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The Serving Magic #2
Lady Mage: Serving Magic, Book 2
Old fay magic. A new clan chief. And a crooked necromancer—has he brought back Linden’s worst nightmare?
**2022 B.R.A.G. Medallion Award**
**2022 First Place - Clean YA Fantasy - Incipere Awards**
Although Linden is now a Master Mage, she’s struggling to adjust to her new duties. Her advisors are more concerned with keeping her safe than listening to her warnings about the dark magic gathering along the borders.
But that all changes when a fay scout delivers shocking Mordahn has returned from beyond the grave. Even worse, he’s discovered the ancient places of power, which are fueling his war machine.
Linden must team up with Mordahn’s arrogant nephew to destroy the places of power—but will they be able to save their homeland before it’s too late?
If you love warring kingdoms, strong, sassy heroines, and slow-burn clean romance, discover Serving Magic, a complete epic romantic fantasy series for fans of Shari L. Tapscott, Kenley Davidson, and Melanie Cellier.
**2022 B.R.A.G. Medallion Award**
**2022 First Place - Clean YA Fantasy - Incipere Awards**
Although Linden is now a Master Mage, she’s struggling to adjust to her new duties. Her advisors are more concerned with keeping her safe than listening to her warnings about the dark magic gathering along the borders.
But that all changes when a fay scout delivers shocking Mordahn has returned from beyond the grave. Even worse, he’s discovered the ancient places of power, which are fueling his war machine.
Linden must team up with Mordahn’s arrogant nephew to destroy the places of power—but will they be able to save their homeland before it’s too late?
If you love warring kingdoms, strong, sassy heroines, and slow-burn clean romance, discover Serving Magic, a complete epic romantic fantasy series for fans of Shari L. Tapscott, Kenley Davidson, and Melanie Cellier.
Audible Audio
Published November 4, 2024
102 people are currently reading
213 people want to read
About the author
Toni Cabell
23 books140 followersI write Clean, Closed Door Fantasy Romance for teens, new adults, and adults.
My novels have won Silver and Bronze Medals in The Wishing Shelf Book Awards, two Gold Medals in the Global Book Awards, and multiple.\ B.R.A.G. Medallion.
Click my website link below to join my newsletter and receive a Free Novella!
https://tonicabell.com/giveaway
My novels have won Silver and Bronze Medals in The Wishing Shelf Book Awards, two Gold Medals in the Global Book Awards, and multiple.\ B.R.A.G. Medallion.
Click my website link below to join my newsletter and receive a Free Novella!
https://tonicabell.com/giveaway
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
October 2, 2022
This is a great book about magical person that seems like a everyday person fighting normal problems. For this I would recommend getting the first book to understand more what's going on. All the books so far have been great addiction and a real page turner.
September 19, 2022
Lady Mage is a continuation of Toni Cabells Serving Magic series, starring Linden, who began as a nervous refugee fleeing her dangerous home of Valerra but by the end of book #2 has become a woman who stands in her own power. As Liege of Faywood, Linden has to balance learning about her new home and its many particular standards, trying to find time to spend with her love Stryker whose having some difficulty with her as his new liege, and silently mourning for her missing brother and past life in Valerra, which has been occupied. On top of all this, Linden's greatest foe, Mordahn, has risen from the dead after she was sure she'd vanquished him once and for all. Lady Mage is full of characters you can empathize with and relate to, making the magical twists and turns even more thrilling.
July 11, 2024
A WISHING SHELF BOOK REVIEW
10th November 2022
TITLE: LADY MAGE, A Serving Magic Book – Volume Two
AUTHOR: TONI CABELL
Star Rating: 4
“A dark, fantasy sequel with a strong, skilfully planned plot.” The Wishing Shelf
REVIEW
Having very much enjoyed the first book, Lady Apprentice, I was excited to jump into book two, Lady Mage. And, I must say, it´s very good. It follows Linden, a girl with magical talents, who is now a Master. But her world is on the brink of disaster as dark magic gathers along the borders. A dark wizard is back, and she must find a way of destroying his power.
To begin with, I wouldn´t recommend reading this book first. There´s a lot of backstory in the first book that´s too important to miss, and I think many readers will struggle if they try skipping it. And anyway, why would you want to? Lady Apprentice is a gem! Moving on, Lady Mage has a bit of a slow start but, by Chapter Three, I was totally enthralled. I very much enjoyed seeing Linden develop not only as a character but also in her magical ability. There´s even a little romance which the author handled well, not allowing it to swamp the story.
Overall, I loved this book, and I´m keen to check out book three! The story is enthralling, the magic system is clever, and the chemistry between the characters is often electrifying. Personally, I feel the first book is stronger, but this is still an excellent follow up, and I suspect fans of Linden and her magical journey will find much to enjoy here. But remember to read Lady Apprentice first; you´ll then be fully ´in the know´ and all set to enjoy this captivating, and slightly dark, adventure.
A ‘Wishing Shelf’ Book Review
www.thewsa.co.uk
This book was entered in The Wishing Shelf Book Awards. This is what our readers thought:
Title: Lady Mage
Author: Toni Cabell
Star Rating: 4 Stars
Number of Readers: 15
Stats
Editing: 8/10
Writing Style: 7/10
Content: 8/10
Cover: 2/5
Of the 15 readers:
11 would read another book by this author.
8 thought the cover was good or excellent.
15 felt it was easy to follow.
12 would recommend this book to another reader to try.
Of all the readers, 6 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘plotting a story’.
Of all the readers, 6 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘developing the characters’.
Of all the readers, 3 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘writing style’.
9 felt the pacing was good or excellent.
11 thought the author understood the readership and what they wanted.
Readers’ Comments
“I went back and read Lady Apprentice, so I understood Linden´s story better. This is a good fantasy story but it´s important to read the books in order. I liked the protagonist and how she developed through the story.” Female reader, aged 16
“Linden developed a lot from book 1 to book 2. I think that´s a sign of a good writer.” Male reader, aged 15
“Sort of slow to get going, but it´s fab by Chapter Three. Linden is the sort of character teenagers will understand. She´s sort of normal in many ways, and she´s not the best mage in the world! But I liked that. This is an exciting adventure with the return of Mordahn.” Female reader, aged 14
“I liked how the author put in a little romance, a little humour, and a lot of adventure. It helps that Linden is cool to get to know.” Female reader, aged 15
To Sum It Up:
‘A twisting magical plot and a strong, relatable protagonist.’ The Wishing Shelf Book Awards
10th November 2022
TITLE: LADY MAGE, A Serving Magic Book – Volume Two
AUTHOR: TONI CABELL
Star Rating: 4
“A dark, fantasy sequel with a strong, skilfully planned plot.” The Wishing Shelf
REVIEW
Having very much enjoyed the first book, Lady Apprentice, I was excited to jump into book two, Lady Mage. And, I must say, it´s very good. It follows Linden, a girl with magical talents, who is now a Master. But her world is on the brink of disaster as dark magic gathers along the borders. A dark wizard is back, and she must find a way of destroying his power.
To begin with, I wouldn´t recommend reading this book first. There´s a lot of backstory in the first book that´s too important to miss, and I think many readers will struggle if they try skipping it. And anyway, why would you want to? Lady Apprentice is a gem! Moving on, Lady Mage has a bit of a slow start but, by Chapter Three, I was totally enthralled. I very much enjoyed seeing Linden develop not only as a character but also in her magical ability. There´s even a little romance which the author handled well, not allowing it to swamp the story.
Overall, I loved this book, and I´m keen to check out book three! The story is enthralling, the magic system is clever, and the chemistry between the characters is often electrifying. Personally, I feel the first book is stronger, but this is still an excellent follow up, and I suspect fans of Linden and her magical journey will find much to enjoy here. But remember to read Lady Apprentice first; you´ll then be fully ´in the know´ and all set to enjoy this captivating, and slightly dark, adventure.
A ‘Wishing Shelf’ Book Review
www.thewsa.co.uk
This book was entered in The Wishing Shelf Book Awards. This is what our readers thought:
Title: Lady Mage
Author: Toni Cabell
Star Rating: 4 Stars
Number of Readers: 15
Stats
Editing: 8/10
Writing Style: 7/10
Content: 8/10
Cover: 2/5
Of the 15 readers:
11 would read another book by this author.
8 thought the cover was good or excellent.
15 felt it was easy to follow.
12 would recommend this book to another reader to try.
Of all the readers, 6 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘plotting a story’.
Of all the readers, 6 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘developing the characters’.
Of all the readers, 3 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘writing style’.
9 felt the pacing was good or excellent.
11 thought the author understood the readership and what they wanted.
Readers’ Comments
“I went back and read Lady Apprentice, so I understood Linden´s story better. This is a good fantasy story but it´s important to read the books in order. I liked the protagonist and how she developed through the story.” Female reader, aged 16
“Linden developed a lot from book 1 to book 2. I think that´s a sign of a good writer.” Male reader, aged 15
“Sort of slow to get going, but it´s fab by Chapter Three. Linden is the sort of character teenagers will understand. She´s sort of normal in many ways, and she´s not the best mage in the world! But I liked that. This is an exciting adventure with the return of Mordahn.” Female reader, aged 14
“I liked how the author put in a little romance, a little humour, and a lot of adventure. It helps that Linden is cool to get to know.” Female reader, aged 15
To Sum It Up:
‘A twisting magical plot and a strong, relatable protagonist.’ The Wishing Shelf Book Awards
September 23, 2021
Excellent read
I love how the characters of this series seam like real every day people just trying their best to not only survive but to thrive!
I love how the characters of this series seam like real every day people just trying their best to not only survive but to thrive!
August 18, 2021
Having grown since the last book, the main character is a bit more self assured and skilled (though there are still many doubts).
I strongly recommend reading this book as a continuation of a series instead of a standalone book. Outside enemies and internal doubts are the main issues. There is some romance and personal tragedy as well. The strong world building and intriguing magics continue in this book.
Worth the read and continuing to the next.
I strongly recommend reading this book as a continuation of a series instead of a standalone book. Outside enemies and internal doubts are the main issues. There is some romance and personal tragedy as well. The strong world building and intriguing magics continue in this book.
Worth the read and continuing to the next.
May 21, 2022
Lady Mage
Lady Mage is a very well written story. I had a hard time putting it down. The characters are well rounded. The plot is very well written. The story flows well. I would recommend this book to anyone who loves fantasy.
Lady Mage is a very well written story. I had a hard time putting it down. The characters are well rounded. The plot is very well written. The story flows well. I would recommend this book to anyone who loves fantasy.
August 6, 2025
Audio Review:
🌹Lady Mage, Serving Magic Book 2 @tonicabellwrites🌹
Narrated by @narratorlisalynn
*Note: This is book 2, you need to read/listen to book 1 in order to understand what is going on in this story.
We join Linden again in the continuation of her story. She is now a Master Mage with new duties. Her advisors don’t want to take her warnings about the dark magic that is gathering. That is until a fay scout brings news that Mordahn has returned from beyond the grave and he has new tricks up his sleeve.
Mordahn’s power is growing and strange creatures are showing up. Will Linden and her allies survive or will all be lost? Is there room for love to blossom as she must fight Mordahn again?
Toni has such a way at creating and forming interesting and amazing worlds. As the story unfolds I feel as if I am Linden and living out the story with her. There were many moments of this story that had me at the edge of my seat, anxious to hear that all is ok.
Lisa Lynn narrated as always she has done a marvelous job at bringing this story alive. Her narrations are always given their own voice and feel, her tones of speaking keep me engaged in the story.
I listened to this at 1.1x
That spider scene should have been a TW….. why was it written so well?! And then Lisa’s narration of it, I felt like there was a spider on me!!!
December 5, 2024
After loving Lady Apprentice, I was excited to read this next book in the Serving Magic series.
Linden, the new Leige and a Master Mage, is young and still learning her new duties. She's also full of determination despite her advisors trying to protect her and ignoring her warnings about the threat of fallow (dark) magic.
When an old enemy resurfaces, Linden, her friends, a new Clan chief, and some new fay characters must work together to defeat him. Every chapter forced me on to the next until I knew how the story ended. It was so good!
I loved how Linden's friends supported her throughout every battle, tragedy, and victory. I especially loved Corbahn, the enemy's arrogant nephew, who sides with Linden. I won't say anything more because I don't want to give any spoilers.
This is a fantastic YA fantasy series with no swearing and kisses only. Although each book is a complete story, you should read Lady Apprentice first to understand the characters better.
I can't wait to read Lady Liege next.
Linden, the new Leige and a Master Mage, is young and still learning her new duties. She's also full of determination despite her advisors trying to protect her and ignoring her warnings about the threat of fallow (dark) magic.
When an old enemy resurfaces, Linden, her friends, a new Clan chief, and some new fay characters must work together to defeat him. Every chapter forced me on to the next until I knew how the story ended. It was so good!
I loved how Linden's friends supported her throughout every battle, tragedy, and victory. I especially loved Corbahn, the enemy's arrogant nephew, who sides with Linden. I won't say anything more because I don't want to give any spoilers.
This is a fantastic YA fantasy series with no swearing and kisses only. Although each book is a complete story, you should read Lady Apprentice first to understand the characters better.
I can't wait to read Lady Liege next.
March 19, 2025
I really enjoy and appreciate how Cabell structures her books, they fit nicely for those who want slowburn but those of us who are impatient also get the payoff in the book too. It's a very good stopping point between each book in the series where I really want to read the next but it's not this awful cliffhanger that destroys you as you wait for the next book.
Things progressed nicely in this story, the characters achieved some goals. However, I'm not sure I'll ever forgive Cabell for the character whose story ended here. It broke my heart and I had to pause the narration to fully take it in.
I absolutely adore the romance blooming in this story and think it's a better, healthier romance. I also loved the plot twists you see come to light by the end. I'm really intrigued to see how the story will end!
Things progressed nicely in this story, the characters achieved some goals. However, I'm not sure I'll ever forgive Cabell for the character whose story ended here. It broke my heart and I had to pause the narration to fully take it in.
I absolutely adore the romance blooming in this story and think it's a better, healthier romance. I also loved the plot twists you see come to light by the end. I'm really intrigued to see how the story will end!
November 12, 2024
Audiobook: I thought book two was as entertaining as the first book in the series. I felt for Linden as she struggled with her new role as Liege, with her advisors who wanted to keep her safe, and her abilities which warned that dark magic was growing in strength. I liked the twists and turns. I enjoyed the camaraderie of Linden and her friends. I was entertained by the scenes of battle. I thought Lisa Lynn Sandlin's narration was good, and her performance enhanced the story's entertainment. I was given a copy of the audiobook. I volunteered, without financial gain, to post this review which reflected my honest opinions regarding this audiobook.
February 24, 2023
I enjoyed this second installment in Linden's story... more than I originally thought I would. Though there were more war-based and evil creature-related scenes than I would normally prefer, I guess I wasn't surprised after reading the first book in the series. I am a bit disappointed at the way Stryker's plot line went, as well as the loss of one of the major characters, yet I am invested in the rest of the players and storylines, so I will keep reading this series. I definitely want to find out what happens with Matteo and Valerra!
November 24, 2025
This was a greatest continuation of the series! I'm listening to the audiobook, and enjoyed the narrator.
I really appreciate that Linden, though young, is pretty mature for her age -- something I often struggle with when reading YA books.
But the characters are mostly mature, there's a lot of action, a splash of romance, and issues that will relate to coming-of-age readers.
So if you're looking for YA books, or want some fantasy that's easier reading -- or, say, listening, like while driving all day -- then this is a great choice!
I really appreciate that Linden, though young, is pretty mature for her age -- something I often struggle with when reading YA books.
But the characters are mostly mature, there's a lot of action, a splash of romance, and issues that will relate to coming-of-age readers.
So if you're looking for YA books, or want some fantasy that's easier reading -- or, say, listening, like while driving all day -- then this is a great choice!
August 3, 2024
Dorihms, grihms, necromancers & magic
Linden continues to grow in her knowledge of Serving Magic and spells. She is strong in her determination to rid the land of fallow magic. Corbahn is handsome, proud, and grumpy most of the time, but he supports Linden when needed. There are lots of adventures and action, good times and bad, successes and failures. Linden makes new friends and loses some. A great story of good overpowering evil. And there’s more adventures to come!
Linden continues to grow in her knowledge of Serving Magic and spells. She is strong in her determination to rid the land of fallow magic. Corbahn is handsome, proud, and grumpy most of the time, but he supports Linden when needed. There are lots of adventures and action, good times and bad, successes and failures. Linden makes new friends and loses some. A great story of good overpowering evil. And there’s more adventures to come!
December 8, 2023
Action aplenty
We find ourselves drawn into a young mages battle against a foul and menacing people who have embraced the ways of evil magic. Her own land has been crushed, and now she must rally the five clans to help her overcome enemy before they also are consumed.
This story envelops you while leaving you want
We find ourselves drawn into a young mages battle against a foul and menacing people who have embraced the ways of evil magic. Her own land has been crushed, and now she must rally the five clans to help her overcome enemy before they also are consumed.
This story envelops you while leaving you want
February 14, 2025
Lady mage
What a fantastic series of books this is an epic tale I highly recommend Lindon is an intrepid hero , the characters are so thought out I consider them friends and the storylines are brilliant I can't wait to read the next in series a very well deserved 5 stars
What a fantastic series of books this is an epic tale I highly recommend Lindon is an intrepid hero , the characters are so thought out I consider them friends and the storylines are brilliant I can't wait to read the next in series a very well deserved 5 stars
November 13, 2025
Linden's story continues in book 2 of this captivating good vs evil series. Includes magic, spells, action, drama, adventure, mayhem, danger, tragedy, situations, battles, threats, struggles, interactions, romance, sass, emotions, and twists.
June 6, 2022
Quit reading
The first book was bearable, but this one gets worse. The mages are pathetic and its all about the queen, boring with a capital b.
The first book was bearable, but this one gets worse. The mages are pathetic and its all about the queen, boring with a capital b.
March 7, 2025
As Linden continues to uncover her family’s history & how it leads into the current ongoing war. Plus she is basically now the Queen of the Fae! So as she is making personal discoveries & trying to end the war she has all this new responsibilities. I definitely don’t want to be in her shoes. It definitely had more magic & creatures & life threatening experiences. I enjoyed continuing the series.
November 17, 2022
We are proud to announce that LADY MAGE (The Serving Magic, #2) by Toni Cabell has been honored with the B.R.A.G.Medallion (Book Readers Appreciation Group). It now joins the very select award-winning, reader-recommended books at indieBRAG.
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews