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Forbidden Magic
Magic is forbidden, but love is destiny.
Belal, a young Pakistani American man, discovers a hidden power within himself that makes him a target for the Guardians, ruthless enforcers determined to eliminate witches and wizards.
Skye, a young witch, has always longed to escape her coven and live a normal life, so when Belal becomes her next assignment she wants to refuse, but she can’t bring herself to let him die.
As they fight for survival, they are helpless to deny their feelings for each other, challenging everything they thought they knew about love and life.
Forbidden Magic is a heart-pounding paranormal romance filled with action, suspense, and a love story that defies the boundaries of magic and tradition.
Join Belal and Skye in their fight against the Guardians and discover a love that is truly magical.
Proceeds from this book will go toward a charity called Pious Projects that provides food, clean drinking water, and healthcare to refugees.
Belal, a young Pakistani American man, discovers a hidden power within himself that makes him a target for the Guardians, ruthless enforcers determined to eliminate witches and wizards.
Skye, a young witch, has always longed to escape her coven and live a normal life, so when Belal becomes her next assignment she wants to refuse, but she can’t bring herself to let him die.
As they fight for survival, they are helpless to deny their feelings for each other, challenging everything they thought they knew about love and life.
Forbidden Magic is a heart-pounding paranormal romance filled with action, suspense, and a love story that defies the boundaries of magic and tradition.
Join Belal and Skye in their fight against the Guardians and discover a love that is truly magical.
Proceeds from this book will go toward a charity called Pious Projects that provides food, clean drinking water, and healthcare to refugees.
- GenresFantasy
349 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 10, 2024
2 people are currently reading
13 people want to read
About the author
Joel Crofoot
24 books116 followersJoel Crofoot was raised in northern New York state on a large family sheep farm, then left home to join the United States Marine Corps at 18 years-old. After spending four years in Japan as a radio operator, Joel re-enlisted into the bomb squad (explosive ordnance disposal) and was stationed out of California. Two tours to Iraq later, Joel decided to leave the Marine Corps to pursue higher education and graduated with a doctorate in psychology in July of 2017. In Joel's books you can expect a good mix of military experience and psychology wrapped into paranormal tales that will leave you wanting more!
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
August 16, 2024
Some may say magic is forbidden, but sometimes, the heart wants what it wants. This is exactly what happens to Belal, a young Pakistani American man, when he discovers he has magical powers. Life gets really hard for him when the Guardians, ruthless enforcers, start chasing him. Thanks to Skye, a young witch, Belal gets help at the beginning. But the story gets intense and deeply emotional, filled with magic, drama, and lots of twists and turns. The growing love between Belal and Skye is the icing on the cake in this lovely story. Some may say magic is forbidden, but sometimes, the heart wants what it wants. This is exactly what happens to Belal, a young Pakistani American man when he discovers he has magical powers. Life gets really hard for him when the Guardians, ruthless enforcers, start chasing him. Thanks to Skye, a young witch, Belal gets help at the beginning. But there is more...
The story gets intense and deeply emotional, filled with magic, drama, and lots of twists and turns. The growing love between Belal and Skye is the icing on the cake in this lovely story.
The story gets intense and deeply emotional, filled with magic, drama, and lots of twists and turns. The growing love between Belal and Skye is the icing on the cake in this lovely story.
October 12, 2024
A new wizard comes to power, will they be first with him to protect him from a world of hating witchkind?
Can they prevent that he will be turned into a killing machine ?
3.7/⭐
0/🌶️
#covens
#witchhunt
#love
#inclusive
#islam
#ya
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
What i loved:
- the culture infusion
Not only the realisism of racism in the book
But also their way of believing is added and infused into the story line in a non invasive way it fits.
For me as an atheist it's very intriguing to see it added to a story, i think lire writers should do so !
- ya book
I liked the way it's soft but still have the tension of the story
It is definitely a ya in my opinion but that doesn't mean it's not good
The language is not to difficult what makes it easier to read
It has absolutely no spice and that is totally fine it's not needed
- character development
I love how we get to see the emotional side of the characters too
Their fear their doubts but also the love/tension
What i didn't love:
A bit to slow sometimes
- for me personally it was a bit to slow sometimes, if we dont have to much tension and spice in a story
I prefer it to be a tat faster
All by all a beautiful love story about witches and witch hunters in a modern world
Can they prevent that he will be turned into a killing machine ?
3.7/⭐
0/🌶️
#covens
#witchhunt
#love
#inclusive
#islam
#ya
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
What i loved:
- the culture infusion
Not only the realisism of racism in the book
But also their way of believing is added and infused into the story line in a non invasive way it fits.
