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Droplets of Magic
Kira’s spells always end the same—rain and violent storms. She’s what’s called a Defect, and that means one of two things in the witch world—losing your magic or death. After faking her demise, Kira is in hiding. She risks exposure and travels the world, making the Defective magic that would get her killed into a gift by bringing rains to places that most need water.
The witch world has changed in the ten years Kira’s been gone. Kira doesn’t know that she has a much bigger part to play against an ancient danger that threatens the entire world. But the witches want her for their own greedy plans. Her only chance to escape the witch council is to hide in areas where her storms go unnoticed. After one last stop in Africa, she plans to disappear again.
But Kira’s past catches up with her and a decade old blood debt comes due. As if being prey to the witch world isn’t enough, her family’s history with the Russian Mafia causes an enemy who was once her childhood friend to hunt her down. She and her only ally Alex—a naïve American—team up to escape the underworld warlord. As Kira’s feelings for Alex grow, she fears he will be caught in the crossfire. To settle this debt, someone will have to die.
The witch world has changed in the ten years Kira’s been gone. Kira doesn’t know that she has a much bigger part to play against an ancient danger that threatens the entire world. But the witches want her for their own greedy plans. Her only chance to escape the witch council is to hide in areas where her storms go unnoticed. After one last stop in Africa, she plans to disappear again.
But Kira’s past catches up with her and a decade old blood debt comes due. As if being prey to the witch world isn’t enough, her family’s history with the Russian Mafia causes an enemy who was once her childhood friend to hunt her down. She and her only ally Alex—a naïve American—team up to escape the underworld warlord. As Kira’s feelings for Alex grow, she fears he will be caught in the crossfire. To settle this debt, someone will have to die.
- GenresYoung Adult
314 pages, Paperback
Published May 5, 2022
2 people are currently reading
49 people want to read
About the author
Emily Bybee
11 books31 followersEmily Bybee grew up in Colorado devouring stories of all kinds and began writing at the age of twelve. She went on to get her degree in Environmental Biology before she picked up the pen again and still has a deep love of science.
Her debut book, Fractured Magic, is a paranormal romance about a defective witch. It is the first in the six book Unstable Magic series. She is currently working on projects in multiple genres as well as the next book in her series and a few novellas. Feel free to check out her free prequel to the series, Rebel Magic, on Book Funnel.
Her debut book, Fractured Magic, is a paranormal romance about a defective witch. It is the first in the six book Unstable Magic series. She is currently working on projects in multiple genres as well as the next book in her series and a few novellas. Feel free to check out her free prequel to the series, Rebel Magic, on Book Funnel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
August 17, 2022
"You're not dying today, so quit with the martyr act."
I flew through this book so quickly! This book is labeled as book 4 in the Unstable Magic Series; however, it's also a stand alone book and I had no issues diving right in! I loved it so much I'm not going to go back and read the rest of the series.
I found myself loving Kira, the 'defect' as she was strong, independent and quick thinking! I loved how the author could wrap you into the magic spell of seeing the beauty to magic as well as the wrath it can bring. It really made you feel like you were walking through the magic realms with the 'crew' as well as in the battles. It left you wanting more and more (hence the quick read for me)! I would love to see this in a movie!
Thanks Katieandbreypa and Emily Bybee for giving me an ARC copy in exchange for an honest review.
I flew through this book so quickly! This book is labeled as book 4 in the Unstable Magic Series; however, it's also a stand alone book and I had no issues diving right in! I loved it so much I'm not going to go back and read the rest of the series.
I found myself loving Kira, the 'defect' as she was strong, independent and quick thinking! I loved how the author could wrap you into the magic spell of seeing the beauty to magic as well as the wrath it can bring. It really made you feel like you were walking through the magic realms with the 'crew' as well as in the battles. It left you wanting more and more (hence the quick read for me)! I would love to see this in a movie!
Thanks Katieandbreypa and Emily Bybee for giving me an ARC copy in exchange for an honest review.
August 2, 2022
Thanks Katieandbreypa and Emily Bybee for giving me an ARC copy in exchange for an honest review.
First of all I started this book without a clue of this book being the 4th one on the series. I could read it perfectly and it was a lot of fun. I’ll definitely will read the previous ones.
