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Connections #1
The Switchboard
FOR MAGIC. FOR MEMORY. FOR EACH OTHER.
Mortal mage Henley Yu has enough to worry about between the storms caused by broken magic and his strained relationship with his father. He’s trying to keep his head above water, but when he finds a stranger hiding in his kitchen cabinets he’s forced to reconsider his priorities.
Chief Operator Kittinger has overseen the flow of magic for centuries, but he’s no fighter. Betrayed by his protectors in their quest to gain control of the magic, he’s running for his life when he makes Henley his accomplice. Kit might lose his new ally if Henley finds out that Kit’s secrets go deeper than the magic itself.
Together they’ll venture into the Between, where magic connects worlds, to fight an army of officers ready to finish what they started when Kit fled the scene. For Kit, failure means death. For Henley, it means losing the memory of the only person who gives him purpose. Henley won’t let anyone interfere before he finds out what that means for their future together.
He’ll save Kit. He'll save the magic—or he won’t be the only one who dies trying.
Mortal mage Henley Yu has enough to worry about between the storms caused by broken magic and his strained relationship with his father. He’s trying to keep his head above water, but when he finds a stranger hiding in his kitchen cabinets he’s forced to reconsider his priorities.
Chief Operator Kittinger has overseen the flow of magic for centuries, but he’s no fighter. Betrayed by his protectors in their quest to gain control of the magic, he’s running for his life when he makes Henley his accomplice. Kit might lose his new ally if Henley finds out that Kit’s secrets go deeper than the magic itself.
Together they’ll venture into the Between, where magic connects worlds, to fight an army of officers ready to finish what they started when Kit fled the scene. For Kit, failure means death. For Henley, it means losing the memory of the only person who gives him purpose. Henley won’t let anyone interfere before he finds out what that means for their future together.
He’ll save Kit. He'll save the magic—or he won’t be the only one who dies trying.
- GenresFantasy
291 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 20, 2024
9 people are currently reading
91 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews
May 21, 2024
This review was originally publishd on Before We Go Blog
Filled with endearingly oblivious chaos queers, unexpected found family vibes, lots of magical mayhem, and plot-necessary pasta breaks, The Switchboard is a delightfully quirky and highly imaginative low-fantasy romp perfect for fans of T. Kingfisher and Good Omens (the show).
Set in an alternate magical version of modern-day Earth, The Switchboard follows a messy immortal and a grumpy mortal (who should absolutely never have met) as they are launched into a dangerous quest in the Between to save the world by restoring all magic (that one of them destroyed, oops). And as if that wasn’t enough to handle, they also have to face their own inner demons and deal with their increasingly confusing feelings for each other; in other words, cue the chaos!
Now, I will have to admit that the start to The Switchboard was a bit rocky for me, as Glover really doesn’t hold the reader’s hand and just throws you straight into the deep end. Especially the introduction to the setting of the Between and the workings of the memory magic and the Switchboard in Kit’s perspective were quite hard to wrap my head around, but the intrigue levels were so incredibly high that I just could not stop reading.
And thank all that is holy that I just trusted the process, because everything completely clicked around the 20% mark for me, when the two protagonists’ paths crossed in the most hysterical way imaginable. Kit and Henley come from entirely different realities, and it’s only through the big culture clash between them that we really get to understand all the peculiarities of their respective worlds and lives.
In hindsight, I really love and appreciate this organic approach to the world building in The Switchboard, with in-world terms only being explained as another outside perspective encounters and has to learn about them for the first time. It might have required some trust and patience at the start, but trust me when I say that it pays off in spades. Each new imaginative twist and turn only filled me with more wonder and excitement, and by the end I was just completely in awe of Glover’s madly brilliant imagination.
