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The Magic They Locked Away
Kathy was no ordinary girl. She possessed a gift the world feared and called madness. At just nine years old, she was locked away in a mental asylum, condemned for what no one cared to understand.Now older and painfully aware of her surroundings, Kathy senses the truth within the asylum’s restless spirits, creeping shadows, and vengeful forces that refuse to sleep. They are dangerous, and they are watching.With the help of her friends and a mysterious boy who has unexpectedly captured her heart, Kathy must find a way to escape. But freedom will only be possible if she learns to embrace and control the very ability that once doomed her.
264 pages, Paperback
Published January 20, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 3 of 3 reviews
January 25, 2026
Really fantastic read. Thoroughly enjoyed it, from start to finish! Kathy is such an incredible character! Loved how the magical elememts slowly crept into the story. The story just seemed to build and build so it became really rich and vivid. The final chapters were so well written and led to a beautiful end. Can't wait for the next one!
January 26, 2026
Obsessed with this book, would rate higher if possible, highly recommend 😍
February 7, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A haunting, tender fantasy that lingers long after the final page
The Magic They Locked Away is a beautifully dark and emotional debut that blends fantasy, horror, and love in a way that feels raw and deeply human. Set within the walls of an active mental asylum, the story explores hidden magic, restless spirits, and the damage caused when people are silenced instead of understood.
Kathy is a compelling protagonist — fragile, fierce, and slowly learning the cost of her power. The magic in this story isn’t flashy; it’s painful, restrained, and earned. Every ghost carries a history, every corridor holds memory, and the asylum itself feels alive with sorrow and secrets.
What truly elevates the novel is its heart. The relationships — especially the quiet, growing love between Kathy and Joseph — feel natural and sincere, offering warmth against the chilling backdrop. Themes of trauma, loss, and survival are handled with care, making the story as emotionally powerful as it is unsettling.
This book is perfect for readers who love dark fantasy with meaning, stories about found family, and magic that comes with consequences. A striking debut that proves imagination can be both beautiful and brave
A haunting, tender fantasy that lingers long after the final page
The Magic They Locked Away is a beautifully dark and emotional debut that blends fantasy, horror, and love in a way that feels raw and deeply human. Set within the walls of an active mental asylum, the story explores hidden magic, restless spirits, and the damage caused when people are silenced instead of understood.
Kathy is a compelling protagonist — fragile, fierce, and slowly learning the cost of her power. The magic in this story isn’t flashy; it’s painful, restrained, and earned. Every ghost carries a history, every corridor holds memory, and the asylum itself feels alive with sorrow and secrets.
What truly elevates the novel is its heart. The relationships — especially the quiet, growing love between Kathy and Joseph — feel natural and sincere, offering warmth against the chilling backdrop. Themes of trauma, loss, and survival are handled with care, making the story as emotionally powerful as it is unsettling.
This book is perfect for readers who love dark fantasy with meaning, stories about found family, and magic that comes with consequences. A striking debut that proves imagination can be both beautiful and brave
Displaying 1 - 3 of 3 reviews