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American Magic: A Thriller
In this fast-paced, international thriller, chaos erupts after a shadowy figure with ties to an elite and ancient society posts incantations on the dark web that allow people to perform real magic.
When an enigmatic message uploaded to the dark web turns out to contain an ancient secret giving regular people the power to do impossible things, like levitate cars or make themselves invisible, American government officials panic. They know the demo videos on YouTube and instructions for incantations could turn from fantastical amusement to dangerous weapon at the drop of the hat, and they scramble to keep the information out of the wrong hands.
They tap Ben Zolstra, an ex-CIA field operative whose history with the Agency is conflicted at best, to lead the team that’s racing to contain the dangerous knowledge—and track down the mysterious figure behind the leak who threatens that even more dangerous spells will be released one by one until the world as we know it no longer exists.
This sweeping, globe-spanning thriller explores the dark consequences of a question mankind has been asking for centuries: What if magic were real?
When an enigmatic message uploaded to the dark web turns out to contain an ancient secret giving regular people the power to do impossible things, like levitate cars or make themselves invisible, American government officials panic. They know the demo videos on YouTube and instructions for incantations could turn from fantastical amusement to dangerous weapon at the drop of the hat, and they scramble to keep the information out of the wrong hands.
They tap Ben Zolstra, an ex-CIA field operative whose history with the Agency is conflicted at best, to lead the team that’s racing to contain the dangerous knowledge—and track down the mysterious figure behind the leak who threatens that even more dangerous spells will be released one by one until the world as we know it no longer exists.
This sweeping, globe-spanning thriller explores the dark consequences of a question mankind has been asking for centuries: What if magic were real?
320 pages, Hardcover
First published August 1, 2019
27 people are currently reading
243 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews
June 21, 2019
Eh, this is an excellent example of why I shouldn't read thrillers. To me, it seems like they are so focused on action that they don't flesh out the random cool ideas that ought to be the backbone of the plot. So, we have things like researchers who come up with some pretty wild conclusions but never explain how they got there since it would be IMPOSSIBLE. Why yes, somehow I deduced all this stuff about prehistory with no artifacts or anything... Or later on when our hero uses the knowledge of TWO spells to somehow correctly extrapolate to completely unrelated spells... and then just keep rambling on into "cool idea" territory with even less evidence. It drives me nuts. Or the way that one of the major villains is just so ridiculous. Yeah, stories about villains whose pride or whatever gets in the way of their victory can be quite satisfying. But only if they seem competent in the first place.
Anyway, I'm going to stop ranting and just say three stars because I think people who DO like thrillers probably won't care about that and can just enjoy the ride.
Anyway, I'm going to stop ranting and just say three stars because I think people who DO like thrillers probably won't care about that and can just enjoy the ride.
August 21, 2019
American Magic is an unusual mix of international thriller and fantasy with magic being at the very epicentre of the story, and for a debut, it's a solid read. Despite the somewhat stereotypical characters we meet there is a great plot and plenty of excitement to keep readers engaged throughout. Fehst has the potential to become one of the most interesting contemporary fantasy writers as he pens a story with perfect pacing, non-stop action and lots of unexpected surprises along the way. It pulls you in from the first page and I must admit I really didn't want it to end I was enjoying it that much. The fact that the unnerving dark web plays a substantial role in the plot makes it all the more creepy, dangerous and well, simply downright impossible to put down.
Based on the idea that one mysterious man who lurks in the shadows is releasing details on how magic actually works and the CIA and many squads are investing time and assets to shut this guy down once and for all. It's a far murkier world than you'd might think with deceit and betrayal around every corner and secret allegiances hidden from view. It's very well written, fun and highly entertaining, and as Former CIA Agent Ben Zolstra and co race around the world trying to contain the threat we are drawn into a high-stakes game of cat and mouse to stop the powerful magic from falling into the wrong hands. This is a fantastical, thrilling and epic adventure. My only criticism is the characterisation could've been better. Many thanks to Atria Books for an ARC.
Based on the idea that one mysterious man who lurks in the shadows is releasing details on how magic actually works and the CIA and many squads are investing time and assets to shut this guy down once and for all. It's a far murkier world than you'd might think with deceit and betrayal around every corner and secret allegiances hidden from view. It's very well written, fun and highly entertaining, and as Former CIA Agent Ben Zolstra and co race around the world trying to contain the threat we are drawn into a high-stakes game of cat and mouse to stop the powerful magic from falling into the wrong hands. This is a fantastical, thrilling and epic adventure. My only criticism is the characterisation could've been better. Many thanks to Atria Books for an ARC.
August 24, 2019
If magic were possible, would you use it? American Magic is a story of magic gone wrong. A viral video shows some black magic and problems ensue. An ex-CIA agent is tasked with containing this new threat. It's a good action story with drama and secrets around every corner. The premise is unique and interesting. Although not my favorite, I did like the story. Thanks to NetGalley for an arc in exchange for an honest review.
September 30, 2019
I’m at a loss for labels. “Spy thriller”? “Fantasy”? “Sci-Fi”? Perhaps it’s best to just stick with labels like “page turner” and “a hell of a lot of fun.”
American Magic starts with a novel and interesting premise: what would happen if magic were real and someone hopped online to share the secret with the whole word? It’s a fascinating thought experiment that new author Zach Fehst has translated into an incredibly interesting enjoyable and thrilling story.
Ex-CIA agent Ben Zolstra is a pitch-perfect Lermontovian hero. Magic wunderkind Eila Mack is an abuse survivor and recovering alcoholic who’s hard not to fall head over heals for. Together they find themselves suddenly thrown into events that have a very real chance at ending civilization as we know it. Along the way the reader is treated to just as many clever literary references as he is dramatic chase scenes and heart-stopping explosions—not to mention lavish descriptions of exotic locations like Bangkok and Marrekesh that make you want to hop on the next flight, magical terrorism be damned.
Maybe the best label for American Magic is just simply “smart.” Is it too early to hope for a sequel? I wouldn’t complain at all if Zolstra became this generation’s Jack Ryan, and Eila Mack grew into a more mature take on Hermione/Rey from the new Star Wars trilogy...
American Magic starts with a novel and interesting premise: what would happen if magic were real and someone hopped online to share the secret with the whole word? It’s a fascinating thought experiment that new author Zach Fehst has translated into an incredibly interesting enjoyable and thrilling story.
Ex-CIA agent Ben Zolstra is a pitch-perfect Lermontovian hero. Magic wunderkind Eila Mack is an abuse survivor and recovering alcoholic who’s hard not to fall head over heals for. Together they find themselves suddenly thrown into events that have a very real chance at ending civilization as we know it. Along the way the reader is treated to just as many clever literary references as he is dramatic chase scenes and heart-stopping explosions—not to mention lavish descriptions of exotic locations like Bangkok and Marrekesh that make you want to hop on the next flight, magical terrorism be damned.
Maybe the best label for American Magic is just simply “smart.” Is it too early to hope for a sequel? I wouldn’t complain at all if Zolstra became this generation’s Jack Ryan, and Eila Mack grew into a more mature take on Hermione/Rey from the new Star Wars trilogy...
October 15, 2019
omg my coworker just read the summary of this out loud and was like "lol this sounds dumb" and I was like "oh I read that and it was dumb!" and then I went to check my GoodReads review of it but apparently I didn't leave one, perhaps because it was so forgettable?
but I WANT to count it toward my GoodReads challenge dang it!!! I did NOT DNF it despite thinking about it several times. I kept hoping for some kind of redemptive twist that never came. like I'm such a sucker for this variety of urban magic/crimes book but this one was like.........dumb. More like Jack Reacher or whatever than like Holly Black and obviously I want Holly Black.
but I WANT to count it toward my GoodReads challenge dang it!!! I did NOT DNF it despite thinking about it several times. I kept hoping for some kind of redemptive twist that never came. like I'm such a sucker for this variety of urban magic/crimes book but this one was like.........dumb. More like Jack Reacher or whatever than like Holly Black and obviously I want Holly Black.
December 27, 2019
This light, almost shallow novel is nevertheless full of high energy. It lacks depth in its characterizations and while the plot premise is intriguing, the way it plays out is just not believable.
Everything is a stretch. One second our duo is in Baltimore, the next in Scotland, and the next in Thailand. And it keeps going that way. Virtually no time for rest and sustenance much less forming relationships. The CIA is inept. The politicians are useless. Cops are clueless. The main protagonist is an older ex-CIA agent, but can apparently still handle the job requirements. The woman who unexpectedly becomes his partner in this fiasco is an alcoholic but is also suddenly very capable beyond reason...even with magic.
There is a suggestion of attraction between our duo, but this author should not write romance. Awkward!
The final moral point is that the USA should be the only country in the world that should own a devastating and destructive weapon, and fortunately the Americans end up with it. Is that the "American Magic" or does the title refer to the Americans once again saving the day? Lots of potential here, but it just does not come together beyond the need for a quick, escapist read.
Everything is a stretch. One second our duo is in Baltimore, the next in Scotland, and the next in Thailand. And it keeps going that way. Virtually no time for rest and sustenance much less forming relationships. The CIA is inept. The politicians are useless. Cops are clueless. The main protagonist is an older ex-CIA agent, but can apparently still handle the job requirements. The woman who unexpectedly becomes his partner in this fiasco is an alcoholic but is also suddenly very capable beyond reason...even with magic.
There is a suggestion of attraction between our duo, but this author should not write romance. Awkward!
The final moral point is that the USA should be the only country in the world that should own a devastating and destructive weapon, and fortunately the Americans end up with it. Is that the "American Magic" or does the title refer to the Americans once again saving the day? Lots of potential here, but it just does not come together beyond the need for a quick, escapist read.
