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Apprentices in Magic
Annette and Laila have always dreamed of wielding magic. When they learn
of the chance to apply for coveted apprenticeships at Paduane’s royal magical
academy, they seize the opportunity.
Leaving their small town behind, the girls are dazzled—and daunted—by the
castle’s magnificence. Somehow, they squeak through their auditions, only to
be devastated when they’re separated into different units: Annette to train in
defensive tactics, and Laila to become a magical warrior. Their new world is
exciting, but perils and deceit lurk everywhere. Not all the teachers are what
they seem, and the stakes are much higher than just getting good grades.
Will these two determined girls thrive in this dangerous school of magic? And,
in spite of being forced apart, can best friends find a way to stay true to each
other forever?
of the chance to apply for coveted apprenticeships at Paduane’s royal magical
academy, they seize the opportunity.
Leaving their small town behind, the girls are dazzled—and daunted—by the
castle’s magnificence. Somehow, they squeak through their auditions, only to
be devastated when they’re separated into different units: Annette to train in
defensive tactics, and Laila to become a magical warrior. Their new world is
exciting, but perils and deceit lurk everywhere. Not all the teachers are what
they seem, and the stakes are much higher than just getting good grades.
Will these two determined girls thrive in this dangerous school of magic? And,
in spite of being forced apart, can best friends find a way to stay true to each
other forever?
228 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 26, 2023
2 people are currently reading
1053 people want to read
About the author
Sally Basmajian
12 books90 followers As a kid I was curly-haired (which only my dad admired) and musical (which won me the occasional award and sometimes even a photo in The Kingston Whig-Standard). I scaled my way upward through the Royal Conservatory system, continued pounding the faux-ivories at Queen’s University to get my BMus, and ultimately received a Master of Arts in Musicology at the University of Toronto.
Post-university, my transition to reality was rougher than rough. Eventually, having the desire to afford an occasional meal, I segued into advertising and marketing, ending up on the corporate side of broadcasting. In fact, I used to greenlight or turn down proposals for television series. Karma is having a lovely time now, as it tickles me with occasional publishing contracts or prizes, but punches me with brutal rejections, too.
It doesn’t matter—I love to write, more so than I ever enjoyed practicing arpeggios or selling ad spots on network television. As a teenager, I filled stacks of diaries with angst-filled entries—although I didn’t win any academic prizes for writing, because I had a bad habit of killing off my characters when they became too annoying. Now, I like to keep my protagonists alive, and I’ve been improving my craft ever since winning a local contest in 2014 for my first-ever fantasy short story. In fact, I returned to school to earn a Graduate Certificate in Creative Writing from Humber in 2019. My writing group, made up of four other aspiring female authors, offers me ongoing moral support, inspiration and friendship. We meet weekly to spur each other on—and sometimes those spurs are extremely sharp, but they always boot me in the right direction!
My number one goal as an author is to entertain, and it warms my heart that you’re reading this. In January, 2023, my first novel, So Hard to Do, is scheduled for publication. It’s a bubbly romantic-comedy with Shakespearean twists; I hope you’ll enjoy it.
Meanwhile, if you’re curious about where you can find my other stories, you’ll find the info on my website, https://www.sallybasmajian.com/. I promise I’ll keep writing down the many tales that are stuffed in my head, and I’ll make them as engaging as I possibly can.
Thanks for being a reader—my reader. It means the world to me.
Sally B
Post-university, my transition to reality was rougher than rough. Eventually, having the desire to afford an occasional meal, I segued into advertising and marketing, ending up on the corporate side of broadcasting. In fact, I used to greenlight or turn down proposals for television series. Karma is having a lovely time now, as it tickles me with occasional publishing contracts or prizes, but punches me with brutal rejections, too.
It doesn’t matter—I love to write, more so than I ever enjoyed practicing arpeggios or selling ad spots on network television. As a teenager, I filled stacks of diaries with angst-filled entries—although I didn’t win any academic prizes for writing, because I had a bad habit of killing off my characters when they became too annoying. Now, I like to keep my protagonists alive, and I’ve been improving my craft ever since winning a local contest in 2014 for my first-ever fantasy short story. In fact, I returned to school to earn a Graduate Certificate in Creative Writing from Humber in 2019. My writing group, made up of four other aspiring female authors, offers me ongoing moral support, inspiration and friendship. We meet weekly to spur each other on—and sometimes those spurs are extremely sharp, but they always boot me in the right direction!
My number one goal as an author is to entertain, and it warms my heart that you’re reading this. In January, 2023, my first novel, So Hard to Do, is scheduled for publication. It’s a bubbly romantic-comedy with Shakespearean twists; I hope you’ll enjoy it.
Meanwhile, if you’re curious about where you can find my other stories, you’ll find the info on my website, https://www.sallybasmajian.com/. I promise I’ll keep writing down the many tales that are stuffed in my head, and I’ll make them as engaging as I possibly can.
Thanks for being a reader—my reader. It means the world to me.
Sally B
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
August 20, 2023
Annette and Laila were born on the same day in a small village within the magical kingdom of Paduane. As different as they are from each other, they form a strong bond of friendship and share an overwhelming desire to become magical apprentices at the Royal Academy of Magic.
Paduane is in the midst of ongoing war that has threatened its existence for generations and talented young people who can become warriors that will finally defeat their enemy are desperately needed. Annette and Laila travel to the far-off capital to meet what they believe are their destinies. Little do they know that their fates and Paduane’s prophecy for peace may be one in the same.
Apprentices in Magic is a heart-warming story that follows the journey of two young girls whose magical talents are extraordinary even in a place where magic is commonplace. Annette and Laila’s search for acceptance, purpose and identity forces them to challenge traditions and bend more than a few rules. Their physical, magical and emotional strength are tested by friends and foe, including a legendary monster and the mysterious group of staff members overseeing the training and evaluation of the apprentices.
Sally Basmajian builds a colourful and complex world where war, mystery and romance are served up with humour and empathy. Her diverse cast of characters are highly engaging, successfully pulling the reader into their lives and enticing them with secrets yet to be revealed.
Annette’s and Laila’s journeys are fraught with life lessons that could be used as springboards for discussion and reflection, whether between parent and child, in the classroom or a book club.
Apprentices in Magic feels like just the beginning of a larger story which will be unfolded in future books, or at least that is what I am hoping as I wasn’t ready to leave Paduane or Annette and Laila behind when coming to the last few pages. This story definitely left me enchanted.
Paduane is in the midst of ongoing war that has threatened its existence for generations and talented young people who can become warriors that will finally defeat their enemy are desperately needed. Annette and Laila travel to the far-off capital to meet what they believe are their destinies. Little do they know that their fates and Paduane’s prophecy for peace may be one in the same.
Apprentices in Magic is a heart-warming story that follows the journey of two young girls whose magical talents are extraordinary even in a place where magic is commonplace. Annette and Laila’s search for acceptance, purpose and identity forces them to challenge traditions and bend more than a few rules. Their physical, magical and emotional strength are tested by friends and foe, including a legendary monster and the mysterious group of staff members overseeing the training and evaluation of the apprentices.
Sally Basmajian builds a colourful and complex world where war, mystery and romance are served up with humour and empathy. Her diverse cast of characters are highly engaging, successfully pulling the reader into their lives and enticing them with secrets yet to be revealed.
Annette’s and Laila’s journeys are fraught with life lessons that could be used as springboards for discussion and reflection, whether between parent and child, in the classroom or a book club.
Apprentices in Magic feels like just the beginning of a larger story which will be unfolded in future books, or at least that is what I am hoping as I wasn’t ready to leave Paduane or Annette and Laila behind when coming to the last few pages. This story definitely left me enchanted.
October 7, 2023
Annette and Laila are young teenage best friends, born on the same day. They differ in personality, but what they share is a natural gift for magic, and an undying devotion to one another. Their deep desire to become highly skilled magicians, tacticians and warriors propel these naive young women to the inner sanctum of the royal court of Paduane.
They must audition to be accepted as apprentices and they immediately face a number of challenges that test their creativity, fortitude, and resolve. Not the least of these challenges is how they navigate the strict rules as well as the demands of superiors, some of whom are very difficult personalities.
Relationships develop as skills are learned and the apprentices are prepared for the roles they have been chosen to fulfill.
The action is fast paced throughout with themes of morality, loyalty, courage and encouragement twisting through the plot.
The climax is a fantastical battle scene between heroes and formidable monster. Everyone does not enjoy a happy ending. The book leaves us wanting to know more, and is perfectly set up to resolve those questions in sequels. I look forward to those.
Apprentices in Magic is enjoyable for all who love fantasy, and the themes of friendship, morality, courage, and the strength of young women make it a recommended read for tweens.
They must audition to be accepted as apprentices and they immediately face a number of challenges that test their creativity, fortitude, and resolve. Not the least of these challenges is how they navigate the strict rules as well as the demands of superiors, some of whom are very difficult personalities.
Relationships develop as skills are learned and the apprentices are prepared for the roles they have been chosen to fulfill.
The action is fast paced throughout with themes of morality, loyalty, courage and encouragement twisting through the plot.
The climax is a fantastical battle scene between heroes and formidable monster. Everyone does not enjoy a happy ending. The book leaves us wanting to know more, and is perfectly set up to resolve those questions in sequels. I look forward to those.
Apprentices in Magic is enjoyable for all who love fantasy, and the themes of friendship, morality, courage, and the strength of young women make it a recommended read for tweens.
August 16, 2023
Wow, what an enchanting and captivating story for readers of all ages! I have always loved anything with a magical theme and this book did not disappoint.
The two best friends Annette and Laila are phenomenal heroines! I absolutely loved reading about their humble beginnings from their tiny, yet magically infused village of Lethos, to their adventures honing their powers in their quest to become apprentices in magic at the Royal Academy in Paduane. I was completely intrigued and felt as if I could connect with these characters, even the not so nice Head Witch Malinda, and the very curious Head Wizard Morton.
The storyline was incredible with so many enchanting elements that I literally could not put this book down. It was so full of magic, mystery, camaraderie, adventure, charm, and humour all rolled into one amazing story. There was never a dull moment and the pages magically seemed to turn by themselves chapter to chapter. Sally Basmajian really has an incredible imagination and a true gift for storytelling and writing. I highly recommend this read and hope there is a part two!
The two best friends Annette and Laila are phenomenal heroines! I absolutely loved reading about their humble beginnings from their tiny, yet magically infused village of Lethos, to their adventures honing their powers in their quest to become apprentices in magic at the Royal Academy in Paduane. I was completely intrigued and felt as if I could connect with these characters, even the not so nice Head Witch Malinda, and the very curious Head Wizard Morton.
The storyline was incredible with so many enchanting elements that I literally could not put this book down. It was so full of magic, mystery, camaraderie, adventure, charm, and humour all rolled into one amazing story. There was never a dull moment and the pages magically seemed to turn by themselves chapter to chapter. Sally Basmajian really has an incredible imagination and a true gift for storytelling and writing. I highly recommend this read and hope there is a part two!
April 3, 2024
eI am not usually drawn to speculative fiction, but Sally’s inimitable writing style drew me in.
The magic world she created in sparkling detail enthralled me. Her two heroines just jump out of the pages. Annette and Laila are lucky enough to travel from their small rural village to train as apprentices in the famous Paduane School of Magic. They were already talented, but their teachers and mentors further develop their skills through a variety of exercises and assignments. Sadness, joy and lots of light-hearted humour abound.
Amidst it all, the two girls remain true to themselves and their journey illuminates real world lessons.
All of Sally’s books focus on the power of women and girls to work together and uplift each other. This one is no exception. They help build a supportive community for their classmates. A charismatic shape-shifting teacher inspires and a malevolent one terrifies.
Their destiny leads them to battle a legendary monster and help save the prince.
We hope a sequel is in the works…the journey of Annette, Laila and their frinds is not yet complete.
The magic world she created in sparkling detail enthralled me. Her two heroines just jump out of the pages. Annette and Laila are lucky enough to travel from their small rural village to train as apprentices in the famous Paduane School of Magic. They were already talented, but their teachers and mentors further develop their skills through a variety of exercises and assignments. Sadness, joy and lots of light-hearted humour abound.
Amidst it all, the two girls remain true to themselves and their journey illuminates real world lessons.
All of Sally’s books focus on the power of women and girls to work together and uplift each other. This one is no exception. They help build a supportive community for their classmates. A charismatic shape-shifting teacher inspires and a malevolent one terrifies.
Their destiny leads them to battle a legendary monster and help save the prince.
We hope a sequel is in the works…the journey of Annette, Laila and their frinds is not yet complete.
August 26, 2023
This enchanting tale of wizardry and magic focuses on two best friends, Laila and Annette, who travel from their remote village Lethos to the Royal castle of the Queen of Paduane to apply to become apprentices at the Royal Academy of Magic. Despite their advanced magical skills, life in the castle comes with conflicts and challenges. The girls face bullying and pressure from students and teachers but learn the importance of compassion, loyalty, truth and courage. Laila struggles to come to terms with the responsibility of her magical powers. The use of these powers is not to be taken lightly and is a reminder that actions do have consequences. The language is vivid and witty, bringing the characters, battles and monsters to life. The fast paced action makes the novel difficult to put down. In the end, Laila and Annette, best friends forever, are ready for their next adventure, as is the reader. A great read for all ages.
August 29, 2023
This is a wonderful story (and hopefully the start of a series?) about two girls born on the same day who become great friends. Laila and Annette both show a lot of promise in the magical arts and set off to become apprentices in magic by traveling away from their homes to a special school. Their innate talents are rare but they have a lot to learn still. There is a legend that one day, two children born on the same day will bring peace to their land and end the ongoing war. Could this be their destiny?
My 9 year old daughter and I both read an advanced copy of the book and thoroughly enjoyed it. We enjoyed discussing different character attributes, foreshadowing references, as well as what we think will happen next. We are both looking forward to the next installment in this series. Readers of all ages will love Apprentices in Magic. Open your mind to your imagination and read it today! You won't be able to put it down!
My 9 year old daughter and I both read an advanced copy of the book and thoroughly enjoyed it. We enjoyed discussing different character attributes, foreshadowing references, as well as what we think will happen next. We are both looking forward to the next installment in this series. Readers of all ages will love Apprentices in Magic. Open your mind to your imagination and read it today! You won't be able to put it down!
August 6, 2023
An enchanting story not just for middle-graders, but for readers of all ages. Inseparable friends Annette and Laila are already accomplished young magicians when they achieve their dream of becoming apprentices in the Paduane royal academy of magic. But beyond their classroom lessons and intense practical training in magic, they learn the values of compassion, loyalty to comrades, and the courage of their convictions. Mystery, action, suspense, and a healthy serving of humor combine with appealing characters and vivid narration to make this a magical tale of adventure. I’m counting on a sequel: I need to know what’s up with that shapeshifting wizard!
August 7, 2023
As someone who grew up loving fairy tales, the Narnia series, the Hobbit (and later enjoyed the Happy Potter series) I have high expectations for fantasy/magic books . This new book “Apprentices in Magic” does not disappoint and is a delightful read! It is full of powerful and sensitive characters ( eg charming Laila and Annette ), fantastic creatures, and swirls of magical transformations, action, colors, and battles. There is also positive messaging throughout on the importance of friendships and caring. I recommend this for tweens on up! (and when is the next one coming out? I want to see how Laila and Annette develop in second year!)
November 10, 2023
"Apprentices in Magic" is a captivating fantasy novel that masterfully blends the allure of magic with the heartfelt journey of friendship and self-discovery. The author skillfully keeps the reader engaged with a richly imagined world and a plot ripe with intrigue and suspense. With its well-paced narrative, evocative writing, and a poignant exploration of the enduring strength of friendship, "Apprentices in Magic" is a gem in the genre, appealing to a wide range of readers - from tweens to young adults and older fantasy enthusiasts alike - leaving them eagerly awaiting more from Annette and Laila’s enchanting journey.
August 5, 2023
Apprentices in Magic
Sally Basmajian has created a fascinating story around two girls who have magical powers.
Annette and Laila are from humble homes and journey far to be trained further in magic.
Their journey through the obstacles they encounter is very readable and enjoyable.
As with all magical topics there are unforeseen developments and events but the sincerity they bring to these challenges shines through.
Well worth taking the time to enjoy some time with Annette and Laila.
Richard West
Sally Basmajian has created a fascinating story around two girls who have magical powers.
Annette and Laila are from humble homes and journey far to be trained further in magic.
Their journey through the obstacles they encounter is very readable and enjoyable.
As with all magical topics there are unforeseen developments and events but the sincerity they bring to these challenges shines through.
Well worth taking the time to enjoy some time with Annette and Laila.
Richard West
August 9, 2023
When I saw the title of this book I knew I would like it. I'm a fan of magical and fantasy themed novels and I couldn't wait to read this book. It's a fantastic read for all ages. The main characters reminded me of my cousin (Laila) and I (Anne) and how we used to play all kinds of made up fantasy games. I really liked each character in this novel and how they interacted with each other. The storyline is easy to follow and keeps you engaged throughout the book. It's written as if it could be a series or there will be a part 2 and I hope that we see Annette and Laila continue their adventures.
August 15, 2023
This was a fantastic and engaging read from start to finish! It drew me in right from the start and I couldn’t put it down. It was fun, smart, witty, and at times even harrowing! The characters were fully developed and well rounded so you really connected with them, especially the two main protagonists Annette and Laila. These two girls really made the pages come alive with their determined and adventurous spirits! I would recommend this book to anyone and I would read it again and probably will!
August 20, 2023
What a fun read APPRENTICES IN MAGIC was! Basmajian has crafted a richly detailed, imaginative world where almost anything can happen - especially for two likeable young girls who have a talent for casting magical spells. Like the lovable characters in the Harry Potter series, our main characters set off for a new school, meet new friends, discover their unique personal talents and how to use them when danger and deception threatens their world. Basmajian's delicious prose and clever plot twists kept me turning the pages. What's next for Annette and Laila? Sequel, please!
August 21, 2023
As someone who does not like fantasy, I was pleasantly surprised to find myself enjoying Laila and Annette's transformative journey into the world of magic. The author is brilliant at character development and setting the scene. It is easy to visualize the castle, the cast of characters, and the girls at every twist and turn as they discover puzzling phenomena. Vivid storytelling while displaying the strength of character of the two 'girls', their friendship and compassion. A fun read and positive messaging for tweens and up.
August 29, 2023
Apprentices in Magic takes us to the fantastical world of Paduane. Born on the same day, in the same village, Annette and Leila discover they both have magical powers. They are determined to become better and put these powers to good use. Adventure awaits the twosome; creatures appear and disappear, and no one can be trusted. Decisions have to be made and the girls must determine for themselves just what is good and evil?
A wonderful magical journey that will leave you hoping for a sequel.
Written and posted on behalf of C. Abbott
A wonderful magical journey that will leave you hoping for a sequel.
Written and posted on behalf of C. Abbott
August 1, 2023
Wasn’t sure what to expect when I received this book, since I believe the target audience is tweens/teens, and I’m a few decades beyond that! Having said that, I found the book to be a delightful journey into the world of magic that encouraged my imagination to happily go along for the ride. The story is sprinkled with magical creatures and spells, but also wonderful friendships between kind characters. Really enjoyed this read!!
August 9, 2023
I am not a female teenager, but was riveted to what was coming next. Didn’t want it to end would love a sequel . It was well written had mystery elements, humour thought out but he book. It took interesting imagination to create these pages . Held my attention right to the end . That is why I would like to go further to the adventures of these two girls and there school . Read it if you like magic and mystery
October 7, 2023
Reminiscent of the early Harry Potter books, (of which I was one of few adults reading at the time - before it was “discovered), Apprentices in Magic was an enjoyable read. It was refreshing to see two young female protagonists for a change. A good plot with interesting characters, it is sure to keep young readers engaged. If I were still teaching, Apprentices in Magic would be one of my recommendations not only to students but to the School Librarian as well.
October 30, 2023
This is a book for both the young, and young at heart. The 9-90+ range. This magical book - and book of magic - is well-written and spiced with courage, kindness, as well as the power of perseverance and overcoming adversity. It is nicely paced with adventure and intriguing characters. It would make a super sequel series. I was left wanting more.
November 3, 2023
Sally Basmajian’s descriptive narrative transports the reader into a delightful realm of the magic of friendship in a world laced with adventure using unexpected magical intrigue. A delightful story for the young and young at heart of 2 friends developing magical skills in a fantastical world of unexpected characters and crises. The ending leaves you craving the next chapter.
July 31, 2023
I am very grateful to have received a copy of this book. I loved it! Well done Sally! It brought me back to my childhood years when I was very interested in magic and similar books. A very enjoyable quick read. A sequel would be great!
August 30, 2023
I typically dont enjoy this genre but i was blown away. I loved the book and couldnt put it down. I would love a sequel. Thanks so much sally for the adventure and changing my mind
September 24, 2023
I could not put this book down. Wonderfully written to keep you guessing what is going to happen next.
December 26, 2023
This is a wonderful story of two girls born on the same day in the village of Lethos in the magical kingdom of Paduane. Legend has it that, one day, 2 peasant children born on the same day will bring peace and prosperity to the land, ending a protracted war between Paduane and neighbouring Burta. Will that be the destiny of Annette and Laila?
Even in a world where everyone has magic powers, Laila’s and Annette’s talents are extraordinary and, together, they set out for the castle to apply for the magical apprentice program which graduates Warriors and Queen’s guards to protect the kingdom. Vivid description sets us in the midst of every scene. From the auditions, through a demanding school year, to a dangerous rescue mission, the story is well paced, with inventive magic, character conflict and resolution, and even hints of budding romance. Thoroughly enjoyable story of “girl power”. Begging to be the first book in a series.
My thanks to the publisher for sending me an early copy and asking for my honest review.
Even in a world where everyone has magic powers, Laila’s and Annette’s talents are extraordinary and, together, they set out for the castle to apply for the magical apprentice program which graduates Warriors and Queen’s guards to protect the kingdom. Vivid description sets us in the midst of every scene. From the auditions, through a demanding school year, to a dangerous rescue mission, the story is well paced, with inventive magic, character conflict and resolution, and even hints of budding romance. Thoroughly enjoyable story of “girl power”. Begging to be the first book in a series.
My thanks to the publisher for sending me an early copy and asking for my honest review.
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews