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Magic Feared and Furious
In Regency Era Scotland . . . Brennan Lennox fears the creatures that stalk the magical wilds of the Scottish moors. He knows to avoid all those that possess magic—especially witches—and what happens if someone comes under the spell of a dreaded kelpie; a deadly water horse that drowns its victims. When his family faces starvation, Brennan accepts a wager to go on a kelpie hunt, hoping to earn respect, and some money, from his village. But when the wager goes horribly wrong, he and his family are whisked away from the highlands to the city of Glasgow, where the magic and terrors of the moors are forgotten. Yet peace does not always last. After years of being raised as a city gentleman, the mythical beasts of Brennan’s past have resurfaced to haunt him. His once-bright future threatens to crumble into chaos. Desperate, Brennan realizes he must swallow his fear and forge alliances with magic wielders to protect all he loves. However, what starts as a personal quest soon reveals darker secrets that have consequences more far-reaching than he could have imagined. His endeavor may endanger more than just his life; it might ruin the world.
- GenresFantasy
337 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 7, 2023
10 people are currently reading
140 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
September 23, 2023
Thank you, Chantel, for the ARC!
4.5 stars rounded up!
Brennan Lennox is terrified by magic and kelpies. His village, nestled in the moors of Scotland, is haunted by the devilish water horses each night. He, like all of those who call the highlands their homes, keep away from them the best they can. However, to be considered a man, you have to hunt and kill a kelpie. Tempted as a boy by his bully, he makes out to kill a kelpie and earn his title as a man, and hopefully some money for his struggling family. The mission takes a terrible turn and he is sent to live in Glasgow for the remainder of his youth. Leaving the terror and memories of his adolescence behind, he grows to be a well off man of society with every opportunity awaiting him. Though, a trip back to the village he lived in when he was a boy to take care of business tilts his comfortable life on its axis as tragedy strikes again.
Moved by the heartbreaks he has faced, he jumps into action to rid his home of kelpies once and for all. Little does he know, that the mission he has tasked himself with turns out bigger than he could have ever imagined.
This book is so well crafted and written! It thrusts you into the beauty of Scotland while blending in the myths and lore to create a backdrop of a gorgeously haunting landscape. Character driven and atmospheric, I found myself a part of the journey Brennan embarks in- experiencing the story from his perspective. He is brave because he is scared and still moves forward out of fierce loyalty and protectiveness, which makes him so human and likeable.
There were a few times I had to reread the page I was on to clarify things and make sure I was understanding the plot but it didn't cause my reading experience to suffer and was most likely because I stayed up at night well past my bedtime just to read more of this book. I did definitely make use of a highlighting tool in my ebook to keep track of things since there are well placed plot points.
I cried for SURE because of this book. I'm talking sobbing- like my husband is asking if I am okay type blubbering.
I definitely recommend picking up this book when it releases! Thank you again, Chantel for allowing me to receive this book as an ARC! *This review is completely voluntary*
4.5 stars rounded up!
"I am not going to withdraw, no matter what the danger,' I said, my voice tired. I had made my decision."
Brennan Lennox is terrified by magic and kelpies. His village, nestled in the moors of Scotland, is haunted by the devilish water horses each night. He, like all of those who call the highlands their homes, keep away from them the best they can. However, to be considered a man, you have to hunt and kill a kelpie. Tempted as a boy by his bully, he makes out to kill a kelpie and earn his title as a man, and hopefully some money for his struggling family. The mission takes a terrible turn and he is sent to live in Glasgow for the remainder of his youth. Leaving the terror and memories of his adolescence behind, he grows to be a well off man of society with every opportunity awaiting him. Though, a trip back to the village he lived in when he was a boy to take care of business tilts his comfortable life on its axis as tragedy strikes again.
Moved by the heartbreaks he has faced, he jumps into action to rid his home of kelpies once and for all. Little does he know, that the mission he has tasked himself with turns out bigger than he could have ever imagined.
This book is so well crafted and written! It thrusts you into the beauty of Scotland while blending in the myths and lore to create a backdrop of a gorgeously haunting landscape. Character driven and atmospheric, I found myself a part of the journey Brennan embarks in- experiencing the story from his perspective. He is brave because he is scared and still moves forward out of fierce loyalty and protectiveness, which makes him so human and likeable.
There were a few times I had to reread the page I was on to clarify things and make sure I was understanding the plot but it didn't cause my reading experience to suffer and was most likely because I stayed up at night well past my bedtime just to read more of this book. I did definitely make use of a highlighting tool in my ebook to keep track of things since there are well placed plot points.
I cried for SURE because of this book. I'm talking sobbing- like my husband is asking if I am okay type blubbering.
I definitely recommend picking up this book when it releases! Thank you again, Chantel for allowing me to receive this book as an ARC! *This review is completely voluntary*
September 26, 2023
I received this book as an ARC reader, and it was a really fun read.
The book is a YA Fantasy, set mainly in the Boidhchead Moors, and Glasgow Scotland, although Great Britain as a whole is mentioned multiple times.
The main character in this novel is Brennan Lennox, whose life is followed from his childhood years, through his young adult life, and ends while he is in his 30s. His family consists of a mother and 3 sisters (Maura, Norah, and Slaine). His father, we learn was taken by Kelpies.
Kelpies are mystical creatures that are horselike, yet reside in lochs (lakes). The kelpies come out consistently at night, in the countryside and magically entice people onto their backs to then go and drown them in the loch. The townspeople of Boidhchead get together each year to kill Kelpies, and it is seen as a way to manhood. Brennan desires to be a part of this group, as he was born out of wedlock and therefore deemed "witchborn". Magic is feared - hint at the title - and therefore, Brennan always feels like an outcast due to his birth.
Unfortunately for Brennan, the night he sneaks out to hunt a Kelpie and be seen as a man, his mother comes out of the house, and saves him by giving herself up to a Kelpie. Brennan and his sisters must then go and live with their Aunt and Uncle in Glasgow.
After becoming successful, Brennan comes home to sell the farm, and learns more about the Kelpies, who are more rampant than usual, and appearing in daylight (which had been unheard of previously). After Brennan's sister Maura is taken by a Kelpie, Brennan joins a druid woman named Rhetta to find a way to stop the Kelpies.
Their adventure is long, and by joining a witch Eimhir, they slowly turn one Kelpie at a time back into their human selves. The climax of the novel happens when Brennan, Rhetta, and Eimhir seek out a powerful witch Margund to stop the curse of the Kelpies. It is there that Brennan and Rhetta learn of Eimhir's secrets and their lives change forever.
The magic in this novel is so expansive, it is fun to delve into the depths of it. Especially all the mythical creatures that appear - such as a loch monster. One of my favorite quotes in the novel is by a girl Brennan courts, Emilia. She says, "I know you were excited to see me, but you mustn't lose your head, sir."
I did have questions regarding some of the history mentioned in the novel, like Boneparte, but overall when I ignored it and got back into the magic of the novel it worked out fine. Another hard part for me was after the big build up and climax, there is still so much to accomplish with the Kelpies and it kind of was wrapped up quickly. Wished it would have been more detailed.
Overall it was a fun read, and I would definitely recommend it to book lovers and young adult readers.
The book is a YA Fantasy, set mainly in the Boidhchead Moors, and Glasgow Scotland, although Great Britain as a whole is mentioned multiple times.
The main character in this novel is Brennan Lennox, whose life is followed from his childhood years, through his young adult life, and ends while he is in his 30s. His family consists of a mother and 3 sisters (Maura, Norah, and Slaine). His father, we learn was taken by Kelpies.
Kelpies are mystical creatures that are horselike, yet reside in lochs (lakes). The kelpies come out consistently at night, in the countryside and magically entice people onto their backs to then go and drown them in the loch. The townspeople of Boidhchead get together each year to kill Kelpies, and it is seen as a way to manhood. Brennan desires to be a part of this group, as he was born out of wedlock and therefore deemed "witchborn". Magic is feared - hint at the title - and therefore, Brennan always feels like an outcast due to his birth.
Unfortunately for Brennan, the night he sneaks out to hunt a Kelpie and be seen as a man, his mother comes out of the house, and saves him by giving herself up to a Kelpie. Brennan and his sisters must then go and live with their Aunt and Uncle in Glasgow.
After becoming successful, Brennan comes home to sell the farm, and learns more about the Kelpies, who are more rampant than usual, and appearing in daylight (which had been unheard of previously). After Brennan's sister Maura is taken by a Kelpie, Brennan joins a druid woman named Rhetta to find a way to stop the Kelpies.
Their adventure is long, and by joining a witch Eimhir, they slowly turn one Kelpie at a time back into their human selves. The climax of the novel happens when Brennan, Rhetta, and Eimhir seek out a powerful witch Margund to stop the curse of the Kelpies. It is there that Brennan and Rhetta learn of Eimhir's secrets and their lives change forever.
The magic in this novel is so expansive, it is fun to delve into the depths of it. Especially all the mythical creatures that appear - such as a loch monster. One of my favorite quotes in the novel is by a girl Brennan courts, Emilia. She says, "I know you were excited to see me, but you mustn't lose your head, sir."
I did have questions regarding some of the history mentioned in the novel, like Boneparte, but overall when I ignored it and got back into the magic of the novel it worked out fine. Another hard part for me was after the big build up and climax, there is still so much to accomplish with the Kelpies and it kind of was wrapped up quickly. Wished it would have been more detailed.
Overall it was a fun read, and I would definitely recommend it to book lovers and young adult readers.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 8, 2023
*This book was recieved as an ARC. This Review is completely voluntary*
This book is... fantastic. It's very well written and very easy to get caught up in the story. If you enjoy Witches, Magic, and Scottish Lore I fully recommend you read this book. Brennan faces so much pain and grows so much. The book starts and ends with heartbreak (while not a sad ending it is not a fully happily ever after). Those are my favorite books though as it leaves so much opportunity for both the author to write more and your imagination to build.
I lose interest in so many fantasy books because the story gets so easy to guess and I get bored, but this kept me interested and I finished within a day of starting it. I honestly can't wait to see what else this author writes and comes up with.
This book is... fantastic. It's very well written and very easy to get caught up in the story. If you enjoy Witches, Magic, and Scottish Lore I fully recommend you read this book. Brennan faces so much pain and grows so much. The book starts and ends with heartbreak (while not a sad ending it is not a fully happily ever after). Those are my favorite books though as it leaves so much opportunity for both the author to write more and your imagination to build.
I lose interest in so many fantasy books because the story gets so easy to guess and I get bored, but this kept me interested and I finished within a day of starting it. I honestly can't wait to see what else this author writes and comes up with.
October 8, 2023
I thoroughly enjoyed this book! Based in regency era Scotland, you know from that fact alone it’s going to be good! But this book exceeded all expectations with enchanting characterization, fun world-building, and an engaging plot. The author has a great way of describing landscapes and situations that make you feel like you’re actually in the Scottish highlands being magically lifted onto the back of a fearsome Kelpie heading towards your demise.
This book is excellent for both teens and adults alike. I appreciate the author’s dedication to the storyline while including a bit of romance. I would recommend it to anyone who loves a good fantasy read! Excellent job to the author! Five out of five stars!
This book is excellent for both teens and adults alike. I appreciate the author’s dedication to the storyline while including a bit of romance. I would recommend it to anyone who loves a good fantasy read! Excellent job to the author! Five out of five stars!
April 10, 2024
Such a fun whirlwind of a story! I can't wait until The Ever Rising Book 2 comes out!
October 7, 2023
*This book was received as an ARC. This review is completely voluntary.*
This book is amazing. It's got great characters who are likable and have a lot of development, an incredibly interesting plot, and it's very well written.
The book is mainly focused around Scottish lore and magic/witches. The prologue starts from an elderly witch's point of view, with very little (or, no) context to the rest of the book. The change from the prologue to the first chapter is abrupt, but that's sort of what makes it so interesting. You can tell in the prologue that the main character, Brennan, is an adult, whereas chapter one starts with him at 14 years old. We're then introduced to the concept of kelpies, essentially demon water-horses (or giant evil seahorses, as my husband affectionately calls them). They are a plague upon Brennan's village of Bóidhchead, and all of the loch (lake) villages in Scotland. They kidnap villagers and take them to the lake to drown them.
Brennan, having been born out of wedlock, is considered to be a “witchborn,” and viewed to be capable of turning into a witch and/or becoming evil. As magic is greatly feared in the villages, Brennan tends to be shunned out of groups of friends and is not able to get more than a day or two of odd jobs at a time. With his father having been taken by kelpies four years ago, and being the only son, Brennan is now the man of the house, and helps his mother get income and raise his 3 sisters, Norah (12), Maura (11), and Slaine (4). After tragedy strikes, they move to Glasgow to live with their aunt and uncle.
We then have a 5 year time jump, with 19-year-old Brennan running the uncle's merchant company. The ensuing events take MANY different twists and turns, leading to Brennan getting involved in something he never thought he would. I won't go into too much detail, as it would spoil the story, but there are characters that come back, seemingly minor in the beginning, that play a much, much bigger role. Everything Brennan knows and loves ends up changing, and I truly mean everything.
While it's not an explicitly sad ending, it's also not a very happy one. Everything works out, but the means to get there are a bit heart-wrenching. You will notice this book is listed as the first in a series, and upon initially finishing it, I couldn't see how there could be a sequel. Now that I've thought about it quite a bit more, I can see it and I am very excited to see what happens next.
I will say, there were several times that I thought, “whelp, that's gonna come back to bite him in the ass,” to myself while reading.
The author does a wonderful job with the dialogue, truly making it feel like you're listening to someone with a Scottish accent (so much so, I started reading all of it in a mental Scottish accent, not just the dialogue).
I have been following Chantel on her journey with this book for the last year or so, and I have to say, I truly could not be more proud! It turned out wonderfully, and I cannot wait to get a physical copy of this book to put it on my shelf!
This book is amazing. It's got great characters who are likable and have a lot of development, an incredibly interesting plot, and it's very well written.
The book is mainly focused around Scottish lore and magic/witches. The prologue starts from an elderly witch's point of view, with very little (or, no) context to the rest of the book. The change from the prologue to the first chapter is abrupt, but that's sort of what makes it so interesting. You can tell in the prologue that the main character, Brennan, is an adult, whereas chapter one starts with him at 14 years old. We're then introduced to the concept of kelpies, essentially demon water-horses (or giant evil seahorses, as my husband affectionately calls them). They are a plague upon Brennan's village of Bóidhchead, and all of the loch (lake) villages in Scotland. They kidnap villagers and take them to the lake to drown them.
Brennan, having been born out of wedlock, is considered to be a “witchborn,” and viewed to be capable of turning into a witch and/or becoming evil. As magic is greatly feared in the villages, Brennan tends to be shunned out of groups of friends and is not able to get more than a day or two of odd jobs at a time. With his father having been taken by kelpies four years ago, and being the only son, Brennan is now the man of the house, and helps his mother get income and raise his 3 sisters, Norah (12), Maura (11), and Slaine (4). After tragedy strikes, they move to Glasgow to live with their aunt and uncle.
We then have a 5 year time jump, with 19-year-old Brennan running the uncle's merchant company. The ensuing events take MANY different twists and turns, leading to Brennan getting involved in something he never thought he would. I won't go into too much detail, as it would spoil the story, but there are characters that come back, seemingly minor in the beginning, that play a much, much bigger role. Everything Brennan knows and loves ends up changing, and I truly mean everything.
While it's not an explicitly sad ending, it's also not a very happy one. Everything works out, but the means to get there are a bit heart-wrenching. You will notice this book is listed as the first in a series, and upon initially finishing it, I couldn't see how there could be a sequel. Now that I've thought about it quite a bit more, I can see it and I am very excited to see what happens next.
I will say, there were several times that I thought, “whelp, that's gonna come back to bite him in the ass,” to myself while reading.
The author does a wonderful job with the dialogue, truly making it feel like you're listening to someone with a Scottish accent (so much so, I started reading all of it in a mental Scottish accent, not just the dialogue).
I have been following Chantel on her journey with this book for the last year or so, and I have to say, I truly could not be more proud! It turned out wonderfully, and I cannot wait to get a physical copy of this book to put it on my shelf!
October 11, 2023
Chantel Burnham’s debut novel is a fresh, fantastic, character-driven YA fantasy set in Regency Era Scotland. Her world-building is very show-and-not-tell, transporting the reader easily into the midst of things, whether it’s a dark and stormy countryside or the busy, bustling, brick-lined streets of the city. I could feel the conflict, the anguish and the joy of the main character very keenly, rooting for him and celebrating with him through the many twists and turns. The sense of family loyalty, the coming of age, and the process of him needing to outgrow old beliefs and forge a new path all his own came through resoundingly. Chantel also does a wonderful job with the dialect, in my opinion, weaving it in such a way that it does not distract the reader. The magic and fantasy elements enrich and grow and surprise at every turn. found myself wanting to know even more about the Celtic lore she’s been so inspired by.
I was given this book as an ARC reader, and my review is completely voluntary. I eagerly await the second book in this series and I think you will not only enjoy the story, but as the characters and lore linger in your mind, you’ll want to recommend it to others so you have people to discuss it with!
Magic Feared and Furious is a clean, emotionally enthralling, zero spice-level story, appropriate for any teen. I love that I could recommend it equally to my co-workers, my children and my mom, and it would make a fantastic audiobook! It’s a tale everyone can enjoy.
I was given this book as an ARC reader, and my review is completely voluntary. I eagerly await the second book in this series and I think you will not only enjoy the story, but as the characters and lore linger in your mind, you’ll want to recommend it to others so you have people to discuss it with!
Magic Feared and Furious is a clean, emotionally enthralling, zero spice-level story, appropriate for any teen. I love that I could recommend it equally to my co-workers, my children and my mom, and it would make a fantastic audiobook! It’s a tale everyone can enjoy.
October 12, 2023
Firstly, thanks for the ARC copy, Chantel. Congrats on your debut.
The cover's pretty and the book was a good read.
The book is marked 14-18 age groups, so I was skeptical but I did sign up for the ARC because I liked the plot. I have to say, the 11 years really paid off, the book is great.
the writing is good, descriptions paint a vivid imagery of the scenes as well as the emotions of the characters. The characters are likable, and feel real and organic. [except when the teenage characters are making teenager-like decisions. (god, teenagers are tiring. lol)]
I really rooted for Brennan, I was so involved in his struggles, horrors, love for family, and ROMANCE (their chemistry had me grinning. sweet and clean). the relationship between him and his sisters was wholesome, I liked the uncle and aunt too.
Don't even get me started on the fantasy part, the creatures, and the folklore... I can't say much without running into spoilers. the descriptions of creatures and their world are really good, it leaves some room for imagination and I liked that the most. I am not familiar with Scottish folklore and the common creatures in it, so it was an exciting experience for me to learn something new.
Overall, the book is good, give it a chance. it will surely take you on a ride with its amazing characters, worldbuilding, and storyline.
I'll be waiting for the writer's next work. Keep up the good work.
Happy Reading Fellas!
The cover's pretty and the book was a good read.
The book is marked 14-18 age groups, so I was skeptical but I did sign up for the ARC because I liked the plot. I have to say, the 11 years really paid off, the book is great.
the writing is good, descriptions paint a vivid imagery of the scenes as well as the emotions of the characters. The characters are likable, and feel real and organic. [except when the teenage characters are making teenager-like decisions. (god, teenagers are tiring. lol)]
I really rooted for Brennan, I was so involved in his struggles, horrors, love for family, and ROMANCE (their chemistry had me grinning. sweet and clean). the relationship between him and his sisters was wholesome, I liked the uncle and aunt too.
Don't even get me started on the fantasy part, the creatures, and the folklore... I can't say much without running into spoilers. the descriptions of creatures and their world are really good, it leaves some room for imagination and I liked that the most. I am not familiar with Scottish folklore and the common creatures in it, so it was an exciting experience for me to learn something new.
Overall, the book is good, give it a chance. it will surely take you on a ride with its amazing characters, worldbuilding, and storyline.
I'll be waiting for the writer's next work. Keep up the good work.
Happy Reading Fellas!
October 5, 2023
I was intrigued by the summary of this book, Regency Era Scotland with magic, but didn't really know what to expect. I was not expecting to be transported to the 1800s Scottish Highlands. The author did a fantastic job describing the setting and using dialogue to draw the reader into the world. I really enjoyed all the northern villages' superstitious beliefs, which helped draw me into the story even more.
The main character Brennan is very well-rounded and makes logical decisions. This is something that can't be said for the vast majority of YA (in my opinion) and it felt like a breath of fresh air. This fact alone is one of my favourite aspects of the book. Through this character, the author tackles familial responsibility and guilt, the struggles of being an outcast, and the need to prove oneself. The rest of the cast was well-written and felt distinct.
The magic system is good, but definitely on the softer side of magic systems. I was intrigued to learn more about the various magical creatures from lore and hope that more pop up in a sequel.
Overall, this is a great debut novel. It is well-written and an excellent choice for anyone looking to take a holiday in the Scottish Highlands.
I received this book as an ARC, and am leaving a voluntary review.
The main character Brennan is very well-rounded and makes logical decisions. This is something that can't be said for the vast majority of YA (in my opinion) and it felt like a breath of fresh air. This fact alone is one of my favourite aspects of the book. Through this character, the author tackles familial responsibility and guilt, the struggles of being an outcast, and the need to prove oneself. The rest of the cast was well-written and felt distinct.
The magic system is good, but definitely on the softer side of magic systems. I was intrigued to learn more about the various magical creatures from lore and hope that more pop up in a sequel.
Overall, this is a great debut novel. It is well-written and an excellent choice for anyone looking to take a holiday in the Scottish Highlands.
I received this book as an ARC, and am leaving a voluntary review.
March 17, 2024
Brennan Lennox knows kelpies and magic are real- it’s why his father is gone. Like the others in his village he fears magic and stays away from it. But one tragic night and a meeting with a Druid changes his life. Brennan is able to make the most of his circumstances to give him and his family a life they never dreamed of far away from the kelpies and magic. But magic is dangerous and when his family is once again in danger Brennan goes against all his instincts to save them. What he learns about magic forever changes him and costs him dearly. Set in the Scottish highlands in the Regency era this stunning debut novel features an engaging cast of characters, excellent world building, and a plot that will keep readers up at night. This is a fantasy with touches of mystery, history, and romance thrown in that is a great pick for adults and teens alike. Also a great choice for those who want a “clean read” but also want something well written and fresh.
September 29, 2023
Story begins during the later 1800s in Scotland in a small town evil creatures that storm after humans. I fall into them each time I see books of this genre, and their presence became more clear and understandable as the story deepens. So many ups and downs to reach an ending no longer fearful to those within the story.
I loved the story more and more as it continued! Author Chantel wrote so well, significantly better than others I have read books from. The story ended gracefully, but I would love to see where the water takes Brennan next!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I loved the story more and more as it continued! Author Chantel wrote so well, significantly better than others I have read books from. The story ended gracefully, but I would love to see where the water takes Brennan next!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 5, 2024
Like other reviews have said, this is an excellent fantasy read that is unlike a lot of the fantasy coming out recently. I really connected with the main character and understood his decisions even when I didn't agree with them. I also love the setting. I love magical alternate versions of the real world, and Scotland was a perfect fit for that kind of setting.
Be warned, you will get sucked in and put on an emotional roller coaster with what the characters go through. The plot is well paced, with nothing being too contrived, and emotional moments feel earned.
I would recommend this book to anyone who loves fantasy, and I cannot wait for the next book!
Be warned, you will get sucked in and put on an emotional roller coaster with what the characters go through. The plot is well paced, with nothing being too contrived, and emotional moments feel earned.
I would recommend this book to anyone who loves fantasy, and I cannot wait for the next book!
January 21, 2025
A fascinating, beautiful story
What a delight this book was. A rich, fresh take on old mythology that felt real, engaging and incredibly compelling. There are twist and turns that felt natural and were pleasantly surprising, as I did not see them coming. I enjoyed thoroughly how the story unfolded and concluded, the author choosing a beautiful realism to bring the story to an end that really worked. A scant, few moments felt a little rushed as far as time passing, but I noticed them more because the richness of the story simply made me wanting more. I’m very excited to read more in this world.
What a delight this book was. A rich, fresh take on old mythology that felt real, engaging and incredibly compelling. There are twist and turns that felt natural and were pleasantly surprising, as I did not see them coming. I enjoyed thoroughly how the story unfolded and concluded, the author choosing a beautiful realism to bring the story to an end that really worked. A scant, few moments felt a little rushed as far as time passing, but I noticed them more because the richness of the story simply made me wanting more. I’m very excited to read more in this world.
September 26, 2023
This was a young adult fantasy book, and it was quite satisfying to read. The author brought the story and the characters to life without making them too complicated. I liked the protagonist and would read about him again. From time to time, I was reminded a little of Rick Riordan's Percy Jackson series, so maybe fans of those would like this.
Thank you to Booksprout and the author for a free copy to review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Thank you to Booksprout and the author for a free copy to review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 28, 2023
My favorite part about this book was how well Chantel captured the feeling of Scotland! It’s just as magical and mysterious as she describes. I also enjoyed the connections Brennan made and learning more about kelpies and magic. I didn’t enjoy just how sad Brennan’s life is throughout the story, and I’m hoping there will be a sequel so he can get a happily ever after like the one he gave his family. Very well written and an intriguing plot line. I enjoyed reading this book and would love to see more!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 5, 2023
I was really drawn to the story concept: magical celtic setting, dangerous kelpies, a mystery to be solved, and a curse. There were some plot twists that genuinely caught me off guard in the best of ways.
The ending was left open ended, but there is definitely going to be a sequel. I'd say that I was fairly interested in reading it.
There was some writing style moments that weren't my favorite and at times the plot pacing felt a little off. But overall, I was able to happily ignore that and enjoy the story.
This was a 3.5 read for me.
The ending was left open ended, but there is definitely going to be a sequel. I'd say that I was fairly interested in reading it.
There was some writing style moments that weren't my favorite and at times the plot pacing felt a little off. But overall, I was able to happily ignore that and enjoy the story.
This was a 3.5 read for me.
December 28, 2023
Magic Feared and Furious is about a young man who visits his hometown and a tragic past, only to get caught up in hunting magical kelpies so he can save his family. The setting of Regency Era Scotland is vibrant, and the world-building is immersive. Though the main character's sisters could have been further developed, the main character further draws the reader's empathy by the end of the story, which is bittersweet. Overall this book has an impressive magic system, with fabulous creatures and good action scenes.
August 6, 2024
Fantasy is not my usual genre, I generally stick to mystery and thrillers. But my husband bought this for me for my birthday, and I WILL be buying the next in the series.
This kept my attention the entire way, and I found myself desperate to know what would happen next. I was so invested in the main characters' plight and found all of the characters likeable (the good and the bad).
I loved the Scottish folklore and mythology influences and found the writing very easy to follow.
Highly recommend.
❤️
This kept my attention the entire way, and I found myself desperate to know what would happen next. I was so invested in the main characters' plight and found all of the characters likeable (the good and the bad).
I loved the Scottish folklore and mythology influences and found the writing very easy to follow.
Highly recommend.
❤️
July 3, 2025
Unexpected twists and turns throughout, beautiful world building, and an exciting and intriguing magic system. I struggled to get into it with the Scottish accents but once I got about 50 pages in, I was hooked. Brennan is selfless to a fault and some of the decision he made left me wondering if he could have done it differently but it also showed his devotion so it fit his character well but was often heartbreaking as a reader. Highly recommend to anyone looking for a clean, easy, fantastical read!
September 29, 2023
First off, the author does well to write an immersive fantasy. It drew me in to love the character and then broke my heart within the first few chapters. This is a story that builds on broken characters, Love the setting in Scotland, vivid and beautiful lore. I Love the devotion Brennan has for his family and I felt my heart tear with each tragedy he faced. Absolutely incredible writing!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 4, 2023
This is a fun read and the main character Brennan, starts the story as a boy of 14, making mistakes typical of youth. As he experiences tragedy, responsibility and hard choices, we see him develop into an honorable young man. His love for his family and his personal commitment to do what is right makes for an excellent book for young readers. I'm very excited to read more of Brennan and whatever adventures the author has in store for him!
February 1, 2024
Magic Feared and Furious was very interesting and unlike most fantasy books I typically read. The plot was well-written. The characters were interesting. I enjoyed reading the first book in The Ever Rising series. This book consisted of a few twists and surprises and kept me entertained. I look forward to reading the next book in this series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 2, 2023
First of all, this is what I would consider to be ideal content for YA. This book deals with family, identity, friendships, trust, judgment, and responsibility with adventure and grace. There was a true classic/magical/ fairytale-like vibe from beginning to end. I read this along with my middleschooler, and we both had a great time.
November 3, 2023
Magical Pages! Every Single One!
I was so excited while reading this book. I took my time because I didn’t want it to end. But I’ve finished it, and I just want more! Phenomenal writing, and grammar! Heart aching love, magic, and fury fill these pages!
If you love fantasy and magic, it is a MUST READ!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Five stars all the way!
I was so excited while reading this book. I took my time because I didn’t want it to end. But I’ve finished it, and I just want more! Phenomenal writing, and grammar! Heart aching love, magic, and fury fill these pages!
If you love fantasy and magic, it is a MUST READ!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Five stars all the way!
December 27, 2023
Hands down the best book I read in 2023. It’s been a while since I’ve had to sit in silence and mentally accept everything I just read after turning the last page. It was such a refreshing change of pace in terms of fantasy. The author did a great job with capturing different Scottish dialects and focusing on their lore in such a natural way. I enjoyed it so much.
February 6, 2025
This week, I read MAGIC FEARED AND FURIOUS by Chantel Burnham (@chantelburnham_author)
I loved this story! I haven’t read much folklore fantasy, but I was immediately drawn into this immersive Scottish world of myths and fables and fears. The writing was polished and vivid. I particularly enjoyed the dialect, and caught myself speaking it aloud. Bravo!
Wonderfully well done, Chantel!
I loved this story! I haven’t read much folklore fantasy, but I was immediately drawn into this immersive Scottish world of myths and fables and fears. The writing was polished and vivid. I particularly enjoyed the dialect, and caught myself speaking it aloud. Bravo!
Wonderfully well done, Chantel!
October 7, 2023
Received this as an ARC and was blown away! Really immersive and well-paced. The setting is familiar, but the lore and myths woven throughout the story give it a uniqueness and depth that kept it fresh. I am looking forward to reading more in this series and by this author.
October 16, 2023
This might be my favorite book I’ve read all year. It was so good!!!! The story line was so entertaining.Pretty fast paced at times, but I was so surprised at every twist. I couldn’t put it down, especially the last few chapters!! I’ll read anything by this author!
December 21, 2023
Fantastic book! Loved everything, I really found the Scottish lore and mythology intriguing as it seems to be less explored than others. I also enjoyed that it was a clean book, no graphic content. My kids want me to read it to them and I will be doing that!
Read
October 7, 2023Super fun read! Fun and engaging!
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