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The Spoken Mage #1
Voice of Power
In Elena's world words have power over life and death--but none more so than hers.
As the daughter of shopkeepers, Elena has always known that the mysteries of reading and writing were closed to her. Only the mageborn can risk harnessing the power unleashed from putting pen to paper. Until Elena discovers an impossible new ability and joins the elite ranks of the mages.
But with the kingdom at war, the authorities can't agree if Elena is an asset, or a threat they need to eliminate. Thrust into the unknown world of the Royal Academy without friends or experience, Elena will need all of her wits, strength, and new power to carve a place for herself.
Except as the attacks become more personal, wits and strength won't be enough. Elena will have to turn to new friends and an enigmatic prince to unlock the mysterious potential of her words and survive her first year as a trainee mage.
If you enjoy strong heroines, fantasy worlds, adventure, intrigue, and romance, then try the Spoken Mage series now!
The Spoken Mage reading order:
Voice of Power
Voice of Command
And coming in 2019:
Voice of Dominion
Voice of Life
As the daughter of shopkeepers, Elena has always known that the mysteries of reading and writing were closed to her. Only the mageborn can risk harnessing the power unleashed from putting pen to paper. Until Elena discovers an impossible new ability and joins the elite ranks of the mages.
But with the kingdom at war, the authorities can't agree if Elena is an asset, or a threat they need to eliminate. Thrust into the unknown world of the Royal Academy without friends or experience, Elena will need all of her wits, strength, and new power to carve a place for herself.
Except as the attacks become more personal, wits and strength won't be enough. Elena will have to turn to new friends and an enigmatic prince to unlock the mysterious potential of her words and survive her first year as a trainee mage.
If you enjoy strong heroines, fantasy worlds, adventure, intrigue, and romance, then try the Spoken Mage series now!
The Spoken Mage reading order:
Voice of Power
Voice of Command
And coming in 2019:
Voice of Dominion
Voice of Life
314 pages, Paperback
First published December 26, 2018
2188 people are currently reading
6850 people want to read
About the author
Melanie Cellier
126 books2,762 followersMelanie Cellier grew up on a staple diet of books, books and more books. And although she got older, she never stopped loving children’s and young adult novels.
She always wanted to write one herself, but it took three careers and three different continents before she actually managed it.
She now feels incredibly fortunate to spend her time writing from her home in Adelaide, Australia where she keeps an eye out for koalas in her backyard. Her staple diet hasn’t changed much, although she’s added choc mint Rooibos tea and Chicken Crimpies to the list.
She writes young adult fantasy including her Spoken Mage series, and her Four Kingdoms and Beyond the Four Kingdoms series which are made up of linked stand-alone stories that retell classic fairy tales.
She now feels incredibly fortunate to spend her time writing from her home in Adelaide, Australia where she keeps an eye out for koalas in her backyard. Her staple diet hasn’t changed much, although she’s added choc mint Rooibos tea and Chicken Crimpies to the list.
She writes young adult fantasy including her Spoken Mage series, and her Four Kingdoms and Beyond the Four Kingdoms series which are made up of linked stand-alone stories that retell classic fairy tales.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 550 reviews
May 30, 2021
Yep. I’m now the jerk that gave my friend’s favorite read a one star.
Elena is common born and the first “spoken mage”, but her real talent is making small problems into big problems and big problems into major crises. Does she learn from her mistakes? Nope. She’s just a lump of teenage angst.
She continuously harps on the woes of the common born, completely unwilling to learn about the noble classes she disparages. “Had I really been that self-absorbed?” (Ch. 25) Yes, Elena. Yes you have.
Then we mash in some good ole identity crisis at the end. Am I common? Or am I a mage? Maybe I’m both! (My brain is crying.)
Oh, and while we’re at it, let’s kiss a prince and then act all betrayed when he doesn’t look at you in the lunch room or act on your accusations of treason (which would have MAJOR political ramifications). But noooo. He has to ignore the county’s concerns in favor of yours. You would think she would be more upset that he just stood aside while she got beat up by the other students.
I swear, Elena gets on my last nerve.
Edit:
My most popular review is a negative one... that’s kinda sad. Just want to clarify things for people who read this and then hesitate to read the series. This series has been super popular, and like I said, it’s the favorite read of some of my friends. If you enjoy reading angst, this series is for you. Personally, I wouldn’t touch teen angst stories with a 10-foot pole. The main character, Elena, is my biggest objection to the series. Not the writing. Not the world building. I would totally read other books from this author. It’s kinda like how I love Jane Austen books but can’t stand Emma Woodhouse. Although, Gwyneth Paltrow actually managed to make Emma likable... that’s talent.
Elena is common born and the first “spoken mage”, but her real talent is making small problems into big problems and big problems into major crises. Does she learn from her mistakes? Nope. She’s just a lump of teenage angst.
She continuously harps on the woes of the common born, completely unwilling to learn about the noble classes she disparages. “Had I really been that self-absorbed?” (Ch. 25) Yes, Elena. Yes you have.
Then we mash in some good ole identity crisis at the end. Am I common? Or am I a mage? Maybe I’m both! (My brain is crying.)
Oh, and while we’re at it, let’s kiss a prince and then act all betrayed when he doesn’t look at you in the lunch room or act on your accusations of treason (which would have MAJOR political ramifications). But noooo. He has to ignore the county’s concerns in favor of yours. You would think she would be more upset that he just stood aside while she got beat up by the other students.
I swear, Elena gets on my last nerve.
Edit:
My most popular review is a negative one... that’s kinda sad. Just want to clarify things for people who read this and then hesitate to read the series. This series has been super popular, and like I said, it’s the favorite read of some of my friends. If you enjoy reading angst, this series is for you. Personally, I wouldn’t touch teen angst stories with a 10-foot pole. The main character, Elena, is my biggest objection to the series. Not the writing. Not the world building. I would totally read other books from this author. It’s kinda like how I love Jane Austen books but can’t stand Emma Woodhouse. Although, Gwyneth Paltrow actually managed to make Emma likable... that’s talent.
July 17, 2024
As soon as I read the first ten pages, I knew I wouldn't be able to put it down. I love when a magic system is tied to spoken words. Elena, as a common-born was forbidden to read or write; only Mages were afforded such rights because they possess the magic to control the magical effect of written words. The entire kingdom was unprepared for something utterly new and unheard of, magic-infused in spoken words. Elena would be the first of her kind, and once discovered by the Mages, she was swept into the world of the elite, where she must learn to hone her magic or be executed for lack of control of it.
I am so glad it is not a stand-alone. I can't wait to read more about Elena, the not-so-subtle feelings she's developing for the prince, and how she's going to survive in a place full of more people plotting her demise than friends.
So far, so great. Four stars.
I am so glad it is not a stand-alone. I can't wait to read more about Elena, the not-so-subtle feelings she's developing for the prince, and how she's going to survive in a place full of more people plotting her demise than friends.
So far, so great. Four stars.
September 25, 2020
2.5
This was just ok for me, I didn't enjoy it as much as I was hoping I would. I had a hard time connecting to Elena, especially as the story progressed. I just didn't care for her all that much, she was arrogant and I don't know, just rubbed me the wrong way. I also felt there were just too many characters, lots of names to remember and what families they belonged to, I found that aspect a little boring. The school setting was nice, but overall boring. I was also expecting more of a romance element, but its basically nonexistent and the romantic interest was not very well developed. They barely had any interactions, no chemistry and at one point I really enjoy a strong romantic element in my stories and thought it as just really lacking here. I didn't care for the magic elements: written magic vs spoken magic. Both felt a bit clumsy, it is at least a unique take on magic from what I've read before.
I really don't know if I will continue with this series, but I may give one of the authors other series a try.
Content:
Romance: Very clean
Language: None that I remember
Violence: Mild magical violence, kidnapping, nothing graphic
The Spoken Mage Series
This was just ok for me, I didn't enjoy it as much as I was hoping I would. I had a hard time connecting to Elena, especially as the story progressed. I just didn't care for her all that much, she was arrogant and I don't know, just rubbed me the wrong way. I also felt there were just too many characters, lots of names to remember and what families they belonged to, I found that aspect a little boring. The school setting was nice, but overall boring. I was also expecting more of a romance element, but its basically nonexistent and the romantic interest was not very well developed. They barely had any interactions, no chemistry and at one point I really enjoy a strong romantic element in my stories and thought it as just really lacking here. I didn't care for the magic elements: written magic vs spoken magic. Both felt a bit clumsy, it is at least a unique take on magic from what I've read before.
I really don't know if I will continue with this series, but I may give one of the authors other series a try.
Content:
Romance: Very clean
Language: None that I remember
Violence: Mild magical violence, kidnapping, nothing graphic
The Spoken Mage Series
November 2, 2020
Ahhhhh. Go. Read. This. Book. 😍🤩
You win Merie. New favorite author.
You win Merie. New favorite author.
May 14, 2019
2nd Time Around - Can't wait to get to the 3rd book in this series!
I absolutely enjoyed this book and couldn't wait to move on to the next one in the series.
I absolutely enjoyed this book and couldn't wait to move on to the next one in the series.
October 13, 2019
I initially thought this was a good book but after thinking on it two days later, I'm going to say it was mediocre. Yes, whatshername is the first spoken mage and its a bit of a novelty but people want to kill her, we don't know who these people are. She was also very prissy and sanctimonious just because she was common-born, her woe me attitude was grating. I was prepared to read the second book but I don't think I can take it.
September 15, 2021
Move over Harry Potter
I was initially drawn in by the cover and the premise of the novel, but I was captivated with the story, the characters, and what's going to happen next!
This is a fantastic foray into a new genre. A powerful first book.
I enjoyed reading how certain assumptions and preconceived notions were cast in different lights. The twists kept me guessing and on my toes.
On a steaminess level I would rate this a pleasant PG. The only kiss that did occur was clean, although it felt a bit rushed and unconnected without a build up.
This book is definitely worthy of a repeat read. I look forward to the next in the series!
I was initially drawn in by the cover and the premise of the novel, but I was captivated with the story, the characters, and what's going to happen next!
This is a fantastic foray into a new genre. A powerful first book.
I enjoyed reading how certain assumptions and preconceived notions were cast in different lights. The twists kept me guessing and on my toes.
On a steaminess level I would rate this a pleasant PG. The only kiss that did occur was clean, although it felt a bit rushed and unconnected without a build up.
This book is definitely worthy of a repeat read. I look forward to the next in the series!
September 10, 2020
1.5 Stars
DNF
Wasn't a fan of the heroine at all, so I couldn't stand being in her head. The dialogue was also cheesy, and actions were cliche. I kept comparing it to other mage books I have read because there was nothing really new here. Someone PLEASE give me a good mage book where I don't want to strangle the heroine 😭
DNF
Wasn't a fan of the heroine at all, so I couldn't stand being in her head. The dialogue was also cheesy, and actions were cliche. I kept comparing it to other mage books I have read because there was nothing really new here. Someone PLEASE give me a good mage book where I don't want to strangle the heroine 😭
February 23, 2022
If you were at all hesitating about reading these books because they aren't fairy tales like this author's other books, then don't. These books are JUST as amazing as her other books.
This book has all the fun and voice and charm of this author's other books mashed into the standard magical academy and chosen one tropes, yet even though these tropes are used to their fullest extent, this book doesn't feel stale or rehashed. Maybe because the authority figures in this are torn between embracing her powers and executing a 16 yr old girl just because she's different. Oh, yeah, did I mention that the stakes in this book are literally death?
I LOVED this story world. It is so unique and vibrant. Absolutely adored it!
Re-Read Review:
This book is now on audiobook. Yay!!! The audiobook is really well done!
This book has all the fun and voice and charm of this author's other books mashed into the standard magical academy and chosen one tropes, yet even though these tropes are used to their fullest extent, this book doesn't feel stale or rehashed. Maybe because the authority figures in this are torn between embracing her powers and executing a 16 yr old girl just because she's different. Oh, yeah, did I mention that the stakes in this book are literally death?
I LOVED this story world. It is so unique and vibrant. Absolutely adored it!
Re-Read Review:
This book is now on audiobook. Yay!!! The audiobook is really well done!
October 19, 2023
3.5/5.0
An interesting, if a bit slow moving, twist on a common trope in YA fantasy. Elena is the common born girl with unique gifts that no one understands and many want to destroy. I can’t for the life of me understand why she was so rude and contemptuous to Lucas, the prince - who quietly helped her at every turn. But, the creative set up to the world and Elena’s abilities are unique enough to keep me reading and wanting more.
An interesting, if a bit slow moving, twist on a common trope in YA fantasy. Elena is the common born girl with unique gifts that no one understands and many want to destroy. I can’t for the life of me understand why she was so rude and contemptuous to Lucas, the prince - who quietly helped her at every turn. But, the creative set up to the world and Elena’s abilities are unique enough to keep me reading and wanting more.
February 10, 2019
Yer a Mage Elena!
(I couldn't help the Harry Potter homage all right?l
My feelings for this book are a bit complicated. On the one hand I enjoyed much of the world, the magic, the characters and the premise. I look forward to learning more as well as historical context.
I just did not enjoy Elena's...attitude? Prejudices? Assumptive, narrow minded beliefs? Something like this.
She spends around a year with these people at the academy. Of the dozen regularly mentioned/interacted with students and faculty throughout, a third are hostile, a third are (or become) friendly and a third just don't really care. Elena doesn't spent a whole lot of time understanding them however.
Granted the Mageborn are essentially the oppressors here; they restrict education, opportunities and livelihood on the nebulous basis of "ya common born know nothing". They feel justified because when a CB does learn to read/write, Bad Things Happen.
Elena learns there's a fairly good reason or two that keep the Knowledge from the masses, first and foremost being it's an extremely costly, time consuming and frankly dangerous pursuit. This doesn't make her explore options, no she blames them for not wanting to die to do these things to help the CB.
Her friends broadly, and often not that subtly, hint why it's important for them to succeed at their studies, but Elena ignores that to focus on how the CB's are doing all the sacrificing here. The Prince all but winks in a cartoonish way to get her to stop raising dangerous questions in public where anyone very much not sympathetic to her continuing to live can HEAR HER make these accusations...and she gets angry that he won't immediately and rashly agree.