Though, as cool as all the unique concepts and thrilling plot were, it was truly the rich and intimate character work that kept me glued to the page here. See, Henley and Kit are both just a certified Hot Mess in their own way, and I absolutely love them for it. Not only do they both have an extremely compelling backstory that we slowly get to uncover and dig into, but their tentatively developing friendship (and maybe more?!) was also just so heartwarming. THIS is how you do a delicious slooooow (like, agonisingly slow)-burn, the tension was killing me (just accept it and KISS already!!) and I was eating up all the emotional turmoil!
And what’s more, the diverse and vibrant cast of side characters, some of whom get an occasional POV, also jumped off the page with personality, and I adored the unconventional found family that slowly formed over the course of the story. Especially René, the Lord of Paradise (and a true Piece of Work), and Elryk, a mysteriously magical coffee seller, really stole the show for me and I would honestly read an entire spin-off series about these two.
In a way, I just can’t help but feel like The Switchboard gave off major Good Omens (the show) vibes, both in the amusing dynamic between the protagonists and in its irreverent quirkiness and delightfully chaotic plot. Yes, there were admittedly some points where I got somewhat overwhelmed or had a hard time visualising the next new bonkers concept, but my emotional investment and the entertainment factor were so high that I just shrugged it off and happily continued on devouring this gem of a novel.
And this might not be a chunky book, but don’t let that fool you into thinking that it lacks substance in any way. Especially the exploration of memory and trauma through the memory-exchange magic system is quite powerful, adding a touch of tragedy that beautifully balanced out the more ridiculously fun moments. Every single aspect of the story is just so seamlessly interwoven, resulting in a shockingly spectacular and brutally bittersweet climax sequence that left me desperate for the sequel in the best way possible.
This book is the perfect example of why I love to take gambles on new (indie) authors. Glover took me on a fun, charming, and wonderfully chaotic adventure that I didn’t even know I needed in my life, and now I want to read anything and everything that she ever publishes! If you are looking for an action-packed yet character-driven fantasy romp that will both warm your heart and rip it out of your chest, then I can’t recommend The Switchboard highly enough.
Thank you to the author for providing me with an eARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Filled with endearingly oblivious chaos queers, unexpected found family vibes, lots of magical mayhem, and plot-necessary pasta breaks, The Switchboard is a delightfully quirky and highly imaginative low-fantasy romp perfect for fans of T. Kingfisher and Good Omens (the show).
Set in an alternate magical version of modern-day Earth, The Switchboard follows a messy immortal and a grumpy mortal (who should absolutely never have met) as they are launched into a dangerous quest in the Between to save the world by restoring all magic (that one of them destroyed, oops). And as if that wasn’t enough to handle, they also have to face their own inner demons and deal with their increasingly confusing feelings for each other; in other words, cue the chaos!
Now, I will have to admit that the start to The Switchboard was a bit rocky for me, as Glover really doesn’t hold the reader’s hand and just throws you straight into the deep end. Especially the introduction to the setting of the Between and the workings of the memory magic and the Switchboard in Kit’s perspective were quite hard to wrap my head around, but the intrigue levels were so incredibly high that I just could not stop reading.
And thank all that is holy that I just trusted the process, because everything completely clicked around the 20% mark for me, when the two protagonists’ paths crossed in the most hysterical way imaginable. Kit and Henley come from entirely different realities, and it’s only through the big culture clash between them that we really get to understand all the peculiarities of their respective worlds and lives.
In hindsight, I really love and appreciate this organic approach to the world building in The Switchboard, with in-world terms only being explained as another outside perspective encounters and has to learn about them for the first time. It might have required some trust and patience at the start, but trust me when I say that it pays off in spades. Each new imaginative twist and turn only filled me with more wonder and excitement, and by the end I was just completely in awe of Glover’s madly brilliant imagination.
Though, as cool as all the unique concepts and thrilling plot were, it was truly the rich and intimate character work that kept me glued to the page here. See, Henley and Kit are both just a certified Hot Mess in their own way, and I absolutely love them for it. Not only do they both have an extremely compelling backstory that we slowly get to uncover and dig into, but their tentatively developing friendship (and maybe more?!) was also just so heartwarming. THIS is how you do a delicious slooooow (like, agonisingly slow)-burn, the tension was killing me (just accept it and KISS already!!) and I was eating up all the emotional turmoil!
