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Magic Incarnate #1
A Question of Faith
An alternative cover edition for this ASIN can be found here.
It’s not every day you learn you’re the incarnation of magic.
When Crystal learns her birth mother sought witches to conceive her, the fifteen-year-old’s faith is shaken. God isn’t the one answering her prayers.
She is.
After her aunt is threatened, Crystal attempts to master her power, but flying and conjuring fireballs attract dangerous attention. A witch hunter kidnaps her boyfriend, and shamans and witches hunt Crystal, desperate to use her to end their centuries-old war.
If Crystal can’t figure out what she’s capable of, she won’t just fail to protect those she loves and end the war. She might start the apocalypse.
It’s not every day you learn you’re the incarnation of magic.
When Crystal learns her birth mother sought witches to conceive her, the fifteen-year-old’s faith is shaken. God isn’t the one answering her prayers.
She is.
After her aunt is threatened, Crystal attempts to master her power, but flying and conjuring fireballs attract dangerous attention. A witch hunter kidnaps her boyfriend, and shamans and witches hunt Crystal, desperate to use her to end their centuries-old war.
If Crystal can’t figure out what she’s capable of, she won’t just fail to protect those she loves and end the war. She might start the apocalypse.
352 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 9, 2016
239 people are currently reading
720 people want to read
About the author
Nicole Zoltack
340 books1,152 followersNicole Zoltack is a USA Today bestselling author who loves to write romances. Of course. She did marry her first kiss, after all!
When she’s not writing about knights, superheroes, or witches, she enjoys spending time with her loving husband, three energetic young boys, and precious baby girl. She enjoys riding horses (pretending they’re unicorns, of course!) and going to the PA Renaissance Faire dressed in garb. She’ll also read anything she can get her hands on. Her current favorite TV shows are The Walking Dead and Stranger Things.
Everyone who signs up for her newsletter receives a free book, so sign up now! http://www.subscribepage.com/m0k3l8
When she’s not writing about knights, superheroes, or witches, she enjoys spending time with her loving husband, three energetic young boys, and precious baby girl. She enjoys riding horses (pretending they’re unicorns, of course!) and going to the PA Renaissance Faire dressed in garb. She’ll also read anything she can get her hands on. Her current favorite TV shows are The Walking Dead and Stranger Things.
Everyone who signs up for her newsletter receives a free book, so sign up now! http://www.subscribepage.com/m0k3l8
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 89 reviews
January 12, 2023
This book was a wonderful little surprise. When I first got it, I assumed I would read just one of my sheer amount of witch stories, but there was a lot more. I could not put the book down as Crystal's journey to understand herself and her skills had me completely engrossed.
The language and the concept of combining wizards, magic, and religion without any kind of friction struck me. The plot moves along nicely and keeps the reader engaged. Furthermore, whenever religion is the main subject of a work, there is a chance that the reader will believe that the author is trying to convey a certain message. I never felt that related to this situation at any point in the whole book.
Without detracting from the plot, the characters are also growing incredibly well. Numerous intriguing figures are presented throughout the story, making you just like to know more about them and come across more of them in the future. This book had exactly the right amount of teenage love, angst, and action.
What a fantastic coming of age tale that was. This is the story of a teen girl's journey as she searches for her true calling in life and her relationship with God. Obviously with a magic and a hidden danger.
This book has a lot to offer young adult readers, but it also appeals to readers of all ages. There is a little bit in it that will appeal to just about everyone!
The language and the concept of combining wizards, magic, and religion without any kind of friction struck me. The plot moves along nicely and keeps the reader engaged. Furthermore, whenever religion is the main subject of a work, there is a chance that the reader will believe that the author is trying to convey a certain message. I never felt that related to this situation at any point in the whole book.
Without detracting from the plot, the characters are also growing incredibly well. Numerous intriguing figures are presented throughout the story, making you just like to know more about them and come across more of them in the future. This book had exactly the right amount of teenage love, angst, and action.
What a fantastic coming of age tale that was. This is the story of a teen girl's journey as she searches for her true calling in life and her relationship with God. Obviously with a magic and a hidden danger.
This book has a lot to offer young adult readers, but it also appeals to readers of all ages. There is a little bit in it that will appeal to just about everyone!
February 4, 2017
A wonderfully written story with interesting and complex characters. The storyline was intriguing and involved witches, magic and religion, and I was delighted by the original concept on magic. I enjoyed the drama, mystery and action throughout the book, including the electrifying ending, and I liked the sweet romance of first love. Looking forward to the next book in the series.
January 26, 2017
The writing isn't smooth and has lots of typos and grammatical errors. For example:
• God hasn't been answering her prayers like she thought--she was.
• [...] flying and conjuring fireballs attracts dangerous attention.
• God hasn't been answering her prayers like she thought--she was.
• [...] flying and conjuring fireballs attracts dangerous attention.
April 20, 2017
1.5 Stars
DNF @ 35%
Yikes. Somehow I managed to get over a hundred pages in, but that was a struggle. This book made me cringe from the very beginning.
First of all, the plot jumps all over the place and things happen EXTREMELY fast. Crystal (the MC) finds out that she at the end of the very first chapter. You'd think that a secret like that would've been hidden more carefully, but nope. All Crystal had to do was go strolling in the attic and then BOOM, secret revealed. And then the next thing you know, she's on some magic quest to hunt down some witches (how did she even know where to look???) to "find answers."
Much like the crappy "secret," the author wastes no time at all in establishing the love triangle. Gavin is the new kid in school and , but, gasp!, Zoltack has to throw in the guy (I already forget his name, lol) that Crystal has known for forever because "she suddenly likes him too." New guy vs. best friend. Hmmmm.
Not only that, but Crystal is one of those annoying overly-religious types. Now, don't get me wrong, I have nothing against what people believe even if I don't agree. But when I say she's annoying, I mean it. She preaches about going to church and how "she knows God is real because he alWAYS answers her prayers" every other freaking paragraph. She's also always pushing her non-religious friends and family to go to church with her. Yikes.
So...after typing out the review, I realize that it's not so much the plot I hate (aside from the speed and choppiness), but the MC. Oh well, the love triangle was still in terrible taste. And, overall, Crystal is just annoying as hell. Do yourself a favor and skip past this one.
DNF @ 35%
Yikes. Somehow I managed to get over a hundred pages in, but that was a struggle. This book made me cringe from the very beginning.
First of all, the plot jumps all over the place and things happen EXTREMELY fast. Crystal (the MC) finds out that she at the end of the very first chapter. You'd think that a secret like that would've been hidden more carefully, but nope. All Crystal had to do was go strolling in the attic and then BOOM, secret revealed. And then the next thing you know, she's on some magic quest to hunt down some witches (how did she even know where to look???) to "find answers."
Much like the crappy "secret," the author wastes no time at all in establishing the love triangle. Gavin is the new kid in school and , but, gasp!, Zoltack has to throw in the guy (I already forget his name, lol) that Crystal has known for forever because "she suddenly likes him too." New guy vs. best friend. Hmmmm.
Not only that, but Crystal is one of those annoying overly-religious types. Now, don't get me wrong, I have nothing against what people believe even if I don't agree. But when I say she's annoying, I mean it. She preaches about going to church and how "she knows God is real because he alWAYS answers her prayers" every other freaking paragraph. She's also always pushing her non-religious friends and family to go to church with her. Yikes.
So...after typing out the review, I realize that it's not so much the plot I hate (aside from the speed and choppiness), but the MC. Oh well, the love triangle was still in terrible taste. And, overall, Crystal is just annoying as hell. Do yourself a favor and skip past this one.
January 19, 2016
What an amazing story of coming of age. This is not your usual story of growing up, there is something much more magical entwined within the story. I received this Arc in exchange for an honest review and I am so
happy I read this! Crystal Miller has lived her life in a small town with her mom. She discovers that her mom is not exactly whom she has been led to believe. Between a budding romance, her high school friends and a memorial service young Crystal has been introduced to witches who say she is not human. Crystal is religious and believes that God is the answer. Soon she discovers there is much more to the universe. I give it 5 stars as it is so well written and touches upon many learnings and beliefs
happy I read this! Crystal Miller has lived her life in a small town with her mom. She discovers that her mom is not exactly whom she has been led to believe. Between a budding romance, her high school friends and a memorial service young Crystal has been introduced to witches who say she is not human. Crystal is religious and believes that God is the answer. Soon she discovers there is much more to the universe. I give it 5 stars as it is so well written and touches upon many learnings and beliefs
January 4, 2017
This was an interesting story about faith and magic with the idea that they can both exist and possibly work together along with science and analytical thought. The religion was Catholic but not so much that it was preachy. I enjoyed it a lot and loved the main character. The romance was innocent and sweet. There are some gory details but not morbid. Lots of light and dark references, love and hate. It made me cry at one point so the feelings in it are real and written well. I can't wait to see what happens next!
October 1, 2018
It was an amazing read without any doubt! I really adore Crystal being a self-sufficient character. Therefore, I'm giving this book my well-deserving 5 stars.
November 18, 2019
I really enjoyed this book.
Crystal is just an ordinary teenage girl with a over protective mother. One day she talks her mom into leaving her home by herself for a little while. While her mom is gone she starts to snoop and finds a key to the attic. She stumbles upon a box marked Marian Wynters and she opens it. She finds a picture of a woman that she looks like and finds out her mom is not her mom but her aunt. Everything she knows is a lie and her life starts to fall apart. She is a devout believer in God and her faith is sorely tested. She finds she is magic incarnate, not really human at all. All she knows is that her love for her family and friends is what holds her together and when they are threatened will she be able to keep them safe.
This book has deception, magical beings and romance with strong characters and awesome friendships. I recommend this book for all.
Crystal is just an ordinary teenage girl with a over protective mother. One day she talks her mom into leaving her home by herself for a little while. While her mom is gone she starts to snoop and finds a key to the attic. She stumbles upon a box marked Marian Wynters and she opens it. She finds a picture of a woman that she looks like and finds out her mom is not her mom but her aunt. Everything she knows is a lie and her life starts to fall apart. She is a devout believer in God and her faith is sorely tested. She finds she is magic incarnate, not really human at all. All she knows is that her love for her family and friends is what holds her together and when they are threatened will she be able to keep them safe.
This book has deception, magical beings and romance with strong characters and awesome friendships. I recommend this book for all.
April 10, 2017
Crystal is a high school students who discovers that she is not only magical but is actually magic itself. I was impressed by the writing and the idea of witches, magic and religion being combined with no conflict at all. This seems like a great series for YA fans of fantasy fiction.
July 21, 2024
Great story, couldn't stop reading it.
February 5, 2016
Imagine being a regular High School student, confident that your life is normal. Then just days before your 16th birthday, you find a chest that turns your entire world topsy-turvy. That's just what happens to Crystal Miller, or rather Crystal Wynter to be more correct.
Crystal learns that her mother struck a bargain with local witches to allow her to conceive a child. But her mother may not have known just what she would have to trade for her miracle.
Crystal has always had unwavering faith in God, after all, he answers her prayers. Well, most of them. Which is one reason she has such a difficult time coming to terms that she is of magic. Not just a practitioner of magic, like the witches or the shamans, but made up of magic itself. Is there place in religion for magic, and a place for God in magic? This is a question Crystal must answer for herself, there is no one else like her to help her answer this.
Shortly after learning she is magic, things begin to go wrong in Mount Claymore. There is the accident that almost kills her boyfriend's mother, then the mugging of her mother/aunt. Just which is Crystal supposed to think of her as? Patricia Miller did raise her, but Patricia is also her aunt. Yet another question for Crystal to sort out.
Then the new boy in school comes clean that he is the latest son in a long line of witch hunters. A witch hunter who is in town to "cleanse" the world of the witches responsible for Crystal's existence. And then there are the shamans, who want to use Crystal to further their purpose. Crystal is enmeshed in a drama centuries in the making.
I really liked A Question of Faith. I'm avowedly an agnostic Heathen, but the question of reconciling faith in a singular omnipresent God with the practice of magic is an interesting one. And not one I've seen posed this way before. Faith in something beyond you, and faith in yourself and your powers, makes for an interesting premise, and one that is handled very deftly by Ms. Zoltak. It's also not guilty of being "preachy" about the religious elements, and that takes a light hand. Books heavy on the religious side don't sit well with me, but the threads of the different kinds of faith wove together quite seamlessly.
I'd very much recommend this book. It's aimed at YA readers, but it does certainly have an appeal to adult readers as well. There isn't much focus on HS, and it's daily grind. The focus is on the characters as opposed to the physical HS setting, so it's not tightly marketed there. There is some lovely character development in Crystal, and I genuinely care for her. She's having a crisis of faith, in every possible way, but she picks everything up and mends it into armor to help her fight. The supporting characters, at least the "main" supporting characters have some development, but the book is strongly about Crystal, as it should be.
I'd recommend it to YA readers, adult readers who like light fantasy, readers who like a touch of Christian faith in a fantasy novel, readers who like having strong female protagonists. I'd actually recommend it to most of my friends, there's a bit in it that will appeal to just about everyone.
I did receive an ARC of this book from the author in exchange for an unbiased review, in the interest of disclosure.
Crystal learns that her mother struck a bargain with local witches to allow her to conceive a child. But her mother may not have known just what she would have to trade for her miracle.
Crystal has always had unwavering faith in God, after all, he answers her prayers. Well, most of them. Which is one reason she has such a difficult time coming to terms that she is of magic. Not just a practitioner of magic, like the witches or the shamans, but made up of magic itself. Is there place in religion for magic, and a place for God in magic? This is a question Crystal must answer for herself, there is no one else like her to help her answer this.
Shortly after learning she is magic, things begin to go wrong in Mount Claymore. There is the accident that almost kills her boyfriend's mother, then the mugging of her mother/aunt. Just which is Crystal supposed to think of her as? Patricia Miller did raise her, but Patricia is also her aunt. Yet another question for Crystal to sort out.
Then the new boy in school comes clean that he is the latest son in a long line of witch hunters. A witch hunter who is in town to "cleanse" the world of the witches responsible for Crystal's existence. And then there are the shamans, who want to use Crystal to further their purpose. Crystal is enmeshed in a drama centuries in the making.
I really liked A Question of Faith. I'm avowedly an agnostic Heathen, but the question of reconciling faith in a singular omnipresent God with the practice of magic is an interesting one. And not one I've seen posed this way before. Faith in something beyond you, and faith in yourself and your powers, makes for an interesting premise, and one that is handled very deftly by Ms. Zoltak. It's also not guilty of being "preachy" about the religious elements, and that takes a light hand. Books heavy on the religious side don't sit well with me, but the threads of the different kinds of faith wove together quite seamlessly.
I'd very much recommend this book. It's aimed at YA readers, but it does certainly have an appeal to adult readers as well. There isn't much focus on HS, and it's daily grind. The focus is on the characters as opposed to the physical HS setting, so it's not tightly marketed there. There is some lovely character development in Crystal, and I genuinely care for her. She's having a crisis of faith, in every possible way, but she picks everything up and mends it into armor to help her fight. The supporting characters, at least the "main" supporting characters have some development, but the book is strongly about Crystal, as it should be.
I'd recommend it to YA readers, adult readers who like light fantasy, readers who like a touch of Christian faith in a fantasy novel, readers who like having strong female protagonists. I'd actually recommend it to most of my friends, there's a bit in it that will appeal to just about everyone.
I did receive an ARC of this book from the author in exchange for an unbiased review, in the interest of disclosure.
May 23, 2016
This book was a great little surprise yes it is a YA coming of age fantasy paranormal contemporary light romantic story which if anyone that peruses any of my other reviews this is fast becoming one of the genres I love to read too. Plus it is a from a new author Ms. Nicole Zoltack that I am fast picking up several of her stories paranormal or otherwise and beginning to love her particular writing style, the intricate way she weaves a fascinating story with some great fully in depth complex characters that I couldn’t resist reading this one as well. Yes this is a fantasy and paranormal story but what makes it totally believable is that Ms. Zoltack also bases the story in a setting that we are all familiar with and making it real high school well all the people that have survived this time period. That angsty drama filled time with characters to match thrown in with witches, magic, shamans and religion it’s a pretty hefty fill but so worth the ride.
Crystal has always believed that she is Crystal Miller but one day fifteen year old Crystal is left alone in the house and finds out that she is really Crystal Wynter that her mom is supposedly hiding a secret for her fifteen years. There are also secrets the biggest being she is magic that shake Crystal’s unbelievable faith in God but that also have been kept from her as well. Can Crystal use her magic for good? What about the evil forces that want to use Crystal’s power for evil and can Crystal save everyone that she holds dear?
I seriously loved Crystal and could easily imagine her. Her struggles with high school, the friends that you have, even the fast quick relationships with boys that you have there. Crystal at first seemed immature I mean who wouldn’t be with her power but then again she is only fifteen but really grew up as the book progressed. I wondered at the weird relationship between Crystal, Vince and Gavin. In a sense I didn’t understand why Crystal is with Vince and maybe he was convenient because for some reason there seemed to be a bond more between Gavin and Crystal but then again Gavin also kind of creeped me out too. I don’t think I really understand him fully because I think there is more to him than meets the eye and hope that he is in the next book. I can’t wait to read the next book and have my questions settled which I’m sure they will be so I will just say on to the next book to figure out Crystal’s amazing magic legacy and if she is able to survive it. I can definitely recommend this book for all age’s teenagers and the young at heart but be forewarned for the people younger than twelve there are scary situations with magic involved.
Crystal has always believed that she is Crystal Miller but one day fifteen year old Crystal is left alone in the house and finds out that she is really Crystal Wynter that her mom is supposedly hiding a secret for her fifteen years. There are also secrets the biggest being she is magic that shake Crystal’s unbelievable faith in God but that also have been kept from her as well. Can Crystal use her magic for good? What about the evil forces that want to use Crystal’s power for evil and can Crystal save everyone that she holds dear?
I seriously loved Crystal and could easily imagine her. Her struggles with high school, the friends that you have, even the fast quick relationships with boys that you have there. Crystal at first seemed immature I mean who wouldn’t be with her power but then again she is only fifteen but really grew up as the book progressed. I wondered at the weird relationship between Crystal, Vince and Gavin. In a sense I didn’t understand why Crystal is with Vince and maybe he was convenient because for some reason there seemed to be a bond more between Gavin and Crystal but then again Gavin also kind of creeped me out too. I don’t think I really understand him fully because I think there is more to him than meets the eye and hope that he is in the next book. I can’t wait to read the next book and have my questions settled which I’m sure they will be so I will just say on to the next book to figure out Crystal’s amazing magic legacy and if she is able to survive it. I can definitely recommend this book for all age’s teenagers and the young at heart but be forewarned for the people younger than twelve there are scary situations with magic involved.
February 2, 2017
I obtained the book through Kindle Unlimited. I normally do not read YA books. However, since I pride myself on enjoying a wide genre of books, I decided to give this one a try. I am so happy that I did. Within the first/second chapter I was like "Wow". I was hooked. Teenage Chrystal is a good Catholic girl. Her mom not so devout and more open minded about some things than Chrystal is. However, young Chrystal will soon learn that there is really magic in the world. She herself is a part of that magic. She wrestles with her faith but starts to learn that both religion and magic do not have to be exclusive of each other. Throughout most of the book she tries to strive for a normal life. Continuing to go to high school, taking part time jobs and going out with friends. All the things normal teenagers do. The interaction with her friends was great to see. The mix of humor and fun was nice. Especially with all the other non-happy things going on with the magic element of the world. I do not want to give any spoilers away but this book with take you on a journey with Chrystal learning that there were secrets hidden from her and her search for the truth. Along the way there are several people that she has to determine whether to trust them or not. So many magical people want something from her. So without going to far and giving any spoilers away, let just say this is a great YA read and you should check it out for your self. As for me, I am off to read the second book in the series.
July 10, 2016
[I received a copy of this e-book from the author in exchange for an honest review.]
When Crystal finds out that she is magic incarnate she gets involved in the middle of a supernatural war between witches and shamans that will not only put her in danger, but also her friends, family and boyfriend. Crystal needs to figure out a way to control her newly discovered powers or else everyone will suffer the consequences.
I LOVED this book. I thought I was going to read just one of my regular share of witch stories when I first got it, but it was so much more. The journey to discover herself and her powers that Crystal goes through got me sinking into the book and I was not able to let it down. I really liked the fact that she does not find a grasp of her powers ll of a sudden, she struggles, she loses control, she practices, it is not a “magically” given ability, even magic has a problem controlling herself. I found the character to be realistic and the storyline very compelling, especially the moments where I thought where we were going and was surprised to be caught off-guard by a plot-twist.
A book that I highly recommend to all the fantasy lovers, as well as those who like a good adventure and a story filled with lessons for the main character.
The only reason I am not giving this book a 5 star is because it did not leave that “out of earth” sensation at the end of the book, but rather a “I need the 2nd book right now” feeling.
When Crystal finds out that she is magic incarnate she gets involved in the middle of a supernatural war between witches and shamans that will not only put her in danger, but also her friends, family and boyfriend. Crystal needs to figure out a way to control her newly discovered powers or else everyone will suffer the consequences.
I LOVED this book. I thought I was going to read just one of my regular share of witch stories when I first got it, but it was so much more. The journey to discover herself and her powers that Crystal goes through got me sinking into the book and I was not able to let it down. I really liked the fact that she does not find a grasp of her powers ll of a sudden, she struggles, she loses control, she practices, it is not a “magically” given ability, even magic has a problem controlling herself. I found the character to be realistic and the storyline very compelling, especially the moments where I thought where we were going and was surprised to be caught off-guard by a plot-twist.
A book that I highly recommend to all the fantasy lovers, as well as those who like a good adventure and a story filled with lessons for the main character.
The only reason I am not giving this book a 5 star is because it did not leave that “out of earth” sensation at the end of the book, but rather a “I need the 2nd book right now” feeling.
February 5, 2016
In "A Question of Faith" Nicole Zoltack has woven a tale that makes you ask yourself the same question that faces young Crystal, is magic against God's rules. Crystal has always been a devout church goer, but when she finds out that her mother had witches help her conceive she begins to question her faith. Crystal is not a witch, but she is something more special than that. When she starts to play with the power that she finds out is coursing through her, dangers surrounds her family, friends, and every thing she holds dear.
I am a big fan of Nicole Zoltack's books and this is no exception. This story explored my own concerns as well. I've always believed in God and the Bible, but I have always felt there was more to the world than the eyes can see. I have also always been attracted to the paranormal, but believed in miracles from God. The Magic Incarnate Series promises to explore those ideals as well as make you question the world as we know it, while providing an entertaining and exciting story line.
"A Question of Faith" releases on February 9th and below is the link for this wonderful book:
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B01AVDK1ZY/r...
I am a big fan of Nicole Zoltack's books and this is no exception. This story explored my own concerns as well. I've always believed in God and the Bible, but I have always felt there was more to the world than the eyes can see. I have also always been attracted to the paranormal, but believed in miracles from God. The Magic Incarnate Series promises to explore those ideals as well as make you question the world as we know it, while providing an entertaining and exciting story line.
"A Question of Faith" releases on February 9th and below is the link for this wonderful book:
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B01AVDK1ZY/r...
February 24, 2016
A Question of Faith is first book in the Magic Incarnate series. This story is about Crystal. Crystal has found out that due to the way her mother sought help to conceive her, through magic, that she herself is magical and is in fact magic incarnate. Crystal learns that even though she did not really believe in magic that magic does in fact exist and if she doesn’t learn to control her power she is going to hurt herself, or someone else, or maybe everyone else. Crystal has to learn a lot in a very short time to save her loved ones.
This book is really good. This story starts out developing the characters without dragging down the story. The story flows really well and keeps the reader interested. I would recommend this book to anyone who likes paranormal stories. I would also recommend this to anyone who likes a story with an adventure. I am really looking forward to reading the next book in this series.
If I could give this book a 4.5 rating I would have done that instead of the 4 star rating.
I received this book as an ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
This book is really good. This story starts out developing the characters without dragging down the story. The story flows really well and keeps the reader interested. I would recommend this book to anyone who likes paranormal stories. I would also recommend this to anyone who likes a story with an adventure. I am really looking forward to reading the next book in this series.
If I could give this book a 4.5 rating I would have done that instead of the 4 star rating.
I received this book as an ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
November 13, 2016
The author gifted me a copy of this book and I chose to review it.
I found this story to be interesting, though it was probably meant for a much younger audience.
Crystal is a typical teenager, until she discovers that her mother is really her aunt and her parents are dead. The more she uncovers about her "conception", the more she worries that her faith is being challenged. It appears that her very existence is a result of magic and what she previously thought were answered prayers were really her own magical manipulations.
Crystal tries to keep living her life. She gets a boyfriend, starts a job, hangs out with her friends, but her magic is a sought after commodity and not all who seek it wish to do good.
The end of the book, a cliffhanger, describes an epic battle between shamans and witches. Crystal is finally able to tap all of her magic, but will it be enough to save her friends, family, and herself?
I found the main characters to be well developed. I did think Crystal was able to use her magical abilities a little quickly with no training, but it did keep the story moving. I would like to find out what happens next by reading the sequel.
I found this story to be interesting, though it was probably meant for a much younger audience.
Crystal is a typical teenager, until she discovers that her mother is really her aunt and her parents are dead. The more she uncovers about her "conception", the more she worries that her faith is being challenged. It appears that her very existence is a result of magic and what she previously thought were answered prayers were really her own magical manipulations.
Crystal tries to keep living her life. She gets a boyfriend, starts a job, hangs out with her friends, but her magic is a sought after commodity and not all who seek it wish to do good.
The end of the book, a cliffhanger, describes an epic battle between shamans and witches. Crystal is finally able to tap all of her magic, but will it be enough to save her friends, family, and herself?
I found the main characters to be well developed. I did think Crystal was able to use her magical abilities a little quickly with no training, but it did keep the story moving. I would like to find out what happens next by reading the sequel.
September 25, 2016
Crystal is a fifteen year old girl that is trying to deal with the typical teenage life. Little does she know that she will soon learn something that will make everything she has known be turned upside down. Crystal is an endearing girl that believes in her faith. That will be shaken when she learns the truth about her past and her future. Ms. Zoltack did a fantastic job of wiring the magical features of this story. As Crystal struggles with her magic you see glimpses of her past and some of her future. She slowly learns her abilities. Throughout the story there are many interesting characters introduced. You will want to learn more and see more of them in the future. Danger is always lurking around the corner and I was biting my nails as I turned the pages. There was plenty of angst and action in this story and just the right amount of teenage love.
You are left with one heck of a cliffhanger that will leave you wanting more. This is a great YA book but any adult into magic will love it also.
Posted for Kylie's Fiction Addiction.
You are left with one heck of a cliffhanger that will leave you wanting more. This is a great YA book but any adult into magic will love it also.
Posted for Kylie's Fiction Addiction.
January 17, 2017
Crystal is growing up in a small town and has her best friends and in high school she has boy friends but are any of them going to be a boyfriend? There is Vince who her mom would like to see her with--friends since forever and then the new kid Gavin. But, not so fast, as she starts having disturbing dreams. Just before her birthday her mom decides to leave her home alone while she goes to the bakery--she has never been left alone before. There is a locked attic that she has always been told is to keeps the rats out of the house. While looking thru her mom's room since she wanted to get her something for her birthday Crystal finds the key and the adventure begins. All the normal teen year stories are here and so much fun but are there witches in town? What are shamans? A Witch hunter--are you kidding!! It is going to be an incredible year that is for sure. To let you know how much I like this book--I read it in one go!! Zoned out!! I highly recommend this book and now I must go buy book 2!!
June 12, 2016
What a great book. I couldn't put it down. I had to find out what happens to Crystal Miller. Crystal discovers she is adopted and the truth of her birth just before her sixteen birthday and how that news completely turns her life upside down as she is trying to be a normal teenager, getting her first boyfriend and two part time jobs and dealing with Magic. Dealing with magic brings evil into her life, shamans, witches and witch hunters. Her relationship with her mom changes and how they both handle Crystal's discovery. Crystal has a strong support group of friends Vince, Brianna and Lydia help her and are there for her. Crystal has her faith in God, which helps her understand what she is going through and how she deals with her faltering beliefs as things keep happen around her and to the people she loves. I can't wait to see how she grows and handles her growing powers.
I received a copy of this book for a honest and fair review.
I received a copy of this book for a honest and fair review.
January 22, 2017
Artistically Descriptive and Remarkably Evocative
I am a lifetime lover of art, books and music. Nicole demonstrates to me that you can paint beautifully with words and weave a melody with what is depicted. Within the first dozen pages I knew she had a unique ability. What many writer's may call "prematurely grey" she wrote as "white salting the sides of his dark hair". Which equals simply beautiful in my estimation.
Additionally, anytime the topic of religion becomes the focal point of a book there is a risk that the reader will assume that there is a particular message or lesson that is the true agenda and intent from writer to reader. At no time in the entire book did I feel that applied here.
It takes skill, grace, dexterity and talent to tackle what can be the often divisive topics of religion and magic. Ms. Zoltack proves that she is capable of so doing with aplomb.
I am a lifetime lover of art, books and music. Nicole demonstrates to me that you can paint beautifully with words and weave a melody with what is depicted. Within the first dozen pages I knew she had a unique ability. What many writer's may call "prematurely grey" she wrote as "white salting the sides of his dark hair". Which equals simply beautiful in my estimation.
Additionally, anytime the topic of religion becomes the focal point of a book there is a risk that the reader will assume that there is a particular message or lesson that is the true agenda and intent from writer to reader. At no time in the entire book did I feel that applied here.
It takes skill, grace, dexterity and talent to tackle what can be the often divisive topics of religion and magic. Ms. Zoltack proves that she is capable of so doing with aplomb.
June 21, 2016
I received this ebook free for a honest review. This is the first book that I have read from author Nicole Zoltack and I will be reading more of her books. This book is not a typical paranormal book about witches and magic. This book also tackles the conflict between religion and magic, God and witches can you believe in both or do you have to choose? Besides the struggle between her faith and new found magic the main character Crystal has all the normal problems of a 16 year old girl like school and boys. This book is a great read, the story progress nicely with enough background and detail so you feel like your there without weighing it down. Once I started to read I was unable to put it down. While this is book one in a series it can also be a standalone read, the is no cliff hanger but does leave room for the next in the series, which I look forward to reading.
August 2, 2016
This was my first YA novel from Nicole Zoltack and what a great coming of age story it was! "A Question of Faith" isn't your typical teen story full of angst and "me vs the world" themes. It's a walk on the paranormal side; with magic, witches, shamen, light romance and subtle religious themes.
For fifteen years Crystal has been living a lie. Unbeknownst to her, she was adopted by her aunt and uncle upon the death of her biological mom. The life she knows isn't the one that she was born to live. The week of her 16th birthday she learns not only the truth about her biological parents, but also that of what she is... the magic incarnate.
This is the journey of a teenage girl struggling to find her true destiny in life along with her faith in God.
Nicole Zoltack once again proves her versatility as an author, by bringing us into a magic filled world.
For fifteen years Crystal has been living a lie. Unbeknownst to her, she was adopted by her aunt and uncle upon the death of her biological mom. The life she knows isn't the one that she was born to live. The week of her 16th birthday she learns not only the truth about her biological parents, but also that of what she is... the magic incarnate.
This is the journey of a teenage girl struggling to find her true destiny in life along with her faith in God.
Nicole Zoltack once again proves her versatility as an author, by bringing us into a magic filled world.
April 28, 2016
I want to start this review by saying that I am a person who can guess the ending of just about everything I read and/or watch. I don't try to do this. It just happens. This book threw a few curve balls at me that I didn't expect. That being said, I really enjoyed reading this book and cannot wait to read the next one.
A Question of Faith touches on a time I'm sure many people have had where the questioned their faith, or realized the possibility of more than one faith being correct. It follows a "normal" high school girl, who isn't as normal as she thought. This book had friendship, compassion, first love, and finding oneself all wrapped in one.
I honestly had a hard time putting this book down.
A Question of Faith touches on a time I'm sure many people have had where the questioned their faith, or realized the possibility of more than one faith being correct. It follows a "normal" high school girl, who isn't as normal as she thought. This book had friendship, compassion, first love, and finding oneself all wrapped in one.
I honestly had a hard time putting this book down.
February 7, 2016
I received this ARC for an honest review. This is not my normal genre of book but I agreed to read it anyway. Nicole wrote a coming of age story about a teenage girl who found out she was conceived through magic and raised by her aunt. Crystal was raised in the church so she considered herself to be quite devout. As the story goes on, she learns more and realizes all is not as it seems. For a magical based story, this was well written and kept me interested enough that kept reading until I was done. It was my first book by Nicole and I'd like to check out her other writing styles! I think this book would be a good edition to the library! You won't be disappointed!
February 19, 2016
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
If you can open your mind to witches and magic this is a great read for you. At first I thought it was going to be a long drawn out story but I found it to be a fast pace read. Well written where you can follow along with no problem. I love the risks that were taken and twists and turns along the way.
If you can open your mind to witches and magic this is a great read for you. At first I thought it was going to be a long drawn out story but I found it to be a fast pace read. Well written where you can follow along with no problem. I love the risks that were taken and twists and turns along the way.
April 15, 2016
I am generally not one for the religious geared reads, but this one was different. Crystal went about life like any normal girl. She quickly finds out that her life is anything but normal. Her "mother" is not her mother, and she discovers that she is part of a life of fantasy. This book sucked me in right from the beginning, and I choose to rate this as a 5 star!
October 18, 2016
A YA novel of magic and faith, Ms. Zoltack has written an intriguing novel with a unique focus on a young woman so devout in her faith she tries to bring others to God, who discovers she herself is magic.
Read full review in the 2016 October issue of InD'tale Magazine.
Read full review in the 2016 October issue of InD'tale Magazine.
May 8, 2016
The base for this story was unique and interesting. It follows the human tendency to question one's faith when life seems to be its most difficult but adds a magical element to make that question even more confusing for a young and vulnerable teenage girl.
January 19, 2017
I absolutely loved this book! I wasn't too sure about it originally, since I'm not an overly religious person, but Nicole certainly proved me wrong! A Question of Faith has everything you could want in a book: love, danger, and ultimate sacrifice. A must-read, if you know what's good for your soul.
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