June 11, 2019
I am very grateful to this talented author, the publisher, and Netgalley for the opportunity to download and read an ARC of this amazing book. I was drawn in from the first page. The idea seems simple: what if magic - real magic - really existed? In this story, some people, if they have the correct ancient words and are talented or gifted the same way some extraordinary basketball players are gifted, can perform outrageous feats of actual magic: telekinesis, the ability to make themselves or others or things disappear, and do other astounding things. But this isn't one of those fantasy books about a group of witches or even one person's talent (like Firestarter). This is a real international thriller, and the fact that most people all over the world can perform at least some of the newly discovered magic, only makes it more fun...and scarier! A former CIA agent, Ben, is pulled into the fray when a video of a young woman, Elia Mack, levitating a car appears online. If lots of people can do some of it, can brazen criminal gain and terrorism be far behind? And when Ben locates Elia, together they find out that members of an ancient society want them both dead. I can't wait for this to be a movie! Ben and Elia are searching for the member of the society known as Merlin because he is the one releasing the magic secrets onto the dark web. But they are also on the run from those who want them dead. This book, unbelievably the debut offering of an author new to us, has a terrifically original plot. The characters are very well drawn also, and the ending is perfect. We should all be watching for more from Zach Fehst!!
July 13, 2020
2.5 stars.
A traditional government/agent thriller with a plot surrounding ancient magic spells being released on the dark web. It may sound like it wouldn't mesh well, but Fehst manages to sort of make it work. It does have some basic stereotypes and tropes. It also felt a little predictable and contained numerous improbable coincidences. The one guess the characters make and take a huge risk on works. And so does the next one. And the next one. And the next one. And it chains along until you are just going forward in the hopes that this world that is being built will flesh out and reveal itself further.
But then it doesn't, which is a real shame because it had a lot of potential. The characters are simple and flat and the ending left me quite annoyed--not just because it was predictable, but that it gave a woman of color literal power just to demand that she give it up because the white men that have abducted her expect it. This is her only use and purpose to them. Then there is the title. American Magic. The magic is Sumerian in (lingual) origin (older than that, though) and once released is taken up by anyone able to do it. The American government wants it either for their own hoarding (and use) or, if it can't be monopolize by only them, destroyed so no one can use it. What the story opens up for potential depth is glossed over for more trope and coincidence to wrap up the novel in a quick fashion.
The book has decent bones, but I'm left wondering how it got published with such unpolished and basic characters and plot. Substitute magic for an other weapon of mass destruction and you could still have this story. If that's your thing, you will probably like this. It certainly is a light read. Like a Dan Brown novel without any effort. Both novels even use "symbology".
A traditional government/agent thriller with a plot surrounding ancient magic spells being released on the dark web. It may sound like it wouldn't mesh well, but Fehst manages to sort of make it work. It does have some basic stereotypes and tropes. It also felt a little predictable and contained numerous improbable coincidences. The one guess the characters make and take a huge risk on works. And so does the next one. And the next one. And the next one. And it chains along until you are just going forward in the hopes that this world that is being built will flesh out and reveal itself further.
But then it doesn't, which is a real shame because it had a lot of potential. The characters are simple and flat and the ending left me quite annoyed--not just because it was predictable, but that it gave a woman of color literal power just to demand that she give it up because the white men that have abducted her expect it. This is her only use and purpose to them. Then there is the title. American Magic. The magic is Sumerian in (lingual) origin (older than that, though) and once released is taken up by anyone able to do it. The American government wants it either for their own hoarding (and use) or, if it can't be monopolize by only them, destroyed so no one can use it. What the story opens up for potential depth is glossed over for more trope and coincidence to wrap up the novel in a quick fashion.
The book has decent bones, but I'm left wondering how it got published with such unpolished and basic characters and plot. Substitute magic for an other weapon of mass destruction and you could still have this story. If that's your thing, you will probably like this. It certainly is a light read. Like a Dan Brown novel without any effort. Both novels even use "symbology".
October 8, 2025
This had impeccable pacing, with new developments every few pages and plenty of action. I love the idea of magic being introduced to the world and what chaos it might wreak to social order. Very interesting stakes!! The history of magic in this book is also so real it feels like you can reach out and touch it. The pages flew by and I finished the book before I knew it.
A standout addition to the thriller genre!
A standout addition to the thriller genre!
August 23, 2019
Originally published at Reading Reality
American Magic is a spy-thriller for everyone who ever wondered what would happen if someone deliberately broke the Statute of Secrecy in Harry Potter – in other words, how would the world react if magic suddenly turned out to be real – and the entire world wanted to weaponize it.
Of course they would.
It’s like a crossover story where Jack Reacher or Jack Ryan don’t so much meet Harry himself as run into some disaffected muggleborn who ran away from magic with their memory intact and decided to stick it to everyone who ever looked down upon them for not being pureblood. Or powerful. Or, really, sane.
In this version of our world, someone uses the dark side of the internet to release a video that provides complete instructions on how to perform one big piece of magic – telekinesis. That’s basically the ability to move sh*t with your mind. (A book came out earlier this year with that in the title, and I want to read it for the title alone!)
Not everyone can do magic. Just like any other talent. Not everyone can paint a masterpiece – or even draw a straight line. Not everyone can be an Olympic swimmer or gymnast. Not everyone can be Einstein or Da Vinci. Not everyone can even carry a tune in a bucket, let alone sing opera.
The CIA has found a video, also on the internet (isn’t everything, sooner or later?) of a woman who can move a car with her mind. They haven’t found anyone within their own ranks who can move more than pencil – and they want her.
It doesn’t matter what she wants. It never does. And it doesn’t matter what the agent they bring in from the cold of Vermont wants, either. Nor does it matter to them what they did to said agent to force him into that cold and out of the bureau.
It does, of course, matter to him. And to her. So Ben Zolstra, who is supposed to bring Eila Mack over to the CIA’s side – takes her side instead. And takes her out of the “safe house” where the CIA has her imprisoned.
From that point it’s off to the races on this thrill-a-minute ride, as the supposed “good” guys, the actual “bad” guys, and some even more terrible guys, for loose definitions of good, bad and guys, all chase after Ben and Mack.
In either the hope or the fear of putting the “magic” genie back in its magic bottle before it’s too late.
Escape Rating A-: For readers looking for a spy thriller with an interesting twist, American Magic is a hell of a lot of fun. Anyone expecting the emphasis to be on the “magic” in the title is probably going to be disappointed – because this is not a fantasy.
American Magic is very much in the spy thriller tradition. Magic in this story is treated as if it were a weapon of mass destruction. It the reader substitutes a bioterrorism weapon for “magic” the story works just as well.
And that’s part of its charm. What would happen if the secret of magic were suddenly revealed, and some people discovered that they suddenly had the power to move things with their minds. Or teleport. Or throw fireballs.
First the secret wouldn’t remain secret. Second, chaos. With the internet, no information can be kept completely secret for very long. And once something is known, it can’t (usually) become unknown – at least not overnight.
Would it be weaponized? Of course. Would some people and organizations want to use it for nefarious purposes? It’s hard to imagine they wouldn’t. Would governments try to restrict the use of this new power to only their own side? History has the answer for that and it’s yes. If you don’t think so, look at the history of the ability to build an atomic bomb.
It’s from that spy thriller genre, however, that we get most of the actual plot of this story. Ben Zolstra is the epitome of the “rogue agent” who wants to serve his country but refuses to kowtow to the idiots in charge of it. He’s a quintessential lone wolf who is willing to do what needs to be done – but only if his bosses are willing to get out of his way.
And they don’t, because those same idiots can never let go of the illusion of control. And thereby hangs one thread of the story, as what should be the side of good chases down their own agent because he isn’t playing by their rules.
The most interesting characters in the story are Eila Mack, the young woman trying to claw her way back to a decent life who suddenly discovers she has magic, and Desdemona Heaton, an elderly and disgraced scholar who discovers that the myths and legends she has always believed in, the research in those legends that has destroyed her academic career – was right all along.
There is magic in the world, and there are people determined to keep that secret at all costs. Including the lives of anyone who gets in their way.
The fun in this one is watching this unconventional trio, the agent, the scholar and the mage, find a way to get that genie back in its bottle – and get everyone, both good and bad, off their backs. All the want is to put the world back together – even if none of them are quite together themselves.
American Magic is a spy-thriller for everyone who ever wondered what would happen if someone deliberately broke the Statute of Secrecy in Harry Potter – in other words, how would the world react if magic suddenly turned out to be real – and the entire world wanted to weaponize it.
Of course they would.
It’s like a crossover story where Jack Reacher or Jack Ryan don’t so much meet Harry himself as run into some disaffected muggleborn who ran away from magic with their memory intact and decided to stick it to everyone who ever looked down upon them for not being pureblood. Or powerful. Or, really, sane.
In this version of our world, someone uses the dark side of the internet to release a video that provides complete instructions on how to perform one big piece of magic – telekinesis. That’s basically the ability to move sh*t with your mind. (A book came out earlier this year with that in the title, and I want to read it for the title alone!)
Not everyone can do magic. Just like any other talent. Not everyone can paint a masterpiece – or even draw a straight line. Not everyone can be an Olympic swimmer or gymnast. Not everyone can be Einstein or Da Vinci. Not everyone can even carry a tune in a bucket, let alone sing opera.
The CIA has found a video, also on the internet (isn’t everything, sooner or later?) of a woman who can move a car with her mind. They haven’t found anyone within their own ranks who can move more than pencil – and they want her.
It doesn’t matter what she wants. It never does. And it doesn’t matter what the agent they bring in from the cold of Vermont wants, either. Nor does it matter to them what they did to said agent to force him into that cold and out of the bureau.
It does, of course, matter to him. And to her. So Ben Zolstra, who is supposed to bring Eila Mack over to the CIA’s side – takes her side instead. And takes her out of the “safe house” where the CIA has her imprisoned.
From that point it’s off to the races on this thrill-a-minute ride, as the supposed “good” guys, the actual “bad” guys, and some even more terrible guys, for loose definitions of good, bad and guys, all chase after Ben and Mack.
In either the hope or the fear of putting the “magic” genie back in its magic bottle before it’s too late.
Escape Rating A-: For readers looking for a spy thriller with an interesting twist, American Magic is a hell of a lot of fun. Anyone expecting the emphasis to be on the “magic” in the title is probably going to be disappointed – because this is not a fantasy.
American Magic is very much in the spy thriller tradition. Magic in this story is treated as if it were a weapon of mass destruction. It the reader substitutes a bioterrorism weapon for “magic” the story works just as well.
And that’s part of its charm. What would happen if the secret of magic were suddenly revealed, and some people discovered that they suddenly had the power to move things with their minds. Or teleport. Or throw fireballs.
First the secret wouldn’t remain secret. Second, chaos. With the internet, no information can be kept completely secret for very long. And once something is known, it can’t (usually) become unknown – at least not overnight.
Would it be weaponized? Of course. Would some people and organizations want to use it for nefarious purposes? It’s hard to imagine they wouldn’t. Would governments try to restrict the use of this new power to only their own side? History has the answer for that and it’s yes. If you don’t think so, look at the history of the ability to build an atomic bomb.
It’s from that spy thriller genre, however, that we get most of the actual plot of this story. Ben Zolstra is the epitome of the “rogue agent” who wants to serve his country but refuses to kowtow to the idiots in charge of it. He’s a quintessential lone wolf who is willing to do what needs to be done – but only if his bosses are willing to get out of his way.
And they don’t, because those same idiots can never let go of the illusion of control. And thereby hangs one thread of the story, as what should be the side of good chases down their own agent because he isn’t playing by their rules.
The most interesting characters in the story are Eila Mack, the young woman trying to claw her way back to a decent life who suddenly discovers she has magic, and Desdemona Heaton, an elderly and disgraced scholar who discovers that the myths and legends she has always believed in, the research in those legends that has destroyed her academic career – was right all along.
There is magic in the world, and there are people determined to keep that secret at all costs. Including the lives of anyone who gets in their way.
The fun in this one is watching this unconventional trio, the agent, the scholar and the mage, find a way to get that genie back in its bottle – and get everyone, both good and bad, off their backs. All the want is to put the world back together – even if none of them are quite together themselves.
July 26, 2024
Um national treasure but pro CIA
October 5, 2019
This is like a cross between a Dan Brown book and a Jack Reacher book but is utterly disappointing. The topic has so much promise but it only really seems to show that promise the epilogue. Neat ideas about secret magic poor execution.
June 9, 2019
This was OK. The author shows promise. It has good pacing and an interesing plot, but just didn't have that "it" factor that made it great. If you're seeking a thriller with a little magic mixed in, you'll probably like this.
I really appreciate the complimentary copy for review!!
I really appreciate the complimentary copy for review!!
May 14, 2020
(See all of my Book Reviews) - Author Zach Fehst (https://www.zachfehst.com/) published the novel “American Magic” in 2019. He has published two novels.
I received an ARC of this novel through https://www.netgalley.com in return for a fair and honest review. I categorize this novel as "R" because it contains scenes of Violence and Mature Language. The story is set in the contemporary world.
One day magic begins to happen. Not everyone has the ability and strength varies, but there is suddenly magic in the world. The US government must find the cause and stop the spread of magic or chaos will reign across the world.
The CIA reaches out to former agent Ben Zolstra. Zolstra is not a team player and has had many confrontations with the CIA Director. He has resigned because of that. Now with great reluctance, he rejoins the agency.
Eila Mack is a young black woman who is amazed to discover that she has magical ability. One day she is showing off for her friends in the neighborhood. The next she is being held as a prisoner in a government safe house.
When the CIA Director relieves Zolstra of his post, Zolstra sees only one option. He decides to do what he does best, he takes the mission solo. He grabs Mack and they soon are on the trail of the source of magic. Of course, they are also being pursued by government agents. The two must find the source and stop it before the world falls into anarchy.
I enjoyed the 7.5 hours I spent reading this 320-page fantasy novel. This was an interesting plot with a mix of thriller and fantasy. I like the cover art for the novel, but I don't see how it relates to the story. I give this novel a 4 out of 5.
You can access more of my book reviews on my Blog ( https://johnpurvis.wordpress.com/blog/).
My book reviews are also published on Goodreads (https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/3...).
I received an ARC of this novel through https://www.netgalley.com in return for a fair and honest review. I categorize this novel as "R" because it contains scenes of Violence and Mature Language. The story is set in the contemporary world.
One day magic begins to happen. Not everyone has the ability and strength varies, but there is suddenly magic in the world. The US government must find the cause and stop the spread of magic or chaos will reign across the world.
The CIA reaches out to former agent Ben Zolstra. Zolstra is not a team player and has had many confrontations with the CIA Director. He has resigned because of that. Now with great reluctance, he rejoins the agency.
Eila Mack is a young black woman who is amazed to discover that she has magical ability. One day she is showing off for her friends in the neighborhood. The next she is being held as a prisoner in a government safe house.
When the CIA Director relieves Zolstra of his post, Zolstra sees only one option. He decides to do what he does best, he takes the mission solo. He grabs Mack and they soon are on the trail of the source of magic. Of course, they are also being pursued by government agents. The two must find the source and stop it before the world falls into anarchy.
I enjoyed the 7.5 hours I spent reading this 320-page fantasy novel. This was an interesting plot with a mix of thriller and fantasy. I like the cover art for the novel, but I don't see how it relates to the story. I give this novel a 4 out of 5.
You can access more of my book reviews on my Blog ( https://johnpurvis.wordpress.com/blog/).
My book reviews are also published on Goodreads (https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/3...).
November 23, 2019
I'm laughing. But it's not mean laughter. Not laughter at Mr. Fehst's expense. Rather, it's the merriment you feel when you see someone so very, very earnest engaged in a task with all the urgency and excitement that they can muster in the belief that they're doing something amazingly grand and exceptional...and you know it's not. But the other thing you know is that the completion of the task is a necessary step in an earnest, new writer's evolution.
The initial premise is intriguing, but the book feels rushed. Part of that is the concentration on action scenes, but I mean "rushed" in more of a half-baked, didn't-take-the-time-to-think-it-through way. It feels like a pie that was taken out of the oven too soon because the baker thought if he didn't get it out there for everyone to taste, someone else might come up with the idea and beat him to the punch. It needed more thought and development in concept, plot and characters.
I do appreciate the valiant effort to NOT appear misogynistic, too. It's palpable in, again...earnest good intentions. A male author doing his best and deserving of a pat on the back for that.
More than once I thought of Harry Potter meets DaVinci Code meets Every Cheap Rough-&-Tumble Spy Flick Ever.
But when all is read and done, a big A for effort and the sincere hope that Mr. Fehst sticks with it. Like this first novel of his, he's full of unrealized potential. That is no small thing. Don't stop.
The initial premise is intriguing, but the book feels rushed. Part of that is the concentration on action scenes, but I mean "rushed" in more of a half-baked, didn't-take-the-time-to-think-it-through way. It feels like a pie that was taken out of the oven too soon because the baker thought if he didn't get it out there for everyone to taste, someone else might come up with the idea and beat him to the punch. It needed more thought and development in concept, plot and characters.
I do appreciate the valiant effort to NOT appear misogynistic, too. It's palpable in, again...earnest good intentions. A male author doing his best and deserving of a pat on the back for that.
More than once I thought of Harry Potter meets DaVinci Code meets Every Cheap Rough-&-Tumble Spy Flick Ever.
But when all is read and done, a big A for effort and the sincere hope that Mr. Fehst sticks with it. Like this first novel of his, he's full of unrealized potential. That is no small thing. Don't stop.
October 4, 2019
An interesting premise from the book jacket prompted me to bring the book home from the library, but the first few pages made me question the decision. A very generic, tired intro of a retired CIA agent whisked back into the government fold to address an urgent threat. Ben Zolstra doesn't play well with others and is of course disliked as a maverick by the higher ups, but for untold reasons, is apparently the only one capable of finding whoever is responsible for releasing magic into the world. Zolstra promptly and predictably goes rogue without reason, taking with him the one magical asset the US has, a woman who for whatever reason, can effectively conjure magic. The two fly from various locales around the world based on the thinnest of leads, allowing the book jacket to state it is a "sweeping globe-trotting thriller". There were very few pages where I wasn't rolling my eyes. To make matters worse, the magic was doled out in increments, so for long stretches, we only get one type of magic and none of it is particularly creative. Considering this was a book about magic, I was disappointed by how generic and uninspired I found it. This simply wasn't a novel I found engaging, original or worthy of the days spent reading it.
August 19, 2019
This book starts off with a bang and from there leaves you with so many questions. You are taken on this fantastic journey throughout the book where you meet all these different characters who all connect to the story. I really enjoyed how fast-paced and action-packed this book was. I personally do not read a lot of thriller books, but I definitely enjoyed this one.
Magic is definitely a part of this book, however, it is inserted in a unique way where it is contemporary America where magic is being released to the public. I really liked how different characters responded to the knowledge of magic. It felt very real to me in terms of how people would react if that happened in real life.
Since this is a thriller/action novel, the writing was not the best and very much telling instead of showing. So definitely do not go into this story expecting amazing writing or fleshed-out characters. I read this book for the story and the plot and I feel like if you are expecting something beyond that you will be disappointed. I definitely look forward to other books that Zach Fehst writes. He does a great job of telling a unique story and keeping me entertained while doing it.
*Thank you to the publisher for an early copy of this book!*
Magic is definitely a part of this book, however, it is inserted in a unique way where it is contemporary America where magic is being released to the public. I really liked how different characters responded to the knowledge of magic. It felt very real to me in terms of how people would react if that happened in real life.
Since this is a thriller/action novel, the writing was not the best and very much telling instead of showing. So definitely do not go into this story expecting amazing writing or fleshed-out characters. I read this book for the story and the plot and I feel like if you are expecting something beyond that you will be disappointed. I definitely look forward to other books that Zach Fehst writes. He does a great job of telling a unique story and keeping me entertained while doing it.
*Thank you to the publisher for an early copy of this book!*
August 17, 2019
“American Magic” by Zach Fehst, published by Emily Bester Books.
Category – Mystery/Thriller Publication Date – August 20, 2019.
“What if magic real?” This is the burning question behind “American Magic”. There are a lot of “what ifs” but What If. A woman finds an ancient incantation on the web and finds that she is able to levitate a car. Then there is the incantation to make a person invisible. Just think of the consequences if one could do these things.
The person behind this claims he will put more incantations on the web that may have devastating results for the world. The United States Government is so concerned that it goes after an ex CIA agent who has fallen afoul of the agency. Ben Zolstra reluctantly takes on the assignment but with the condition that he run the assignment his way and with no interference from those that he has alienated.
Ben uses the help of the young lady that levitated the car, a former friend in the agency, and a professor of mystical religion. They have little time to discover who is doing this because
Category – Mystery/Thriller Publication Date – August 20, 2019.
“What if magic real?” This is the burning question behind “American Magic”. There are a lot of “what ifs” but What If. A woman finds an ancient incantation on the web and finds that she is able to levitate a car. Then there is the incantation to make a person invisible. Just think of the consequences if one could do these things.
The person behind this claims he will put more incantations on the web that may have devastating results for the world. The United States Government is so concerned that it goes after an ex CIA agent who has fallen afoul of the agency. Ben Zolstra reluctantly takes on the assignment but with the condition that he run the assignment his way and with no interference from those that he has alienated.
Ben uses the help of the young lady that levitated the car, a former friend in the agency, and a professor of mystical religion. They have little time to discover who is doing this because
April 3, 2020
This story is of the typical ‘action movie’ type which, in itself, would have been just fine. A third of the way through the book, I got tired of the constant hints in the text about the superiority of a white, male in the prime of life. The taught-at-oxford professor is ‘the Heaton woman”. A retired expert is ‘the old professor’. The woman who leaves her abusive partner is all too soon romantically interest in the swashbuckling hero. The head of the powerful secret society is a European white make living in Morocco with ‘serving girls’. The word ‘b$tch’ is used casually (not pointedly or in heated anger) in character thought processes. The ‘American’ magic is ancient Sumerian so .... cultural appropriation anyone? The author may think that by having a woman of color as a person of immense magical power he’s showing how open minded he is, but the rest of the writing exposes that lie.
August 8, 2019
American Magic is a fascinating read. Zach Fehst writes a convincing story combining two genres – thriller and science fiction.
Former CIA Agent Ben Zolstra needs to find Merlin, an individual who posted incantations on the dark web that some people have successfully used to perform real magic. Ben teams up with Elia Mack, one of the few who effectively uses the spells to levitate objects or become invisible. Their search for a way to stop the release of magic worldwide leads them to an Oxford scholar in mystical religion and occult studies, Dr. Heaton, who knows the history of magic and how it disappeared.
The trio seeks a spell that reverses the uncontrollable power of magic being released by Merlin. Fehst fabricates a compelling and complex adventure that is hard to put down – a well-conceived plot deftly told.
Former CIA Agent Ben Zolstra needs to find Merlin, an individual who posted incantations on the dark web that some people have successfully used to perform real magic. Ben teams up with Elia Mack, one of the few who effectively uses the spells to levitate objects or become invisible. Their search for a way to stop the release of magic worldwide leads them to an Oxford scholar in mystical religion and occult studies, Dr. Heaton, who knows the history of magic and how it disappeared.
The trio seeks a spell that reverses the uncontrollable power of magic being released by Merlin. Fehst fabricates a compelling and complex adventure that is hard to put down – a well-conceived plot deftly told.
June 7, 2019
I got an arc of this from the publisher, so I feel terrible that I can't give it a better rating. In all honesty, I probably would've DNF'ed it if it had been a run of the mill library book.
The plot was fast paced, and I really liked the magic system which is probably the only reason I didn't check it across the room in defeat.
That update about the sexy lamp test? Yeah, that wasn't the problem. The problem was all of the characters were pretty flat, and at times relied too heavily on stereotypes. (The President was a woman, so A for effort? C for execution.)
So if you like breezy action thrillers (with superfluous cursing at times), this is probably the book for you, but it didn't work for me.
The plot was fast paced, and I really liked the magic system which is probably the only reason I didn't check it across the room in defeat.
That update about the sexy lamp test? Yeah, that wasn't the problem. The problem was all of the characters were pretty flat, and at times relied too heavily on stereotypes. (The President was a woman, so A for effort? C for execution.)
So if you like breezy action thrillers (with superfluous cursing at times), this is probably the book for you, but it didn't work for me.
August 26, 2019
What if magic is real? But kept hidden by a group as mysterious, and rich, as the Illuminati? When one member turns rogue, the lid is off American Magic.
Okay, I admit it, the plot sounds lame—except when you are actually reading it. The author manages to do a Dan Brown on a seemingly absurd plot like The DaVinci Code and makes it believable. Once you are over that hurdle, the same one the main character surmounts, American Magic is an exhilarating thriller. If you don’t mind some magic, I highly recommend reading this DaVinci Code-like thriller. I can already envision which actors will play Ben and Mack on the big screen. 4 stars!
Thanks to Emily Bestler Books and NetGalley for a copy in exchange for my honest review.
Okay, I admit it, the plot sounds lame—except when you are actually reading it. The author manages to do a Dan Brown on a seemingly absurd plot like The DaVinci Code and makes it believable. Once you are over that hurdle, the same one the main character surmounts, American Magic is an exhilarating thriller. If you don’t mind some magic, I highly recommend reading this DaVinci Code-like thriller. I can already envision which actors will play Ben and Mack on the big screen. 4 stars!
Thanks to Emily Bestler Books and NetGalley for a copy in exchange for my honest review.