The book follows a Kira. She was born with incredible water powers. Unfortunately not the type of magic allowed by the witches council. As such she has lived most of her life hiding. Until on a single day a stranger and an old friend find her on a remote village in Africa. Who can you trust? Who is telling the truth? How much has the world changed?
This book has the power to literary absorbe you. I couldn’t put it down.
The story is dynamic and takes interesting twist. It is impossible not to love the characters almost immediately. The world and the rules they face are amazing. The way in which realities are mixed and how the characters interact with whit characters law among humans is really well done. The comments the characters made while narrating are fun and on point.
A book that could honestly recommend with my eyes closed. And saga that I’ll defiantly follow closely.
First of all I started this book without a clue of this book being the 4th one on the series. I could read it perfectly and it was a lot of fun. I’ll definitely will read the previous ones.
The book follows a Kira. She was born with incredible water powers. Unfortunately not the type of magic allowed by the witches council. As such she has lived most of her life hiding. Until on a single day a stranger and an old friend find her on a remote village in Africa. Who can you trust? Who is telling the truth? How much has the world changed?
This book has the power to literary absorbe you. I couldn’t put it down.
The story is dynamic and takes interesting twist. It is impossible not to love the characters almost immediately. The world and the rules they face are amazing. The way in which realities are mixed and how the characters interact with whit characters law among humans is really well done. The comments the characters made while narrating are fun and on point.
A book that could honestly recommend with my eyes closed. And saga that I’ll defiantly follow closely.
August 12, 2022
I just finished Droplet of Magic by Emily Bybee
Kira is a Defect, and that means one of two things in the witch world—losing your magic or death.
Instead Kira fakes her own death and goes on the run. Not able to stand idly by and watch villages suffer with no water, Kira brings the rain…. And the chance of being discovered.
Fate works in mysterious ways when two male witches find her on the same day and both want her for the same reason. Her powers can be used to access ancient magic, a magic she doesn’t understand.
Kira cannot outrun the blood debt that is now due or the draw she feels to Alex who she is now on the run with. Can she help Alex’s friends save other defects from the Russian Mafia or will someone she cares about end up in the crosshairs?
As far as paranormal romance series go, this one was actually excellent. I was pleasantly surprised at how well the book was written and even more excited to find out it is book 4 in a series.
I really enjoyed the magical aspects of the book. It went into beautiful detail on the magic of the defects and how important they really are. The character development was pretty good considering that this is the 4th book in a series. I felt Kira was well roundedly written and I didn’t feel like this book didn’t hold up as a potential stand alone read either.
Loved the locations in the book. I could feel the desert heat on my face and the hardened dirt under my feet. I love books that are written where they draw you into their world. This book really exceeded my expectations and I am looking forward to the next installment.
Thank you to @katieandbreyPA for my review copy and to the author, @emilybybeebooks
Kira is a Defect, and that means one of two things in the witch world—losing your magic or death.
Instead Kira fakes her own death and goes on the run. Not able to stand idly by and watch villages suffer with no water, Kira brings the rain…. And the chance of being discovered.
Fate works in mysterious ways when two male witches find her on the same day and both want her for the same reason. Her powers can be used to access ancient magic, a magic she doesn’t understand.
Kira cannot outrun the blood debt that is now due or the draw she feels to Alex who she is now on the run with. Can she help Alex’s friends save other defects from the Russian Mafia or will someone she cares about end up in the crosshairs?
As far as paranormal romance series go, this one was actually excellent. I was pleasantly surprised at how well the book was written and even more excited to find out it is book 4 in a series.
I really enjoyed the magical aspects of the book. It went into beautiful detail on the magic of the defects and how important they really are. The character development was pretty good considering that this is the 4th book in a series. I felt Kira was well roundedly written and I didn’t feel like this book didn’t hold up as a potential stand alone read either.
Loved the locations in the book. I could feel the desert heat on my face and the hardened dirt under my feet. I love books that are written where they draw you into their world. This book really exceeded my expectations and I am looking forward to the next installment.
Thank you to @katieandbreyPA for my review copy and to the author, @emilybybeebooks
August 23, 2022
“I don’t have much to offer, but I can promise to love you forever”
When I started the book I didn’t realise it’s the 4th book in the Unstable Magic series. It didn’t matter though because this is a standalone book and reads incredibly well. I’m definitely going to read the other books in the series to learn more about the story but also my favourite characters.
The story follows Kira, she was born with amazing water magic but also was born a defect. Defects aren’t allowed according to the magic council so Kira has been on the run and hiding most of her life.
Hunted by witches, Kira doesn’t know who to trust or the truth. A message is sent to Kira and she knows she must go on a mission to finally get some answers and be reunited with the last of her family.
This books has plot twists and amazing characters, I devoured it. The writing from the author is great and I loved every second of this book, I could not put it down.
There’s romance, magic and adventure (what more could you ask for!!) I can’t wait to see how the story ends in the upcoming books.
Thanks to Katieandbreypa and the amazing author Emily Bybee for giving me an ARC
copy in exchange for an honest review.
When I started the book I didn’t realise it’s the 4th book in the Unstable Magic series. It didn’t matter though because this is a standalone book and reads incredibly well. I’m definitely going to read the other books in the series to learn more about the story but also my favourite characters.
The story follows Kira, she was born with amazing water magic but also was born a defect. Defects aren’t allowed according to the magic council so Kira has been on the run and hiding most of her life.
Hunted by witches, Kira doesn’t know who to trust or the truth. A message is sent to Kira and she knows she must go on a mission to finally get some answers and be reunited with the last of her family.
This books has plot twists and amazing characters, I devoured it. The writing from the author is great and I loved every second of this book, I could not put it down.
There’s romance, magic and adventure (what more could you ask for!!) I can’t wait to see how the story ends in the upcoming books.
Thanks to Katieandbreypa and the amazing author Emily Bybee for giving me an ARC
copy in exchange for an honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 30, 2022
I'm so glad I signed up for this book tour! This was such a fun ride!
I was never not intrigued by what's gonna happen next. Just a heads up to anyone who's planning to pick this up, it's a 4th book in a series although you can easily read it as a standalone but I'm definitely gonna read the other books just so I can read this again knowing more about the background and enjoying it all over again!
✨
Kira is a witch, oh I'm sorry, a Defect. She can manipulate water and bring about thunderstorms. She's been on the run from the witch council and now hides in villages or towns where her made you thunderstorms help the people but don't catch the attention of the council to give her up.
✨
Before she goes away, she decides to go back to this village in Africa for the last time to help them out. But she didn't know her past will catch up with her when she least expects it. She needs to outsmart a lot of people to make it out and find a much higher purpose for her existence and that of all the other Defects.
✨
What an action packed story. It has fantasy, power, magic, witches, mafia, romance and a found family. Recommended to everyone who's into any of this.
✨
Thank you @katieandbreypa and Emily Bybee for the e-ARC of this book for an honest review. I'm definitely looking forward to more of your work Emily😻
✨
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐💫
I was never not intrigued by what's gonna happen next. Just a heads up to anyone who's planning to pick this up, it's a 4th book in a series although you can easily read it as a standalone but I'm definitely gonna read the other books just so I can read this again knowing more about the background and enjoying it all over again!
✨
Kira is a witch, oh I'm sorry, a Defect. She can manipulate water and bring about thunderstorms. She's been on the run from the witch council and now hides in villages or towns where her made you thunderstorms help the people but don't catch the attention of the council to give her up.
✨
Before she goes away, she decides to go back to this village in Africa for the last time to help them out. But she didn't know her past will catch up with her when she least expects it. She needs to outsmart a lot of people to make it out and find a much higher purpose for her existence and that of all the other Defects.
✨
What an action packed story. It has fantasy, power, magic, witches, mafia, romance and a found family. Recommended to everyone who's into any of this.
✨
Thank you @katieandbreypa and Emily Bybee for the e-ARC of this book for an honest review. I'm definitely looking forward to more of your work Emily😻
✨
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐💫
August 8, 2022
I love Kira’s character. She is strong, witty and although others feel that her use of water magic is a defect, she leaves and finds a way to make it a positive for the world. I imagine that is what I would have tried to do. The other characters are just an interesting and I can’t wait to read the other books and get to know more of the uses for their powers.
The author writes the magic in a way that you can see the beauty of it. And how it can be a strength in the midst of lots of action and adventure all over the world.
This is fast paced, adventurous, creative, and I highly recommend it.
The author writes the magic in a way that you can see the beauty of it. And how it can be a strength in the midst of lots of action and adventure all over the world.
This is fast paced, adventurous, creative, and I highly recommend it.
August 7, 2022
This was a very interesting book! I went into this not knowing this was the fourth installment of the Unstable Magic series but was able to follow it as a standalone and I will be reading the others. This was action packed from the very beginning and had me hooked from the start! Between the lore and the magic fights I couldn't be more satisfied! I loved Kira as an MC she had all the traits of the reluctant heroine but also very relatable in wanting to face the danger on her own so her forced colleagues/friends wouldnt get hurt i loved her so much! This was a great book!
August 25, 2022
I knew that as soon as I saw this book had not only magic, but elemental magic in that it would be impossible for me to put down and I was right!
I was surprised to see that this was book 4 in the series, it can absolutely be read as a stand-alone but I will 100% go back for more.
We meet our FMC, Kira, who is on the run. She possesses elemental water magic, labelled as a ‘Defect’ by the Witch Council who are trying to track her down. As a Defect, Kira’s magic is one that the council don’t want people to have. She is found by her long lost friend and a stranger on the same day, she struggles to know who to trust. It quickly becomes clear that Rurik is no longer a friend.
I found the description of Kira’s magic absolutely breathtaking, I felt like I was standing in one of her rainstorms at times, the author describes the magic so beautifully.
I enjoyed the romantic subplot and I hope there is more in store for Kira and Alex!
Thank you to @katieandbreyPA for my review copy and to the author, @emilybybeebooks for a magical book ♥️ ✨
I was surprised to see that this was book 4 in the series, it can absolutely be read as a stand-alone but I will 100% go back for more.
We meet our FMC, Kira, who is on the run. She possesses elemental water magic, labelled as a ‘Defect’ by the Witch Council who are trying to track her down. As a Defect, Kira’s magic is one that the council don’t want people to have. She is found by her long lost friend and a stranger on the same day, she struggles to know who to trust. It quickly becomes clear that Rurik is no longer a friend.
I found the description of Kira’s magic absolutely breathtaking, I felt like I was standing in one of her rainstorms at times, the author describes the magic so beautifully.
I enjoyed the romantic subplot and I hope there is more in store for Kira and Alex!
Thank you to @katieandbreyPA for my review copy and to the author, @emilybybeebooks for a magical book ♥️ ✨
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 4, 2022
I adore this book! The FMC has been on the run for a lot of her life. She is a witch and has magic - but is considered a "defect" of her kind, since she can only control water. She uses her water magic to help people all over the world as she travels, saving people who are suffering from droughts. I LOVED this, a badass FMC who doesnt need a man to empower her. When she is finally found, by a childhood friend, all is not as it seems. Kira must form alliances to save the world from evil. This was such a fun story and I'm so glad I had the opportunity to read it!
August 4, 2022
This book had me from the very begining, from the fact that the main character, Kira, is a water witch. If I were a witch, water would be my element and of course I would often cause rain because I just love rain. Reading this book was like watching a series. Nothing was missing, it had adventure, suspense, conspiracies, magic and of course romance. The chapters are short and it is easy to read. I recomend it!
August 29, 2022
Content Warnings
Death of parents, both on and off page. No spice, just hinted at near the end. Pretty innocent love story. Some death and destruction, but nothing too graphic. Oblique references to violence towards women and forces marriage and pregnancy. Main trigger warnings are se*ual violence and abuse, but none of it ever happens, and death of parents. So if there is something in either of those things that triggers you, steer clear for your own mental well-being.
Hello and welcome back to my blog! We’re back to book reviews today, with Droplets of Magic by Emily Bybee. I was asked if I’d like to review this book last minute and it sounded like fun so I grabbed it while I could…however, I didn’t realise I was agreeing to read the 4th book in a series, or I might have refused! I don’t like to come into a series part way through, especially the book before the finale! I don’t know this world yet I’m going to review it? It makes no sense to me (ASD brain again. Rigidity of thinking can cause me problems) to review the fourth book before reading books one, two and three first, and if I’d had longer than a week or so before a review was due I would have happily read them too, to make sure I was fair on this, the fourth book. So, with that in mind, let’s do this!
