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A Different Kind of Magic
Isabela Fuerte flees her country only to find herself bound to a family that wants to use her for being a spell-caster. To make matters worse, instead of trying to find a way to escape, she finds herself drawn to Thomas, the older son.
Thomas Grahm knows that his duty as a rune-writer means that he is supposed to protect against spell-caster magic. But Isabela is not the monster he was led to believe… and the rune on his chest keeps reacting whenever she’s near, making him ask the question:
Is it wrong to have a different kind of magic?
Thomas Grahm knows that his duty as a rune-writer means that he is supposed to protect against spell-caster magic. But Isabela is not the monster he was led to believe… and the rune on his chest keeps reacting whenever she’s near, making him ask the question:
Is it wrong to have a different kind of magic?
347 pages, Paperback
Published September 15, 2020
About the author
Chesney Infalt
16 books89 followersI've been writing since I was six years old. Those stories won't ever see the light of day (hopefully), but I have others that I'm willing to share with the world.
Happy reading!
Happy reading!
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
December 27, 2021
Highly enjoyable read!
I picked this book up after reading and enjoying Infalt's "Heart of the Sea", and I was not disappointed. Fascinating original magic and excellent worldbuilding mixed with fleshed out characters and a storyline that kept me on my toes until the end. I was solidly invested in Isabella's plight and ready to throw punches everytime someone attempted to misuse her. But I liked how she fought to remain strong and continued to hold herself at a higher value throughout the book. Overall, a solid fantasy. Would recommend.
4.5 stars
I picked this book up after reading and enjoying Infalt's "Heart of the Sea", and I was not disappointed. Fascinating original magic and excellent worldbuilding mixed with fleshed out characters and a storyline that kept me on my toes until the end. I was solidly invested in Isabella's plight and ready to throw punches everytime someone attempted to misuse her. But I liked how she fought to remain strong and continued to hold herself at a higher value throughout the book. Overall, a solid fantasy. Would recommend.
4.5 stars
March 19, 2021
Magic and romance to the backdrop of a beautiful Victoriana world. What more could a reader possibly want?
I loved this book by Chesney Infalt. The two different magic types in the book is well written and utterly believable and I loved the fresh spin on the idea of rune casting.
The characters are brilliantly written and the romance between the two MCs is beautiful... And soft and lovely!
This is a book to curl up with a good cup of tea on a dark and cold afternoon.
My favourite character was Nate... And he very nearly stole the show for me... I need more Nate. Perhaps his own book?
I loved this book by Chesney Infalt. The two different magic types in the book is well written and utterly believable and I loved the fresh spin on the idea of rune casting.
The characters are brilliantly written and the romance between the two MCs is beautiful... And soft and lovely!
This is a book to curl up with a good cup of tea on a dark and cold afternoon.
My favourite character was Nate... And he very nearly stole the show for me... I need more Nate. Perhaps his own book?
May 22, 2022
A Different Kind of Magic was the March winner of my Little Free Library contest! Was totally into the thought of a dual-POV fantasy romance, and the first scene fleeing from the bounty hunters hooked me!
From there, I really liked how the world felt both familiar and unique. The two countries definitely give off Victorian England and Spain vibes, but with the addition of two separate magic systems, the world takes on a flavor all its own.
Isabela is a spell-caster who have what's considered to be a dangerous magic, and condemns her into servitude of a noble family with the more respectable rune-writer magic. But when Isabela falls for a rune-writer, things get complicated.
Definitely enjoyed the two distinct magics and the social implications in this well-fleshed out world. The villain was thoroughly detestable, and treatment of the spell-casters definitely made my skin crawl. *shudders* But the romance was a little abrupt for me (although this was explained). The build-up to the intense ballroom scene and the ensuing courtroom drama was really well done though, and the last half kept me turning pages! Character-wise, Isabela and Thomas are both likable, but Nate was definitely my favorite, and I'm curious to see what his future story may entail!
Overall, a solid & sweet fantasy-romance that I would definitely recommend!
From there, I really liked how the world felt both familiar and unique. The two countries definitely give off Victorian England and Spain vibes, but with the addition of two separate magic systems, the world takes on a flavor all its own.
Isabela is a spell-caster who have what's considered to be a dangerous magic, and condemns her into servitude of a noble family with the more respectable rune-writer magic. But when Isabela falls for a rune-writer, things get complicated.
Definitely enjoyed the two distinct magics and the social implications in this well-fleshed out world. The villain was thoroughly detestable, and treatment of the spell-casters definitely made my skin crawl. *shudders* But the romance was a little abrupt for me (although this was explained). The build-up to the intense ballroom scene and the ensuing courtroom drama was really well done though, and the last half kept me turning pages! Character-wise, Isabela and Thomas are both likable, but Nate was definitely my favorite, and I'm curious to see what his future story may entail!
Overall, a solid & sweet fantasy-romance that I would definitely recommend!
February 12, 2023
A Different Kind of Magic is the third book I've read by this author. Having loved her other books and seeing this one was a fantasy inspired by the Victorian era, I was immediately intrigued.
Overall, I liked it. Although the romance was a little more insta-love than I prefer (which is explained in part by the love rune Thomas has on his chest) and it lacked the spice I've come to love, A Different Kind of Magic was still an enjoyable read. It's very clean and perfect for a YA audience.
The magic systems were probably my favorite aspect about this book. I liked the difference between the rune magic and Isabella's, which was much more difficult to control. I honestly could've done with more backstory about the magic systems, but that's just personal preference.
This was a quick, easy read with a sweet romance. If you're looking for an entertaining read with no spice, this is for you!
Overall, I liked it. Although the romance was a little more insta-love than I prefer (which is explained in part by the love rune Thomas has on his chest) and it lacked the spice I've come to love, A Different Kind of Magic was still an enjoyable read. It's very clean and perfect for a YA audience.
The magic systems were probably my favorite aspect about this book. I liked the difference between the rune magic and Isabella's, which was much more difficult to control. I honestly could've done with more backstory about the magic systems, but that's just personal preference.
This was a quick, easy read with a sweet romance. If you're looking for an entertaining read with no spice, this is for you!
August 31, 2020
A Different Kind of Magic, By Chesney Infalt
Excellent Read - YA friendly, no sexual content, no profanity
Kept me wondering..
The book was face paced and I did not want to put it down. The story line was cohesive and well thought out. The author made me love and hate certain characters and have sympathy for others. The characters are well thought out and the author is very descriptive with her words. I did not want the book to end and was sad I read it so fast. The author kept me wondering about the main character Isabella and her past history which, was finally reveled at the perfect time. Good fast read, excellent for young adults. I was swept into a different world. Looking forward to more books, Maybe the Author will be doing a trilogy on these characters. Until then I will wait.
Excellent Read - YA friendly, no sexual content, no profanity
Kept me wondering..
The book was face paced and I did not want to put it down. The story line was cohesive and well thought out. The author made me love and hate certain characters and have sympathy for others. The characters are well thought out and the author is very descriptive with her words. I did not want the book to end and was sad I read it so fast. The author kept me wondering about the main character Isabella and her past history which, was finally reveled at the perfect time. Good fast read, excellent for young adults. I was swept into a different world. Looking forward to more books, Maybe the Author will be doing a trilogy on these characters. Until then I will wait.
September 25, 2022
Been meaning to leave a review for a bit (bad me!)and since I just recently reread this, I thought now was the perfect time! And this book was just as good on a reread as the first time.
What a fun and enchanting world. I love magic systems so seeing two different kinds at play was a joy to sort through. I wasn’t expecting it but it let the author really weave a lot of flavor into the worldbuilding without it ever feeling too much or overbearing. It was the right amount to get you invested by and wanting to know more.
Isabella is a fun character. She’s got spunk and spirit to her but the author isn’t afraid to show you her vulnerability too which makes her feel fully fleshed out. You definitely are on her side throughout the story and emphasize with her.
All in all, a wonderful fantasy!
What a fun and enchanting world. I love magic systems so seeing two different kinds at play was a joy to sort through. I wasn’t expecting it but it let the author really weave a lot of flavor into the worldbuilding without it ever feeling too much or overbearing. It was the right amount to get you invested by and wanting to know more.
Isabella is a fun character. She’s got spunk and spirit to her but the author isn’t afraid to show you her vulnerability too which makes her feel fully fleshed out. You definitely are on her side throughout the story and emphasize with her.
All in all, a wonderful fantasy!
September 6, 2025
A gaslamp fantasy that was lots of fun! The characters Chesney Infalt created are well-rounded and believable. The supporting characters really made the story. I'd love to know more about the two different types of magic as I found them interesting. Yes, the romance happens quickly. However, the characters are aware of it, and there is a magic rune that explains it as well. If you like family drama and forbidden romance, I think you'll like this romantasy. It is a dual POV, which is not my preference, but it was done well.
January 8, 2022
3.75 STARS
This was a really sweet romance/historical fantasy standalone. I particularly liked the relationship between the two brothers, but appreciated a lot of the characters personalities.
I would recommend this book to fans of Jackaby and think that it is suitable for teens of all ages. (There are some insinuated romance scenes but compared to a lot of YA it feels much tamer)
This was a really sweet romance/historical fantasy standalone. I particularly liked the relationship between the two brothers, but appreciated a lot of the characters personalities.
I would recommend this book to fans of Jackaby and think that it is suitable for teens of all ages. (There are some insinuated romance scenes but compared to a lot of YA it feels much tamer)
April 20, 2023
This was an enjoyable read. I love Isabelle and Thomas and how they're willing to risk everything to be together. I also very much enjoyed Nate as a character. I definitely hated Thomas and Nate's dad, and was rooting against him the whole time.
November 10, 2020
My first ever Romance and I LOVED it! It was such a good stand alone book but I also can’t wait for the next one!
September 14, 2020
A Different Kind of Magic takes everything you love about Romeo and Juliet and slams it into a fantasy world filled with beautiful magic. An easy binge-able book, Chesney does a great job at creating a seamless flow as she changes POV every chapter. Seeing the story from both perspectives really draws you in and allows you to fall in love with the love she's portraying. I gave this book four stars because even before I finished it, I found myself recommending it to others.
October 13, 2021
Beautiful Victorian fantasy romance.
July 2, 2023
Have you ever discovered a book that captures your soul before you even have cracked it open? You just knew you had to read it? Knew without a single doubt that you were going to absolutely love it after just one wayward glance?
They say that you eat with your eyes first and I believe that the same is often true with books—you read and fall in love with a book with your eyes first.
The first time I set eyes on A Different Kind of Magic I fell completely in love with the cover. Don’t ask me why…I don’t even really know…it’s actually strange because I am not that fond of the color purple. Maybe it was the vague and subtle details, the mystical font and title placement, or the way it it appears to look like an old photograph taken through a lens as water thundered down and fairy lights danced about. Whatever the reason, the entire esthetic of the cover spoke to me and although I wasn’t really too intrigued with the plot description I kept returning to the Amazon page until I finally gave in an decided to read it.
AND LET ME TELL YOU, I AM BEYOND THRILLED THAT I DID! Because this book way surpassed my greatest expectations! The magic systems (yes! There were 2!) were both interesting, intriguing, well developed, and plausible. The plot skirted the fence of cozy. The way Infalt wrote created a lot of depth, a lot of intrigue, a lot of twists and turns and unexpected happenings, but it all had this wonderfully cozy undertone that seemed to swirl in and meld with the more anxious plot points. It was soooooooooo well done!
Sooooo…Isobela is a spell caster running from her life and her kingdom in hopes of finding freedom. As a spell caster people in both countries see her either as a monster or a possession…sometimes….oftentimes….both. But with bounty hunters on her tail and a bullet hole in her shoulder she is forced to seek sanctuary at the nearest building—a church, where Father Able takes her in and does the only thing he can conceive to do. He calls Lord Grahm and his two sons, Thomas and Nate, who are prominant and skilled rune-writers, to help with the situation. And Lord Grahm offers Isobela two options, 1) come home with them and be his personal spell caster (much like a pet) or 2) get handed over to the bounty hunters. Of course Isobela chooses the one solution she believes will not lead to certain death and moves in with the Grahm family. And what follows is a story filled with love and hate, hope and despair, romance and fighting for what you want and believe in, and discovering who and what is important to you and fighting for it no matter what happens.
One of my favorite aspects of this book was the mix of elemental magic (the spell casters) and the rune magic (the rune writers)! The way Infalt combined the two systems and was able to create this whole cast system type hierarchy within the Kingdoms was so well done and I found everything about it captivating.
Honestly there were several perfectly written and developed characters and I am hard pressed to choose just one as my favorite. Be it Isobela who knows who she is, what she wants, and is tired of feeling like she is someone else’s property and just wants freedom. Or Thomas who was your sweet, loving, compassionate, knightly sort of hero who couldn’t help but sweep in every time someone was in trouble and save the day. And then there was Nate who was your fun living, girl kissing, alcohol drinking, complete rogue of a guy with the heart of gold! I can’t just pick one! It’s damn impossible!!!
So if you love a wonderful story filled with intriguing and fascinating magic, amazing characters that completely steel the show, lots of twist, turns, and secrets to be revealed but also a sweet and lovely cozy undertone to hold it all together, wonderful and wonderfully written romance, and that is filled with self discovery and acceptance then you simple HAVE NO OTHER CHOICE BUT TO READ A DIFFERENT KIND OF MAGIC!!!
They say that you eat with your eyes first and I believe that the same is often true with books—you read and fall in love with a book with your eyes first.
The first time I set eyes on A Different Kind of Magic I fell completely in love with the cover. Don’t ask me why…I don’t even really know…it’s actually strange because I am not that fond of the color purple. Maybe it was the vague and subtle details, the mystical font and title placement, or the way it it appears to look like an old photograph taken through a lens as water thundered down and fairy lights danced about. Whatever the reason, the entire esthetic of the cover spoke to me and although I wasn’t really too intrigued with the plot description I kept returning to the Amazon page until I finally gave in an decided to read it.
AND LET ME TELL YOU, I AM BEYOND THRILLED THAT I DID! Because this book way surpassed my greatest expectations! The magic systems (yes! There were 2!) were both interesting, intriguing, well developed, and plausible. The plot skirted the fence of cozy. The way Infalt wrote created a lot of depth, a lot of intrigue, a lot of twists and turns and unexpected happenings, but it all had this wonderfully cozy undertone that seemed to swirl in and meld with the more anxious plot points. It was soooooooooo well done!
Sooooo…Isobela is a spell caster running from her life and her kingdom in hopes of finding freedom. As a spell caster people in both countries see her either as a monster or a possession…sometimes….oftentimes….both. But with bounty hunters on her tail and a bullet hole in her shoulder she is forced to seek sanctuary at the nearest building—a church, where Father Able takes her in and does the only thing he can conceive to do. He calls Lord Grahm and his two sons, Thomas and Nate, who are prominant and skilled rune-writers, to help with the situation. And Lord Grahm offers Isobela two options, 1) come home with them and be his personal spell caster (much like a pet) or 2) get handed over to the bounty hunters. Of course Isobela chooses the one solution she believes will not lead to certain death and moves in with the Grahm family. And what follows is a story filled with love and hate, hope and despair, romance and fighting for what you want and believe in, and discovering who and what is important to you and fighting for it no matter what happens.
One of my favorite aspects of this book was the mix of elemental magic (the spell casters) and the rune magic (the rune writers)! The way Infalt combined the two systems and was able to create this whole cast system type hierarchy within the Kingdoms was so well done and I found everything about it captivating.
Honestly there were several perfectly written and developed characters and I am hard pressed to choose just one as my favorite. Be it Isobela who knows who she is, what she wants, and is tired of feeling like she is someone else’s property and just wants freedom. Or Thomas who was your sweet, loving, compassionate, knightly sort of hero who couldn’t help but sweep in every time someone was in trouble and save the day. And then there was Nate who was your fun living, girl kissing, alcohol drinking, complete rogue of a guy with the heart of gold! I can’t just pick one! It’s damn impossible!!!
So if you love a wonderful story filled with intriguing and fascinating magic, amazing characters that completely steel the show, lots of twist, turns, and secrets to be revealed but also a sweet and lovely cozy undertone to hold it all together, wonderful and wonderfully written romance, and that is filled with self discovery and acceptance then you simple HAVE NO OTHER CHOICE BUT TO READ A DIFFERENT KIND OF MAGIC!!!
March 29, 2026
A Different Kind of Magic by Chesney Infalt is a charming young adult fantasy that delivers a slow-burn romance wrapped in political intrigue, cultural clashes, and hidden magic. It gives a fantasy Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet vibes with a Happily Ever After ending.
At its heart, the story follows two protagonists from vastly different worlds. He is a skilled rune-writer, carrying the weight of his family’s legacy. She is caught between two social statuses —one of powerful royalty and the other of potent magic—leaving her constantly torn between how others see her and who she truly is at heart. Described as fearless, powerful, and strong, she brings a compelling inner strength to the page.
Their romance builds gradually and sweetly as they navigate the deep divides of opposing countries, cultures, and magical abilities. What begins as wary alliance slowly blossoms into a secret love that feels earned and tender. Together, they must work to uncover a hidden villain threatening their world, adding layers of suspense and adventure to the emotional journey.
As a reader, I really connected with the heroine’s internal struggle. Her conflicts with family, perception and identity felt authentic and relatable, even in a fantasy setting. I appreciated how the slow-burn romance never rushed the emotional growth between the two leads—it made their secret moments feel all the more meaningful and heartfelt. The world-building was immersive without being overwhelming, and I found myself fully invested in their quest to unmask the villain.
Perfect for fans of sweet YA romances with a dash of mystery and world-building. It also provides a reminder that love can provide a path through cultural differences.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐️ (5 stars)
🌶️ (🚫)
At its heart, the story follows two protagonists from vastly different worlds. He is a skilled rune-writer, carrying the weight of his family’s legacy. She is caught between two social statuses —one of powerful royalty and the other of potent magic—leaving her constantly torn between how others see her and who she truly is at heart. Described as fearless, powerful, and strong, she brings a compelling inner strength to the page.
Their romance builds gradually and sweetly as they navigate the deep divides of opposing countries, cultures, and magical abilities. What begins as wary alliance slowly blossoms into a secret love that feels earned and tender. Together, they must work to uncover a hidden villain threatening their world, adding layers of suspense and adventure to the emotional journey.
As a reader, I really connected with the heroine’s internal struggle. Her conflicts with family, perception and identity felt authentic and relatable, even in a fantasy setting. I appreciated how the slow-burn romance never rushed the emotional growth between the two leads—it made their secret moments feel all the more meaningful and heartfelt. The world-building was immersive without being overwhelming, and I found myself fully invested in their quest to unmask the villain.
Perfect for fans of sweet YA romances with a dash of mystery and world-building. It also provides a reminder that love can provide a path through cultural differences.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐️ (5 stars)
🌶️ (🚫)
February 5, 2022
I enjoyed a lot of things about this book.
Though the world seemed to be modeled after countries like Britain and Spain, there were some curious and interesting customs that set the worldbuilding apart from just being a copycat of those cultures--such as a wedding ceremony that occurs. There were little details like that sprinkled throughout that helped flesh out the world. I did think perhaps the magic system could have been explored a little more, but it served well enough for me to understand how it worked.
I liked both the main characters, and Nate (Thomas' brother) definitely stole the show at some points, in a good way!
One thing I especially liked was the wholesomeness of the romance--perhaps I'm a prude, but I found myself really liking how It was a refreshing take from most of the romance books I've read.
Overall, a nice romance story involving magic and some playful twists on a gaslamp setting. I would recommend this story to anyone who likes fantasy romance, especially clean romance.
Though the world seemed to be modeled after countries like Britain and Spain, there were some curious and interesting customs that set the worldbuilding apart from just being a copycat of those cultures--such as a wedding ceremony that occurs. There were little details like that sprinkled throughout that helped flesh out the world. I did think perhaps the magic system could have been explored a little more, but it served well enough for me to understand how it worked.
I liked both the main characters, and Nate (Thomas' brother) definitely stole the show at some points, in a good way!
One thing I especially liked was the wholesomeness of the romance--perhaps I'm a prude, but I found myself really liking how It was a refreshing take from most of the romance books I've read.
Overall, a nice romance story involving magic and some playful twists on a gaslamp setting. I would recommend this story to anyone who likes fantasy romance, especially clean romance.
May 2, 2022
A fun read! Infalt immediately ropes us into main character Isabela Fuerte's story as we join her fleeing from bounty hunters. When Isabela, a spell-caster, demands sanctuary in the town church, she doesn't know how much her life is about to change. Soon she finds herself in the service of the powerful Grahm family and, though she years for escape, can't help but feel drawn to the eldest son, Thomas. Infalt does an excellent job weaving her own unique elements into this European-esque world and her magic system does not disappoint. This book has a little less heat than I like in my romance, but overall I enjoyed it.
July 19, 2023
Romantic fantasy with some mystery
This story felt like a typical Victorian Era tale with romance, magic and a mystery. Isabela is a spell-caster, a feared group repressed by the rune-writers and non-magic society. Trying to escape on bad situation leads her into another, with the Lord controlling her. Fortunately, the Lord’s sons are nice to her, and there’s a spark! But what happens when danger comes to them all? That’s the mystery. Easy, pleasant read with good writing and flow.
This story felt like a typical Victorian Era tale with romance, magic and a mystery. Isabela is a spell-caster, a feared group repressed by the rune-writers and non-magic society. Trying to escape on bad situation leads her into another, with the Lord controlling her. Fortunately, the Lord’s sons are nice to her, and there’s a spark! But what happens when danger comes to them all? That’s the mystery. Easy, pleasant read with good writing and flow.
April 9, 2022
Magical Love Story
Chesney Infalt delivers a refreshing love story that is both sweet and filled with magical surprises. A fast read, this book is a unique twist on what we commonly think of magic.
Chesney Infalt delivers a refreshing love story that is both sweet and filled with magical surprises. A fast read, this book is a unique twist on what we commonly think of magic.
May 19, 2024
Really enjoyed reading this book. I love the way the author writes and the spin she put in the end. The book is easy to read and held my attention. I hated the way they treated Isabela as if she was property. I loved her relationship with Thomas, who was just so kind and gentle.
April 17, 2022
Opposing magic systems. A love story. A surprise twist. Made for a great book.
August 21, 2024
excellent read
I really love this author’s insight into characterization. I agree that this book needs a sequel!
Thank you for a lovely read!
I really love this author’s insight into characterization. I agree that this book needs a sequel!
Thank you for a lovely read!
July 22, 2023
This was an enjoyable read with lots of romance dipped in some darkness, as any good Victorian setting has. There was magic and interesting worldbuilding in a place that is also very known to us.
We follow the perspectives of two characters, Isabela and Thomas, one a spell caster, the other a rune writer. From the start you know how the story is going to end, there’s absolutely no way that it was going to end any differently, but this is one of the stories that the journey is what counts.
The secondary characters are also not left behind, dare I say even stealing the show in some of the scenes. The pacing was a little slow here and there, but it was a cozy read.
Quote: “Magic owes nothing to anyone.”
We follow the perspectives of two characters, Isabela and Thomas, one a spell caster, the other a rune writer. From the start you know how the story is going to end, there’s absolutely no way that it was going to end any differently, but this is one of the stories that the journey is what counts.
The secondary characters are also not left behind, dare I say even stealing the show in some of the scenes. The pacing was a little slow here and there, but it was a cozy read.
Quote: “Magic owes nothing to anyone.”
April 13, 2023
Infalt is one of my favorite authors but somehow I had yet to read A Different Kind of Magic and I’m glad I’ve finally rectified that!
This Victorian romance was so wonderfully written! I loved both Isabela and Thomas (and Nathan too!) All the characters in this story were well fleshed out and came off as very real to me.
And the romance was so sweet! I don’t want to spoil anything but I loved how Thomas was willing to do anything for Isabela even if it went against everything he’d been taught to believe.
This is another great read by Infalt and I can’t wait for what she writes next!
This Victorian romance was so wonderfully written! I loved both Isabela and Thomas (and Nathan too!) All the characters in this story were well fleshed out and came off as very real to me.
And the romance was so sweet! I don’t want to spoil anything but I loved how Thomas was willing to do anything for Isabela even if it went against everything he’d been taught to believe.
This is another great read by Infalt and I can’t wait for what she writes next!
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews