When Magic Calls: A Collection of Modern Fairy Tales

by Caitlin Berve, Beth Berve (Illustrations)

Witness the Wonder and Terror of MagicOnce upon a time in a land not so far away, in Truth or Consequences, New Mexico, a jealous girl stole a magical artifact from a fairy tale museum, unlocking a curse that might cost her life.Right now, in the wilds of the Rocky Mountains, a man obsessively studies a wild girl living with and raised by a wolf pack, but soon watching won’t be enough.Tonight, in a city a storm will rage, waking a boy from a deadly dream and propelling him toward the insidious darkness of his ancestry.Fairy tales are taking place all around us in modern times. Look closely and you will see fear, fate, and magic intertwine or perhaps discover you are in the midst of a tale of your own.If you love selkies, changelings, and cursed objects thriving in our contemporary world, then this is the collection for you!CIPA EVVY Award winner for best fiction book, best collection/anthology, and best cover design 2021.“When Magic Calls beckons the reader to it like a siren on the shore . . . Caitlin Berve's creativity is nothing short of brilliant” ~ Todd Mika author of Tales from GrimmgardCaitlin Berve is the founder of Ignited Ink Writing, where she uses her MFA to edit novels, teach creative writing, create videos, and write. She seeks to fill the world with the kind of writing that lingers with readers and find magic in modern times.

Genres: Fantasy

248 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 1, 2020

About the author

Caitlin Berve is a fantasy author, editor, and speaker. Through Ignited Ink Writing, she edits novels, creates video tutorials, and writes. Using her MFA, she teaches creative writing at conferences, colleges, and Colorado writers’ organizations. Her collection of modern fairy tales When Magic Calls is available in paperback, ebook, and audiobook formats most places books are sold. Caitlin seeks to fill the world with the kind of writing that lingers with readers and find magic in modern times.

Reviews

[Lina · Rating 2 out of 5]

Most of the tales are boring af. A few are kind of ok. It's not bad, but I wouldn't waste my kids' time with this when there is an ocean of more worthy literature.

[Maikalani · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a wonderful book !! In order to save her life a young girl must travel through different fairy tales searching for the key to unlock her life’s mystery and save it too!

Travel through time and reimagined telling with her epic story building fast paced and detailed. You won’t tire and can’t put it down!

[Tara Cignarella · Rating 5 out of 5]

A unique collection of stories. Well written and enteraining.

[Todd Mika · Rating 4 out of 5]

When Magic Calls beckons the reader to it like a siren on the shore, challenging them to identify which classic fairy tale is being retold in each short story. To be candid, Caitlin Berve's creativity is nothing short of brilliant. While any writer might casually take a story like "Aladdin and the Magic Lamp" or "Sleeping Beauty" and just modernize the setting, Berve reaches much deeper. She finely reduces the story down to the core of the moral conflict or the human struggle, and rebuilds it from the ground up in a fresh, original tale. In one of my favorites in this anthology, a classic tale is retold over and over with progressively greater twists, following the author's train of thought through each wild retelling.

The technical variety in the book shows what an extensive repertoire Berve boasts as a writer. Some stories switch back and forth between past and present tense, or from first-person perspective to a third-person narrative. She even ventures into second-person narration for a few stories, although I personally felt this was not the best choice as it was more of a jarring distraction from the excellent storytelling I wanted to enjoy more!

This emerging author has definitely caught my attention with her labor of love. When Magic Calls is proudly displayed on my bookshelf and I happily await the next Caitlin Berve fiction to stand beside it!

[Kate Jonuska · Rating 5 out of 5]

With my attention span pulled in every direction by the pandemic and other unrest in our world these days, I need fiction more than ever for comfort and entertainment, but I've been finding reading novels difficult. The whimsical, mysterious and endearing short stories collected in When Magic Calls were exactly the bite-sized medicine I needed, and unlike recent reading, I finished the collection in mere days. For her debut book, Caitlin Berve has created a set of stories that both pay reverence to and creatively experiment with fairytales. She pulls from many different cultures and eras, combining wildly different traditional fairytales, and treats each one with obvious passion and care. When Magic Calls is sure to please any reader who loves fantasy, whether adult and teen, though the book is for general audiences rather than YA. Highly recommended.

BONUS: When Magic Calls is also an INCREDIBLY BEAUTIFUL book, woven through with lovely illustrations. I bought a paperback direct from the author's site and received a signed copy, too!

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was thoroughly captivated by this YA collection of modern fairy tales and each story had me happily turning the pages. The stories include a jealous girl in the land of Truth or Consequences, New Mexico, who stole a magical artefact from the fairy tale museum, unlocking a curse that puts her life in danger. In the wilds of the Rocky Mountains, a wild girl has been raised by a wolf pack and is now living with them, whilst an obsessive man studies her, but soon just watching her will not be enough for him. Meanwhile, in a city a storm rages and will wake a boy from his deadly dream, propelling him towards the insidious darkness of his ancestry. The collection of stories centres around the fact that even in our modern times fairy tales are taking place all around us, if we only look close enough! This collection has everything from, fear, fate, magic, darker tales, changelings, selfies and cursed objects, to name a few. The authors descriptive narrative, well defined characters and unique storylines had me hooked throughout, and I thoroughly enjoyed this wonderfully written novel.

[Rebeca · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a unique collection of stories with a creative twist on the classic fairy tales. Trying to decipher which fairy tale inspired each story was an additional layer to my enjoyment while reading.

I think what I loved most was how the stories weren’t just modern retellings, some ‘origins’ were very difficult to decipher. By the author’s own admission in the beginning of the book, the stories went through many iterations of change to become what they are now, and I think it’s amazing what they were able to achieve.

Another thing I found impressive was the author’s ability to switch between different styles in writing. Each story was unique not only in storyline, but in the way it was written. Timelines were different, 1st person/3rd person narratives were used, some written as letters and so on. The author clearly has a lot of range and it’s brilliant.

I hope to read more from this author in future as I absolutely loved this display of the author’s talents!

[Angela · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 Stars

When Magic Calls: A Collection of Modern Fairy Tales by Caitlin Berve is a YA fantasy fairytale retelling collection that provides an enchanting read. This is my first book by Ms. Berve, so what better way to get a feel for her work than a book with lots of short stories to explore.
As you would expect from fairytale retellings, this is woven with magic, the paranormal, curses, a little mythology, imagination, fate & destiny, action, adventure, drama, twists, and emotion. Ms. Berve has cleverly crafted her stories in such a way that they are quite unique from the ‘originals’. There are also some illustrations sprinkled through the book too, that add to the charm of the collection.
If you love fairytale retelling, short quick and easy reads, and originality, then this might just be the book for you.
Happy Reading…

Thank you, Caitlin Berve!

[Susan Ratchford · Rating 4 out of 5]

When Magic Calls: A Collection Of Modern Fairy Tales
By: Caitlin Berve
Review by: Susan Ratchford
4 Stars

I really enjoyed reading this collection of Fairy Tales! I thought Berve’s idea of a Fairy Tale museum was amazing! This retelling was beyond relatable and vivid, I felt every word! When Magic Calls really made me feel like it wasn’t a fairy tale at all, it was real! This book was so engaging and just dark enough to be addicting! Berve has such a unique tone and story, I couldn’t help but love it! I can’t wait to read more from Ms. Caitlin Berve. When Magic Calls was truly just phenomenal and unique! I couldn’t help but smile all the way through, as well as feel apprehensive in the best way. I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves Fairy Tales and lore! As well as dwell towards the dark side of each! You will not be disappointed!

[Carla · Rating 5 out of 5]

I normally don’t read books with short stories but this one made me glad I did. My four favorites were Letters from a Wu; Borrowed Skin, Borrowed Year; A Love to Sleep For and my absolute favorite Bones of the Soul. Each of these stories got me thinking in different ways. The overwhelming sadness and anger in Letters from a Wu to the touching greatness of Bones of the Soul. All of these stories were not like ones I’ve read before. They were a very interesting take on fairy tales. Some I had heard of and some I had not and had to look them up. Like the one about a selkie, I had never heard of them before this book. I definitely enjoyed the writing style too. It made me not want to finish the book and I just wanted more. Even if you don’t normally read short story collections you would still enjoy this one. It definitely held my interest until the very last page.

[Santana · Rating 4 out of 5]

When Magic Calls is a collection of fairy tales that were modernized. I enjoyed most of them, some were exciting, some were boring. To each their own. The author did an amazing job delving into old tales and turning them into something more relatable.

My favorite story was ‘Borrowed Skin, Borrowed Year”. It was about a girl, named Cassidy, who found out her boyfriend was cheating on her and all her friends weren’t good friends. There was a tradition she learned from her grandmother to open the front and back door on New Years to let the old year exit and the new year enter. After doing so, Cassidy met a strange naked man injured on the beach. She brought the man home and this started a year of friendship. It is hinted throughout the story that the man is a selkie.

There are also tales of sirens, changelings, human/wolf hybrid, and so much more. There is a tale for everyone!

[Jenni · Rating 4 out of 5]

Caitlin has given her YA readers an interesting take on a collection of urban fantasy fairytales. But they are just any fairytales, they are a little twisted and a little deeper with a little darkness.
When Magic Calls is eleven unique short stories intertwined with magic and mythology with mystery, fates, curses, artifacts, selkies, wolves and more. Once upon a time is not the norm when it comes to this author. But when it comes to retellings there is no norm.
With lots of imagination and magic along with lyrical narrative at times keeps you guessing as to what retelling tale is coming next.
If you are a fan of retellings that are a little different and a fantasy lover, then you need to jump right in. And even if you aren’t you should take a look too.

[Tia Nicole · Rating 4 out of 5]

A girl in Nee Mexico steals a magical artifact. A man in the Rocky Mountains studies a girl in the wild. A raging storm wakes a boy. What do they have in common?

Fairy tales are everywhere and are constantly being altered to match the modern world. Watch closely because you never know what fairytale you might find yourself in.

“When Magic Calls” was far from what I was expecting, but in a good way. I love a fairytale retelling, but this took telling tales to a whole new level. It was a magical twist and turn in directions I never would’ve predicted with each story told.

This collection of fairytales is different than the usual tales we hear and was truly engaging and magical. You won’t want to miss it!

[Jennifer Reimer · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a collection of amazingly put together spellbinding tales that I just couldn’t get enough of. I read every story they were all great in their own way. they took me on a little journey to different magical like places and characters that makes you feel like you were really getting swept away to that world. This book had me right from the beginning from the story telling and the way everything just flowed and was put together. I can’t get over how these collections were so beautifully written with amazing and wonderful characters and interesting tales that sucked me in, and I had to keep reading to know the whole story. This author did a fantastic job of creating this fairy tales. I highly recommend this book!

[Tori · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book and the different twists on fairytales. Letters to a Wu, it was so intriguing. And how different cultures deal with loss, and visiting the other side. Wolf Girl- my second favorite one. Guy is obsessed with wolf girl or the goddess. She gets seperated from her pack. And at the end they are able to track wolf girl’s pack and reunite them together. Bones of the soul- one of the best takes of Pinocchio. Nazar is slowing freezing because of his disease. Doctors said by 18 he would no longer be. Nazar only painted people he had some connection to. At the end how two of his muses meet when Nazar pass and connecting everyone together. It was beautiful. Definitely a must read!

[Laura Bartlett · Rating 3 out of 5]

Before you read this make certain to read the introduction because it paints this book in a beautifully creative light. A very cleverly conceived compilation of fairy tales, lessons and warnings aplenty. This is a great starter for children I think and on up of course. Be advised there is death, violence and alcohol in some tales but please don’t let that detract you from checking it out. The very last tale was my favorite! It spoke so beautifully to the heart of us all and the ways we can bring new light to others in the smallest ways. It shows how each person has massive value in the minds and hearts of others whether they know it or not. This author has a bright future in my book. I hope everyone gets to experience it!

[Elizabeth · Rating 4 out of 5]

Caitlin Berve’s “When Magic Calls, A Collection of Modern Fairy Tales” offers eleven short stories, entertaining the reader with a unique riffs on traditional tales: selkies, wolf girls, lost souls, fairy tale museums, and more inhabit Berve’s magical realm.

The stories run the gamut, exploring humanity’s darkest and brightest emotions through a magical lens, as the author delves into the order of worlds recognized by our deepest consciousness. These palatable bites collected in Caitlin's first published book make for wonderful adult bedtime stories, or a quick read on the commute to work. If you are yearning for a bit of magic give this book a try.

[Jacob Moon]

After reading two or three stories in this anthology I chose to DNF it. Normally, I can read just about anything, but lately I've found that I have far too many books to read in my TBR pile and not nearly enough time to dedicate to everything I start. Caitlin's YouTube channel is interesting and educational. She puts a lot of time into it, and her enthusiasm (especially for fantasy themes) is great to see. I'd recommend this book to true lovers of fantasy/fairy tales, as it definitely fits that genre, and whose stories' subjects delve deep into themes that make an interested reader think.

I may finish this book at a later time and update this review if necessary.

[Kerry Baker · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was really surprised when I started reading this book. I hadn’t read the description or any reviews when I picked it up so was expecting one single, full length story. Instead, this book is a collection of brilliant fairy tales with a modern twist. Each of the stories was different and interesting and I loved discovering each of them.
This is a new author to me and I think this was probably to best way to discover their work. Each story have an insight into their writing style and it was good to get a feel for the books. This was an enjoyable collection and I am looking forward to seeing what else this author will produce.

