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Magic No More
Marah never set fire to Oxford.
But no one believes her.
Accused of burning the city to the ground, Marah is exiled and embarks on a perilous journey across the Mediterranean in search of her missing father. Her only chance at redemption? Joining an expedition to unravel the mystery of magic’s slow decay. But the voyage isn't easy. She's stuck with Lord Druze, her insufferable rival, and a troublesome dragon whose behaviour is as unpredictable as the seas they sail.
Yet, among the chaos, Marah discovers unexpected allies—including Hal, a dangerously charming sailor who tempts her more than she cares to admit.
But as magic's influence seeps into her soul, Marah realizes that nothing, not even herself, is as it seems. With every passing day, she changes. The question will she still recognize who—or what—she becomes?
But no one believes her.
Accused of burning the city to the ground, Marah is exiled and embarks on a perilous journey across the Mediterranean in search of her missing father. Her only chance at redemption? Joining an expedition to unravel the mystery of magic’s slow decay. But the voyage isn't easy. She's stuck with Lord Druze, her insufferable rival, and a troublesome dragon whose behaviour is as unpredictable as the seas they sail.
Yet, among the chaos, Marah discovers unexpected allies—including Hal, a dangerously charming sailor who tempts her more than she cares to admit.
But as magic's influence seeps into her soul, Marah realizes that nothing, not even herself, is as it seems. With every passing day, she changes. The question will she still recognize who—or what—she becomes?
- GenresFantasy
528 pages, Hardcover
Published February 28, 2025
5 people are currently reading
24 people want to read
About the author
Joss Stirling
39 books2,521 followersJoss Stirling is a British novelist. Her first novel under this name was the internationally successful, Finding Sky, which is followed by five others in the same series entering into the savant world of young people with special powers. Central to the story are the Benedict Brothers, seven talented guys from Colorado.
In a second series, Struck, Joss begins a new world of detective romance. The first three parts are: Struck (#1) and Stung (#2), and Shaken (#3) and Scorched (#4). Joss introduces readers to four new heroes - Kieran Storm, Nathan Hunter, Joe Masters and Damien Castle, who all attention the Young Detective Agency. The first part, Struck, won the Romantic Novel of the Year 2015 in the UK.
Her new series, PERIL, a paranormal love story set in the near future, is out 13 July 2017.
Joss lives in Oxford, England. She is married with three children.
Stirling also publishes under two pen names: Julia Golding and Eve Edwards.
In a second series, Struck, Joss begins a new world of detective romance. The first three parts are: Struck (#1) and Stung (#2), and Shaken (#3) and Scorched (#4). Joss introduces readers to four new heroes - Kieran Storm, Nathan Hunter, Joe Masters and Damien Castle, who all attention the Young Detective Agency. The first part, Struck, won the Romantic Novel of the Year 2015 in the UK.
Her new series, PERIL, a paranormal love story set in the near future, is out 13 July 2017.
Joss lives in Oxford, England. She is married with three children.
Stirling also publishes under two pen names: Julia Golding and Eve Edwards.
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
March 26, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Since I had to start working on my thesis on short notice, I wasn’t able to write my review for *Magic No More* right after the release. But I was lucky enough to read the book before publication, and already after the first 50 pages I had a really good feeling about it.
*Magic No More* is set in a world where sea levels have risen and magic is slowly vanishing. The story follows Marah, a young woman wrongly accused of burning down Oxford. On her journey to find her missing father, she joins an expedition through a crumbling, magical world full of dangers—teaming up with her rival Lord Druze, a rebellious princess named Zin, and an unpredictable dragon called Galahad. Together, they face mythical creatures like krakens, minotaurs and sirens, all while trying to solve the mystery behind the disappearance of magic.
Having read Joss Stirling’s other books probably over a hundred times, I trusted her blindly with this one and she didn’t disappoint. I love that she decided to dive into a fantasy story like this. Her writing style still gives you that same warm and familiar feeling as when you first read Finding Sky. The world-building and character development were beautifully done. I especially loved the interactions between Marah and Galahad they brought just the right amount of humor and heart to the story.
The beginning throws you straight into the action, and it took me a moment to fully settle into the world but once I did, I couldn’t stop reading. The story had me hooked all the way through, and the ending definitely left me wanting more.
Thank you again for letting me read an ARC – I’m truly looking forward to seeing the book version on my shelf.