And what’s more, the diverse and vibrant cast of side characters, some of whom get an occasional POV, also jumped off the page with personality, and I adored the unconventional found family that slowly formed over the course of the story. Especially René, the Lord of Paradise (and a true Piece of Work), and Elryk, a mysteriously magical coffee seller, really stole the show for me and I would honestly read an entire spin-off series about these two.
In a way, I just can’t help but feel like The Switchboard gave off major Good Omens (the show) vibes, both in the amusing dynamic between the protagonists and in its irreverent quirkiness and delightfully chaotic plot. Yes, there were admittedly some points where I got somewhat overwhelmed or had a hard time visualising the next new bonkers concept, but my emotional investment and the entertainment factor were so high that I just shrugged it off and happily continued on devouring this gem of a novel.
And this might not be a chunky book, but don’t let that fool you into thinking that it lacks substance in any way. Especially the exploration of memory and trauma through the memory-exchange magic system is quite powerful, adding a touch of tragedy that beautifully balanced out the more ridiculously fun moments. Every single aspect of the story is just so seamlessly interwoven, resulting in a shockingly spectacular and brutally bittersweet climax sequence that left me desperate for the sequel in the best way possible.
This book is the perfect example of why I love to take gambles on new (indie) authors. Glover took me on a fun, charming, and wonderfully chaotic adventure that I didn’t even know I needed in my life, and now I want to read anything and everything that she ever publishes! If you are looking for an action-packed yet character-driven fantasy romp that will both warm your heart and rip it out of your chest, then I can’t recommend The Switchboard highly enough.
Thank you to the author for providing me with an eARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
May 21, 2024
Review originally on JamReads
The Switchboard is a delicious queer low fantasy novel, first on the Connections series, written by Christina K. Glover. Two great main characters, an original magic system and many feelings are some of the elements that made of this book a really enjoyable one, and which if you are looking for a nice queer fantasy, this is that kind of book.
Chief Operator Kittinger (Kit for friends) has overseen the flow of magic in the Between for centuries; a task that allows Earth's mages to perform their own magic. It's not an exciting life, but it's a good one; however, all of this is broken when the Shields, those that are supposed to protect them, try to gain control of the magic. Without other options, Kit stops the flux of magic from his switchboards and flees to the Earth, where he lands in the apartment of Henley Yu.
Henley has enough problems by himself, worrying about the storms that are being caused in by the broken magic, and his distant relationship with his father. The arrival of Kit will make him his accomplice and his ally, and despite not knowing fully about Kit, he will be forced to travel together to the Between and fight against the forces to restore magic.
With a thrilling style, we will follow the adventures of Kit and Henley in the Between, trying to fight against the Shield while looking to restore the order and magic; but in this enigmatic place, there are more secrets than what the eye can see. And not only that, because between our characters a bond will be formed, and losing this battle means the disappearing of the Between, Kit included.
To be fair, it's quite easy to relate with both, Henley and Kit. Kit is all responsibility, and even without knowing all about his identity, he tries to do what is correct; I also find adorable his tea addiction. Henley might be more brave, and excellently complements Kit's weaknesses; despite having his own problems, he will fight together with a complete unknown person for him.
Glover does an excellent job introducing this queer romancing sub-plot over the bigger arc; relative slow-burn in comparison with the pacing of the whole novel, but an addition that, in my opinion, helps you to create a emotional bond with the characters, as they are extremely cute.
Despite having some rough edges (such as throwing you directly into the world), Glover's debut is a great novel, perfect for those looking for a queer fantasy novel; she has a talent at creating characters and giving a original layer to the world. Can't wait to read her next books!
The Switchboard is a delicious queer low fantasy novel, first on the Connections series, written by Christina K. Glover. Two great main characters, an original magic system and many feelings are some of the elements that made of this book a really enjoyable one, and which if you are looking for a nice queer fantasy, this is that kind of book.
Chief Operator Kittinger (Kit for friends) has overseen the flow of magic in the Between for centuries; a task that allows Earth's mages to perform their own magic. It's not an exciting life, but it's a good one; however, all of this is broken when the Shields, those that are supposed to protect them, try to gain control of the magic. Without other options, Kit stops the flux of magic from his switchboards and flees to the Earth, where he lands in the apartment of Henley Yu.
Henley has enough problems by himself, worrying about the storms that are being caused in by the broken magic, and his distant relationship with his father. The arrival of Kit will make him his accomplice and his ally, and despite not knowing fully about Kit, he will be forced to travel together to the Between and fight against the forces to restore magic.
With a thrilling style, we will follow the adventures of Kit and Henley in the Between, trying to fight against the Shield while looking to restore the order and magic; but in this enigmatic place, there are more secrets than what the eye can see. And not only that, because between our characters a bond will be formed, and losing this battle means the disappearing of the Between, Kit included.
To be fair, it's quite easy to relate with both, Henley and Kit. Kit is all responsibility, and even without knowing all about his identity, he tries to do what is correct; I also find adorable his tea addiction. Henley might be more brave, and excellently complements Kit's weaknesses; despite having his own problems, he will fight together with a complete unknown person for him.
Glover does an excellent job introducing this queer romancing sub-plot over the bigger arc; relative slow-burn in comparison with the pacing of the whole novel, but an addition that, in my opinion, helps you to create a emotional bond with the characters, as they are extremely cute.
Despite having some rough edges (such as throwing you directly into the world), Glover's debut is a great novel, perfect for those looking for a queer fantasy novel; she has a talent at creating characters and giving a original layer to the world. Can't wait to read her next books!
May 18, 2024
The Switchboard by Christina K. Glover - Book One in the Connections series
Adventurous, challenging, emotional, funny,
hopeful, inspiring, mysterious, reflective,
sad, and tense.
Medium-paced
Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0 Stars
I hadn't realized that this book/story was SO heavily dealing with "connections", and not just the connections between worlds, not just the connections between magic, the magicians and the In-Between, but also the connections between the characters. The last aspect was really well developed, and pushed the plot along...more than anything else, for me.
The magic that is used in this world/worlds, has a great analogy of an olde timey switchboard...that channels and harnesses the magic from the beings, to the nead at hand.
Magic and how it relates to the weather...was an interesting concept. Hmm.
There are three different worlds...The Etherial, the Between and the Actuality. At first it was hard to phathom what was being said, but once your experience it, in the story...then it makes SO much more sense.
I had a hard time, at first...trying to figure out who were the "good guys" and who were the "bad guys", but then again...the characters drove the plot, and with every interaction...you gained with them, the more that THAT became clearer.
The story of Henley and Kit, was great. And, I'm truly interested in what will happen, in the sequel...since SO much has happened (and changed). Ugh.
Also, there were multiple times that I could SMELL coffee while reading this book. Not sure IF it was the magic of the page, scenting the room, as I read...but I thought that was interesting.
I'm not a fan of the Sheilds. They are "seemingly" trying to "do good", but they...in my opinion, are inherently evil. Need to know why, now.
Trying to FIX something, by erasing it, and building it back up...may sound good, but it (to me)...means something truly, EVIL.
...also, food has a LARGE impact in this story, too.
This book isn't perfect, for at times, I had to reread things...so that it would stick. I'd get twenty pages in, and realize that I was missing something, so I'd back up and find a good spot to re-enter the story (safe place), then read it again. I had to do that a few times, but I was "invested into the story", so it wasn't a bother (really).
I am VERY interested to see where this story goes...and how what happened at the end, effects the story going forward, and IF the belief that one of the characters had...will be actually what has happened. Will/will not? That is the question.
Adventurous, challenging, emotional, funny,
hopeful, inspiring, mysterious, reflective,
sad, and tense.
Medium-paced
Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0 Stars
I hadn't realized that this book/story was SO heavily dealing with "connections", and not just the connections between worlds, not just the connections between magic, the magicians and the In-Between, but also the connections between the characters. The last aspect was really well developed, and pushed the plot along...more than anything else, for me.
The magic that is used in this world/worlds, has a great analogy of an olde timey switchboard...that channels and harnesses the magic from the beings, to the nead at hand.
Magic and how it relates to the weather...was an interesting concept. Hmm.
There are three different worlds...The Etherial, the Between and the Actuality. At first it was hard to phathom what was being said, but once your experience it, in the story...then it makes SO much more sense.
I had a hard time, at first...trying to figure out who were the "good guys" and who were the "bad guys", but then again...the characters drove the plot, and with every interaction...you gained with them, the more that THAT became clearer.
The story of Henley and Kit, was great. And, I'm truly interested in what will happen, in the sequel...since SO much has happened (and changed). Ugh.
Also, there were multiple times that I could SMELL coffee while reading this book. Not sure IF it was the magic of the page, scenting the room, as I read...but I thought that was interesting.
I'm not a fan of the Sheilds. They are "seemingly" trying to "do good", but they...in my opinion, are inherently evil. Need to know why, now.
Trying to FIX something, by erasing it, and building it back up...may sound good, but it (to me)...means something truly, EVIL.
...also, food has a LARGE impact in this story, too.
This book isn't perfect, for at times, I had to reread things...so that it would stick. I'd get twenty pages in, and realize that I was missing something, so I'd back up and find a good spot to re-enter the story (safe place), then read it again. I had to do that a few times, but I was "invested into the story", so it wasn't a bother (really).
I am VERY interested to see where this story goes...and how what happened at the end, effects the story going forward, and IF the belief that one of the characters had...will be actually what has happened. Will/will not? That is the question.
June 27, 2024
This was a fast-paced and exciting novel with an intriguing magic system and a unique world. The characters were impossible to not love, and they were all so well fleshed out- including the side characters- that they felt like people I could meet in real life. The plot is well-structured and there were enough twists to keep me engaged without making things overcomplicated. A fun, often romantic novel that doesn’t shy away from approaching serious topics like complicated families and the fear of being unknown and unloved. I would highly recommend if you’re a fan of fantasy.
*I received an ARC of this novel in exchange for my honest review.
*I received an ARC of this novel in exchange for my honest review.
October 29, 2024
A romp, a page turner, a take on magic-wielding that feels new and familiar. A beach read for nerds, so preferably done indoors, with a warm drink and a furry friend nearby.
The storytelling unfolds like a novel in Garth Nix’s Abhorsen series (a great love of mine), where the world building feels manageable and organic. Also, I kept thinking about the Matrix while reading this…? Also, it certainly has the slow burn queer romance morsels to delight in.
To be frank, I got this as an early readers book, and I was skeptical that I was going to enjoy it, but I did. I really did. And, I’m glad there is more to come.
The storytelling unfolds like a novel in Garth Nix’s Abhorsen series (a great love of mine), where the world building feels manageable and organic. Also, I kept thinking about the Matrix while reading this…? Also, it certainly has the slow burn queer romance morsels to delight in.
To be frank, I got this as an early readers book, and I was skeptical that I was going to enjoy it, but I did. I really did. And, I’m glad there is more to come.
June 7, 2024
A character driven story, with a unique magic system and interesting plot twists! I highly recommend this book for anyone looking for a fun quick read. Love the relationships throughout the series. Kit is a hot mess and Henley is just doing his best. It easy to resonate with the protagonists because of this. Give it a good go and I promise you won't be disappointed. The side characters are great as well and I love how you get to see the story unfold through their eyes just as much as the main protagonists. I am looking forward to the release of it's sequel this coming December so I can see where the story goes!
June 9, 2025
The world-building and magic system in this book were fantastic – essentially, magical energy flows from the immortal Ethereals (who live on their own plane) to our world through a middle world called the Between, where a team of Operators channel the flow via giant switchboards.
Henley Yu is a mortal mage and graphic designer from Houston, TX, trying to find a balance between his own goals and the expectations of his family. Kit is the Chief Operator in the Between. The two meet when a hostile takeover of the Between threatens to drain our world of its magic and place the power in the hands of a few who should definitely NOT have it.
Henley and Kit were very likeable and relatable (downright adorable, honestly) but what really made this book stand out for me was the side characters especially Elryk, the mysterious owner of a Houston coffee shop, who’s clearly more than he seems, and René, a personage of some important in the Between – who give off delightful ‘old married couple’ vibes.
There’s a bit of a Good Omens feel to the story, as the mood flows from apocalyptic to cozy, to both at once… It’s delightful and creative and I already have the next book. Highly recommended!
Henley Yu is a mortal mage and graphic designer from Houston, TX, trying to find a balance between his own goals and the expectations of his family. Kit is the Chief Operator in the Between. The two meet when a hostile takeover of the Between threatens to drain our world of its magic and place the power in the hands of a few who should definitely NOT have it.
Henley and Kit were very likeable and relatable (downright adorable, honestly) but what really made this book stand out for me was the side characters especially Elryk, the mysterious owner of a Houston coffee shop, who’s clearly more than he seems, and René, a personage of some important in the Between – who give off delightful ‘old married couple’ vibes.
There’s a bit of a Good Omens feel to the story, as the mood flows from apocalyptic to cozy, to both at once… It’s delightful and creative and I already have the next book. Highly recommended!
September 2, 2025
Well, I have to be honest I didn’t finish this one! I saw CK Glover at a convention this weekend and got a rundown of the plot fundamentals from her. She said reviews and feedback are really important to her so here I am!
I’m pretty oblivious, I suppose. I’ve gotten enough of the way through to think the introduction is pretty quick and that the book is easy to get into. The introductory dialogue in the first few chapters is a little spacey and unnatural, I think, but it adds to the ease of entry not to need to pilfer through pages of conversation and content for the story’s development.
She had suggested that I read the back of the book, but I sort of shrugged off the recommendation - I should have listened, haha! I didn’t realize the novel was a homosexual romance until like the sixth chapter and that the character on the cover with pink hair is a dude! I’m not partial to that type of literature entertainment is all. I don’t think that clarification was ever made, but it’s totally my fault for asking almost nothing and assuming a ton.
I’m pretty oblivious, I suppose. I’ve gotten enough of the way through to think the introduction is pretty quick and that the book is easy to get into. The introductory dialogue in the first few chapters is a little spacey and unnatural, I think, but it adds to the ease of entry not to need to pilfer through pages of conversation and content for the story’s development.
She had suggested that I read the back of the book, but I sort of shrugged off the recommendation - I should have listened, haha! I didn’t realize the novel was a homosexual romance until like the sixth chapter and that the character on the cover with pink hair is a dude! I’m not partial to that type of literature entertainment is all. I don’t think that clarification was ever made, but it’s totally my fault for asking almost nothing and assuming a ton.
February 5, 2025
I enjoyed this book. The system of magic and the world building is incredibly unique and fresh. I really wished that there had been more explained about how magic worked because it was so fascinating in this book. I did think that at time the logic of the world was a little hard to grasp and that fleshing out explanations could have helped with that. There were a lot of things that felt like they were brought up and then never touched on again. The characters were cute, but not incredibly memorable I thought. I wished that there had been more depth to them, but I think that its something that might be cleared up in the next book. Overall an enjoyable read.
July 20, 2024
Review coming soon on my blog.
February 1, 2025
I bought this on a whim at a convention last year, and frankly I loved by it. I can't wait to start the other installments in this series.
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