For me as an atheist it's very intriguing to see it added to a story, i think lire writers should do so !
- ya book
I liked the way it's soft but still have the tension of the story
It is definitely a ya in my opinion but that doesn't mean it's not good
The language is not to difficult what makes it easier to read
It has absolutely no spice and that is totally fine it's not needed
- character development
I love how we get to see the emotional side of the characters too
Their fear their doubts but also the love/tension
What i didn't love:
A bit to slow sometimes
- for me personally it was a bit to slow sometimes, if we dont have to much tension and spice in a story
I prefer it to be a tat faster
All by all a beautiful love story about witches and witch hunters in a modern world
August 19, 2024
Love is about to bloom for them both as they try to escape the danger he is in. Magic is banned and others want him dead. She may be the one who gets the job to kill him but soon they are on the run from them all. What will happen? How will it all go? See how it will go
I received an advance copy from hidden gems and I want to review
I received an advance copy from hidden gems and I want to review
September 3, 2024
This was such a good book. It's not your typical read. Magic is forbidden the guardians find out the MMC has magical powers and they start chasing him.
This book is filled with twists and turns. Magic might be forbidden, but it's throughout the book. This was a fun read full of drama. I was rooting for Belal the whole time.
This book is filled with twists and turns. Magic might be forbidden, but it's throughout the book. This was a fun read full of drama. I was rooting for Belal the whole time.
October 1, 2024
I received this book as an ARC and wasn’t sure what to expect. I was pleasantly surprised! The story was fast paced with lots of twists and turns. I loved the main characters, particularly Belal. Belal’s journey throughout the story was very well written and extremely thought provoking. Especially his conflicting feelings between right and wrong, good and evil etc. Reading Joel’s autobiography at the end really hit home and gave the story even more meaning. I found it very powerful. The only reason that I didn’t give the story 5 stars is that I felt it was a bit rushed towards the end, I would have loved to see more about how the guardians stories concluded.
November 8, 2024
It was a pleasure to discover Joel Crofoot’s writing and universe with this mystical book.
Skye and Belal will be taking on a hazardous and self-testing quest within the magical community and human world.
And they will learn that not everything is black or white and before making any important decision a search within oneself and its environment is important.
A must read if you like Witches books with a nice touch of romance.
Skye and Belal will be taking on a hazardous and self-testing quest within the magical community and human world.
And they will learn that not everything is black or white and before making any important decision a search within oneself and its environment is important.
A must read if you like Witches books with a nice touch of romance.
November 14, 2024
A love story for today. The bad Magic is easily a metaphor for the unseen political forces against us all. Throw in a forbidden love in a world where no one is from anywhere in particular gives the novel, a romantasy, a depressing tone. So you read faster knowing Skye has hopes and dreams and desire to be fulfilled in a world falling short.
Paced wonderfully to give reader the control of “ok I can stop here” or , “wow, I gotta keep reading!” Regardless of what time it is. And then add on the fact this is a charity opportunity for the reader and you have a novel worth re-reading and recommending.
Paced wonderfully to give reader the control of “ok I can stop here” or , “wow, I gotta keep reading!” Regardless of what time it is. And then add on the fact this is a charity opportunity for the reader and you have a novel worth re-reading and recommending.
October 9, 2024
Loved this witchy dark fantasy. Couldn't put it down! Great world building and character development. The issues dealt with were covered really well and I really felt for the MMC. Brilliant
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 13, 2024
Really enjoyed this book. Loved the plot and Belals character was something different in a good way.
The sass and attraction which leads to love was well written.
Magic, love and suspense, will be recommending this book.
The sass and attraction which leads to love was well written.
Magic, love and suspense, will be recommending this book.
September 18, 2024
I loved it! It was amazing. It was so beautiful. I was hooked from the beginning. I was hanging onto every word.
November 23, 2024
Forbidden Magic is a spellbinding storyline that combines, magic and witches along with a touch of paranormal It's brimming with cultural diversity which portrays the Pakistan American heritage that was both informative and captivating. Which added so much depth and meaning to the storyline. Once again, Crofoot's world building is bar none!
Skye and Belal were navigating treacherous waters as their adventures continued. Always trying to stay one step ahead of the Guardians and unravel right from wrong. There's plenty of twists and turns that keep the readers engaged. And of course, I had to find out if Skye and Belal found their happily ever after but no spoilers here. You need to read the book to find out for yourself.
Kudos to Crofoot for donating all proceeds to Pious Projects, a charity that provides food, water and healthcare to refugees...
Skye and Belal were navigating treacherous waters as their adventures continued. Always trying to stay one step ahead of the Guardians and unravel right from wrong. There's plenty of twists and turns that keep the readers engaged. And of course, I had to find out if Skye and Belal found their happily ever after but no spoilers here. You need to read the book to find out for yourself.
Kudos to Crofoot for donating all proceeds to Pious Projects, a charity that provides food, water and healthcare to refugees...
November 14, 2025
What a fun read, Joel Crofoot nailed it with this one! Incredible world building and the relationship between Belal and Skye made for a deeply emotional and intense journey.
September 13, 2024
Nobody writes quite like Joel Crofoot, and I cannot get enough of her books. Her latest weaves magic, Islam, adventure and romance in one heck of a paranormal thriller.
Belal is a student, a young Pakistani American man eager to live the American dream. He lives with his doting parents and an equally loving cat called Caesar. But Caesar is no ordinary cat, and Belal is no ordinary man. When Caesar tips off the local coven that Belal is coming into great powers, they send another student, Skye, to protect him from witch-hunters. Skye and Belal are instantly attracted to each other, but it all goes horribly wrong when the hunters find out about Belal. What follows is a thrilling adventure which makes it hard to put the book down. On the way, writer Joel Crofoot makes serious social points about discrimination, otherness and teamwork. It's a well-written, thought-provoking and entertaining read.
Belal is a student, a young Pakistani American man eager to live the American dream. He lives with his doting parents and an equally loving cat called Caesar. But Caesar is no ordinary cat, and Belal is no ordinary man. When Caesar tips off the local coven that Belal is coming into great powers, they send another student, Skye, to protect him from witch-hunters. Skye and Belal are instantly attracted to each other, but it all goes horribly wrong when the hunters find out about Belal. What follows is a thrilling adventure which makes it hard to put the book down. On the way, writer Joel Crofoot makes serious social points about discrimination, otherness and teamwork. It's a well-written, thought-provoking and entertaining read.
October 30, 2024
- this book is perfect for Spooky season as it has witches and wizards in it
- Magic is Forbidden in this world but sometimes you gotta give what the hearts wants
- you met the main character Belai who is a young Pakistan American man that discover that he has magic
- but his life gets really hard for him as the guardians that are ruthless started to chase him
- he ends up meeting a young witch name Skye who helps Belai at the beginning
- as you are reading the story gets more intense but it is deeply filled with emotions that have magic mixed with drama and lots of twists and turns
- between Skye and Belai something Sparks between them and its just grows more and more strong which is just perfect for this beautiful story
- Magic is Forbidden in this world but sometimes you gotta give what the hearts wants
- you met the main character Belai who is a young Pakistan American man that discover that he has magic
- but his life gets really hard for him as the guardians that are ruthless started to chase him
- he ends up meeting a young witch name Skye who helps Belai at the beginning
- as you are reading the story gets more intense but it is deeply filled with emotions that have magic mixed with drama and lots of twists and turns
- between Skye and Belai something Sparks between them and its just grows more and more strong which is just perfect for this beautiful story
January 3, 2025
this book was a new author to me. this book was overall enjoyable! i love books that are based around magick and when it is forbidden i find it has more intrigue! the one thing i disliked about this book was it felt to political for my taste! i understand this goes into the authors world building but placing two different religions against one another is not really my thing! the romance i enjoyed and the magick as well! less politics would have made this a 5 star but that’s my opinion for what i like! i recurved this book from story origin voluntarily and my opinions and thoughts are my own! if you like magick, politics, enemies to lovers tropes then you will love this book!
September 11, 2024
A fantastic story about deceit and brainwashing. I loved the story, but at the same time I hated it. I don't like prejudism of any form. However,this story grabbed me from the first page and I was hooked. Joel Crofoot developed her characters exquisitely. Belal and Skye were both very engaging and likable. They, of course, are my favorite characters of the story. The world building was skillfully done. I absolutely recommend reading this book.
November 10, 2024
Forbidden Magic
Forbidden Magic was spectacular. I enjoyed reading the book!!! I loved Bethal and Skye together. Their! I've has been tested, but stayed strong. I loved his mothers love and how she would do anything to save her child. As a mom I totally agree. I do not want to say more or ruin the plot ,~ I enjoyed it so much I purchased the audible because I couldn't wait to listen or know more about what was happening with them!!! I definitely recommend this book!!!
Forbidden Magic was spectacular. I enjoyed reading the book!!! I loved Bethal and Skye together. Their! I've has been tested, but stayed strong. I loved his mothers love and how she would do anything to save her child. As a mom I totally agree. I do not want to say more or ruin the plot ,~ I enjoyed it so much I purchased the audible because I couldn't wait to listen or know more about what was happening with them!!! I definitely recommend this book!!!
January 15, 2025
Forbidden Magic is a great book. It has witches and warlocks coming into magic and not knowing it. Kidnapping, demon controlling witches and humans, and love. I didn't want to put this book down and am hoping maybe there will be another book from these characters. I look forward to reading more from this author.
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.
September 10, 2024
Forbidden magic but so much more. A unique take on the forbidden magic storyline that will captivate and intrigue. Just when you think you have it figured out there is another twist or turn in the plot. This book keeps you turning the pages to find out what will happen next.
I received a free review copy in exchange for an honest review.
I received a free review copy in exchange for an honest review.
January 21, 2025
This was such a fun ride! The magic system was super unique, and the story kept me hooked from start to finish. There was plenty of action and just the right amount of drama to keep things interesting. A few parts felt a little rushed, but overall, it was a great read.
March 30, 2025
Forbidden magic
I really enjoyed this book it was a thrilling read had me hooked by the end of the first chapter the characters were great and the plot thrilling a well deserved 5 stars
I really enjoyed this book it was a thrilling read had me hooked by the end of the first chapter the characters were great and the plot thrilling a well deserved 5 stars
November 12, 2024
Fantasy book with an interesting love story and cool worldbuilding. Enjoyed the witchcraft and seeing how they dealt with racism and forbidden love
January 2, 2025
A wonderful fantasy story! I look forward to reading more works by this author.
I received a copy of this book via StoryOrigin and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a copy of this book via StoryOrigin and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 6, 2024
This is my first book ever read by Joel Crofoot. I was not disappointed. We take Belal, who is Pakistani, and Skye who is essentially the founder/confirmer of who Belal really is. First of all, I am just thrilled that the main character is not someone of who we are typically used to reading about. There is culture, there is a ethinic change that brings refreshment to the story. The book is in English but some characters speak Urdu. I just love it.
I am new to the paranormal/fantasy/romance genre, and I truly this story because it was engaging. Belal is a regular person- imagine living your ordinary life, nothing exciting or indifferent and then all of a sudden you harness a power or a skill that people would literally kill you for. That's where the Guardians of The Flame come in.
Belal and Skye find each other unexpectedly, rather she finds him, and they team up (along with some other cool characters) to ultimately defeat the greater evil.
Skye is a witch who wants nothing more to do with her coven and wants to be a regular teen girl. We see her attitude change and grow with Belal, and ultimately they find themselves developing feelings for one another.
It's an adventurous read, lots of action and not really spicy for those expecting that out of the romance portion. I really enjoyed this book, and it was a fast read. I believe it has 340 pages or so, but is an easy read. This book has witches, magic, magical orbs and some fun moments as well.
And Joel..you are one hell of an author. I also want to say thank you for your service. I can only imagine what you witnessed, the environment and the loss of your friends, and I am incredibly grateful for people like you. Even though you are in a different realm of life now, you are still serving those that most needed and that is absolutely admirable.
To anyone on the fence, read this book if you enjoy fantasy. It is pretty great, and I think everyone could enjoy the perspective from a character who isn't the "standard" main character we are all used to reading about. I did receive this book as ARC (advanced reader copy) but my review would remain identical even if I didn't receive it as an ARC. This is my honest review.
I am new to the paranormal/fantasy/romance genre, and I truly this story because it was engaging. Belal is a regular person- imagine living your ordinary life, nothing exciting or indifferent and then all of a sudden you harness a power or a skill that people would literally kill you for. That's where the Guardians of The Flame come in.
Belal and Skye find each other unexpectedly, rather she finds him, and they team up (along with some other cool characters) to ultimately defeat the greater evil.
Skye is a witch who wants nothing more to do with her coven and wants to be a regular teen girl. We see her attitude change and grow with Belal, and ultimately they find themselves developing feelings for one another.
It's an adventurous read, lots of action and not really spicy for those expecting that out of the romance portion. I really enjoyed this book, and it was a fast read. I believe it has 340 pages or so, but is an easy read. This book has witches, magic, magical orbs and some fun moments as well.
And Joel..you are one hell of an author. I also want to say thank you for your service. I can only imagine what you witnessed, the environment and the loss of your friends, and I am incredibly grateful for people like you. Even though you are in a different realm of life now, you are still serving those that most needed and that is absolutely admirable.
To anyone on the fence, read this book if you enjoy fantasy. It is pretty great, and I think everyone could enjoy the perspective from a character who isn't the "standard" main character we are all used to reading about. I did receive this book as ARC (advanced reader copy) but my review would remain identical even if I didn't receive it as an ARC. This is my honest review.
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews