A review by firstimpressionsreviews
Magic Lessons: The Prequel to Practical Magic by Alice Hoffman

lighthearted mysterious medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

After reading The Rules of Magic, I was curious to learn about Maria Owen’s origin and added Magic Lessons to my virtual shelf. Alas, like the Cranberries’ song, I let it linger. 

Why did I let it linger so long? This prequel to the Practical Magic series casts a spell upon the reader. Alice Hoffman seamlessly blends history and magic together until you can’t differentiate between the two. I will say that as much as this is a story of love and finding oneself since part of the novel takes place during the Salem witch trials this can be a dark book. However, the author deftly peppers the story with spells and herbal remedies that add a lightness to the plot. 

Throughout the book, I was reminded of The Lion the Witch, and the Wardrobe, not because Hannah, Maria’s teacher, was Aslan but because Magic Lessons should not be read before the rest of the series. Growing up I was enthralled by the magic of the wardrobe however, as an adult I read The Magician’s Nephew. Gaining the knowledge of how the wardrobe came to be ruined a bit of the magic for me. That is not to say that I won’t read either series again it just takes away from the mystery. 

As for the audiobook, maybe it is because I’m currently obsessed with the tv show Younger, but I loved Sutton Foster’s narration. Sutton Foster has a soothing tone that fit the dark lyrical nature of the book perfectly. 

Overall, Magic Lessons was an indulgent read that will transport you to an era of magic.