May 27, 2021
This is a "spy" or "military operative" thriller combined with Fantasy. Ben Zolstra is a former CIA agent living on a small farm in Virginia. When a spell gets uploaded to the dark web Ben is recalled and tasked to find the terrorist Merlin and stop magic before it destroys governments.
This book is pretty much the basic formulation of this kind of thriller. Fallen military-esque operative saves the world through his spy skills and gets the girl in the process. Lots of jet setting around the globe, gun fights, computer hacking and, in this case, magic. Other than the magic aspect its pretty basic for its genre.
This is not my favorite genre and this book wasn't a stand out in its genre but if you're looking to combine fantasy and spy thrillers this might be fantastic for you.
This book is pretty much the basic formulation of this kind of thriller. Fallen military-esque operative saves the world through his spy skills and gets the girl in the process. Lots of jet setting around the globe, gun fights, computer hacking and, in this case, magic. Other than the magic aspect its pretty basic for its genre.
This is not my favorite genre and this book wasn't a stand out in its genre but if you're looking to combine fantasy and spy thrillers this might be fantastic for you.
October 7, 2019
Really more of a 3.5. The action and adventure induced a thrill and intrigue that made me want to know what was coming next.
The "American" part was really my least favorite bit, but it's in the title so I can't really hold that against the story.
I do wish we'd had more information on the families and their various powers, but again that would've been a different novel.
If I do leave with one criticism, it's that the conflicts ok the world were almost paraphrased rather than fleshed out. A religious zealot, statesmen, and anarchists all come out of the woodwork. That's it. No names just concepts. I'd recommend it as a fun read.
The "American" part was really my least favorite bit, but it's in the title so I can't really hold that against the story.
I do wish we'd had more information on the families and their various powers, but again that would've been a different novel.
If I do leave with one criticism, it's that the conflicts ok the world were almost paraphrased rather than fleshed out. A religious zealot, statesmen, and anarchists all come out of the woodwork. That's it. No names just concepts. I'd recommend it as a fun read.
December 17, 2019
The best way to describe 'American Magic' is a book with a great premise that could have been so much better than it was. The original idea, of releasing magic into the world and the consequences of doing so had loads of potential. It is a great pity that most of this potential was not realised.
Fehst's decision to create a thriller where a small team saves the world was disappointing - the results is a story that lacks both depth and credibility.
Trying to mix action and fantasy is a big ask and 'American Magic' does not quite manage to succeed in this. The book is not horrible, it's just not very good. Two and a half stars rounded up.
Fehst's decision to create a thriller where a small team saves the world was disappointing - the results is a story that lacks both depth and credibility.
Trying to mix action and fantasy is a big ask and 'American Magic' does not quite manage to succeed in this. The book is not horrible, it's just not very good. Two and a half stars rounded up.
January 14, 2020
What if magic was real? How would society be altered if the ability to levitate objects or become invisible was widely available? Great premise, especially if the power was variable ranging from popgun strength to tank. The book looks at some of the potential issues, but focuses mainly on the CIA’s efforts to control and/or stop this from spreading. There are some great, if not fully developed, characters including a rogue CIA agent with significant anger about his coerced role in previous enhanced interrogation scenarios. It was a fun read despite it’s deficiencies. It had an unexpected, but satisfying, conclusion.
May 21, 2020
An intense look at what would happen if magic, yes, magic, were to be re-introduced into the world slowly with the intent to destroy all that we know in our systems of government. How would governments react? Would it be considered a gift? A threat? A curse? Join the hunt for the origins of magic being released by a renegade CIA agent going against the agency in his own search to stop the release of magic into society. Murders, Magic, Mayhem, and Mysterious twists abound on a global scale in this book I actually couldn't put down except when life demanded it. It was worth the read and the late fees I am going to have to pay the library now that they have re-opened... lol
May 11, 2019
This one was really hard for me to rate. I read fantasy, and this is out of my wheel house. Just because it has magic in the name, and some spells are used, I still would not classify this as fantasy. In my opinion, it is more of a thriller. That being said, this book was not for me. I am rating it 3 stars because I don't think the writing is bad, it just isn't my cup of tea.
I would recommend it to people that read thrillers.
I received an ARC from the publisher. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I would recommend it to people that read thrillers.
I received an ARC from the publisher. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 14, 2019
Review copy provided by NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest opinion.
Ben Zolstra is just living his life post CIA when his old boss shows up and tells him they need him to help contain the biggest threat the world has ever known, magic. Ben is extremely skeptical until he sees a video featuring Eila Mack performing a spell. Ben and Eila, along with a disgraced professor, must race around the globe to try and contain the threat. I enjoyed this book. I wasn't totally invested in any of the characters but the action kept the story going. 3 stars.
Ben Zolstra is just living his life post CIA when his old boss shows up and tells him they need him to help contain the biggest threat the world has ever known, magic. Ben is extremely skeptical until he sees a video featuring Eila Mack performing a spell. Ben and Eila, along with a disgraced professor, must race around the globe to try and contain the threat. I enjoyed this book. I wasn't totally invested in any of the characters but the action kept the story going. 3 stars.
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