[Sheri · Rating 4 out of 5]

When Magic Calls: A Collection of Modern Fairy Tales is a fun retelling of classic fairy tales. This is my first book by this author, and I was not disappointed. She has created a fairy tale museum and tells well-known stories in new ways. Using fantasy, paranormal, romance, and more, the stories come to life. I also enjoyed that each story read quickly so I could catch one while waiting for meetings and other inconveniences that daily life brings. YA fans and older could enjoy the stories. The author really put effort into reworking the stories so they have their own life instead of being a standard retelling. I enjoyed this book and look forward to reading more from this author.

[Heather Bass · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the first book that I have read from this author and she blew me away. I loved fairy tales as I was a kid and this brought me right back. I was so excited to read this that I started immediately after I got the book. I could not put this book down until the end and I can’t wait to see what she will write next.

A girl in New Mexico is very jealous of something that she can’t have so what she does is takes it for herself. A boy in the Rocky Mountains is watching a girl but what do they have in common, fairytales. The girl and boy downs realize it but they are both in their own fairy tale. Will they be able to get out of it or will they be stuck in it?

[Robin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love adding great indie reads to my bookshelf! If you like urban fantasy and fairytales, and you also enjoy them a with a twist and a little on the dark side, I highly recommend giving Caitlin Berve's "When Magic Calls" a try! I found the collection of short stories thought-provoking and memorable. My favorite story was the last one. I was actually in tears at the end. The author has truly done an excellent job showcasing her talent, both in the scope of her imagination and in the technical application. She's got a book she can be proud of, I believe.

[Gabrielle Lee · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is an interesting collection of stories. They give a new look into fairy tales. You will recognize many of the characters that give these stories a helping hand. They will remind you of tales that you heard as a child and when magic ruled. The author has brought the old and familiar into the present day. It was nice to see the way the stories evolved and tied together. I enjoy reding new and updated fairytales and this collection had some engaging reads. Some stories and characters stood out more than others abut as a whole this collection was a good read.

[Elisha Johnson · Rating 4 out of 5]

When Magic Calls by Caitlin Berve- 4 out of 5 stars

Interesting take on Fairy Tales. The author gives these tales a magical twist intermixed with some darkness. I love how you can pick this book up, read one short story, and put it back down without feeling like you are left on a cliff. Each story is uniquely written and enjoyable, even for adult readers. This authors idea of a Fairy Tale museum is definitely unique. I recommend this book if you like quick reads.


Review by @elishajohnson

[Paloma · Rating 3 out of 5]

A new and refreshing story telling of a series of tales. The different stories tell you about the magic within the life of the characters; some make you feel intense desperation and angst, while others make your heartbeat a little bit faster and stronger. A unique and fantastic way to read, this book makes you feel like a child again, in bed waiting for your moms voice to relate a good night's book.

[Amanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love the way the author tells these Fairy Tales! Each story is different from the last, but all are interesting and well-written. Some stories are darker than others, but I can't say I have a favorite. I also love the unpredictable nature of the stories, though I recognized a few elements in the various stories, I felt each story was something new. I will definitely be looking into more of Caitlin Berve's works in the future!

[Jennifer P Ramos · Rating 5 out of 5]

The collection of fairy tales was so good and different from other ones I’ve read in the past. Different approaches and perspectives are taken as Berve opens her readers to new possibilities in this realm. Absolutely love the images of the fairy tale museum! These stories were fresh approaches from familiar tales with a unique spin. I very much enjoy these stories and recommend to those faerie lovers willing to give these stories a try!

[Shelly · Rating 4 out of 5]

I found this book to be a very interesting take on magic fairy tales. Each story really leaves you thinking. Letters From a Wu was my favorite. What a fascinating thought and very creative. The writing is imaginative and will catch the mind of the reader. Each story is different yet it builds as ir goes. A good read that I would recommend to fantasy lovers.

[Micalah · Rating 3 out of 5]

I love fantasy and I love magic so When Magic Calls came across my radar I jumped at the chance to read it. These stories are incredibly unique, original, and I appreciated the way they were told but maybe fairytale retellings just aren’t for me. I believe they would be well received by someone who enjoyed those as that would probably add to the reading experience.

[Jo Wright · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love short stories! This is an awesome set of short stories, but I would have to say my favorite was the last one called Bones of the Soul. I was nowhere near ready for it to end the way that it did. This set is not what I was expecting, but instead it was so much more! These otherworldly tales roped me into Berve’s imagination and let me tell you, I was not fighting to get back out!