and the world-building. Lydia truly steps into an interesting and well-described world. Whether you’re here for the romance or the fantasy world-building, you’ll be satisfied with what Maria offers here.
I also enjoyed Lydia’s character overall. Yes, she’s a bit rough around the edges but you can’t help but root for her. When she tells off someone for being rude to her mom, she says exactly what you wish you could say to your high school bully. I love a character that already starts off confident in their upbringing and sexuality to the point where they don’t need a book to reach some semblance of confidence. Lydia comes out the gate as a vibrant and (healthily) proud person. She still has a character arc here but it doesn’t fall in the “meek to mighty” trope. Personally, I love a character who’s already figured that stuff out and they’re ready for the next challenge.
If I had to summarize my review in a few words, it’d be “magically cute.” I’d highly recommend this book to anyone but especially teens who are looking for LGBTQTIA+ rep beyond a coming-out story. The author posts some trigger warnings on their website, so be sure to check that out. I would say the stuff they point out (avoiding spoilers here) was well handled and used responsibly.
I also enjoyed Lydia’s character overall. Yes, she’s a bit rough around the edges but you can’t help but root for her. When she tells off someone for being rude to her mom, she says exactly what you wish you could say to your high school bully. I love a character that already starts off confident in their upbringing and sexuality to the point where they don’t need a book to reach some semblance of confidence. Lydia comes out the gate as a vibrant and (healthily) proud person. She still has a character arc here but it doesn’t fall in the “meek to mighty” trope. Personally, I love a character who’s already figured that stuff out and they’re ready for the next challenge.
If I had to summarize my review in a few words, it’d be “magically cute.” I’d highly recommend this book to anyone but especially teens who are looking for LGBTQTIA+ rep beyond a coming-out story. The author posts some trigger warnings on their website, so be sure to check that out. I would say the stuff they point out (avoiding spoilers here) was well handled and used responsibly.