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Of Magic Made #1
Wrought of Silver and Ravens
Seven princesses. Seven dragon lords. A nightly dance of magic and fire.
Princess Thea of Giliosthay is a Realm Walker. Betrayed by a trusted guard, her rare gift of enchantment is used to curse her brother and trap herself and her six sisters into a nightly dance with dragons in a secret Realm. The Realm's prince has the ability to take and twist her magic for his own purposes, and Thea fears what those might be. For when one dances with a prince, a kingdom might be at stake.
Athdar Owain is a hunted wanderer, one determined to keep his secrets and the treasure he carries safe at all costs. When he rescues Giliosthay's prince from raiders, he's rewarded by being forced into the king's elite Silver Guard. While this gives Athdar a temporary home and some protection from those hunting him, it also makes him responsible for the young prince and the seven enchantress princesses—all of whom are cursed.
Athdar alone can save them, but to trust enchanters is to risk exposure. And Athdar isn't sure where his loyalties lie.
Wrought of Silver and Ravens is a high fantasy retelling of "The Twelve Dancing Princesses." It's a story of found family, clean romance, unforgettable characters, and intriguing magic.
Princess Thea of Giliosthay is a Realm Walker. Betrayed by a trusted guard, her rare gift of enchantment is used to curse her brother and trap herself and her six sisters into a nightly dance with dragons in a secret Realm. The Realm's prince has the ability to take and twist her magic for his own purposes, and Thea fears what those might be. For when one dances with a prince, a kingdom might be at stake.
Athdar Owain is a hunted wanderer, one determined to keep his secrets and the treasure he carries safe at all costs. When he rescues Giliosthay's prince from raiders, he's rewarded by being forced into the king's elite Silver Guard. While this gives Athdar a temporary home and some protection from those hunting him, it also makes him responsible for the young prince and the seven enchantress princesses—all of whom are cursed.
Athdar alone can save them, but to trust enchanters is to risk exposure. And Athdar isn't sure where his loyalties lie.
Wrought of Silver and Ravens is a high fantasy retelling of "The Twelve Dancing Princesses." It's a story of found family, clean romance, unforgettable characters, and intriguing magic.
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Published August 1, 2020
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
September 18, 2022
Loved this beautiful story. The magic, the world and the adventure were perfectly done. Plus it was very sweet, I love "found families". I can't wait to read more by this author ❤
August 23, 2020
Ok, this was pretty awesome. It's a brilliant, epic, Greek-flavored take on the Twelve Dancing Princesses featuring seven delightful sisters, an exile with a secret (and some really fabulous magic lion cubs), and lots and lots of magic.
In many ways, this book reminded me of another 12DP retelling, Princess of the Midnight Ball, though they're very different takes on the same story. But they're similarly traditional in how they tackle some aspects of the tale, and both take the route of having the sisters cursed by an outside force that's making them dance and preventing them from speaking. And I really love both books, so yeah. (They both also feature a soldier named Galen who ends up being one of my favorite characters? The two characters are nothing alike other than that, but I thought that was interesting.)
(Galen is the best, though. I love him. He's protective and fatherly and a good leader and genuinely cares for those under his command and under his care, but he also is perpetually . . . I don't know if manipulating things is the right word? But he knows more than he lets on, and he nudges things into place to accomplish his plans, but it works because his plans almost always involve helping people. And he has a definite sense of humor, which is lovely, and a granddaughter whom he loves (and his interactions with her are so sweet). And I also get the impression that he is an absolute shipper on deck when it comes to some of the romantic relationships in this book, given that he kinda helps put them in place. So, yeah. I just really like him.)
Anyway. Aside from Galen, there are quite a lot of other characters to love. Athdar is pretty awesome, though I did get a little frustrated with his secretiveness and distrust in the first quarter of the book. I mean, I completely understand why he made the choices he made. It was just a little frustrating on my part. But he's very loyal and protective, and he has basically magical lion cubs that he cares for, and I absolutely shipped him and Thea by the end.
I loved all the princesses as well, even if I had trouble keeping them all straight for half the book. I had most of them figured out by the end, though. (I mean . . . I did still have a little trouble keeping the twins straight, but that's because their names are only one letter off. Like, I could tell you their two personalities and perspectives? But I couldn't necessarily tell you which name belonged to which twin.)
A few other random things I enjoyed:
-The way the author handled the shoes wearing out and the reason for that happening.
-The Silver Guard as a whole. Concept, members, all of it.
-Floraison and Ayrton are lovable, ridiculous people, and they make me happy.
-Magic is very much a normal, common part of this world, and that's very cool.
There were a few things that I wasn't crazy about, where scenes seemed to jump abruptly or where the writing wasn't quite up to where I wished it had been. (This especially happened in the climax at the end; I get the idea that the author of this book has the same problem I do, where the epic battles in our heads can't quite translate onto paper as well as we wish they would.) Overall, though, this is an excellent retelling, and I look forward to the sequel!
In many ways, this book reminded me of another 12DP retelling, Princess of the Midnight Ball, though they're very different takes on the same story. But they're similarly traditional in how they tackle some aspects of the tale, and both take the route of having the sisters cursed by an outside force that's making them dance and preventing them from speaking. And I really love both books, so yeah. (They both also feature a soldier named Galen who ends up being one of my favorite characters? The two characters are nothing alike other than that, but I thought that was interesting.)
(Galen is the best, though. I love him. He's protective and fatherly and a good leader and genuinely cares for those under his command and under his care, but he also is perpetually . . . I don't know if manipulating things is the right word? But he knows more than he lets on, and he nudges things into place to accomplish his plans, but it works because his plans almost always involve helping people. And he has a definite sense of humor, which is lovely, and a granddaughter whom he loves (and his interactions with her are so sweet). And I also get the impression that he is an absolute shipper on deck when it comes to some of the romantic relationships in this book, given that he kinda helps put them in place. So, yeah. I just really like him.)
Anyway. Aside from Galen, there are quite a lot of other characters to love. Athdar is pretty awesome, though I did get a little frustrated with his secretiveness and distrust in the first quarter of the book. I mean, I completely understand why he made the choices he made. It was just a little frustrating on my part. But he's very loyal and protective, and he has basically magical lion cubs that he cares for, and I absolutely shipped him and Thea by the end.
I loved all the princesses as well, even if I had trouble keeping them all straight for half the book. I had most of them figured out by the end, though. (I mean . . . I did still have a little trouble keeping the twins straight, but that's because their names are only one letter off. Like, I could tell you their two personalities and perspectives? But I couldn't necessarily tell you which name belonged to which twin.)
A few other random things I enjoyed:
-The way the author handled the shoes wearing out and the reason for that happening.
-The Silver Guard as a whole. Concept, members, all of it.
-Floraison and Ayrton are lovable, ridiculous people, and they make me happy.
-Magic is very much a normal, common part of this world, and that's very cool.
There were a few things that I wasn't crazy about, where scenes seemed to jump abruptly or where the writing wasn't quite up to where I wished it had been. (This especially happened in the climax at the end; I get the idea that the author of this book has the same problem I do, where the epic battles in our heads can't quite translate onto paper as well as we wish they would.) Overall, though, this is an excellent retelling, and I look forward to the sequel!
February 2, 2022
Enchanting Tale of Magic, Secrets, and Family
Wrought of Silver and Ravens has one of the best magic systems I have ever come across. The half-magic hero's secret ability to absorb magic and break spells is an integral part of the plot of this dancing princesses retelling. The complex and sinister reason for the dancing, the princesses' inability to communicate an explanation for their plight, the silver invisibility cloak, and other familiar elements are woven together with a unique and compelling story. Though their magical globes seem like beautiful baubles, the princesses are hardly defenseless, and do what they can to thwart the evil forces working against them.
The eldest princess, Thea, and Athdar, the man who rescued her brother, can't help but be attracted to one another though her enchantment and his innate skills seem unable to coexist. On the run himself, Athdar has an intricate backstory, and those who hunt him have enslaved or killed many of his people. Distrust of those who wield magic prevents him from becoming close to anyone. Every character has believable struggles that makes you want to root for them. Can Thea and Athdar find a way to be together?
This is also the first of a trilogy, but I would have liked either a little more closure or a more extreme cliffhanger at the end, rather than just a feeling of loose ends. I also wonder about the difference between sorcery and magic. Magic is good, a gift from the Most High, and sorcery is bad, but it is not explained where that power comes from. However, I highly recommend this clean, gripping fantasy! It is free February 1st on Amazon, so pick it up while you can! I have already started the next one!
Wrought of Silver and Ravens has one of the best magic systems I have ever come across. The half-magic hero's secret ability to absorb magic and break spells is an integral part of the plot of this dancing princesses retelling. The complex and sinister reason for the dancing, the princesses' inability to communicate an explanation for their plight, the silver invisibility cloak, and other familiar elements are woven together with a unique and compelling story. Though their magical globes seem like beautiful baubles, the princesses are hardly defenseless, and do what they can to thwart the evil forces working against them.
The eldest princess, Thea, and Athdar, the man who rescued her brother, can't help but be attracted to one another though her enchantment and his innate skills seem unable to coexist. On the run himself, Athdar has an intricate backstory, and those who hunt him have enslaved or killed many of his people. Distrust of those who wield magic prevents him from becoming close to anyone. Every character has believable struggles that makes you want to root for them. Can Thea and Athdar find a way to be together?
This is also the first of a trilogy, but I would have liked either a little more closure or a more extreme cliffhanger at the end, rather than just a feeling of loose ends. I also wonder about the difference between sorcery and magic. Magic is good, a gift from the Most High, and sorcery is bad, but it is not explained where that power comes from. However, I highly recommend this clean, gripping fantasy! It is free February 1st on Amazon, so pick it up while you can! I have already started the next one!
February 28, 2023
I definitely felt in the minority on this on. This was honestly just okay for me. On one hand the writing itself is really rich and detailed. You can picture the characters, setting, and events clearly. The story line itself was intriguing.
I did feel like there was too many people though. It took me forever to sort out who was who and who was important. You're kind of launched into the book getting hit with a ton of names. Then going back in time in another pov and getting more names. Then going forward in time and meeting more names.
So help me if I couldn't keep the guards and visiting lords or whatever they were straight for the longest time. Also you'd get something like hey the girls governess/nanny suddenly disappears and is this important? But no it really isn't. In fact I don't understand why it was there. She got a name and this whole hype for one chapter of how she up and vanished with just a note. You wonder is this sinister? Is she important? Is this a plot? Only to get a response that no she's really just going where she said she was going and we never hear about her again.
As silly as it sounds, the overabundance of named characters really bogged down the process of getting into the story.
But really my biggest issue with the book was that the pacing was glacially slow. I mean not much is happening at all. Also the romance? Ugh. Like the MC's hardly talk to each other. Have more of a snapping at each other relationship. Then magically one chapter they have fallen in love.
I can sum up the story as traveling man rescues a prince and ends up suckered into a guard job. Princesses get themselves cursed and proceed to not really make any progress on freeing themselves. Guy buys a house and has some nice magic cats. Learns to make connections and realizes there's a curse. Everyone goes to the final battle scene where everything is kind of crazy like a bunch of toddlers got unleashed on a room full of food without adult supervision. And then resolution of that fight. The End.
ALSO let me just say that I was SO MAD about the stupid princesses that I mean side note WHY when we have so many characters do we name them things like Esmene and Esmena? And oh the other ones that though spelled one letter off are actually pronounced the same. Anyway, I hate when people do that in real life or books. But whatever two from those two sets pulled that stupid stunt and walked away without punishment was just annoying.
That was a truly awful thing they did and there are no repercussions. The reader will never see them corrected. Never see anyone be mad at them. Will never see a punishment. Heck they won't even say sorry. If anyone else had done that.... to anyone... I can only imagine the very very severe consequences. The fact they got away with it b/c of their station doesn't speak well for those in charge. Not to mention that I spent far too much time WAITING for that shoe to drop. It never did. And I was so upset at the end of the book that nothing came of it that I'm actually done.
I thought about continuing the series but the romance is lackluster, the lack of plot progression for a 500+ page book, and the annoyance of zero punishment for the offenders was such that I felt I truly didn't care what happens next. I'd rather walk away.
I did feel like there was too many people though. It took me forever to sort out who was who and who was important. You're kind of launched into the book getting hit with a ton of names. Then going back in time in another pov and getting more names. Then going forward in time and meeting more names.
So help me if I couldn't keep the guards and visiting lords or whatever they were straight for the longest time. Also you'd get something like hey the girls governess/nanny suddenly disappears and is this important? But no it really isn't. In fact I don't understand why it was there. She got a name and this whole hype for one chapter of how she up and vanished with just a note. You wonder is this sinister? Is she important? Is this a plot? Only to get a response that no she's really just going where she said she was going and we never hear about her again.
As silly as it sounds, the overabundance of named characters really bogged down the process of getting into the story.
But really my biggest issue with the book was that the pacing was glacially slow. I mean not much is happening at all. Also the romance? Ugh. Like the MC's hardly talk to each other. Have more of a snapping at each other relationship. Then magically one chapter they have fallen in love.
I can sum up the story as traveling man rescues a prince and ends up suckered into a guard job. Princesses get themselves cursed and proceed to not really make any progress on freeing themselves. Guy buys a house and has some nice magic cats. Learns to make connections and realizes there's a curse. Everyone goes to the final battle scene where everything is kind of crazy like a bunch of toddlers got unleashed on a room full of food without adult supervision. And then resolution of that fight. The End.
ALSO let me just say that I was SO MAD about the stupid princesses that I mean side note WHY when we have so many characters do we name them things like Esmene and Esmena? And oh the other ones that though spelled one letter off are actually pronounced the same. Anyway, I hate when people do that in real life or books. But whatever two from those two sets pulled that stupid stunt and walked away without punishment was just annoying.
That was a truly awful thing they did and there are no repercussions. The reader will never see them corrected. Never see anyone be mad at them. Will never see a punishment. Heck they won't even say sorry. If anyone else had done that.... to anyone... I can only imagine the very very severe consequences. The fact they got away with it b/c of their station doesn't speak well for those in charge. Not to mention that I spent far too much time WAITING for that shoe to drop. It never did. And I was so upset at the end of the book that nothing came of it that I'm actually done.
I thought about continuing the series but the romance is lackluster, the lack of plot progression for a 500+ page book, and the annoyance of zero punishment for the offenders was such that I felt I truly didn't care what happens next. I'd rather walk away.
December 17, 2021
I feel like I'll never be able to do justice to how much I love this book, which is why I still haven't written a review, but . . . better something quick than nothing? So here's what I said on Instagram recently: Wrought of Silver and Ravens is a delightful Twelve Dancing Princesses tale featuring the BEST characters! Seriously, Athdar and Galen and Ayrton and Floraison and Murray and Thea and the other princesses and the little magical lion cubs and just all of them--they're awesome and you need them in your life! Not to mention the immersive world, the intricate plot, the fabulous relationships, and the snarky dialogue (another favorite). I also read this aloud with my siblings and we had an absolute blast living in it together. An instant favorite with them too. It's just so good! Athdar forever! 💚
September 3, 2020
I knew from the first page of Wrought of Silver and Ravens that I would enjoy the book. And enjoy I did. Wonderful characters and character arcs, an incredible plot and sub-plots, and just a delightful tale make Wrought of Silver and Ravens probably the best fairy tale retelling I’ve ever read. My only complaint is the one instance of the curse word, which was completely unnecessary. Normally I would dock a book for using a curse word, but Wrought of Silver and Ravens has so many enjoyable qualities, the book receives a definite five star.
*I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
The entirety of this review can be read at: https://madismusingsblog.wordpress.co...
*I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
The entirety of this review can be read at: https://madismusingsblog.wordpress.co...
May 29, 2024
Excellent world building and magic system. I really liked the main characters Athdar and Princess Thea.The mysteries surrounding them made it a page turner.
Athdar is so protective of the princesses against his instincts to keep running.
Thea is strong yet sweet. The perfect foil for Athdar. I can't wait to see what happens next. Will they fall in love, or will their differences keep them suspicious?
All the side characters are also well drawn and believable.
Athdar is so protective of the princesses against his instincts to keep running.
Thea is strong yet sweet. The perfect foil for Athdar. I can't wait to see what happens next. Will they fall in love, or will their differences keep them suspicious?
All the side characters are also well drawn and believable.
May 4, 2024
Hands down, one of the best books of the year for me.
E.J. Kitchens may just have made it to my all time favourite authors.
This book was epic fantasy with loose fairytale retelling vibes wrapped all in one, with a crazy cool magic system and slow burn CLEAN romance. Stakes were high, book was long… *happy sob*
Review stays short cus book 2 is awaiting me
E.J. Kitchens may just have made it to my all time favourite authors.
This book was epic fantasy with loose fairytale retelling vibes wrapped all in one, with a crazy cool magic system and slow burn CLEAN romance. Stakes were high, book was long… *happy sob*
Review stays short cus book 2 is awaiting me
March 5, 2021
This book!!! Where do I even start? It was so lush and complex, with fascinating world-building and a cast of characters I can't wait to spend more time with! Athdar has officially made my list of all-time-favorite male leads - so vulnerable with a great balance of strength and sweetness, plus a phenomenal sense of humor :) Princess Thea was fun to get to know along with all her siblings, and I could easily relate to her struggles as she determined whether to trust Athdar and her growing attraction to him. I always love a good Twelve Dancing Princesses retelling, and this might just be my new favorite!
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.*
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.*
February 16, 2022
I love this book. It’s got everything I like in a fantasy from dragons to curses to magic.
And Athdar and Princess Thea *presses hand to rapid beating heart* the chemistry and the I can’t let myself fall for you. The chemistry between them was *chef’s kiss* I rooted so hard for them and all the characters.
I also love the twist on the twelve dancing princesses (like that captured my heart). I fell in love with this book from the first page.
I also bought the Phoenix crate February box that features this book so I don’t have to run around to add this to my trophy case like only a bookworm can 😂
If you love fantasy, fairytale retellings, political intrigue, then please please please do yourself a favor and grab a copy of this book 🙏
⭐️all of them
💧all of them
And Athdar and Princess Thea *presses hand to rapid beating heart* the chemistry and the I can’t let myself fall for you. The chemistry between them was *chef’s kiss* I rooted so hard for them and all the characters.
I also love the twist on the twelve dancing princesses (like that captured my heart). I fell in love with this book from the first page.
I also bought the Phoenix crate February box that features this book so I don’t have to run around to add this to my trophy case like only a bookworm can 😂
If you love fantasy, fairytale retellings, political intrigue, then please please please do yourself a favor and grab a copy of this book 🙏
⭐️all of them
💧all of them
September 14, 2020
Wow... When is the second book coming out?! This was a fun read - and I may or may not have stayed up SUPER late trying to finish it. *coughs* Or reread it again two days later. Anyway, there was some fantastic snark in this book, but, more importantly, I highly appreciate E.J. Kitchens ability to portray the reality of darkness without it becoming an overwhelming presence that completely drowned out the light. I was a little concerned starting off that it might reach that point, but it never did.
Athdar is an amazing character, one I immediately bonded with and wanted more about - which led to my first qualm about the book: the early point of view shifts. Plunging Athdar into immediate trouble at the beginning hooked me and drew me to the character (well done!), but left me frustrated when I got to the "Three days earlier in Thea's PoV." As a result, I struggled to sympathize with Thea until much later in the book.
But Galen and Athdar together. Yes! It was great to watch this bond form (especially because you got a lot of Galen conniving moments where you didn't see the flipside of the intention until later). And the Silver Guard and Murray... I can't wait to wait them in action again.
My only other qualm with the book would be regarding Athdar and Thea's relationship. While readers were privy to the thoughts going through Thea's mind, Athdar's were shuttered to the point that his attraction seemed abrupt and almost forced, and the relationship felt contrived when it appeared both of them started liking each other at the same exact point.
All in all though, this world drew me in: the characters, the plot (and suspense!), the differing abilities. I'm about ready to fight Cerav for the second book. (Okay, maybe not quite unless I have Athdar with me, but still...)
Athdar is an amazing character, one I immediately bonded with and wanted more about - which led to my first qualm about the book: the early point of view shifts. Plunging Athdar into immediate trouble at the beginning hooked me and drew me to the character (well done!), but left me frustrated when I got to the "Three days earlier in Thea's PoV." As a result, I struggled to sympathize with Thea until much later in the book.
But Galen and Athdar together. Yes! It was great to watch this bond form (especially because you got a lot of Galen conniving moments where you didn't see the flipside of the intention until later). And the Silver Guard and Murray... I can't wait to wait them in action again.
My only other qualm with the book would be regarding Athdar and Thea's relationship. While readers were privy to the thoughts going through Thea's mind, Athdar's were shuttered to the point that his attraction seemed abrupt and almost forced, and the relationship felt contrived when it appeared both of them started liking each other at the same exact point.
All in all though, this world drew me in: the characters, the plot (and suspense!), the differing abilities. I'm about ready to fight Cerav for the second book. (Okay, maybe not quite unless I have Athdar with me, but still...)
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May 15, 2022We’re not meant to hero it alone. It doesn’t usually work out well that way.
This was a fantasy story with a detailed world and tons of magic, especially spells and curses. There's a large cast of characters, including a royal family with seven (!) daughters, a Silver Guard tasked with protecting them, and a quartet of cute feline cubs.
My copy had a cover showing a man and a woman together, so I expected a lot of romance, but I found the romantic elements to be rather light. This is certainly first and foremost a fantasy. I enjoyed the faith aspects, which felt authentic to the world and were probably subtle enough that most general market readers will be OK with them.
This was a fantasy story with a detailed world and tons of magic, especially spells and curses. There's a large cast of characters, including a royal family with seven (!) daughters, a Silver Guard tasked with protecting them, and a quartet of cute feline cubs.
My copy had a cover showing a man and a woman together, so I expected a lot of romance, but I found the romantic elements to be rather light. This is certainly first and foremost a fantasy. I enjoyed the faith aspects, which felt authentic to the world and were probably subtle enough that most general market readers will be OK with them.
April 15, 2025
I am recently returned from the Kingdom of Giliosthay where sorcerers, half-magics, a handful of realm walkers, enchantress princesses and valiant Silver Guards reside. Author E.J. Kitchens transports her readers to this magic land as a companion of Athdar Owain, a hunted wanderer. Athdar’s backstory is slowly crafted into the first of this four set series, Wrought of Silver & Ravens (Of Magic Made, Book One). He is an honest and courageous companion who finds himself in a cave at novel’s outset, both hiding from those wishing to harm him and nursing a man he saved from certain death. To be transparent, he is not enthused about the caretaking thrust upon him by fate, preferring to be alone with three cubs entrusted to his care as he fled his homeland. When a soldier guard locates him caring for the injured man in the cave, Athdar is required to travel to Giliosthay to be presented to King Jairus. He has, it turns out, saved the life of the King’s son, Xander. Or is the prince’s life truly saved? Through the eyes of Athdar, readers meet Giliosthay’s heroes and enemies, including Princess Thea, where one feels the early stirrings of romance. Life, death, trickery, bravery, magic, half-magic, no magic, dragons and much plot tension are all here, and the story is alive with skillful and compelling characterizations. The author describes this novel as a retelling of the Brother’s Grimm fairytale, the Twelve Dancing Princesses. For those who love imaginative realms, this is the first in a must-read foursome.
August 11, 2022
Terrible start, but then it got soooo good! When I started out, I couldn't get into the story. It really felt all over the place and I considered dropping it because I wasn't properly drawn in. The structure of the chapters in "his and hers" perspectives made me expect a romance, but then the structure didn't follow any of the other romance genre rules. There's a disjointed timeline and the two MCs don't meet until a quarter of the way through and then they have absolutely no noted attraction for each other until 75% in. It wasn't quite slow burn. More like "we'll exist past each other until we suddenly realised we have feelings for each other." All of that thrown together kept me confused for an inordinate time as to what kind of book this is supposed to be.
It is high fantasy with romantic elements, but it is not fantasy romance.
However, that aside, I'm glad I stuck with it. The world building and particularly the magic system, is unique and very well put together. Although I struggled to picture the characters for a long time, they grew on me and I became very invested in their adventure which is a very clever combination of The Twelve Dancing Princesses and The Seven Swans.
I am definitely interested enough to want to know what happens in the second part of the duology.
It is high fantasy with romantic elements, but it is not fantasy romance.
However, that aside, I'm glad I stuck with it. The world building and particularly the magic system, is unique and very well put together. Although I struggled to picture the characters for a long time, they grew on me and I became very invested in their adventure which is a very clever combination of The Twelve Dancing Princesses and The Seven Swans.
I am definitely interested enough to want to know what happens in the second part of the duology.
January 25, 2023
I love “The Twelve Dancing Princesses” fairytale primarily because of watching Faerie Tale Theatre as a child, but also because it’s not commonly redone like the classic Cinderella or Sleeping Beauty stories. So when I saw that Wrought of Silver and Ravens took this theme, I snapped it up. However, I waited awhile between the purchase and actual reading and completely forgot that this was a fairy tale retelling. I love when a story is so creative that it takes me awhile to realize (or in this case, remember) the original fairytale that it references. This retelling is brilliant because it takes place in a rich, developed fantasy world with a fascinating magic system. The interplay between enchanters and “half-magics” had me intrigued from the very beginning, and the sinister plot against the princesses’ magic really brought the old fairytale to life in a new and satisfying way. The intrigue was non-stop from page one, drawing me into the mystery of these characters with so much to hide and so much they wish to share. With incredibly likable characters and delightful interplays between them, this book made for a clean and compelling read with the lightest touch of allegory to beam in hope and goodness. Plus, it’s set up for a sweet romance and greater exploration of the mysterious magical creatures in the sequels, which I look forward to reading also!
March 22, 2021
This book is definitely for folks who enjoy high fantasy/magic and retellings. The characters were believable; Athdar has to be my favorite out of the group. (Aside from the lion cubs...oh yeah, did I mention LION CUBS?!) It's apparent that a lot of thought went into the worldbuilding for this book; the vivid settings caught my attention and I truly enjoyed reading about them. This book is based on the "Twelve Dancing Princesses" fairytale, but at first glance, you wouldn't notice the influence; it's not a 'run of the mill' retelling that just regurgitates the same characters in a different format, so that was interesting! I did find the beginning a little slow (I'm not sure why; the plot itself wasn't slow, but it didn't immediately catch my attention like most fantasies do) and it's a bit easy to get lost with the large "cast" of characters -- but if you enjoy retellings, high fantasy, and some impactful themes that center around Biblical truth without being too "preachy," this is one you'll want to check out!
April 11, 2025
How does a refugee trying to be unnoticed get into this kind of situation? Maybe if Athdar were not so noble at heart, he would not have ended up as the protege of Giliosthay's Captain of the Guard with all the trouble and opportunities implicit in that position. The author may have based this novel on the 12 Dancing Princesses fairy tale but she clearly did not intend to limit herself to that tale (since this is the first of a series). The multiple magic systems and various societies created by the author add depth as well as whimsical fantasy to what already promised to be an enjoyable faux-historical fiction read. I am looking forward to the rest of the series and recommend it to fans of Lynsey Hall's "The Silver Prince".
July 15, 2025
Wrought of Silver and Ravens by E J Kitchens
🥈Seven princesses
🥈Twisted magic
🥈A prince of an enemy realm
🥈A fearful future
🥈Budding romance, no kisses yet (no spice)
Genre: Fantasy romance
A Twelve Dancing Princesses retelling. When one dances with a prince, a kingdom might be at stake...
Really enjoyed this one! At first I was a little unsure as it begins with two different POVs, plenty of characters, and a lot of timeline hopping. But when I started thinking of it as more of an epic fantasy rather than a retelling then I settled into the worldbuilding phase and pushed through. Sure glad I did! Loved the characters and storyline and am excited to continue with book 2!
Book 1 in the Of Magic Made series
Opening line: "It wasn’t quite cold enough to kill a man."
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🥈Seven princesses
🥈Twisted magic
🥈A prince of an enemy realm
🥈A fearful future
🥈Budding romance, no kisses yet (no spice)
Genre: Fantasy romance
A Twelve Dancing Princesses retelling. When one dances with a prince, a kingdom might be at stake...
Really enjoyed this one! At first I was a little unsure as it begins with two different POVs, plenty of characters, and a lot of timeline hopping. But when I started thinking of it as more of an epic fantasy rather than a retelling then I settled into the worldbuilding phase and pushed through. Sure glad I did! Loved the characters and storyline and am excited to continue with book 2!
Book 1 in the Of Magic Made series
Opening line: "It wasn’t quite cold enough to kill a man."
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
February 10, 2022
I will confess, by the middle of this book I still had very little idea what exactly was going on, what different characters' powers entailed, even some of their motivations or allegiances. "She has the 'don't tell' part of 'show, don't tell' down well," I grumbled to someone. But it was intriguing enough to pull me further in, and somehow, all of those disparate characters and motives and abilities wove together seamlessly by the end into something that felt *right*. The overarching plot is far from resolved, though this book's arc wraps up smoothly while simultaneously leading you directly toward the next. I look forward to further unraveling the story in the next book!
April 11, 2022
I was expecting fantasy-romance from the cover, but, while there was some slowly-developing romantic feeling between our hero and Heroine, there was more focus on developing the system of magic and the world building.
The characters are just super, even though it took a while for me to get all the princesses' names straight. The Silver Guard, the folks devoted to serving the royal family, were adorable, especially their leader, Galen, who was a loveable mentor to our Hero and an absolute gem.
Good stuff!
The characters are just super, even though it took a while for me to get all the princesses' names straight. The Silver Guard, the folks devoted to serving the royal family, were adorable, especially their leader, Galen, who was a loveable mentor to our Hero and an absolute gem.
Good stuff!
May 5, 2022
I really liked Wrought of Silver and Ravens. This retelling of The Twelve Dancing Princesses was very good. Full of adventure, great characters, magic and romance. I liked Princess Thea and the way she cared for her family. Athdar is a wonderful character that finds himself in a tricky situation that he makes the most out of. I could picture the beautiful Kingdom of Giliosthay and I loved the men of the Silver Guard.
I give Wrought of Silver and Ravens 4 stars for its intriguing read.
I would recommend this book to Fantasy fans.
I give Wrought of Silver and Ravens 4 stars for its intriguing read.
I would recommend this book to Fantasy fans.
January 26, 2022
I got a little lost as characters were being introduced and as a result didn't ever quite grasp the supporting male cast, but otherwise this was a solid read and the retelling aspect worked for me! Kitchens did an excellent job of widening out beyond just the princesses and their curse, building her world and *cough* anchoring her story in it, and I really enjoyed how slowly and realistically the key relationship is building.
February 25, 2024
Elaborate & Creative Dancing Princesses story. This was a gem to read; lots of creative world building and magic systems. There was no excessive thoughts or too many descriptions; just what was needed for explanations. There was witty dialog and humor and lots of action. There was a great magic cavern fight with soldiers and dragons, as well as new mysteries to solve and family to save. Great beginning to this series. It would make a wonderful movie.
April 7, 2024
Another great read from PhoenixCrate, which has introduced me to many noblebright fantasy authors that I may not have found otherwise. This book is told from two different viewpoints so gave us a better overview of the action and characters, both of which I enjoyed. And the concept of "half-magic" people added to the complexity of the plot. I'm pleased to see this is the start of a series, and I plan to read more of E.J. Kitchens' work.
April 21, 2021
Stayed up until 5:30
Yes, you read the title right. I now have a sleep deprivation headache. But it was such a good read.
I love that it is in the same style as the other Magic Collector books. And that it’s a twist on The Twelve Dancing Princesses.
There is a bit of a cliffhanger, but thankfully it’s not terrible so I definitely think it is readable without the sequel.
Yes, you read the title right. I now have a sleep deprivation headache. But it was such a good read.
I love that it is in the same style as the other Magic Collector books. And that it’s a twist on The Twelve Dancing Princesses.
There is a bit of a cliffhanger, but thankfully it’s not terrible so I definitely think it is readable without the sequel.
February 18, 2024
retelling of the 12 dancing princesses
Set in something like medieval times, and with three unique types of people: magics, non magics, and the near-mythical half magics.
This book took a while to get into, and a little longer than that to get into the flow of the story telling style. But the ending segues into another epic journey, and so here so go!
Set in something like medieval times, and with three unique types of people: magics, non magics, and the near-mythical half magics.
This book took a while to get into, and a little longer than that to get into the flow of the story telling style. But the ending segues into another epic journey, and so here so go!
March 10, 2024
Brilliant world building
Athdar is a hunted man who fears enchanters, yet his honor won't allow him to abandon a wounded soldier even if he is an enchanter. Thea is a realm walker who is betrayed by a trusted guard and with her sisters and twin brother is cursed. A story very hard to put down, but I'll have to read the next books as the curse is still not broken.
Athdar is a hunted man who fears enchanters, yet his honor won't allow him to abandon a wounded soldier even if he is an enchanter. Thea is a realm walker who is betrayed by a trusted guard and with her sisters and twin brother is cursed. A story very hard to put down, but I'll have to read the next books as the curse is still not broken.
May 23, 2024
This is not an easy or straightforward read. I thought I was getting a more grown up version of the dancing princesses fairy tale, but this was a wandering, chaotic, hot mess of a story full of too many characters and little details that don't really matter to the plot. The writing is hard to follow, especially in action scenes, and reading this required some serious focus.
April 3, 2022
7 dancing princesses instead of 12
Took a few chapters to get into it, but then found it extremely well written. It was pretty long. And a few parts were hard to follow. But all in all really good.
Took a few chapters to get into it, but then found it extremely well written. It was pretty long. And a few parts were hard to follow. But all in all really good.
October 12, 2022
I didn't originally like how the book began. It sort of confused me but I stuck with it and really enjoyed the story. The 12 dancing princess is one of my favorite fairytales and I found this retelling to be wonderful.
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