And I really, really hope this book will be translated into German one day, so even more readers can enjoy this wonderful story!
Since I had to start working on my thesis on short notice, I wasn’t able to write my review for *Magic No More* right after the release. But I was lucky enough to read the book before publication, and already after the first 50 pages I had a really good feeling about it.
*Magic No More* is set in a world where sea levels have risen and magic is slowly vanishing. The story follows Marah, a young woman wrongly accused of burning down Oxford. On her journey to find her missing father, she joins an expedition through a crumbling, magical world full of dangers—teaming up with her rival Lord Druze, a rebellious princess named Zin, and an unpredictable dragon called Galahad. Together, they face mythical creatures like krakens, minotaurs and sirens, all while trying to solve the mystery behind the disappearance of magic.
Having read Joss Stirling’s other books probably over a hundred times, I trusted her blindly with this one and she didn’t disappoint. I love that she decided to dive into a fantasy story like this. Her writing style still gives you that same warm and familiar feeling as when you first read Finding Sky. The world-building and character development were beautifully done. I especially loved the interactions between Marah and Galahad they brought just the right amount of humor and heart to the story.
The beginning throws you straight into the action, and it took me a moment to fully settle into the world but once I did, I couldn’t stop reading. The story had me hooked all the way through, and the ending definitely left me wanting more.
Thank you again for letting me read an ARC – I’m truly looking forward to seeing the book version on my shelf.
And I really, really hope this book will be translated into German one day, so even more readers can enjoy this wonderful story!
February 28, 2025
What a story! Magic No More follows Marah, a defiant, fiery servant who knows how to survive in a world that is rough and unkind. She lives in a world after technology has been destroyed, where magic is everywhere and people don't particularly like that fact.
After being burned by a dragon, Marah changes into something else and she goes on a crazy adventure with the cause of her changes. Along their sea voyage, they discover and fight with a kraken, minotaurs, sirens and other creatures created by the magic surge of their age. They are a ragtag team: a servant, a scholar, a stowaway princess, a healer, a mermaid, a swordsman, a nightingale and a dragon. Together, they fight for their lives, while discovering their friendship. Marah's character develops along with Zin's, into something different than they once were - Marah becomes more badass and Zin becomes kinder.
This book had me hooked from beginning to end. And that cliffhanger!!! I can't wait for the second book!
After being burned by a dragon, Marah changes into something else and she goes on a crazy adventure with the cause of her changes. Along their sea voyage, they discover and fight with a kraken, minotaurs, sirens and other creatures created by the magic surge of their age. They are a ragtag team: a servant, a scholar, a stowaway princess, a healer, a mermaid, a swordsman, a nightingale and a dragon. Together, they fight for their lives, while discovering their friendship. Marah's character develops along with Zin's, into something different than they once were - Marah becomes more badass and Zin becomes kinder.
This book had me hooked from beginning to end. And that cliffhanger!!! I can't wait for the second book!
February 28, 2025
Magic No More is the first book in a new series by Joss Stirling. When I saw the authors inquiry for advances readers I couldn't wait to sign up. Joss Stirling is one of my favorite YA authors so a new book by Joss is an immediate must read.
Magic No More is about Marah. Marah is involved in a fire in Oxford, she didn't set the fire but gets accused of it. She leaves Oxford and joins a scholarly journey across the Mediterranean, o.a. in search of her father.
I absolutely loved Magic No More. It's an amazing story with dragons, merpeople, minotaurs and many more. So many great characters join Marah on her journey and I really can't wait for the next book because I need to know what happens next!!!
Magic No More is about Marah. Marah is involved in a fire in Oxford, she didn't set the fire but gets accused of it. She leaves Oxford and joins a scholarly journey across the Mediterranean, o.a. in search of her father.
I absolutely loved Magic No More. It's an amazing story with dragons, merpeople, minotaurs and many more. So many great characters join Marah on her journey and I really can't wait for the next book because I need to know what happens next!!!
September 28, 2025
Joss Stirling has always been one of my favourite authors, but this book and I were not a match. That's not because it's a bad book. I think a lot of people will love it. The mythology is a lot of fun, the world building is well done, the characters are wonderful. For me it was just a little too chaotic and a little too adventurous. The characters were constantly running from one adventure to the next and I missed a clear direction and motivation for the characters. Like I said, a totally personal thing!
February 28, 2025
I absolutely love Magic No More! The story is the perfect blend of fantasy and romance, with a nice dystopian twist. The setting itself is very interesting, as the story unfolds mostly at sea. This adds an extra layer of adventure and intrigue, and results in really interesting interactions between characters because of the close proximity.
I really love the magic system. The magic of the female main character Marah doesn’t effortlessly come to her, making her a perfect beauty or an instant master of it. It takes her practice, making Marah’s journey feel all the more authentic, and very refreshing. Marah is an amazing protagonist. She’s smart, stubborn, adventurous, brave, protective and resourceful. It’s easy to like her and root for her throughout the story, as well as making her feel realistic. I also found her interactions with Galahad really compelling. Their dynamic is so natural and endearing, and I couldn’t get enough of it.
The characters overall are incredibly well thought-out, with so much more to them than meets the eye. Even those who seemed rather unlikable reveal some interesting layers of depth and arcs as the story progresses. I found myself unexpectedly liking some characters who at first seemed bratty, rude or even annoying.
The book also delivers some really surprising twists. One revelation near the end in particular caught me quite off guard in the best way. It was so in-your-face that I didn’t even consider it, which made the moment all the more shocking.
Another aspect I really loved was the worldbuilding. The way magic is intertwined with science and mythological influences is really fascinating. The magical, mythical creatures feel incredibly well-developed, with surprisingly realistic explanations for their existence, making them feel believable.
Magic No More is exactly the kind of dragon fantasy book I’ve been searching for, but hadn’t been able to find until now. I'm really happy and thankful for being able to read an ARC of this book. I could barely put it down and I am beyond excited for a part two. I can’t wait to find out what happens next on Marah’s journey!
I really love the magic system. The magic of the female main character Marah doesn’t effortlessly come to her, making her a perfect beauty or an instant master of it. It takes her practice, making Marah’s journey feel all the more authentic, and very refreshing. Marah is an amazing protagonist. She’s smart, stubborn, adventurous, brave, protective and resourceful. It’s easy to like her and root for her throughout the story, as well as making her feel realistic. I also found her interactions with Galahad really compelling. Their dynamic is so natural and endearing, and I couldn’t get enough of it.
The characters overall are incredibly well thought-out, with so much more to them than meets the eye. Even those who seemed rather unlikable reveal some interesting layers of depth and arcs as the story progresses. I found myself unexpectedly liking some characters who at first seemed bratty, rude or even annoying.
The book also delivers some really surprising twists. One revelation near the end in particular caught me quite off guard in the best way. It was so in-your-face that I didn’t even consider it, which made the moment all the more shocking.
Another aspect I really loved was the worldbuilding. The way magic is intertwined with science and mythological influences is really fascinating. The magical, mythical creatures feel incredibly well-developed, with surprisingly realistic explanations for their existence, making them feel believable.
Magic No More is exactly the kind of dragon fantasy book I’ve been searching for, but hadn’t been able to find until now. I'm really happy and thankful for being able to read an ARC of this book. I could barely put it down and I am beyond excited for a part two. I can’t wait to find out what happens next on Marah’s journey!
February 28, 2025
REVIEW WITH NO SPOILERS
OMG HOW CAN I START TO TALK ABOUT THIS BOOK?????
This book is the perfect combination between fantasy, Mediterranean culture, adventure and romance. Since the beginning the book caught me, starting with this school vibe and dragons and then an adventure over the sea. This book gave me Odyssey and Narnia vibes but with more romance and plot twist I NEVER EXPECTED. So many things happens, so many plots that left me surprise, it was almost painful to close the book to go to school, i wanted to keep reading all day.
The romance, the characters are so unique I love each one of them. I don’t know how Joss always makes me hate a character and then love him without notice. The narrative is so light and so simple that literally trapped me inside the story; it was clear and fluent. I totally recommend this book to readers that are starting with fantasy books or readers that love all mythology creatures and humans in the same world.
A book full of magic that changes your mind and even your body.
REVIEW WITH SPOILERS
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OK SO NOW WITH SPOILERS
HELLO??? JOSS?????
A girl that becomes a dragon out of nowhere just because of the magic in the world THIS IS GENIUS i have never read something like this, this kind of metamorphosis she has WOW.
I totally loved the book, this romance thing between Hal and Marah WOW the spicy but also no spicy scenes are my favorite, I felt like i was interrupting, this sexual tension ufffffff. The plot twists i never EVER expected like the volcano god?? Or the end when she discovered her dad was alive omgggg AND i am so excited for continue reading about Petros, he is so mysterious and i think he will have an important role in the next book (I HOPE).
I only have one complain. WHY? WHY BUTTERCUP? I cried so bad when he did what he did, also i felt so betrayed about Hal but a part of me it was expecting it -cry- the last part i was trying to convince myself it was just a nightmare, the storm, all of them on the ship (Odyssey traumas) i forgot my love to mythology and this book returned to me. LOVE IT, now I’m waiting the next one (take your time but not a lot i need to know what happens)
OMG HOW CAN I START TO TALK ABOUT THIS BOOK?????
This book is the perfect combination between fantasy, Mediterranean culture, adventure and romance. Since the beginning the book caught me, starting with this school vibe and dragons and then an adventure over the sea. This book gave me Odyssey and Narnia vibes but with more romance and plot twist I NEVER EXPECTED. So many things happens, so many plots that left me surprise, it was almost painful to close the book to go to school, i wanted to keep reading all day.
The romance, the characters are so unique I love each one of them. I don’t know how Joss always makes me hate a character and then love him without notice. The narrative is so light and so simple that literally trapped me inside the story; it was clear and fluent. I totally recommend this book to readers that are starting with fantasy books or readers that love all mythology creatures and humans in the same world.
A book full of magic that changes your mind and even your body.
REVIEW WITH SPOILERS
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
OK SO NOW WITH SPOILERS
HELLO??? JOSS?????
A girl that becomes a dragon out of nowhere just because of the magic in the world THIS IS GENIUS i have never read something like this, this kind of metamorphosis she has WOW.
I totally loved the book, this romance thing between Hal and Marah WOW the spicy but also no spicy scenes are my favorite, I felt like i was interrupting, this sexual tension ufffffff. The plot twists i never EVER expected like the volcano god?? Or the end when she discovered her dad was alive omgggg AND i am so excited for continue reading about Petros, he is so mysterious and i think he will have an important role in the next book (I HOPE).
I only have one complain. WHY? WHY BUTTERCUP? I cried so bad when he did what he did, also i felt so betrayed about Hal but a part of me it was expecting it -cry- the last part i was trying to convince myself it was just a nightmare, the storm, all of them on the ship (Odyssey traumas) i forgot my love to mythology and this book returned to me. LOVE IT, now I’m waiting the next one (take your time but not a lot i need to know what happens)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 26, 2025
Marah Nicodema is working as a maid in the local university dorms. She spends her time cleaning up after snobby rich kids, while struggling to make ends meet. After one of the lords refuses to listen to the word ‘no’, she accidentally trips onto his pet dragon. As a result, a fire rages across Oxford for two days, and she’s severely wounded, causing strange burn marks on her back.
Cast out of her hometown, Marah has no choice but to seek out the house her father left in his will. But the only way she can get there is by joining a group of scholars on their quest to seek new sources of magic.
Marah is forced to earn her keep aboard a ship, while dealing with the strange side-effects of exposure to dragon magic. She’s joined by an awkward scholar, a spoiled princess, a mermaid, a charming sailor, and the self-absorbed lord who got her in this mess. The people on board aren’t exactly as they seem, but then again, maybe she isn’t either.
🐉Adult Fiction
📖Fantasy England
⚓Ship Adventure
🧪Magic Made from Science
🐈Mutated Creatures
🔥A Dragon Pet
✨First Love
‘Magic No More’ is fast paced with intricate world building and an interesting cast of characters. This book uses a quest format, which means it follows the characters across different locations, while they face various obstacles. With each stop, we learn a little bit more about them and the history of the world they live in. Even though it takes time for the story to get set-up, everything is always moving quickly.
The world building is unique, with lots of little twists that make it different from other things I’ve read. I’m generally not a fan of mixing magic and science, but this story does an interesting job with that. It has a lot of the things that you would expect to find in a high fantasy novel, but with an origin story that’s more similar to Jurassic Park. Some of that worked for me, some of it didn’t, and I’m curious to see where it goes next.
Cast out of her hometown, Marah has no choice but to seek out the house her father left in his will. But the only way she can get there is by joining a group of scholars on their quest to seek new sources of magic.
Marah is forced to earn her keep aboard a ship, while dealing with the strange side-effects of exposure to dragon magic. She’s joined by an awkward scholar, a spoiled princess, a mermaid, a charming sailor, and the self-absorbed lord who got her in this mess. The people on board aren’t exactly as they seem, but then again, maybe she isn’t either.
🐉Adult Fiction
📖Fantasy England
⚓Ship Adventure
🧪Magic Made from Science
🐈Mutated Creatures
🔥A Dragon Pet
✨First Love
‘Magic No More’ is fast paced with intricate world building and an interesting cast of characters. This book uses a quest format, which means it follows the characters across different locations, while they face various obstacles. With each stop, we learn a little bit more about them and the history of the world they live in. Even though it takes time for the story to get set-up, everything is always moving quickly.
The world building is unique, with lots of little twists that make it different from other things I’ve read. I’m generally not a fan of mixing magic and science, but this story does an interesting job with that. It has a lot of the things that you would expect to find in a high fantasy novel, but with an origin story that’s more similar to Jurassic Park. Some of that worked for me, some of it didn’t, and I’m curious to see where it goes next.
March 2, 2025
I absolutely loved Magic No More! This is another wonderful YA book by Joss Stirling, perfectly blending magical academia with a high seas adventure story. The story follows Marah who, after nearly burning down Oxford, joins a research expedition exploring the nature of magic and its current decline.
The world building is fantastic! The crew's voyage through the post apocalyptic flooded world provides opportunities to explore how different cities have adapted to their changing landscape and also how the people view and interact with the magical creatures around them. As someone who loves Greek mythology it was great to see minotaurs, sirens and cyclopses making an appearance!
Like all good adventure stories, the supporting characters who make up the crew of the Blunderbuss and the deepening relationships between them make up the heart of the book. I particularly loved Zin, who brings a sense of fun and excitement to the research trip, and Galahad, the little dragon who started it all. Marah herself is an inspiring protagonist who refuses to be defeated by the situations she finds herself in and who, despite all the changes she goes through in the book, still manages to stay true to herself.
This book has everything: pirates, magic, romance and adventure. And of course, dragons! If you enjoy stories with any of the above then you need to read this book. I can't wait for the sequel!
The world building is fantastic! The crew's voyage through the post apocalyptic flooded world provides opportunities to explore how different cities have adapted to their changing landscape and also how the people view and interact with the magical creatures around them. As someone who loves Greek mythology it was great to see minotaurs, sirens and cyclopses making an appearance!
Like all good adventure stories, the supporting characters who make up the crew of the Blunderbuss and the deepening relationships between them make up the heart of the book. I particularly loved Zin, who brings a sense of fun and excitement to the research trip, and Galahad, the little dragon who started it all. Marah herself is an inspiring protagonist who refuses to be defeated by the situations she finds herself in and who, despite all the changes she goes through in the book, still manages to stay true to herself.
This book has everything: pirates, magic, romance and adventure. And of course, dragons! If you enjoy stories with any of the above then you need to read this book. I can't wait for the sequel!
February 28, 2025
Magic No More by Joss Stirling is an absolute must-read for fantasy lovers!
From the very first page, this book pulls you into a world where magic is vanishing, and the race to understand why is filled with danger, unexpected alliances, and breathtaking discoveries. Marah, our fierce yet deeply relatable protagonist, is wrongly exiled and thrown into an expedition that challenges everything she knows,not just about magic, but about herself that makes your get amazed by every page you turn.
What I loved most was the rich world building, I mean, each location has its own distinct culture, shaped by rising sea levels and their reliance and in some cases,rejection of magic, its incredible how we can see several perspectives about it!
The magic system itself feels fresh and unpredictable, evolving in ways that are both thrilling and terrifying. Not to mention you’ve got a cast of characters that leap off the page.
The pacing is perfect, blending high-seas adventure, dark academia, and pulse-pounding action. Joss Stirling never fails when we talk about great stories, for real!
If you love fantasy with deep lore, unforgettable characters, and twists that leave you breathless, you need to read Magic No More. Highly recommended!
Can’t finish to thank the opportunity to read the Arc book, reading this in behalf was like a dream,thanks you so much!
From the very first page, this book pulls you into a world where magic is vanishing, and the race to understand why is filled with danger, unexpected alliances, and breathtaking discoveries. Marah, our fierce yet deeply relatable protagonist, is wrongly exiled and thrown into an expedition that challenges everything she knows,not just about magic, but about herself that makes your get amazed by every page you turn.
What I loved most was the rich world building, I mean, each location has its own distinct culture, shaped by rising sea levels and their reliance and in some cases,rejection of magic, its incredible how we can see several perspectives about it!
The magic system itself feels fresh and unpredictable, evolving in ways that are both thrilling and terrifying. Not to mention you’ve got a cast of characters that leap off the page.
The pacing is perfect, blending high-seas adventure, dark academia, and pulse-pounding action. Joss Stirling never fails when we talk about great stories, for real!
If you love fantasy with deep lore, unforgettable characters, and twists that leave you breathless, you need to read Magic No More. Highly recommended!
Can’t finish to thank the opportunity to read the Arc book, reading this in behalf was like a dream,thanks you so much!
March 2, 2025
From the very first chapter, this story captivated me with its perfect blend of adventure, romance, and character development that feels authentic. Marah is a layered protagonist whose growth feels natural and profound, while Galahad, is a fascinating character who brings not only grandeur but also an emotional depth that enriches the story.
One of the things that surprised me the most was how unpredictable the plot was. After reading so many books, I usually get a sense of where a story is headed from the very beginning—I can often predict the main plot and even the ending. But this time? Not at all. The story kept me on my toes, and I truly had to move forward with it to discover what would happen next.
The romantic tension adds that spark that keeps you hooked, and overall, the narrative has a nostalgic feel that reminded me why I fell in love with reading in the first place. If you ever enjoyed Joss Stirling’s books, you’ll feel like this story has grown with you, offering a richer plot and characters that leave a lasting impression.
Definitely a must-read for those looking for accessible fantasy with just the right touch of depth to make it truly special.
One of the things that surprised me the most was how unpredictable the plot was. After reading so many books, I usually get a sense of where a story is headed from the very beginning—I can often predict the main plot and even the ending. But this time? Not at all. The story kept me on my toes, and I truly had to move forward with it to discover what would happen next.
The romantic tension adds that spark that keeps you hooked, and overall, the narrative has a nostalgic feel that reminded me why I fell in love with reading in the first place. If you ever enjoyed Joss Stirling’s books, you’ll feel like this story has grown with you, offering a richer plot and characters that leave a lasting impression.
Definitely a must-read for those looking for accessible fantasy with just the right touch of depth to make it truly special.
February 27, 2025
Oh, there's so much I'd love to say, but all would be spoilers. And nobody wants any of these unexpected plot twists spoiled! Just read along for the high entertainment factor, for Magic No More is fun and moves at the speed of a dragon's flight.
One of the elements I particularly like is the clever, subtle, topical world-building ... this is our world, only a couple of hundred years in the future and a little strange because of science and magic. There are sailing ships (my fav), and dragons, which are not quite like other literary dragons; more than a little Greek mythology weaves through the tale, and the magic is unexpected. The whole I found light, delightful, and perfect escape for the funk of these dark times.
I must thank the author, Joss Stirling, and the publisher for the opportunity to read an ARC before my purchased copy actually arrives.
(And no, I didn't actually take two weeks to read it; just left it as "currently" reading so that beautiful cover could entice others to want to read!)
One of the elements I particularly like is the clever, subtle, topical world-building ... this is our world, only a couple of hundred years in the future and a little strange because of science and magic. There are sailing ships (my fav), and dragons, which are not quite like other literary dragons; more than a little Greek mythology weaves through the tale, and the magic is unexpected. The whole I found light, delightful, and perfect escape for the funk of these dark times.
I must thank the author, Joss Stirling, and the publisher for the opportunity to read an ARC before my purchased copy actually arrives.
(And no, I didn't actually take two weeks to read it; just left it as "currently" reading so that beautiful cover could entice others to want to read!)
February 28, 2025
I loved magic no more
The story captivates you from the moment you start reading it; Marah is a very authentic character as are the other characters who have different motivations for carrying out the adventure.
Joss Stirling's narrative and writing captivates you and takes you into that world. If you like fantasy, dark academia, powers and magical creatures you will definitely like this story.
I'm from Mexico and I had the opportunity to read it, I can't wait to read it again in Spanish.
Mi opinión en español es que realmente vale la pena la historia te atrapa y en lo personal el final no decepciona realmente espero con ansias la siguiente parte.
Soy fanática de los dragones y cuando vi que Joss Stirling publicaría un libro de dragones me emocione tanto.
The story captivates you from the moment you start reading it; Marah is a very authentic character as are the other characters who have different motivations for carrying out the adventure.
Joss Stirling's narrative and writing captivates you and takes you into that world. If you like fantasy, dark academia, powers and magical creatures you will definitely like this story.
I'm from Mexico and I had the opportunity to read it, I can't wait to read it again in Spanish.
Mi opinión en español es que realmente vale la pena la historia te atrapa y en lo personal el final no decepciona realmente espero con ansias la siguiente parte.
Soy fanática de los dragones y cuando vi que Joss Stirling publicaría un libro de dragones me emocione tanto.
February 28, 2025
Absolutely captivating! I didn’t expect Magic No More to pull me in this much, but wow—what a story! Once I got into it, I was completely hooked. The characters are so vivid and unique, and their growth throughout the book makes them feel incredibly real.
It’s rare to find a dragon story that feels fresh, but this one absolutely does. There’s a perfect mix of action, emotion, and mystery that kept me turning the pages. And that ending? Let’s just say I need to know what happens next!
If you love fantasy with rich world-building and unforgettable characters, don’t miss this one!
It’s rare to find a dragon story that feels fresh, but this one absolutely does. There’s a perfect mix of action, emotion, and mystery that kept me turning the pages. And that ending? Let’s just say I need to know what happens next!
If you love fantasy with rich world-building and unforgettable characters, don’t miss this one!
February 28, 2025
As someone who devoured all Joss Stirling's books as a teenager, it was an absolute pleasure to -as an adult- read her new book that seems to be targeting a slightly older public than her other books.
The story of Marah was full of unexpected adventures keeping me on the edge of my seat (of maybe in this case, tail).
I very much enjoyed the world the story is set in, the characters and their development and the storyline.
The only downside: having to wait for the next part! I hope we'll get to continue Marah's journey with her.
The story of Marah was full of unexpected adventures keeping me on the edge of my seat (of maybe in this case, tail).
I very much enjoyed the world the story is set in, the characters and their development and the storyline.
The only downside: having to wait for the next part! I hope we'll get to continue Marah's journey with her.
March 2, 2025
Magic No More has one of the most interesting magic systems I've read about in a long time. It makes sense yet still makes you wonder at the possibilities. I like the idea of rooting the magic in a sort of science and tying it to our world that way, without it seeming all that far fetched.
I really enjoyed the pacing and world building within the story. We are not spoon fed anything but the way the world unfolds along the journey of the characters feels very natural. I'm excited to see how things turn out for Marah!
I really enjoyed the pacing and world building within the story. We are not spoon fed anything but the way the world unfolds along the journey of the characters feels very natural. I'm excited to see how things turn out for Marah!
February 28, 2025
Exiled after being wrongly blamed for a city's ruin, Marah is thrust into a high-stakes race against time. She joins a treacherous expedition to stem the decay of magic, encountering a relentless adversary, a ferocious dragon, and a charming sailor. With magic warping her from the inside out, Marah must struggle to maintain her identity. Stirling's compelling narrative, featuring Marah and her companions, is sure to captivate. It deserves 5 stars for sure
March 26, 2025
Magic No More by Joss Stirling blends fantasy with dark academia, set in a post-apocalyptic world where rising sea levels have reshaped civilization. Now, magic—something society has come to rely on—is starting to fade, and no one knows why. A research team sets out to uncover its origins and Marah, a servant girl, is forced to join the mission. The problem? The more she learns about magic, the more it starts changing her in ways she never expected.
Let me start by saying — I absolutely LOVED the worldbuilding! Each city has its own distinct way of adapting to the floods. Some rely on magic to keep their land above water, while others have strict anti-magic beliefs, creating political tension. The way magic was treated as both a scientific discovery and a natural force made the world feel unique and well thought out. I do wish we got a little more context early on, though. The book jumps straight into the action, which I love, but it was also confusing at first. A prologue or a little bit more exposition might have helped with that.
Even though the story is plot-driven and fast-paced, there’s still room for strong character development. Marah grows a lot throughout the book, and her ragtag crew is full of strong personalities, like princess Zin (who refuses to let anyone tell her what to do) and Galahad, an overgrown-cat-of-a-dragon who I now desperately want as a pet. What I also really liked is that every character has their own motivations and struggles—they don’t just exist to support Marah’s journey but feel like fully realized people with their own goals.
Magic No More completely hooked me, and the ending? Absolutely brutal in the best way. I’m not a big fan of cliffhangers, but this one landed perfectly. Now the real question is: when can I read book two?!
Read if you like:
⟢ Dark academia meets high-seas adventure.
⟢ A post-apocalyptic world with merfolk, sirens and minotaurs.
⟢ A mischievous dragon who is part fierce protector, fully pyromaniac.
⟢ Handsome pirates. Enough said.
⟢ A cliffhanger that will leave you staring at the last page in shock.
I’d like to thank the author and publisher for the ARC—loved getting an early peek at this one!
Let me start by saying — I absolutely LOVED the worldbuilding! Each city has its own distinct way of adapting to the floods. Some rely on magic to keep their land above water, while others have strict anti-magic beliefs, creating political tension. The way magic was treated as both a scientific discovery and a natural force made the world feel unique and well thought out. I do wish we got a little more context early on, though. The book jumps straight into the action, which I love, but it was also confusing at first. A prologue or a little bit more exposition might have helped with that.
Even though the story is plot-driven and fast-paced, there’s still room for strong character development. Marah grows a lot throughout the book, and her ragtag crew is full of strong personalities, like princess Zin (who refuses to let anyone tell her what to do) and Galahad, an overgrown-cat-of-a-dragon who I now desperately want as a pet. What I also really liked is that every character has their own motivations and struggles—they don’t just exist to support Marah’s journey but feel like fully realized people with their own goals.
Magic No More completely hooked me, and the ending? Absolutely brutal in the best way. I’m not a big fan of cliffhangers, but this one landed perfectly. Now the real question is: when can I read book two?!
Read if you like:
⟢ Dark academia meets high-seas adventure.
⟢ A post-apocalyptic world with merfolk, sirens and minotaurs.
⟢ A mischievous dragon who is part fierce protector, fully pyromaniac.
⟢ Handsome pirates. Enough said.
⟢ A cliffhanger that will leave you staring at the last page in shock.
I’d like to thank the author and publisher for the ARC—loved getting an early peek at this one!
February 28, 2025
Dragons, magic, and a setting that feels familiar yet unrecognisable!
When I heard we were getting a new Joss Stirling book I was so excited, and then when I received an ARC copy I was ecstatic!!
This book was so fun, a quick read full of magic, adventure, quirky characters and twists and turns. I love Galahad 💖
When I heard we were getting a new Joss Stirling book I was so excited, and then when I received an ARC copy I was ecstatic!!
This book was so fun, a quick read full of magic, adventure, quirky characters and twists and turns. I love Galahad 💖
May 6, 2025
Magic No More is full of adventure. It's fun and well paced, taking you for a ride.
I haven't read a magic system like this before - it's so vast. It reaches each new place you visit in different ways which is great when you collect new characters from various backgrounds along the way. It's interesting learning with the characters how the magic in this world is evolving within their bodies and how far it spreads. This isn't something I've encountered before and it was very refreshing!
Marah is so relatable. Her thoughts - ahem, me too girl - especially. If you want to read about a character who isn't necessarily good at things the first time round, makes mistakes and has to learn on the fly, she's your girl. She's strong but still struggles and has a lot to figure out. You learn with her, even her challenges outside of magic. Basically like the rest of us.
Well worth the read!
I haven't read a magic system like this before - it's so vast. It reaches each new place you visit in different ways which is great when you collect new characters from various backgrounds along the way. It's interesting learning with the characters how the magic in this world is evolving within their bodies and how far it spreads. This isn't something I've encountered before and it was very refreshing!
Marah is so relatable. Her thoughts - ahem, me too girl - especially. If you want to read about a character who isn't necessarily good at things the first time round, makes mistakes and has to learn on the fly, she's your girl. She's strong but still struggles and has a lot to figure out. You learn with her, even her challenges outside of magic. Basically like the rest of us.
Well worth the read!
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