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The Witch's Odyssey #1
Magic by Any Other Name
Ivy Nichols O’Reilly has grown up in a wealthy family full of magic, fantasy creatures, and emotional abuse—but when her narcissistic mother arranges an unwanted marriage for her, the young witch reaches her breaking point. She drops out of college, changes her name to Georgette, and flees across the country with her best friend, a Wood Nymph named Mei-Xing.
Georgette is determined to build a new identity and a new life. But her journey leads her to cross paths with a number of magical characters—a Werehyena searching for his kidnapped wife; a Vampire who runs a unique magical business; a curandero , a shamanistic practitioner of traditional medicine; and a Valkyrie who, along with her raven partner, wants to make a risky deal—who make it clear to her that the past is not so easily left behind. In order to grow into her new identity, help her new friends, and develop a healthy relationship with a man she’s beginning to care for, Georgette will have to confront the privileges that have shielded her from the pain and ugliness of the magic community in which she was raised—and find the strength to overcome the trauma of her childhood.
Georgette is determined to build a new identity and a new life. But her journey leads her to cross paths with a number of magical characters—a Werehyena searching for his kidnapped wife; a Vampire who runs a unique magical business; a curandero , a shamanistic practitioner of traditional medicine; and a Valkyrie who, along with her raven partner, wants to make a risky deal—who make it clear to her that the past is not so easily left behind. In order to grow into her new identity, help her new friends, and develop a healthy relationship with a man she’s beginning to care for, Georgette will have to confront the privileges that have shielded her from the pain and ugliness of the magic community in which she was raised—and find the strength to overcome the trauma of her childhood.
440 pages, Paperback
Published November 7, 2023
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February 24, 2024
“She’s at war with herself. She was raised to be one type of woman, and now she’s remaking herself into another. It’s not an easy thing to be one’s own creator.”
I'd like to thank Books Forward for sending me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
I've also posted this review on Instagram and my blog.
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Content Warnings: child abuse, death, forced confinement, kidnapping, slavery
The concept of this book was intriguing and the first chapters definitely grabbed my attention with all of the action. Unfortunately by the midway point, the story felt like it started to lag. By the end, things started to pick back up again but it did feel rushed at times. The backstory was well explained and I got a grasp of the overall mechanics of this urban fantasy world fairly quickly. There was an interesting cast of characters but one thing that hindered my enjoyment while reading was that there were so many different perspectives throughout the course of this book. My favourite aspect was the large variety of magical creatures. There was everything from witches to nymphs, to werhyenas, to vampires! I also liked the interconnectedness of the world and how fleshed out it was. This book has a lot of violence and tough subjects so I would recommend it to those on the older side of the YA reading range.
I'd like to thank Books Forward for sending me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
I've also posted this review on Instagram and my blog.
Instagram Post
Blog Post
Content Warnings: child abuse, death, forced confinement, kidnapping, slavery
The concept of this book was intriguing and the first chapters definitely grabbed my attention with all of the action. Unfortunately by the midway point, the story felt like it started to lag. By the end, things started to pick back up again but it did feel rushed at times. The backstory was well explained and I got a grasp of the overall mechanics of this urban fantasy world fairly quickly. There was an interesting cast of characters but one thing that hindered my enjoyment while reading was that there were so many different perspectives throughout the course of this book. My favourite aspect was the large variety of magical creatures. There was everything from witches to nymphs, to werhyenas, to vampires! I also liked the interconnectedness of the world and how fleshed out it was. This book has a lot of violence and tough subjects so I would recommend it to those on the older side of the YA reading range.
November 7, 2023
A while ago, Simone Jung from Books Forward (a marketing and publicity firm) got in touch and offered me access to an ARC for a fantasy book in exchange for a review. The premise was interesting, so I said sure. Magic by Any Other Name by Alison Levy was released yesterday (the 7th) from SparkPress. Let’s get on with the review!
Magic by Any Other Name follows Ivy (aka Georgette) as she and her best friend Mei-Xing run away from Ivy’s emotionally abusive mother and insane family. As she struggles to build her new identity as Georgette, she collects a strange but powerful found-family to help her figure out who she is while she helps them. Werehyenas, vampires, Valkyries, and numerous other magical folk fill the pages of this book. Plus, there’s the human love interest. But before she can settle down, Georgette must confront the darkest parts of her upbringing as a witch as well as work through her trauma.
The plot is standard fantasy fare. Witches enslave “familiars” (any other magical creatures collectively called fae for some reason) by branding them. But one young witch uses the brand to share power with her magical friends. One of her new friends’ family member (wife) was taken by the big bad (fae traffickers) and together they must save her. Things go from bad to worse until finally there’s a happy ending. Wrap it all up in family trauma and that’s the book. Not bad. I enjoyed the plot for what it is.
The characters ranged from fleshed out and interesting to stereotypes. I wanted more out of Kazimiera. She was on the flatter end of the spectrum, as was Mei-Xing. Georgette and Ishak were the fleshiest, so to speak. I wasn’t particularly a fan of Ishak. The whole point of the book is emotional growth, but Ishak keeps playing on Georgette’s guilt instead of trusting her to help him because she wants to. It’s super annoying. He does it all the way through and no one calls him out on it. Yes, she’s a witch. Yes, her kind are generally dicks. But she’s proven her loyalty to the fae time and time again. Stop being an asshat.
I don’t generally talk about book structure unless it’s glaringly flawed, so guess what! It’s not great. Every chapter is from a different POV. Usually, it switches between three characters, but there are at least nine POVs that get at least a chapter. It’s too many to keep track of, especially when they show up once and that’s it. It’s also unnecessary. The prologue being from the aunt’s perspective could have just as easily been in Ivy’s perspective. The aunt didn’t play a role at all in the book. And the guy who just shows up to die. His chapter was useless. Nico’s chapters were okay, but not exactly necessary either. Same with Neil. There should be like five POVs, tops. Any more and it gets super hard for the average reader to follow.
The writing itself was nice. There was a lot going on, but the pacing was pretty good. It dragged in the beginning, but got better.
Ultimately, I enjoyed Magic by Any Other Name for what it is. A found-family fantasy story. If there’s another one, I’ll give it a shot. It’s called book one, so I’m guessing it’s supposed to be a series, but it’s an okay stand-alone.
Overall, I gave it 3 out of 5 stars. There’s room for improvement, but if you enjoy fantasy and found-family stories, it’s not bad.
Magic by Any Other Name follows Ivy (aka Georgette) as she and her best friend Mei-Xing run away from Ivy’s emotionally abusive mother and insane family. As she struggles to build her new identity as Georgette, she collects a strange but powerful found-family to help her figure out who she is while she helps them. Werehyenas, vampires, Valkyries, and numerous other magical folk fill the pages of this book. Plus, there’s the human love interest. But before she can settle down, Georgette must confront the darkest parts of her upbringing as a witch as well as work through her trauma.