Her unrealistic ideas about how quickly she should be made the Absolute Authority In All Things is aggravating.
Everyone else is great though. I love Finnian, Coralie and Lorcan. I appreciate Anacia, Jocosta and Lucas quite a bit. I just wish Elena would think harder before speaking up - she got extremely lucky several times, which can't possibly continue.
(I couldn't help the Harry Potter homage all right?l
My feelings for this book are a bit complicated. On the one hand I enjoyed much of the world, the magic, the characters and the premise. I look forward to learning more as well as historical context.
I just did not enjoy Elena's...attitude? Prejudices? Assumptive, narrow minded beliefs? Something like this.
She spends around a year with these people at the academy. Of the dozen regularly mentioned/interacted with students and faculty throughout, a third are hostile, a third are (or become) friendly and a third just don't really care. Elena doesn't spent a whole lot of time understanding them however.
Granted the Mageborn are essentially the oppressors here; they restrict education, opportunities and livelihood on the nebulous basis of "ya common born know nothing". They feel justified because when a CB does learn to read/write, Bad Things Happen.
Elena learns there's a fairly good reason or two that keep the Knowledge from the masses, first and foremost being it's an extremely costly, time consuming and frankly dangerous pursuit. This doesn't make her explore options, no she blames them for not wanting to die to do these things to help the CB.
Her friends broadly, and often not that subtly, hint why it's important for them to succeed at their studies, but Elena ignores that to focus on how the CB's are doing all the sacrificing here. The Prince all but winks in a cartoonish way to get her to stop raising dangerous questions in public where anyone very much not sympathetic to her continuing to live can HEAR HER make these accusations...and she gets angry that he won't immediately and rashly agree.
Her unrealistic ideas about how quickly she should be made the Absolute Authority In All Things is aggravating.
Everyone else is great though. I love Finnian, Coralie and Lorcan. I appreciate Anacia, Jocosta and Lucas quite a bit. I just wish Elena would think harder before speaking up - she got extremely lucky several times, which can't possibly continue.
August 16, 2019
If you bothered to see the premise of this book, why are you reading this review? Go get this book! Is the blurb not captivating enough!
Though Ms. Cellier has never strayed from her fairytale-retelling genre before, I'm glad she found the idea for this brilliant new storyworld. I'm ever so glad she formed it into a brand-new series of fantasy books for us to read! I mean, this entire world is built on a foundation of words. Writing magic. That should be enough to lure in any number of writers. And the main protagonist, Elena of Kingslee, is a girl with the power of speaking magic.
The world-building was fantastic. The author carefully explains to us the way of the written word and how life goes at the Academy... speaking of which, I love stories that take place at a special school for special people! Although I definitely would have liked to see more of Elena's friends-- Coralie and Finnian-- as they seemed somewhat eclipsed by the presence of Prince Lucas.
He... Lucas... was not the type of hero that I'm used to from this author. Of course, all of Miss Melanie's heroes are very different in their own ways, but the romances are not quite as... forced? I just thought that Lucas and Elena seemed to have too much of a weak base attraction to be so prominent in the ovearching story. So, sadly I do have to take half a star off for the romance.
Overall, VOICE OF POWER is really good. I'd recommend it to anyone and everyone. I've already pre-ordered the second book-- at least I can reconcile myself for having to wait SO LONG for the last of the Beyond the Four Kingdoms series by this same author... As usual, her book is very clean. Some minor violence and romance, but it is astoundingly clean in comparison to most young adult fantasy. Of course, magic is used in this book, but I personally had no problem with it.
I applaud Melanie Cellier for creating another riveting fantasy world and a wonderful story! 4.5 stars.
Though Ms. Cellier has never strayed from her fairytale-retelling genre before, I'm glad she found the idea for this brilliant new storyworld. I'm ever so glad she formed it into a brand-new series of fantasy books for us to read! I mean, this entire world is built on a foundation of words. Writing magic. That should be enough to lure in any number of writers. And the main protagonist, Elena of Kingslee, is a girl with the power of speaking magic.
The world-building was fantastic. The author carefully explains to us the way of the written word and how life goes at the Academy... speaking of which, I love stories that take place at a special school for special people! Although I definitely would have liked to see more of Elena's friends-- Coralie and Finnian-- as they seemed somewhat eclipsed by the presence of Prince Lucas.
He... Lucas... was not the type of hero that I'm used to from this author. Of course, all of Miss Melanie's heroes are very different in their own ways, but the romances are not quite as... forced? I just thought that Lucas and Elena seemed to have too much of a weak base attraction to be so prominent in the ovearching story. So, sadly I do have to take half a star off for the romance.
Overall, VOICE OF POWER is really good. I'd recommend it to anyone and everyone. I've already pre-ordered the second book-- at least I can reconcile myself for having to wait SO LONG for the last of the Beyond the Four Kingdoms series by this same author... As usual, her book is very clean. Some minor violence and romance, but it is astoundingly clean in comparison to most young adult fantasy. Of course, magic is used in this book, but I personally had no problem with it.
I applaud Melanie Cellier for creating another riveting fantasy world and a wonderful story! 4.5 stars.
April 22, 2019
It had a solid start and crashed like a trainwreck.
It has an interesting premise. It sounded very simple at first, but I still decided to give it a try and it was not that bad. I personally liked to read through the protagonist's POV the joy and possibility of reading and gaining knowledge through reading. (Which reader wouldn't?)
Minus Star for lack of depth in world-building
Do you know how to recognise that this is from an English-speaking person? The failure to recognise any other languages besides English.
For a book that is trying to be sophisticated and basically raises awareness to the importance of reading and language, it sadly does not rise to the occasion. Judging from the high level the book aims for itself to be, it just lacks the awareness to be what it tries to be.
Minus Star for: Deteriorating sympathy for progratonigst
Towards the end, the protagonist just completely deteriorated and the reader's sympathy for her crashed like a trainwreck. As the story evolved, she supposed to grow, which she fails. Instead, her continuous ignorance reveals how stupid actually is. Over and over again, people keep telling her
She is like Teflon in that sense, completely repelling all the advises and political maneuvring people try to teach her
I usually dislike relationships as portrayed in the book. Aside from being so cliché, what is so attractive in having a cold, standoffish jerk insulting you only to miraculously turn out, and most of the time, without good reason or explanation, to be just a good, sometimes misunderstood guy?
So, what is even more incredible is that my likability for Lucas actually managed to surpass the female protagonist's because that was how annoying she became.
All in all, I will read the second one, because despite its flaws, I hope that it will, hopefully please, get a bit better, because it has a good start and a good premise.
It has an interesting premise. It sounded very simple at first, but I still decided to give it a try and it was not that bad. I personally liked to read through the protagonist's POV the joy and possibility of reading and gaining knowledge through reading. (Which reader wouldn't?)
Minus Star for lack of depth in world-building
Do you know how to recognise that this is from an English-speaking person? The failure to recognise any other languages besides English.
For a book that is trying to be sophisticated and basically raises awareness to the importance of reading and language, it sadly does not rise to the occasion. Judging from the high level the book aims for itself to be, it just lacks the awareness to be what it tries to be.
Minus Star for: Deteriorating sympathy for progratonigst
Towards the end, the protagonist just completely deteriorated and the reader's sympathy for her crashed like a trainwreck. As the story evolved, she supposed to grow, which she fails. Instead, her continuous ignorance reveals how stupid actually is. Over and over again, people keep telling her
She is like Teflon in that sense, completely repelling all the advises and political maneuvring people try to teach her
I usually dislike relationships as portrayed in the book. Aside from being so cliché, what is so attractive in having a cold, standoffish jerk insulting you only to miraculously turn out, and most of the time, without good reason or explanation, to be just a good, sometimes misunderstood guy?
So, what is even more incredible is that my likability for Lucas actually managed to surpass the female protagonist's because that was how annoying she became.
All in all, I will read the second one, because despite its flaws, I hope that it will, hopefully please, get a bit better, because it has a good start and a good premise.
February 25, 2022
This book reminded me that I DO indeed like fantasy and I’m so happy about that! It isn’t the genre I normally grab but this books synopsis was absolutely intriguing and I’ve heard so many good things about this author that I had to check her out.
And I’m so, so glad I did! It was incredible. The world-building, characters, plot, everything! It was all captivated me.
Ok, normally in fantasy I get lost super quickly. I can’t understand it and I just feel lost and therefore I usually don’t like fantasy... but this one was so well done. I was able to understand everything very quickly and I was totally into the story. The whole concept she created was so cool!
The characters were also great. My favorite is Elena and I also really like Coralie and Finnigan. I’m a little unsure how to feel about Lucas at this point. He’s definitely a mystery.
Anyways, I’m so happy I read this book because I loved it and can’t wait to continue this series plus read all of Melanie’s other books.
I’d recommend for sure, especially if you’re a fantasy lover anyways and even if you usually aren’t like me, check this one out!! It was so good. Also super clean which I appreciate soo much.
:)
And I’m so, so glad I did! It was incredible. The world-building, characters, plot, everything! It was all captivated me.
Ok, normally in fantasy I get lost super quickly. I can’t understand it and I just feel lost and therefore I usually don’t like fantasy... but this one was so well done. I was able to understand everything very quickly and I was totally into the story. The whole concept she created was so cool!
The characters were also great. My favorite is Elena and I also really like Coralie and Finnigan. I’m a little unsure how to feel about Lucas at this point. He’s definitely a mystery.
Anyways, I’m so happy I read this book because I loved it and can’t wait to continue this series plus read all of Melanie’s other books.
I’d recommend for sure, especially if you’re a fantasy lover anyways and even if you usually aren’t like me, check this one out!! It was so good. Also super clean which I appreciate soo much.
:)
January 6, 2019
Enchanting!
I have loved Melanie Cellier’s fairytale retellings. When she announced that she was trying something different, I was excited about this new series. It did not disappoint. She created a new world where words are magic and only the mage-born are allowed to read and write. The magic and the politics were intriguing. I can’t wait to see where this series goes next!
I have loved Melanie Cellier’s fairytale retellings. When she announced that she was trying something different, I was excited about this new series. It did not disappoint. She created a new world where words are magic and only the mage-born are allowed to read and write. The magic and the politics were intriguing. I can’t wait to see where this series goes next!
February 13, 2021
That was unexpected. I thoroughly enjoyed this book. There wasn’t a single time when I thought something negative about the writing, plot, or character development.
I am a fan and will definitely be picking up the next one. Like... right now maybe??
Disclaimers:
No sexual content or swearing. Violence is minimal, mostly just sparring and training with minimal descriptions.
I am a fan and will definitely be picking up the next one. Like... right now maybe??
Disclaimers:
No sexual content or swearing. Violence is minimal, mostly just sparring and training with minimal descriptions.
Read
March 15, 2020Really enjoyed this sweet YA fantasy! Our heroine is Elena, a commoner girl in a world where the written word commands great power...which is limited to the use of a handful of mage families. When Elena manifests the previously unknown power to wield magic with her voice, the rich and powerful mage families in her kingdom pluck her from her small village and send her to the mage academy, while their council debates whether she should be trained and studied to be used as a soldier against their enemies...or executed as a threat to their power. Thankfully, even if the broodingly handsome Prince Lucas - a fellow student at the academy - isn't exactly friendly to Elena, at least he seems willing to help...to some extent.
This was a quick, fun, fluffy comfort read. Beautifully written, with a very unique magic system, this is one of those books that plays unabashedly with well-worn tropes. One thing I particularly loved was the thoughtful and nuanced way Cellier discusses issue of power imbalance and systemic social injustice, giving various perspectives an opportunity to share their viewpoints.
I would already be binge-reading the rest of this series, except that my ereader is already overstocked with a ton of other books to try. But this was my first sampling of Cellier's books, and I'll definitely be reading more.
This was a quick, fun, fluffy comfort read. Beautifully written, with a very unique magic system, this is one of those books that plays unabashedly with well-worn tropes. One thing I particularly loved was the thoughtful and nuanced way Cellier discusses issue of power imbalance and systemic social injustice, giving various perspectives an opportunity to share their viewpoints.
I would already be binge-reading the rest of this series, except that my ereader is already overstocked with a ton of other books to try. But this was my first sampling of Cellier's books, and I'll definitely be reading more.
September 5, 2025
3.5 ⭐️
This book reminded me a lot of The Hidden Mage, which disappointed me. The princes were a lot alike, and the situations of both girls were similar. Of course, I did read The Hidden Mage first, even though The Spoken Mage comes before it. My bad! 😁
I still loved the writing, and this book, and I’m really excited to read the next one! 💗
This book reminded me a lot of The Hidden Mage, which disappointed me. The princes were a lot alike, and the situations of both girls were similar. Of course, I did read The Hidden Mage first, even though The Spoken Mage comes before it. My bad! 😁
I still loved the writing, and this book, and I’m really excited to read the next one! 💗
February 26, 2023
Ahh! I forgot to review Book 1 and now I'm ready to dive into Book 2 and I'm sure there are things I've forgotten at this point XD But...
I've been following Cellier for years. Her books are always the ones I go to when I want something uplifting and still engaging. She adds a little depth to her stories and worlds and characters that satisfies the deeper itch I have for good stories, but she also doesn't dive so deeply that I need to come up for air afterwards XD (There's a time and a place for the deep dive and I love those too! No judgement here!) She strikes a nice balance which is refreshing when you're in the mood for lighthearted with a touch of depth.
I've read her fairytales almost since the beginning. And when she started putting these books out, they went on my to-read list, but the life came in and I never got to them. Well now the whole series is out and I'm finally circling back to them. And, hey, what do you know! One of the characters has my name!! I've only ever seen my name in a book once and it was cause I participated in a contest and Fichter put it there <3 But it was really bizarre to have a main/secondary character with my name. It took a little getting used to.
Speaking of characters, I enjoyed following Elena, Coralie, Lucas, and their friends. Elena's care for her family and her struggle with finding her place in this strange new world was so relatable. The magic school trope is a fun one. I'm only a little partial as a former school teacher myself XD But I'm looking forward to finishing the series to see how each of the characters grow and how the choices they make impact their world. I liked watching Elena and her friends learn, the social dynamics, the impending political choices I'm sure will come as the world and plot expand beyond the walls of the school itself.
Elena's magic is intriguing. The whole world's magic is intriguing, honestly. It's one of the reasons I wanted to read this series. The idea of a society that cannot read or write for fear of the uncontrollable magic is unique. And Elena's particular spin on magic clearly introduces a new element the citizens and professors and classmates and government aren't ready for. I look forward to seeing how the kingdom approaches Elena's gift and Cellier does a good job building tension around that unknown throughout the story. There were a few twists that I don't think we've entirely unpacked the weight of yet, but I'm curious to see what else the story unfolds in future books.
It's a clean book with no swearing, hints of a clean romance to be further developed later on, and some mild fantasy violence. I'd feel fine giving the book to a preteen.
I've been following Cellier for years. Her books are always the ones I go to when I want something uplifting and still engaging. She adds a little depth to her stories and worlds and characters that satisfies the deeper itch I have for good stories, but she also doesn't dive so deeply that I need to come up for air afterwards XD (There's a time and a place for the deep dive and I love those too! No judgement here!) She strikes a nice balance which is refreshing when you're in the mood for lighthearted with a touch of depth.
I've read her fairytales almost since the beginning. And when she started putting these books out, they went on my to-read list, but the life came in and I never got to them. Well now the whole series is out and I'm finally circling back to them. And, hey, what do you know! One of the characters has my name!! I've only ever seen my name in a book once and it was cause I participated in a contest and Fichter put it there <3 But it was really bizarre to have a main/secondary character with my name. It took a little getting used to.
Speaking of characters, I enjoyed following Elena, Coralie, Lucas, and their friends. Elena's care for her family and her struggle with finding her place in this strange new world was so relatable. The magic school trope is a fun one. I'm only a little partial as a former school teacher myself XD But I'm looking forward to finishing the series to see how each of the characters grow and how the choices they make impact their world. I liked watching Elena and her friends learn, the social dynamics, the impending political choices I'm sure will come as the world and plot expand beyond the walls of the school itself.
Elena's magic is intriguing. The whole world's magic is intriguing, honestly. It's one of the reasons I wanted to read this series. The idea of a society that cannot read or write for fear of the uncontrollable magic is unique. And Elena's particular spin on magic clearly introduces a new element the citizens and professors and classmates and government aren't ready for. I look forward to seeing how the kingdom approaches Elena's gift and Cellier does a good job building tension around that unknown throughout the story. There were a few twists that I don't think we've entirely unpacked the weight of yet, but I'm curious to see what else the story unfolds in future books.
It's a clean book with no swearing, hints of a clean romance to be further developed later on, and some mild fantasy violence. I'd feel fine giving the book to a preteen.
April 12, 2021
Has potential
The story is pretty skimmable, especially the first half. It jumps right in and the lack of lead up or basic setting up for plot development is jarring, but also leaves it feeling very shallow. Characters are clunky and rote in the beginning, though they do develop some through the course of the book. I still found myself skimming, especially in scenes where the MC is whining about the fate of the commonborn or how people treat her. It wouldn't be so bad if she wasn't so ignorant. She says a lot of things that have to be corrected, things she could have known had she just spent a few minutes observing (aka picking up on social cues because duh, they were obvious). Her frequent belligerence is tiring, too. I expected her to use her head more.
The romance is pretty standard, feeling very much on the young side of YA, which makes it less interesting. The blushing and silly glances and rants about a pair of eyes are a bit young for her age, IMO. Felt akin to a 13 or 14 year old's reactions, not a 16/17 year old.
This story has potential and I will read book 2 in the hopes it gains some depth and has more maturity.
The story is pretty skimmable, especially the first half. It jumps right in and the lack of lead up or basic setting up for plot development is jarring, but also leaves it feeling very shallow. Characters are clunky and rote in the beginning, though they do develop some through the course of the book. I still found myself skimming, especially in scenes where the MC is whining about the fate of the commonborn or how people treat her. It wouldn't be so bad if she wasn't so ignorant. She says a lot of things that have to be corrected, things she could have known had she just spent a few minutes observing (aka picking up on social cues because duh, they were obvious). Her frequent belligerence is tiring, too. I expected her to use her head more.
The romance is pretty standard, feeling very much on the young side of YA, which makes it less interesting. The blushing and silly glances and rants about a pair of eyes are a bit young for her age, IMO. Felt akin to a 13 or 14 year old's reactions, not a 16/17 year old.
This story has potential and I will read book 2 in the hopes it gains some depth and has more maturity.
August 4, 2020
In Elena's world, the most dangerous objects around are written words. Words literally have the power to create magical spells, and in the hands of a non-magic-user, could be dangerous enough to destroy an entire village. This is why only the Mage-born elite, who are born with the ability to control magic, are taught to read and write. Elena is a normal teenage shopkeeper's daughter in a small village, until she somehow does magic -- by speaking it aloud. Now, she's the first (and only so far) Spoken Mage, training at the Academy with her mage-born classmates. But there are plenty of people who don't want Elena to succeed -- or even live.
Melanie Cellier has a way with YA fantasy. Her fairy tale retellings are amazing. The Spoken Mage is very similar to those in tone and character, but not based on pre-existing stories. The book is fabulous. Elena is smart, strong, and spunky. Her growing group of friends is fun. And, of course, since this is a YA fantasy, Prince Lucas is also in her class, and may (or may not) like her. They've got a lot of chemistry, and I can't wait to find out what happens next.
Melanie Cellier has a way with YA fantasy. Her fairy tale retellings are amazing. The Spoken Mage is very similar to those in tone and character, but not based on pre-existing stories. The book is fabulous. Elena is smart, strong, and spunky. Her growing group of friends is fun. And, of course, since this is a YA fantasy, Prince Lucas is also in her class, and may (or may not) like her. They've got a lot of chemistry, and I can't wait to find out what happens next.
April 17, 2024
I think I’m really going to like the series, but this first book was 4 stars. The MC is just too self-righteous, unappreciative, and belligerent to be likable. I’m pretty sure she’s being set up for future character growth, but at this point she simply annoys me.
I like the magic system and premise, though, and find it unique and imaginative. The book is engaging and moves at a good pace. There’s political intrigue and the magic fight scenes are very cool. There’s a hint of a romance in this first book, but the MC is too hostile for it to have gotten very far.
Content:
There’s no foul language or sex. There are some fight scenes but the violence is minimal. There are no references to faith or God.
I like the magic system and premise, though, and find it unique and imaginative. The book is engaging and moves at a good pace. There’s political intrigue and the magic fight scenes are very cool. There’s a hint of a romance in this first book, but the MC is too hostile for it to have gotten very far.
Content:
There’s no foul language or sex. There are some fight scenes but the violence is minimal. There are no references to faith or God.
July 6, 2024
This was a reread, I read it about a 1 1/2 years ago and thought I should refresh myself on the world to continue with the series. I remembered most of the big details, but a lot of the other stuff was fuzzy so the refresher helped. I'm very excited to continue with the series!
January 4, 2022
As a reader, one of the key qualities I look for in a book is originality - and that is where the fantasy genre truly shines. It's always exciting to come across a fantastical world or newfound power and that is exactly what I stumbled on in Melanie Cellier's book, Voice of Power. As soon as I read the description, I was intrigued. I loved the idea of magic being tied to reading and writing and the emphasis throughout the entirety of the series was placed on words, both written and spoken.
In Elena's world, words carried tangible power, which was why the commonborn (non-mages) were strictly forbidden from learning to read or write. If they even wrote a single word, it had the potential to cause uncontrolled destruction. Then, Elena reveals a new and unheard of ability. Without writing a single word, she can control power using only her voice. This startling discovery thrusts Elena into a complex echelon of political dynasties and she finds herself forced into the academy for mages. As the kingdom finds itself at war, Elena desperately searches for an understanding of her power as she faces the prospect of execution at the hands of those who feel threatened by the magnitude of her abilities. While life at the academy is somewhat better, she's finds herself the focus of enemies and rivals as well as a certain prince.
“Words had the power of life—and the power of death. Written words shaped the power, released it from inside us out into the world. But only the mage families could control that power.”
In Elena's world, words carried tangible power, which was why the commonborn (non-mages) were strictly forbidden from learning to read or write. If they even wrote a single word, it had the potential to cause uncontrolled destruction. Then, Elena reveals a new and unheard of ability. Without writing a single word, she can control power using only her voice. This startling discovery thrusts Elena into a complex echelon of political dynasties and she finds herself forced into the academy for mages. As the kingdom finds itself at war, Elena desperately searches for an understanding of her power as she faces the prospect of execution at the hands of those who feel threatened by the magnitude of her abilities. While life at the academy is somewhat better, she's finds herself the focus of enemies and rivals as well as a certain prince.
December 23, 2021
One of the things I hated the most was how flat everything was. The descriptions, characters, characterizations, writing style, etc... All of it fell flat for me. It was an especially big let down because of how vivid Melanie Cellier’s fairytale series is. You get to know the characters, relate to them, become invested in their well being and you’re sucked into the world. None of that happened here.
At first I was really interested and curious about the plot and setting, but then the whole thing just dragged on and on. When topped with the fact that I didn’t even really like Elena and how flat her character was, I was sorely disappointed with this book. The only reason why I kept reading was because of my (now waned) faith in Melanie Cellier’s books and I was hoping (to no avail) that things would pick up or Elena would get serious character growth. Or that there would be an amazing plot twist. Or that the book’s characters would suddenly fill out and grow in depth. I held out hope until the beginning of the third book (because I really didn’t want to believe that an author whose other series could be so amazing could have another series that were so terrible), then I gave up on this series for good.
At first I was really interested and curious about the plot and setting, but then the whole thing just dragged on and on. When topped with the fact that I didn’t even really like Elena and how flat her character was, I was sorely disappointed with this book. The only reason why I kept reading was because of my (now waned) faith in Melanie Cellier’s books and I was hoping (to no avail) that things would pick up or Elena would get serious character growth. Or that there would be an amazing plot twist. Or that the book’s characters would suddenly fill out and grow in depth. I held out hope until the beginning of the third book (because I really didn’t want to believe that an author whose other series could be so amazing could have another series that were so terrible), then I gave up on this series for good.
December 21, 2019
I have mixed thoughts about this book. The idea is great and I'm going on to read the next book but, Elena was infuriating at times as was Lucas. I felt like, as people, they kept missing each other.
But I must say the relief of Elena not being a prophecy was welcomed. She was a mystery to be solved...an impossible existence.
I'm interested in her story and really hope to see her grow as a character. Maybe learn to mind her tongue and be less self absorbed.
Looking back, not much happened in this book. Discovery of her powers and the introduction to the villains it what mainly occurs.
But I must say the relief of Elena not being a prophecy was welcomed. She was a mystery to be solved...an impossible existence.
I'm interested in her story and really hope to see her grow as a character. Maybe learn to mind her tongue and be less self absorbed.
Looking back, not much happened in this book. Discovery of her powers and the introduction to the villains it what mainly occurs.
October 15, 2023
I made a special trip to the library after reading this in order to grab the next 3 books. Gonna huddle on the couch all weekend and read this engrossing series!
April 6, 2022
TL;DR: if you're bored and want to be entertained by a book and don't wanna take it too seriously, go for it. if you have better stuff to read skip this.
for context: i found this story randomly in the kindle store. i have prime, so i downloaded it without having to pay any money. my first impression was that the concept was really interesting; a world where the written word was a sort of magic only invoked by mages, where most “commonborn” were banned from reading or writing as a result. the female mc, however, is the exception: on one fateful day, she does a “vocal composition,” which is basically written magic but through words instead, something completely unprecedented in this world. as a result, she gets sent to this royal academy for mages and attracts the attention of the prince (who is quite obviously her love interest).
i had written like an 10 page review on this in my google docs bc i was so invested in talking about this but let's split this into steps.
first, the worldbuilding:
my biggest issue with the way this world is structured is that, while the concept of reading and writing as the foundation of magic is cool, there’s a lack of GOOD explanation for how the commonborn are able to circumvent not being allowed to read or write. the two loopholes presented in the story that the commonborn utilize are a) memorizing and b) using symbols, although this loophole is only brought up once in the context of reading a map.
memorizing everything, to me, is just not plausible, especially if you’re elena’s family, who’s running a store. there’s so many records you need to keep in order to keep a business up, and there’s no explanation for how they do so beyond memorizing. the only time we get close to an explanation is when elena is ranting to her mage friends about how the commonborn are incredibly smart for memorizing everything, and that’s not even an explanation!
i have an even bigger issue with reading symbols, though. at what point do these symbols, which have to be standardized across the kingdom in order to be understood by all the commonborn, become a language of its own, and thus have the same power as written words? after all, letters themselves are symbols too. what is the defining characteristic that separates these symbols from written letters? how is language, in both the written and oral sense, defined in this world? because if we’re going by how it’s defined here (a system of communication consisting of gestures, written symbols, or vocal patterns), these symbols are practically a language of its own, and language, as described in the story’s universe itself, has a destructive effect when written down by those who can’t control its power.
i think the author sort of realizes this in the story, since reading symbols is only brought up once, but falling back on memorizing also just doesn’t cut it for me. the best way to make this work is by making very clear the difference between the words written down by mages and the symbols drawn by the commonborn, although tbh i also find myself stuck by what is best to delineate those two things by.
in terms of the classes in the magic academy: they seem cool, and i thought the theory behind composition was interesting, but i have a gripe with the theory behind elena's spoken composition. what were the chances she imagined “stop,” a word she couldn’t read, that HAPPENED to be the exact word she was going to say, thus activating her powers? i feel like a more plausible buildup to this is elena perhaps secretly teaching herself how to read--it’s even established in the story later on that she likes reading and is very curious--but oh well.
another important point in this story’s universe is the kingdom’s structure, as well as its mage nobility. the important players to the kingdom are talked about and introduced at various points in the book, but honestly, i barely remember any of it. the politics between all of these major players is very interesting to see at points in the story where they become pertinent, but the characters themselves feel a little flat.
one big thing i wanna talk about worldbuilding-wise is how systemic oppression works in this kingdom. there are multiple points in the story where it’s emphasized that elena is commonborn, or “non-blooded,” and as a result has been raised in a poorer family compared to those who are mages, who are generally more rich. multiple times in the story, it’s also emphasized in conversations between elena and the other mage characters that mages often don’t have a choice in what things they can do (ie. conscription law) or risk being more heavily punished for being mages (ie. if you don’t pass finals, you’re deemed a failed mage and have to be locked up for the rest of your life), as a retort to elena arguing that the commonborn are unfairly oppressed.
first of all, i really don’t like the politics of this. when elena’s arguing about how unfairly oppressed her people are, the arguments mages tend to bite back with revolve around choice--like, there are some things that even mages can’t have a choice on. but by far, the worst aspect of the commonborns’ oppression is that they don’t have the required wealth to access means of survival. it isn’t about whether or not you can do things, it’s about whether or not you can even stay alive to be able to do things. clementine, elena’s little sister, is constantly battling sickness and the family needs to work their ass off to pay for proper treatment without risking getting sick themselves, but “mages also have to go to war” and “the world is inherently unfair.” huh??? get your heads out of your asses. at least you don’t have to worry about food, water, and shelter every single fucking day of your life. sure, politics are complicated amongst nobility and the royal court, and if you make the wrong move you can maybe risk getting condemned to death, but lucas and the other nobles still live on material opulence at the expense of the commonborn, via the delineation of the mageborn class and the commonborn class. the core issue isn’t what you can or can’t do, it’s whether or not your material conditions are able to support you living a life where your needs are met, which obviously isn’t the case for a lot of commonborn. i hardly expect rich mages to be able to do class analysis, but at least the story itself should emphasize how wrong they are in this regard.
second, i call bull on mage punishments. for context, this is exactly what the book says: “‘there are few things more dangerous than a mage who can’t learn control...all mageborn must attend the academy, and anyone who fails is locked away. for life. without any further access to the written word.’” just have them repeat a year!! that’s what elena says at first, and honest to god, it makes the most sense. if a mage can’t learn control on the first try, why the hell would you lock them up when they can learn control on the second try? you’re just creating more danger for yourself if you just lock them up without giving them another chance to learn control, because as previously stated multiple times in the book, you can write on anything and magic can happen. even if they’re revoked access to the written word, that isn’t going to erase the fact that they can still read and write. you don’t have to look up the words in order to learn how the write them once you’ve already learned and mastered writing, something most people will have done by the time they’re in the academy anyway, so revoking access does jack shit--they’re still gonna be capable of at least attempting to make compositions.
second, the plot:
overall, plot-wise this book is very empty. there’s a lot of potentially interesting plot points that are kind of glossed over, but you can tell that there are some things in the story that’s clearly meant to be set-up for what happens in the next few books, which is supposed to make us readers more excited for the next book...which i ended up reading later and thought was much worse. so...yeah.
third, the characters:
elena is meh. i didn't hate her and i think i cut her a bit of slack on her "woe is me!" attitude around the commonborn given what i felt were terrible politics in this book. but idk, i have a first-person trap tendency where i usually don't have any grip of what the main character is like if the book uses first person. although it could just be the author not writing her with any personality either. overall she was kind of dull and generic and at some points i even forgot her name. i do wish her naivete with mageborn politics was expanded upon a little more, for elena to be a little less perceptive of what the other characters were thinking, in order to emphasize to us that politics is one big, confusing game when you’re an outsider. i think this would better highlight her flaws, which is something she has in spades according to others but currently lacks in her actions.
lucas! he's...okay. i didn't feel like we knew that much about him given that he and elena don't interact for half of the story (unless you count them making eye contact, which happens a LOT). i didn't even see him as "arrogant," which was how he was described, just...really quiet and aloof. i did find interesting the parallels the author drew with the two characters and disposability--lucas is royalty, but not the crown prince, so he’s in a sense “disposable,” and elena is the one that’s conscripted for war because of her weak little sister and her brother at the university, so she’s in a sense “disposable” as well.
i will begrudgingly admit that while i wouldn't ship the hell out of them, their interactions were pretty entertaining and i enjoyed their dynamic, even if elena is a fairly flat character. in particular i appreciated the subtlety and lack of drama. perhaps i am just very biased towards anything that remotely seems like slow burn. it would be interesting to see how this relationship develops in the later books, and whether or not either of the characters will actually change on the basis of this relationship. (having the power of hindsight...eh.)
the other characters are just written very flatly and don't really seem like they have much of their own lives outside of the mc. ESPECIALLY coralie. and the mean first-years honestly, i did NOT care about them...like i didn't even like to hate them for being rude to elena, i just...didn't give a fuck.
overall:
would i recommend this book? if you truly don’t have anything better to do with your life and want to just read something that’s at least mildly interesting, i would recommend this. but really, if you have anything better to read, read that first. this book is entertaining and i did like it, but i liked it in the sense of “i would like to emptily consume something in my spare time because i can.” but hey, that motivation did motivate me to buy the rest of the books in the series so maybe that's enough for some people.
for context: i found this story randomly in the kindle store. i have prime, so i downloaded it without having to pay any money. my first impression was that the concept was really interesting; a world where the written word was a sort of magic only invoked by mages, where most “commonborn” were banned from reading or writing as a result. the female mc, however, is the exception: on one fateful day, she does a “vocal composition,” which is basically written magic but through words instead, something completely unprecedented in this world. as a result, she gets sent to this royal academy for mages and attracts the attention of the prince (who is quite obviously her love interest).
i had written like an 10 page review on this in my google docs bc i was so invested in talking about this but let's split this into steps.
first, the worldbuilding:
my biggest issue with the way this world is structured is that, while the concept of reading and writing as the foundation of magic is cool, there’s a lack of GOOD explanation for how the commonborn are able to circumvent not being allowed to read or write. the two loopholes presented in the story that the commonborn utilize are a) memorizing and b) using symbols, although this loophole is only brought up once in the context of reading a map.
memorizing everything, to me, is just not plausible, especially if you’re elena’s family, who’s running a store. there’s so many records you need to keep in order to keep a business up, and there’s no explanation for how they do so beyond memorizing. the only time we get close to an explanation is when elena is ranting to her mage friends about how the commonborn are incredibly smart for memorizing everything, and that’s not even an explanation!
i have an even bigger issue with reading symbols, though. at what point do these symbols, which have to be standardized across the kingdom in order to be understood by all the commonborn, become a language of its own, and thus have the same power as written words? after all, letters themselves are symbols too. what is the defining characteristic that separates these symbols from written letters? how is language, in both the written and oral sense, defined in this world? because if we’re going by how it’s defined here (a system of communication consisting of gestures, written symbols, or vocal patterns), these symbols are practically a language of its own, and language, as described in the story’s universe itself, has a destructive effect when written down by those who can’t control its power.
i think the author sort of realizes this in the story, since reading symbols is only brought up once, but falling back on memorizing also just doesn’t cut it for me. the best way to make this work is by making very clear the difference between the words written down by mages and the symbols drawn by the commonborn, although tbh i also find myself stuck by what is best to delineate those two things by.
in terms of the classes in the magic academy: they seem cool, and i thought the theory behind composition was interesting, but i have a gripe with the theory behind elena's spoken composition. what were the chances she imagined “stop,” a word she couldn’t read, that HAPPENED to be the exact word she was going to say, thus activating her powers? i feel like a more plausible buildup to this is elena perhaps secretly teaching herself how to read--it’s even established in the story later on that she likes reading and is very curious--but oh well.
another important point in this story’s universe is the kingdom’s structure, as well as its mage nobility. the important players to the kingdom are talked about and introduced at various points in the book, but honestly, i barely remember any of it. the politics between all of these major players is very interesting to see at points in the story where they become pertinent, but the characters themselves feel a little flat.
one big thing i wanna talk about worldbuilding-wise is how systemic oppression works in this kingdom. there are multiple points in the story where it’s emphasized that elena is commonborn, or “non-blooded,” and as a result has been raised in a poorer family compared to those who are mages, who are generally more rich. multiple times in the story, it’s also emphasized in conversations between elena and the other mage characters that mages often don’t have a choice in what things they can do (ie. conscription law) or risk being more heavily punished for being mages (ie. if you don’t pass finals, you’re deemed a failed mage and have to be locked up for the rest of your life), as a retort to elena arguing that the commonborn are unfairly oppressed.
first of all, i really don’t like the politics of this. when elena’s arguing about how unfairly oppressed her people are, the arguments mages tend to bite back with revolve around choice--like, there are some things that even mages can’t have a choice on. but by far, the worst aspect of the commonborns’ oppression is that they don’t have the required wealth to access means of survival. it isn’t about whether or not you can do things, it’s about whether or not you can even stay alive to be able to do things. clementine, elena’s little sister, is constantly battling sickness and the family needs to work their ass off to pay for proper treatment without risking getting sick themselves, but “mages also have to go to war” and “the world is inherently unfair.” huh??? get your heads out of your asses. at least you don’t have to worry about food, water, and shelter every single fucking day of your life. sure, politics are complicated amongst nobility and the royal court, and if you make the wrong move you can maybe risk getting condemned to death, but lucas and the other nobles still live on material opulence at the expense of the commonborn, via the delineation of the mageborn class and the commonborn class. the core issue isn’t what you can or can’t do, it’s whether or not your material conditions are able to support you living a life where your needs are met, which obviously isn’t the case for a lot of commonborn. i hardly expect rich mages to be able to do class analysis, but at least the story itself should emphasize how wrong they are in this regard.
second, i call bull on mage punishments. for context, this is exactly what the book says: “‘there are few things more dangerous than a mage who can’t learn control...all mageborn must attend the academy, and anyone who fails is locked away. for life. without any further access to the written word.’” just have them repeat a year!! that’s what elena says at first, and honest to god, it makes the most sense. if a mage can’t learn control on the first try, why the hell would you lock them up when they can learn control on the second try? you’re just creating more danger for yourself if you just lock them up without giving them another chance to learn control, because as previously stated multiple times in the book, you can write on anything and magic can happen. even if they’re revoked access to the written word, that isn’t going to erase the fact that they can still read and write. you don’t have to look up the words in order to learn how the write them once you’ve already learned and mastered writing, something most people will have done by the time they’re in the academy anyway, so revoking access does jack shit--they’re still gonna be capable of at least attempting to make compositions.
second, the plot:
overall, plot-wise this book is very empty. there’s a lot of potentially interesting plot points that are kind of glossed over, but you can tell that there are some things in the story that’s clearly meant to be set-up for what happens in the next few books, which is supposed to make us readers more excited for the next book...which i ended up reading later and thought was much worse. so...yeah.
third, the characters:
elena is meh. i didn't hate her and i think i cut her a bit of slack on her "woe is me!" attitude around the commonborn given what i felt were terrible politics in this book. but idk, i have a first-person trap tendency where i usually don't have any grip of what the main character is like if the book uses first person. although it could just be the author not writing her with any personality either. overall she was kind of dull and generic and at some points i even forgot her name. i do wish her naivete with mageborn politics was expanded upon a little more, for elena to be a little less perceptive of what the other characters were thinking, in order to emphasize to us that politics is one big, confusing game when you’re an outsider. i think this would better highlight her flaws, which is something she has in spades according to others but currently lacks in her actions.
lucas! he's...okay. i didn't feel like we knew that much about him given that he and elena don't interact for half of the story (unless you count them making eye contact, which happens a LOT). i didn't even see him as "arrogant," which was how he was described, just...really quiet and aloof. i did find interesting the parallels the author drew with the two characters and disposability--lucas is royalty, but not the crown prince, so he’s in a sense “disposable,” and elena is the one that’s conscripted for war because of her weak little sister and her brother at the university, so she’s in a sense “disposable” as well.
i will begrudgingly admit that while i wouldn't ship the hell out of them, their interactions were pretty entertaining and i enjoyed their dynamic, even if elena is a fairly flat character. in particular i appreciated the subtlety and lack of drama. perhaps i am just very biased towards anything that remotely seems like slow burn. it would be interesting to see how this relationship develops in the later books, and whether or not either of the characters will actually change on the basis of this relationship. (having the power of hindsight...eh.)
the other characters are just written very flatly and don't really seem like they have much of their own lives outside of the mc. ESPECIALLY coralie. and the mean first-years honestly, i did NOT care about them...like i didn't even like to hate them for being rude to elena, i just...didn't give a fuck.
overall:
would i recommend this book? if you truly don’t have anything better to do with your life and want to just read something that’s at least mildly interesting, i would recommend this. but really, if you have anything better to read, read that first. this book is entertaining and i did like it, but i liked it in the sense of “i would like to emptily consume something in my spare time because i can.” but hey, that motivation did motivate me to buy the rest of the books in the series so maybe that's enough for some people.
November 6, 2020
En spännande klasskildring i en fantasy värld där ordet verkligen har makten. Elena som är en vardaglig bonde, har inte lärt sig att läsa eller att skriva, ändå har hon ordets kraft, i verbal form. De ord hon uttalar kan ske och det är väldigt kraftfullt, talans kraft om man vill uttrycka så. Detta anses såklart farligt enligt kungen och drottningen, så de spärrar in henne på akademin, där enbart adelsbarn finns, för bönder kan ju inte läsa och därav kan de inte använda magi, men nu finns ju Elena och stackar flicka. Hon vill bara komma hem istället för att vara fast på en elit skola som klankar ner på henne.
Dock visar det sig att klass och makt, är det enda hennes rike verkligen tänkter på. För snart är det någon som är ute efter Elena.
Personligen tyckte jag denna inledning på serien var bra. Något jobbig som ljudbok, men gillar hur Elena kämpar och försöker säga emot alla som ser ner på henne. Samt så är det lite romans också, sånt är trevligt. Men det är lite mer som barbie romans. En liten fling och helt random är de båda två super kära.
Dock visar det sig att klass och makt, är det enda hennes rike verkligen tänkter på. För snart är det någon som är ute efter Elena.
Personligen tyckte jag denna inledning på serien var bra. Något jobbig som ljudbok, men gillar hur Elena kämpar och försöker säga emot alla som ser ner på henne. Samt så är det lite romans också, sånt är trevligt. Men det är lite mer som barbie romans. En liten fling och helt random är de båda två super kära.
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