The plot is standard fantasy fare. Witches enslave “familiars” (any other magical creatures collectively called fae for some reason) by branding them. But one young witch uses the brand to share power with her magical friends. One of her new friends’ family member (wife) was taken by the big bad (fae traffickers) and together they must save her. Things go from bad to worse until finally there’s a happy ending. Wrap it all up in family trauma and that’s the book. Not bad. I enjoyed the plot for what it is.
The characters ranged from fleshed out and interesting to stereotypes. I wanted more out of Kazimiera. She was on the flatter end of the spectrum, as was Mei-Xing. Georgette and Ishak were the fleshiest, so to speak. I wasn’t particularly a fan of Ishak. The whole point of the book is emotional growth, but Ishak keeps playing on Georgette’s guilt instead of trusting her to help him because she wants to. It’s super annoying. He does it all the way through and no one calls him out on it. Yes, she’s a witch. Yes, her kind are generally dicks. But she’s proven her loyalty to the fae time and time again. Stop being an asshat.
I don’t generally talk about book structure unless it’s glaringly flawed, so guess what! It’s not great. Every chapter is from a different POV. Usually, it switches between three characters, but there are at least nine POVs that get at least a chapter. It’s too many to keep track of, especially when they show up once and that’s it. It’s also unnecessary. The prologue being from the aunt’s perspective could have just as easily been in Ivy’s perspective. The aunt didn’t play a role at all in the book. And the guy who just shows up to die. His chapter was useless. Nico’s chapters were okay, but not exactly necessary either. Same with Neil. There should be like five POVs, tops. Any more and it gets super hard for the average reader to follow.
The writing itself was nice. There was a lot going on, but the pacing was pretty good. It dragged in the beginning, but got better.
Ultimately, I enjoyed Magic by Any Other Name for what it is. A found-family fantasy story. If there’s another one, I’ll give it a shot. It’s called book one, so I’m guessing it’s supposed to be a series, but it’s an okay stand-alone.
Overall, I gave it 3 out of 5 stars. There’s room for improvement, but if you enjoy fantasy and found-family stories, it’s not bad.
July 25, 2026
Peter Pan is, on the surface, a fun tale of not wanting to grow up. But Magic by Any Other Name is a Peter Pan-style tale that confronts the underlying message head-on. Georgette names and addresses the abuse and trauma of her childhood, embracing the power of her magic and finding a family that shows her how good it can feel to care about people - and be loved in return.
Fantasy can be challenging, especially when writing for a YA audience- oftentimes the magic system and worldbuilding, along with a big cast of characters, bog down the narrative. Levy handles this challenge deftly, weaving in each element of the tale with such ease that I felt like I innately knew things about this world. This was helpful, as the POV switches a LOT and to make that successful, the rest of the story needs to be very cohesive.
Looking forward to following a bit more of Mei-Xing's character growth in book 2!
Fantasy can be challenging, especially when writing for a YA audience- oftentimes the magic system and worldbuilding, along with a big cast of characters, bog down the narrative. Levy handles this challenge deftly, weaving in each element of the tale with such ease that I felt like I innately knew things about this world. This was helpful, as the POV switches a LOT and to make that successful, the rest of the story needs to be very cohesive.
Looking forward to following a bit more of Mei-Xing's character growth in book 2!
November 6, 2023
In Alison Levy's "Magic By Any Other Name," the world of magic unravels in the most enchanting and unexpected ways. This novel weaves the threads of self-discovery, friendship, and the transformative power of resilience, all while sprinkled with the allure of enchantment.
The story centers on Ivy Nichols O'Reilly, a young witch who has been raised in the embrace of wealth, magical creatures, and a harrowing upbringing. As her narcissistic mother orchestrates an unwanted marriage, Ivy, like a phoenix, rises from the ashes of her old life. She drops her given name and flees across the country with Mei-Xing, her loyal Wood Nymph friend, in tow.
With resolve and determination, Ivy rebrands herself as Georgette, embracing her newfound freedom and embarking on a quest to build an identity that is uniquely her own. Along the way, she encounters a cast of characters that are diverse as the magical world itself. From a Werehyena searching for his kidnapped wife to a Vampire with a unique magical enterprise, a curandero specializing in traditional medicine, and a Valkyrie with a raven companion offering a high-stakes deal -- Georgette's journey is a beguiling array of encounters that challenge her, transforming her in ways she never expected.
"Magic By Any Other Name" explores identity and resilience. Georgette's path to self-discovery unveils the healing power of friendship and the human (and magical) spirit's ability to rise from the depths of trauma and adversity. Levy crafts a story that is ethereal and deeply human, blending the realms of magic with the universal human experience of growth, healing, and love.
In the heart of this tale is the delicate balance between privilege and pain. Georgette is forced to confront her own privilege within the magical community in which she was raised and find the courage to navigate the trauma of her past. Her journey towards a healthy relationship with a man who sparks her heart's desires is a representation of the power of transformation and personal growth.
"Magic By Any Other Name" is an enchanting journey through the complex corridors of identity, self-acceptance, and healing. Levy's writing is a magical incantation that captures imagination. This book explores wonder, resilience, and the inexhaustible magic that resides within all of us. This novel will be enjoyed by those who believe in the extraordinary power of self-discovery and transformation.
Alison Levy has conjured a world where magic is a supernatural gift and a profound symbol of our own capacity to rise, heal, and create a life filled with enchantment and promise.
"Alison Levy's 'Magic By Any Other Name' -- A lyrical journey of self discovery and transformation."
"A spellbinding tale of resilience, friendship, and the healing power of magic."
"An enchanting odyssey through the worlds of identity and belonging."
"Levy's narratives weaves a spell of empowerment, healing, and authenticity."
"A whimsical tale of self-rediscovery that will leave you spellbound."
"The magic of 'Magic By Any Other Name' lies in its profound message of growth."
"A masterpiece of transformation -- A journey from trauma to triumph."
"Alison Levy casts a spell of empathy and resilience."
"A magical adventure that celebrates the power of friendship and self resilience."
"A story of enchantment, healing, and the magic that resides within all of us."
The story centers on Ivy Nichols O'Reilly, a young witch who has been raised in the embrace of wealth, magical creatures, and a harrowing upbringing. As her narcissistic mother orchestrates an unwanted marriage, Ivy, like a phoenix, rises from the ashes of her old life. She drops her given name and flees across the country with Mei-Xing, her loyal Wood Nymph friend, in tow.
With resolve and determination, Ivy rebrands herself as Georgette, embracing her newfound freedom and embarking on a quest to build an identity that is uniquely her own. Along the way, she encounters a cast of characters that are diverse as the magical world itself. From a Werehyena searching for his kidnapped wife to a Vampire with a unique magical enterprise, a curandero specializing in traditional medicine, and a Valkyrie with a raven companion offering a high-stakes deal -- Georgette's journey is a beguiling array of encounters that challenge her, transforming her in ways she never expected.
"Magic By Any Other Name" explores identity and resilience. Georgette's path to self-discovery unveils the healing power of friendship and the human (and magical) spirit's ability to rise from the depths of trauma and adversity. Levy crafts a story that is ethereal and deeply human, blending the realms of magic with the universal human experience of growth, healing, and love.
In the heart of this tale is the delicate balance between privilege and pain. Georgette is forced to confront her own privilege within the magical community in which she was raised and find the courage to navigate the trauma of her past. Her journey towards a healthy relationship with a man who sparks her heart's desires is a representation of the power of transformation and personal growth.
"Magic By Any Other Name" is an enchanting journey through the complex corridors of identity, self-acceptance, and healing. Levy's writing is a magical incantation that captures imagination. This book explores wonder, resilience, and the inexhaustible magic that resides within all of us. This novel will be enjoyed by those who believe in the extraordinary power of self-discovery and transformation.
Alison Levy has conjured a world where magic is a supernatural gift and a profound symbol of our own capacity to rise, heal, and create a life filled with enchantment and promise.
"Alison Levy's 'Magic By Any Other Name' -- A lyrical journey of self discovery and transformation."
"A spellbinding tale of resilience, friendship, and the healing power of magic."
"An enchanting odyssey through the worlds of identity and belonging."
"Levy's narratives weaves a spell of empowerment, healing, and authenticity."
"A whimsical tale of self-rediscovery that will leave you spellbound."
"The magic of 'Magic By Any Other Name' lies in its profound message of growth."
"A masterpiece of transformation -- A journey from trauma to triumph."
"Alison Levy casts a spell of empathy and resilience."
"A magical adventure that celebrates the power of friendship and self resilience."
"A story of enchantment, healing, and the magic that resides within all of us."
October 16, 2023
Starting off, toward the beginning of the book was not easy to get into. It had some interest, but it was kind of forgettable. However, it does get better.
Georgette is a great character. It takes a lot of strength to leave toxic situations. There are only really a couple of issues I have with her - first being that she leaves her younger sister behind with little thought for most of the book, until she suddenly remembers later on. While I understand that she might not have been able to safely take her on the journey, you would think that she would either give words of advice or think about her more. The second is how fast she falls in love with Neil and trusts him. I'm not saying that you can't fall in love that fast, but it seems unrealistic when you think about how Georgette has trust issues from her family. I wish that this was explored more in the novel.
Ishak also has trust issues, as he is searching for his wife, who was kidnapped and sold off. I absolutely love his character. You can tell that he cares so much; he doesn't just say it. While we don't really get a look at his backstory, his character is very well developed throughout the book. My only concern is that it seems like he got more development than Georgette, the main character.
The Valkyrie and her raven are barely in the book at all, and I am hoping that will change as the author writes the sequel (s). Mei-Xing was actually pretty well developed, though not as much as I'd like.
I do very much like the way that trauma is handled in this. Since it is a young adult novel, there are obvious things that may not be appropriately and accurately portrayed, but it is definitely enough to go on with younger audiences.
Overall, I did really enjoy this book, and it is definitely recommendable to a few of my friends.
Georgette is a great character. It takes a lot of strength to leave toxic situations. There are only really a couple of issues I have with her - first being that she leaves her younger sister behind with little thought for most of the book, until she suddenly remembers later on. While I understand that she might not have been able to safely take her on the journey, you would think that she would either give words of advice or think about her more. The second is how fast she falls in love with Neil and trusts him. I'm not saying that you can't fall in love that fast, but it seems unrealistic when you think about how Georgette has trust issues from her family. I wish that this was explored more in the novel.
Ishak also has trust issues, as he is searching for his wife, who was kidnapped and sold off. I absolutely love his character. You can tell that he cares so much; he doesn't just say it. While we don't really get a look at his backstory, his character is very well developed throughout the book. My only concern is that it seems like he got more development than Georgette, the main character.
The Valkyrie and her raven are barely in the book at all, and I am hoping that will change as the author writes the sequel (s). Mei-Xing was actually pretty well developed, though not as much as I'd like.
I do very much like the way that trauma is handled in this. Since it is a young adult novel, there are obvious things that may not be appropriately and accurately portrayed, but it is definitely enough to go on with younger audiences.
Overall, I did really enjoy this book, and it is definitely recommendable to a few of my friends.
January 12, 2024
Magic by Any Other Name follows Georgette as she runs away from her toxic magical family with her friend, a wood nymph named Mei-Xing. Their journey does not go as planned, however, as they become friends with the locals and realize that they can use their magic for good.
At the start of the book, I was not thinking this would be a book I liked. It started slowly and focused heavily on the different classes of the magical creatures. While I enjoyed the ethnic diversity of the characters, I wish it existed beyond characters in the lower "slave" classes, especially in a setting like California.
As I got farther into the book, I started to enjoy it more. Georgette was becoming her own person, aside from who her mother wanted her to be, and she gained a significant amount of confidence in her magical abilities. She also realized that her life was worth living, and that there are people who will come together with you and join you in your chaotic life.
My biggest issue with the book was how the diverse characters were integrated into the plot. While some of the characters were well developed, this book would have been much better had the diversity existed in all elements of the book and characters, not just the lower class of characters.
I received this book by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
At the start of the book, I was not thinking this would be a book I liked. It started slowly and focused heavily on the different classes of the magical creatures. While I enjoyed the ethnic diversity of the characters, I wish it existed beyond characters in the lower "slave" classes, especially in a setting like California.
As I got farther into the book, I started to enjoy it more. Georgette was becoming her own person, aside from who her mother wanted her to be, and she gained a significant amount of confidence in her magical abilities. She also realized that her life was worth living, and that there are people who will come together with you and join you in your chaotic life.
My biggest issue with the book was how the diverse characters were integrated into the plot. While some of the characters were well developed, this book would have been much better had the diversity existed in all elements of the book and characters, not just the lower class of characters.
I received this book by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
January 3, 2024
This book took me a little while to read. I had to put it down and come back to it for the first 2/3rds of the book but once I got to the last third it was a fast one. There are a lot of characters and POVs. I had to write down each character and a bit about them to keep them straight in the beginning. The author puts a lot into the history of each character and it gets a bit dense at times. Once you're invested in the characters it's worth having all that information and makes the outcome of the book that much better.
November 14, 2023
Ivy Nichols O'Reilly has made the difficult decision to leave her controlling and abusive family. However, leaving isn't easy when you come from a powerful family of witches. Ivy changes her name to Georgette and finds a place to stay on the other side of the country. With Georgette is Mei-Xing, a wood nymph and her best friend. As they travel, Georgette and Mei-Xing are found by an enslaved Werehyena, Ishak, who seeks Georgette's help to free his wife from a familiar brokerage. The trio identify the brokerage in Las Vegas and Georgette finds a job with a Vampire, Kazimiera, keeping up the enchantments on her magical club. As they are planning, Georgette catches the attention of a Valkyrie and her partner who need Georgette's powers, but could also help them free the familiars in the brokerage. In the search for Ishak's wife, the group discovers something much more sinister at the brokerage that they need to solve.
Magic By Any Other Name is an exciting fantasy that examines the value of friendship, finding strength within yourself and overcoming abuse. The writing brings the many magical characters alive with amazing descriptions and distinctly human traits. I felt a connection with Ivy and her strength to escape and reclaim her self worth. Her spirit and amazing willingness to help others shone through. Mei-Xing, Ishak, Kazimiera, Nico, Neil, Delia and Senji were also well developed and interesting characters. I liked that the point of view switched between all of the characters in order to see their perspective on the events and what was driving them and important to them. I love that Georgette was able to gain confidence in herself and her abilities through her friendships with the others in order to find purpose and do good. Culminating in standing up to her mother along with forging her own path in life, Magic By Any Other name is an exciting fantasy with plenty and magic and heart.
This book was received for free in return for an honest review.
Magic By Any Other Name is an exciting fantasy that examines the value of friendship, finding strength within yourself and overcoming abuse. The writing brings the many magical characters alive with amazing descriptions and distinctly human traits. I felt a connection with Ivy and her strength to escape and reclaim her self worth. Her spirit and amazing willingness to help others shone through. Mei-Xing, Ishak, Kazimiera, Nico, Neil, Delia and Senji were also well developed and interesting characters. I liked that the point of view switched between all of the characters in order to see their perspective on the events and what was driving them and important to them. I love that Georgette was able to gain confidence in herself and her abilities through her friendships with the others in order to find purpose and do good. Culminating in standing up to her mother along with forging her own path in life, Magic By Any Other name is an exciting fantasy with plenty and magic and heart.
This book was received for free in return for an honest review.
July 9, 2026
In this first installment, Levy introduces Ivy Nichols O'Reilly. She is a young adult witch who has never known freedom beyond her mother's reach. Motivated to search out the only person who has managed to evade her mother, she discovers that in order to really be free, she must reinvent herself as Georgette Dulaney, the successful nightclub assistant who has strength, determination, and grit. Through her journey, she becomes friends with a Nymph, a Werehyena, a Valkyrie, and a healing practitioner. What begins as Georgette's need to prove herself, this odyssey quickly leads into constructive mini-adventures that provide greater meaning and require more bravery than she's ever shown before.
Levy does several things quite well with this story. Her characters, for starters, are enticing and I can see readers truly being drawn to the protagonists. The character names are creative and the scenes are thoughtfully placed together, forming a solid story. One of my favorite characters is Kazimiera for her mysterious nature, but also compassionate side. It is not overly apparent, but it is unmistakably implied that she has a vibrant and intriguing story behind the hard exterior she shares. There are very minor spelling and grammatical errors, showcasing a well-written, fast-paced reading experience. The differences in writing format was not ideal in a few chapters related to specific character prose, but this may just be a personal preference on my part. Although the repetition appeared intentional for emphasis on duality of mind and spirit, it occasionally made the content feel a little more repetitive than necessary and difficult to decipher progression.
Overall, MAGIC BY ANY OTHER NAME by Alison Levy earns a four-star rating from Turning Another Page. The story is captivating, and follows through on its target audience for teen and young adult dark fantasy. It is recommended, as this is the first installment. I truly enjoyed the characters and world-building being well-constructed and providing an entertaining read.
Levy does several things quite well with this story. Her characters, for starters, are enticing and I can see readers truly being drawn to the protagonists. The character names are creative and the scenes are thoughtfully placed together, forming a solid story. One of my favorite characters is Kazimiera for her mysterious nature, but also compassionate side. It is not overly apparent, but it is unmistakably implied that she has a vibrant and intriguing story behind the hard exterior she shares. There are very minor spelling and grammatical errors, showcasing a well-written, fast-paced reading experience. The differences in writing format was not ideal in a few chapters related to specific character prose, but this may just be a personal preference on my part. Although the repetition appeared intentional for emphasis on duality of mind and spirit, it occasionally made the content feel a little more repetitive than necessary and difficult to decipher progression.
Overall, MAGIC BY ANY OTHER NAME by Alison Levy earns a four-star rating from Turning Another Page. The story is captivating, and follows through on its target audience for teen and young adult dark fantasy. It is recommended, as this is the first installment. I truly enjoyed the characters and world-building being well-constructed and providing an entertaining read.
January 29, 2024
Thank you Netgalley and SparkPress for the ARC in exchange for the honest review!
"Magic By Any Other Name" by Alison Levy is an engaging story focusing on the themes of identity, found family, and magic, drawing you into the intricate world Levy has created. Fleeing from her emotionally abusive mother and troubled family, Ivy embarks on a journey to construct a new identity as Georgette, accompanied by her best friend Mei-Xing. The narrative introduces a diverse ensemble of magical beings, including were-hyenas, vampires, Valkyries, and more, creating a rich and fantastical backdrop.
I really enjoyed the world that Levy created, especially with the variety of magical beings throughout the book; the exploration of these creatures was very interesting, and I enjoyed learning more about them (especially the were-hyenas – I don’t think I’ve ever read a book with those creatures before). This book also had strong character writing with Ivy's struggle to overcome her traumatic past and build connections with her newfound magical family. I thought the family trauma and Ivy’s reactions to her past were fleshed out and realistic, especially with her emotional growth throughout.
The book has a bit of a slow start, but I overall thought it maintained a good balance, delivering an enjoyable reading experience. Some of the side characters were a bit underdeveloped and stereotypical, but I absolutely loved the found family aspect of the story. It was a bit difficult to follow the different perspectives throughout; I found myself forgetting who was who, especially since I’m pretty bad with names.
"Magic By Any Other Name" is a book I greatly enjoyed for its feel-good atmosphere, themes of found family, and the handling of heavy topics with a lighter touch. I recommend the book for those who enjoy found family stories with a magical twist.
"Magic By Any Other Name" by Alison Levy is an engaging story focusing on the themes of identity, found family, and magic, drawing you into the intricate world Levy has created. Fleeing from her emotionally abusive mother and troubled family, Ivy embarks on a journey to construct a new identity as Georgette, accompanied by her best friend Mei-Xing. The narrative introduces a diverse ensemble of magical beings, including were-hyenas, vampires, Valkyries, and more, creating a rich and fantastical backdrop.
I really enjoyed the world that Levy created, especially with the variety of magical beings throughout the book; the exploration of these creatures was very interesting, and I enjoyed learning more about them (especially the were-hyenas – I don’t think I’ve ever read a book with those creatures before). This book also had strong character writing with Ivy's struggle to overcome her traumatic past and build connections with her newfound magical family. I thought the family trauma and Ivy’s reactions to her past were fleshed out and realistic, especially with her emotional growth throughout.
The book has a bit of a slow start, but I overall thought it maintained a good balance, delivering an enjoyable reading experience. Some of the side characters were a bit underdeveloped and stereotypical, but I absolutely loved the found family aspect of the story. It was a bit difficult to follow the different perspectives throughout; I found myself forgetting who was who, especially since I’m pretty bad with names.
"Magic By Any Other Name" is a book I greatly enjoyed for its feel-good atmosphere, themes of found family, and the handling of heavy topics with a lighter touch. I recommend the book for those who enjoy found family stories with a magical twist.
June 23, 2026
This book had a lot of elements that I typically enjoy: magic, fantasy creatures, found family, and a heroine trying to escape a toxic situation and reclaim her independence. Ivy's decision to leave behind the life her narcissistic mother planned for her was a compelling premise, and I was immediately invested in seeing where her journey would take her.
One of the things I appreciated most was the worldbuilding. Alison Levy does a great job blending magic and modern technology, creating a world that feels unique without being difficult to understand. The fantasy elements were woven naturally into everyday life, and I enjoyed learning about the various magical beings and systems that make up the story.
Unfortunately, I struggled with the sheer number of perspectives. There were so many points of view that I frequently found myself flipping back through previous chapters or making mental notes to keep track of who was who. While I understood what was happening overall, constantly reorienting myself pulled me out of the story.
I also had mixed feelings about some of the character relationships, particularly those involving Ivy. I was invested in them early on, but as the story progressed, they lost some of their momentum for me. Combined with a slower middle section, I found my interest starting to wane and had to push myself to keep reading.
That said, I can absolutely see the appeal. The themes of identity, autonomy, healing from emotional abuse, and building a life on your own terms are handled thoughtfully. Readers who enjoy YA fantasy with multiple perspectives, magical worlds, and character-driven storytelling will likely find a lot to love here.
While it wasn't a perfect fit for me, I appreciated the creativity of the world and the message at the heart of Ivy's journey.
One of the things I appreciated most was the worldbuilding. Alison Levy does a great job blending magic and modern technology, creating a world that feels unique without being difficult to understand. The fantasy elements were woven naturally into everyday life, and I enjoyed learning about the various magical beings and systems that make up the story.
Unfortunately, I struggled with the sheer number of perspectives. There were so many points of view that I frequently found myself flipping back through previous chapters or making mental notes to keep track of who was who. While I understood what was happening overall, constantly reorienting myself pulled me out of the story.
I also had mixed feelings about some of the character relationships, particularly those involving Ivy. I was invested in them early on, but as the story progressed, they lost some of their momentum for me. Combined with a slower middle section, I found my interest starting to wane and had to push myself to keep reading.
That said, I can absolutely see the appeal. The themes of identity, autonomy, healing from emotional abuse, and building a life on your own terms are handled thoughtfully. Readers who enjoy YA fantasy with multiple perspectives, magical worlds, and character-driven storytelling will likely find a lot to love here.
While it wasn't a perfect fit for me, I appreciated the creativity of the world and the message at the heart of Ivy's journey.
June 29, 2026
A bird does not become free the moment it leaves the cage. It becomes free when it learns to fly. MAGIC BY ANY OTHER NAME is one such story where a young witch runs away from her controlling mother. She changes her name to hide her past, and just like a bird, she finally learns to fly.
Georgette, when pressurized to get married to Zachary Thayer without a word of consultation, revolts against her mother, Hazel, and leaves her suffocating luxury life. She wants a new life where she can make her own choices. Along the way, she learns that escaping is only the beginning. She also has to believe in herself. Here, the author is using fantasy to talk about the real pain of controlling parents who push their choices on their kids.
While on the run, she meets witches, vampires, nymphs, and werehyenas and builds a family where people are bonded by love, not by blood. The story talks about problems like fear, abuse, slavery, and treating others unfairly. Georgette, with her loyal friend Mei-Xing, helps magical creatures like Ishak, who is looking for his wife, along with others. These characters grow stronger as the story moves forward.
Alison has done a great job of threading human elements into the world of magical creatures. The scary parts, the sad parts, and the parts that make you smile naturally flow in the story. Since this is the first book in the series, it makes for a strong start to The Witch's Odyssey. The message of the book is clear: the past does not have to control the future. People can build a new life and become stronger with the help of courage, hope, and good friends.
Georgette, when pressurized to get married to Zachary Thayer without a word of consultation, revolts against her mother, Hazel, and leaves her suffocating luxury life. She wants a new life where she can make her own choices. Along the way, she learns that escaping is only the beginning. She also has to believe in herself. Here, the author is using fantasy to talk about the real pain of controlling parents who push their choices on their kids.
While on the run, she meets witches, vampires, nymphs, and werehyenas and builds a family where people are bonded by love, not by blood. The story talks about problems like fear, abuse, slavery, and treating others unfairly. Georgette, with her loyal friend Mei-Xing, helps magical creatures like Ishak, who is looking for his wife, along with others. These characters grow stronger as the story moves forward.
Alison has done a great job of threading human elements into the world of magical creatures. The scary parts, the sad parts, and the parts that make you smile naturally flow in the story. Since this is the first book in the series, it makes for a strong start to The Witch's Odyssey. The message of the book is clear: the past does not have to control the future. People can build a new life and become stronger with the help of courage, hope, and good friends.
June 29, 2026
MAGIC BY ANY OTHER NAME follows Georgette, a young witch fleeing her manipulative and abusive family in search of a new beginning. Alongside her best friend, Mei-Xing, a wood nymph, she sets out on a cross-country journey to discover her true magical potential while building a life defined not by blood, but by the family she chooses for herself.
At its heart, this book is a deeply moving story about found family and the idea that love, trust, and belonging run far deeper than shared blood. Georgette's journey is as much an emotional odyssey as it is a magical one, following her as she learns to reclaim her identity, establish healthy boundaries, and heal from the scars left by generational and emotional abuse. One of my favorite aspects was how the story handled going "no contact" with toxic family members. It never made that decision seem easy, but it showed why choosing your own peace can be worth it.
While I appreciated these themes, I found that the multiple points of view ultimately dampened the story. Many of the narrators eventually become part of Georgette's newfound family, but the constant shifts in perspective made it difficult to fully invest in their relationships and story. Instead of strengthening the emotional connections, the frequent POV changes often kept Georgette, and her bonds with the people around her, at a distance, making some of those relationships feel flatter than they otherwise might have.
Even so, the book’s emotional core still hits, making it a great read for anyone drawn to stories about overcoming the past and finding a place where they truly belong.
At its heart, this book is a deeply moving story about found family and the idea that love, trust, and belonging run far deeper than shared blood. Georgette's journey is as much an emotional odyssey as it is a magical one, following her as she learns to reclaim her identity, establish healthy boundaries, and heal from the scars left by generational and emotional abuse. One of my favorite aspects was how the story handled going "no contact" with toxic family members. It never made that decision seem easy, but it showed why choosing your own peace can be worth it.
While I appreciated these themes, I found that the multiple points of view ultimately dampened the story. Many of the narrators eventually become part of Georgette's newfound family, but the constant shifts in perspective made it difficult to fully invest in their relationships and story. Instead of strengthening the emotional connections, the frequent POV changes often kept Georgette, and her bonds with the people around her, at a distance, making some of those relationships feel flatter than they otherwise might have.
Even so, the book’s emotional core still hits, making it a great read for anyone drawn to stories about overcoming the past and finding a place where they truly belong.
June 9, 2026
Magic by Any Other Name by Alison Levy is a character driven urban fantasy novel that blends magical realism, personal trauma, and identity transformation into a story centered on escape, reinvention, and emotional healing.
One of the strongest elements of the book is Georgette’s personal journey. Her decision to leave behind a life shaped by emotional abuse and forced expectations gives the narrative a powerful emotional foundation rooted in autonomy and self definition.
The world building is richly layered with diverse magical beings, including witches, wood nymphs, vampires, and Valkyries. These characters create a vibrant magical ecosystem that feels interconnected while also reflecting different aspects of power, vulnerability, and survival.
A particularly compelling aspect of the story is how Georgette’s past continuously intersects with her attempt to rebuild her identity. The narrative effectively explores the idea that escape is not always enough, especially when emotional and psychological scars remain unresolved.
The supporting characters add depth and variety to the story’s emotional and thematic landscape. Each encounter challenges Georgette’s assumptions about privilege, belonging, and responsibility within the magical community she was born into.
For readers who enjoy urban fantasy with strong character arcs, emotional healing, magical diversity, and identity driven storytelling, Magic by Any Other Name offers a thoughtful and immersive reading experience.
One of the strongest elements of the book is Georgette’s personal journey. Her decision to leave behind a life shaped by emotional abuse and forced expectations gives the narrative a powerful emotional foundation rooted in autonomy and self definition.
The world building is richly layered with diverse magical beings, including witches, wood nymphs, vampires, and Valkyries. These characters create a vibrant magical ecosystem that feels interconnected while also reflecting different aspects of power, vulnerability, and survival.
A particularly compelling aspect of the story is how Georgette’s past continuously intersects with her attempt to rebuild her identity. The narrative effectively explores the idea that escape is not always enough, especially when emotional and psychological scars remain unresolved.
The supporting characters add depth and variety to the story’s emotional and thematic landscape. Each encounter challenges Georgette’s assumptions about privilege, belonging, and responsibility within the magical community she was born into.
For readers who enjoy urban fantasy with strong character arcs, emotional healing, magical diversity, and identity driven storytelling, Magic by Any Other Name offers a thoughtful and immersive reading experience.
July 7, 2026
A Magical Journey of Healing and Self-Discovery
MAGIC BY ANY OTHER NAME is much more than an urban fantasy filled with witches, vampires, nymphs, and other magical beings. At its heart, it is a story about healing from emotional abuse, reclaiming personal identity, and discovering that family is not always defined by blood. Georgette's decision to leave behind the life chosen for her sets the stage for a heartfelt journey of self-discovery, where every new friendship helps her rebuild the confidence that was slowly taken from her. The magical world is imaginative and richly populated, yet it never overshadows the deeply human struggles that drive the story forward.
The supporting cast adds plenty of charm and personality, with each magical character contributing something meaningful to Georgette's growth and the larger narrative. Themes of trust, trauma, forgiveness, and found family are woven naturally into the adventure, giving the novel emotional depth alongside its fantasy elements. I enjoyed how these elements blended seamlessly, enhancing both the emotional and fantastical aspects of the story.
One small drawback is that the multiple points of view can occasionally interrupt the flow and make it harder to stay fully immersed in Georgette's personal journey. Readers who enjoy character-driven fantasy, found family stories, and magical worlds that explore real emotional challenges will likely love this book for its balance of heartfelt healing and imaginative adventure.
MAGIC BY ANY OTHER NAME is much more than an urban fantasy filled with witches, vampires, nymphs, and other magical beings. At its heart, it is a story about healing from emotional abuse, reclaiming personal identity, and discovering that family is not always defined by blood. Georgette's decision to leave behind the life chosen for her sets the stage for a heartfelt journey of self-discovery, where every new friendship helps her rebuild the confidence that was slowly taken from her. The magical world is imaginative and richly populated, yet it never overshadows the deeply human struggles that drive the story forward.
The supporting cast adds plenty of charm and personality, with each magical character contributing something meaningful to Georgette's growth and the larger narrative. Themes of trust, trauma, forgiveness, and found family are woven naturally into the adventure, giving the novel emotional depth alongside its fantasy elements. I enjoyed how these elements blended seamlessly, enhancing both the emotional and fantastical aspects of the story.
One small drawback is that the multiple points of view can occasionally interrupt the flow and make it harder to stay fully immersed in Georgette's personal journey. Readers who enjoy character-driven fantasy, found family stories, and magical worlds that explore real emotional challenges will likely love this book for its balance of heartfelt healing and imaginative adventure.
August 7, 2026
✨Running away from home is one thing... but running toward a magical new life is another.
If you're searching for a fantasy novel packed with witches, vampires, mythical creatures, found family, and emotional healing, Magic by Any Other Name by Alison Levy deserves a spot on your TBR list!
I loved that this wasn't just a story about magic it was about reclaiming your identity. Georgette's journey from an emotionally abusive childhood to building a life on her own terms felt authentic and inspiring. Her character growth kept me invested from beginning to end.
The world-building is filled with memorable magical creatures, from wood nymphs and werehyenas to valkyries and vampires, each adding something unique to the story. Beneath the fantasy adventure are meaningful themes of trauma, privilege, friendship, resilience, and learning that your past doesn't have to define your future.
If you enjoy character-driven fantasy with heartfelt relationships, imaginative magic, and a heroine you can't help but root for, I definitely recommend giving this one a read.
💜 Thank you to Books Forward PR and Alison Levy for sharing a review copy with me. I'm grateful for the opportunity to read and review this magical adventure!
If you're searching for a fantasy novel packed with witches, vampires, mythical creatures, found family, and emotional healing, Magic by Any Other Name by Alison Levy deserves a spot on your TBR list!
I loved that this wasn't just a story about magic it was about reclaiming your identity. Georgette's journey from an emotionally abusive childhood to building a life on her own terms felt authentic and inspiring. Her character growth kept me invested from beginning to end.
The world-building is filled with memorable magical creatures, from wood nymphs and werehyenas to valkyries and vampires, each adding something unique to the story. Beneath the fantasy adventure are meaningful themes of trauma, privilege, friendship, resilience, and learning that your past doesn't have to define your future.
If you enjoy character-driven fantasy with heartfelt relationships, imaginative magic, and a heroine you can't help but root for, I definitely recommend giving this one a read.
💜 Thank you to Books Forward PR and Alison Levy for sharing a review copy with me. I'm grateful for the opportunity to read and review this magical adventure!
November 16, 2023
I really enjoyed Magic by Any Other Name. It was a bit of a cozy/feel-good read although there are themes of abuse, neglect, and cheating. Even the heavy topics felt lighter with the found family and friendship themes layered on. I found myself looking at the family tree a lot at the beginning of the story, but once I got the hang of who everyone was, the story flowed nicely. Each chapter is from a different character's perspective, so that can take you out of the zone, but it didn't bother me too much.
I really loved Georgette and Mei-Jing. There almost wasn't enough of the characters to get attached, but the whole cast was pretty great. It was nice to see each character's struggles show through their actions and to see them each grow and change throughout the story. That isn't easy to do with multiple POVs.
If you like found family stories or need a little magic in your life, I recommend this book! Thank you, SparkPress and LibraryThing, for an ARC of this magical novel.
I really loved Georgette and Mei-Jing. There almost wasn't enough of the characters to get attached, but the whole cast was pretty great. It was nice to see each character's struggles show through their actions and to see them each grow and change throughout the story. That isn't easy to do with multiple POVs.
If you like found family stories or need a little magic in your life, I recommend this book! Thank you, SparkPress and LibraryThing, for an ARC of this magical novel.
June 29, 2026
I couldn’t stop reading this book, even though I wasn’t sure I would like it. Vampires and Nordic myths? Totally not my usual vibe. But somehow, Alison Levy hooked me completely and kept me turning pages right to the end.
This story is mainly a lovely mix of fantasy and deep emotional healing. We follow Ivy, a young witch who runs away from a forced marriage and her cruel, controlling mother, Hazel. Ivy leaves her rich but stifling life behind with her best friend, Mei-Xing, a wood nymph, and finds an aunt who tells her to start over with a new identity to protect herself from her past. She calls herself Georgette and starts to build a life on her own terms. It is a strong coming‑of‑age story that uses fantasy to show the real pain of generational abuse, parental narcissism, and the fight to escape impossible family expectations. Watching Georgette discover her own strength and learn to stand on her own is one of the best parts of this book.
This story is mainly a lovely mix of fantasy and deep emotional healing. We follow Ivy, a young witch who runs away from a forced marriage and her cruel, controlling mother, Hazel. Ivy leaves her rich but stifling life behind with her best friend, Mei-Xing, a wood nymph, and finds an aunt who tells her to start over with a new identity to protect herself from her past. She calls herself Georgette and starts to build a life on her own terms. It is a strong coming‑of‑age story that uses fantasy to show the real pain of generational abuse, parental narcissism, and the fight to escape impossible family expectations. Watching Georgette discover her own strength and learn to stand on her own is one of the best parts of this book.
November 20, 2023
Such a great ya novel by Alison Levy. I have read and reviewed a few by her and I never come away disappointed. She is a wonderful author that knows how to create a wonderful set of characters in these great fantasy worlds that just pull you into the story.
This novel is no different, it pulls you into a world of magic and mystery and family abuse from a young witches point of view. You meet a nymph , a were hyena, a Valkyrie and many other magical characters along the way in a world full of humans.
Georgette aka Ivy is on the run from her abusive witch family with her friend and they fall into this crazy situation and she just cant leave without helping which throws her down the rabbit hole of bad situation after bad situation.
Such a whirlwind of a story but I loved it.
5 stars
This novel is no different, it pulls you into a world of magic and mystery and family abuse from a young witches point of view. You meet a nymph , a were hyena, a Valkyrie and many other magical characters along the way in a world full of humans.
Georgette aka Ivy is on the run from her abusive witch family with her friend and they fall into this crazy situation and she just cant leave without helping which throws her down the rabbit hole of bad situation after bad situation.
Such a whirlwind of a story but I loved it.
5 stars
March 16, 2026
Magic by Any Other Name by Alison Levy is a richly imagined fantasy novel that blends magic, self discovery, and resilience. Following Ivy Nichols O’Reilly, who reinvents herself as Georgette to escape a life of privilege shadowed by emotional abuse, the story immerses readers in a magical world teeming with witches, vampires, werehyenas, and other fantastical beings.
Levy skillfully balances dark themes of trauma and toxic family dynamics with moments of wonder, humor, and heart, creating a compelling narrative about identity, healing, and forging meaningful connections. The depth of worldbuilding and the cast of complex magical characters make this a captivating read for fans of adult fantasy and witch centric adventures.
This is a story about reclaiming power, redefining self-worth, and navigating a magical but all too human world.
Levy skillfully balances dark themes of trauma and toxic family dynamics with moments of wonder, humor, and heart, creating a compelling narrative about identity, healing, and forging meaningful connections. The depth of worldbuilding and the cast of complex magical characters make this a captivating read for fans of adult fantasy and witch centric adventures.
This is a story about reclaiming power, redefining self-worth, and navigating a magical but all too human world.
July 3, 2026
When I picked up Magic by Any Other Name by Alison Levy, I wasn’t sure it would be my thing. Vampires and Nordic myths aren’t usually my thing, but I got hooked right from page one and tore through it.
What I loved most is that, underneath all the fantasy stuff, it’s really just a human story. It's about breaking away from a toxic family, learning to trust yourself again, and realizing that the family you choose can matter just as much as, or even more than, the one you're born into. It's about breaking away from a toxic family, learning to trust yourself again, and realizing that the family you choose can matter just as much as, or even more than, the one you're born into. Georgette's growth from a scared young woman into someone confident enough to make her own choices was inspiring to watch, and I found myself rooting for her the whole way.
What I loved most is that, underneath all the fantasy stuff, it’s really just a human story. It's about breaking away from a toxic family, learning to trust yourself again, and realizing that the family you choose can matter just as much as, or even more than, the one you're born into. It's about breaking away from a toxic family, learning to trust yourself again, and realizing that the family you choose can matter just as much as, or even more than, the one you're born into. Georgette's growth from a scared young woman into someone confident enough to make her own choices was inspiring to watch, and I found myself rooting for her the whole way.
November 8, 2023
3.75-4 stars
Thank you so much Books Forward Pr for my gifted copy in exchange for an honest review!
Despite this book being very honest about the generational trauma, and having a lot of hard themes, it was an easy read. At times, I thought I was watching a movie at how easily Levy details magic or a specific moment. This book also emphasizes the found family over blood that so many of us relate to. My favorite characters were by far Delia and Senji, a Valkyrie and her raven partner. Their stories fascinated me and the way Levy chose to retell a Valkyrie’s mythology just beguiled me. I loved Levy’s tone and how she depicted different pov’s throughout the book.
Books CW: generational trauma, emotional abuse, death, trafficking, arranged marriage, narcissistic mother, violence
Thank you so much Books Forward Pr for my gifted copy in exchange for an honest review!
Despite this book being very honest about the generational trauma, and having a lot of hard themes, it was an easy read. At times, I thought I was watching a movie at how easily Levy details magic or a specific moment. This book also emphasizes the found family over blood that so many of us relate to. My favorite characters were by far Delia and Senji, a Valkyrie and her raven partner. Their stories fascinated me and the way Levy chose to retell a Valkyrie’s mythology just beguiled me. I loved Levy’s tone and how she depicted different pov’s throughout the book.
Books CW: generational trauma, emotional abuse, death, trafficking, arranged marriage, narcissistic mother, violence
November 10, 2023
I loved reading this book about Ivy/Georgette and her best friend Mei-Xing. I loved this book in the very first chapter, about Claudia(Olivia) and how Ivy was going to be the MC and her story for the rest of the book as she becomes a different person. This was an intriguing and engaging read overall and the author did a great job with the writing of this book. I really enjoyed the story between Georgette and Ishak’s story to find his wife. There is so much to this story, emotional abuse, escaping from a bad situation, changing one’s name, kidnapping, forced slavery, and more are just a few of the triggers.
The end of the story is a nice way to end the book but it does also leave the book open for more of the story, so I am interested to see where the story goes from here.
The end of the story is a nice way to end the book but it does also leave the book open for more of the story, so I am interested to see where the story goes from here.
June 28, 2026
This book was an enjoyable beautiful mix of fantasy and emotional healing. It holds all the magical creatures, witches, and adventure you'd expect (and honestly wish for!), the heart and soul of the story is about identity, breaking free from toxic - hard to meet - family expectations, and finding the courage to build a life on your own terms.
I enjoyed the found family aspect and the way Georgette's journey felt both magical and deeply human. The world is imaginative and filled with unique creatures that kept me intrigued, curious and invested. If you enjoy character-driven fantasy with a cozy feel, rich and deep world-building, with a strong message about healing and self-discovery, this is definitely worth picking up.
I enjoyed the found family aspect and the way Georgette's journey felt both magical and deeply human. The world is imaginative and filled with unique creatures that kept me intrigued, curious and invested. If you enjoy character-driven fantasy with a cozy feel, rich and deep world-building, with a strong message about healing and self-discovery, this is definitely worth picking up.
June 30, 2026
Alison Levy has woven an enchanting tale in her novel " Magic by Any Other Name". The story revolves around Ivy Nichols, a witch, who is trying to escape her past burdened with the memories of abuse by her own mother.
The title of the book highlights that In her quest to gain freedom she acquires a new name. However, the question that looms large throughout the story line is that is it that easy to escape from one's past? Her journey is indeed about healing from deepest wounds and self discovery.
The author has intricately introduced various magical characters in the main plot who contribute meaningfully towards the central theme.
The narrative is intricate yet clear and there is no dearth of mystery, fantasy, and thrill till the end.
The title of the book highlights that In her quest to gain freedom she acquires a new name. However, the question that looms large throughout the story line is that is it that easy to escape from one's past? Her journey is indeed about healing from deepest wounds and self discovery.
The author has intricately introduced various magical characters in the main plot who contribute meaningfully towards the central theme.
The narrative is intricate yet clear and there is no dearth of mystery, fantasy, and thrill till the end.
September 17, 2023
Magic by Any Other Name by Alison Levy
Ivy is in an abusive home and has to escape. Her best friend is a Wood Nymph named Mei-Xing. Together they escape Hazel the horrible, Ivy’s abusive mother. On the run they find themselves helping others who are also in horrible situations.
This is not a kid’s book as some of the violence is graphic. The other addresses situations with plenty of action and anguish. There is a wealth of fantastic creatures who exhibit some very human characteristics, fears, and behaviors.
I really enjoyed the book and look forward to the next volume.
Ivy is in an abusive home and has to escape. Her best friend is a Wood Nymph named Mei-Xing. Together they escape Hazel the horrible, Ivy’s abusive mother. On the run they find themselves helping others who are also in horrible situations.
This is not a kid’s book as some of the violence is graphic. The other addresses situations with plenty of action and anguish. There is a wealth of fantastic creatures who exhibit some very human characteristics, fears, and behaviors.
I really enjoyed the book and look forward to the next volume.
October 27, 2023
This was such a fast-paced, easy read — which is not something that can be said about a lot of fantasy books. I often get confused reading fantasy if the world is too complicated, but this book is set in the real world with a simple magic system that's easy to understand and follow. Nymphs and vampires and Valkyries are all things I've heard of before and instead of focusing on what the characters are, I could focus more on who they were. I also loved that the book touched on some really important topics like mental health and the value of found family over blood. If you're a fan of The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches, then you're gonna love this one!
February 7, 2024
Magic by Any Other Name takes readers on a fantasy-filled journey filled with magic, overcoming trauma, and friendship. It’s a rollercoaster ride from beginning to end as Georgette sets out to break free from her mother’s reins and take charge of her own life. Once living (somewhat) on her own she faces numerous difficult obstacles from real-life enemies to processing her trauma and trying to heal from it. Her journey is not an easy one, but she grows into her own with the help of others and starts to believe in herself (and her magical abilities).
Read the full book review on the blog at: https://www.lifeofafemalebibliophile....
Read the full book review on the blog at: https://www.lifeofafemalebibliophile....
November 8, 2023
In this book, the MC runs away with her best friend to get away from a toxic home life. It is a story of self-discovery, friendship, and learning to trust again. The beginning of the book is slow at first, but it picks up well and pulls you in. I like the character development in this story but I feel like some of the characters were a little more fleshed out than others. Made it feel a little like we were following the wrong person. Loved the Valkyrie, hope that we will get to see more in future books.
December 20, 2023
Ivy has run away from an arranged marrige and her emotionally abusive mother. Her companion is a
Mei-Xing, a Wood Nymph. Ivy locates an aunt who escaped from the family. The aunt tells her to create
a new identity/life that will keep the mother from finding her.
As Ivy heads out, she crosses paths with other magical creatures who are in need of help. Taking
the name of Georgette, she discovers she is stronger than she thinks.
Lovely tale of friendship, resilience and healing.
#MagicByAnyOtherName #NetGalley
Mei-Xing, a Wood Nymph. Ivy locates an aunt who escaped from the family. The aunt tells her to create
a new identity/life that will keep the mother from finding her.
As Ivy heads out, she crosses paths with other magical creatures who are in need of help. Taking
the name of Georgette, she discovers she is stronger than she thinks.
Lovely tale of friendship, resilience and healing.
#MagicByAnyOtherName #NetGalley
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