Here’s the blurb…
“Kira's spells always end the same-rain and violent storms. She's what's called a Defect, and that means one of two things in the witch world-losing your magic or death. After faking her demise, Kira is in hiding. She risks exposure and travels the world, making the Defective magic that would get her killed into a gift by bringing rains to places that most need water. The witch world has changed in the ten years Kira's been gone. Kira doesn't know that she has a much bigger part to play against an ancient danger that threatens the entire world. But the witches want her for their own greedy plans. Her only chance to escape the witch council is to hide in areas where her storms go unnoticed. After one last stop in Africa, she plans to disappear again. But Kira's past catches up with her and a decade old blood debt comes due. As if being prey to the witch world isn't enough, her family's history with the Russian Mafia causes an enemy who was once her childhood friend to hunt her down. She and her only ally Alexa naïve American-team up to escape the underworld warlord. As Kira's feelings for Alex grow, she fears he will be caught in the crossfire. To settle this debt, someone will have to die.”
Kira is an interesting character. I know that sounds like I’m damning her with faint praise, but I honestly do think she’s interesting! She’s extremely complex, yet at the same time she’s incredibly fragile. She relies on a code of honour, which, while keeping her strong enough to live the harsh life that is thrust upon her, which she and her mother are forced to adopt when they fake their deaths and run from their life in Russia, also weakens her by closing off certain emotions. To her, love means weakness, yet every action she takes is full of love. From the very start, when she risks everything to return to the village to help the community, it’s obviously love that motivates her. Love for the community there, and love for her parents. She feels the need to return to the village to visit her mother’s grave to say goodbye, and she feels great guilt because her mother chose to stay on the run with her rather than returning to treat the cancer that ultimately killed her. What Kira learns throughout the book, is that love is never a weakness, that no matter the outcome, loving people is a strength and something that takes courage. That opening yourself to another person, and letting down your defences, may seem scary - and believe me, I get it. I went through a similar, but less deadly, situation - but can often be the answer to a lot of your problems. At times she irritated me, beyond a doubt, because I wanted to shake her about her stubborn nature, but I understood where it came from, if not her reasons for holding on to it so tightly.
I enjoyed much of the supporting cast, but again felt hampered by coming into the story so far through, so I don’t know the backstories or threads of storylines that have come before. I could comment on who I think needed more character growth, but then find out that it happened in an earlier book! So, in fairness I’ll just say that I like them all, and look forward to reading more about their personal relationships, where I’ll hopefully see more of them all and their emotional growth. How’s that for diplomatic…?
The world building was beautiful, right from the start, with the descriptions of Africa conveying the savage beauty and danger perfectly. Again, I’m going to say that I assume that the world Kira enters with Alex has already been fully described in other books. At least I hope so, as here the world doesn’t seem as vibrant as the descriptions of Africa. Thankfully, the book rips along at a fair old pace, so it’s not too much of a distraction. I do think that the story could have concluded a little earlier. There was this huge build up to a final battle, that the battle, though exciting, was always going to pale in comparison.
All in all though, I really enjoyed this surprise book. I’m glad I agreed to review it as I probably would have passed on it as the cover doesn’t inspire me much, if I’m perfectly honest. I will definitely be grabbing the rest of the series, if I ever have a break from reviewing! I’m really interested in seeing if I’m correct about the world building, and she was just sketching it in for her longtime readers, thinking nobody would be daft enough to read the fourth one first!
I’d definitely recommend this to anyone who likes a little urban fantasy. This is a YA book, but there is sometimes more of a NA vibe, with some of the issues more of the adult side. Elements of fantasy and romance opens this up to an even wider audience, so if you’re not an UF fan (why not, it’s great!), but like some fantasy romance then this could suit you just fine. It gets slightly under ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ from me, due to the issues described, but no review site uses that system so I’m happy to round it slightly up, rather than quite a long way down. I enjoyed it immensely, and that’s mostly what I ask of books at the end of the day!
linktr.ee/merlinscove
I received a review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Thank you to Katie and Brey PA and Emily Bybee.
Death of parents, both on and off page. No spice, just hinted at near the end. Pretty innocent love story. Some death and destruction, but nothing too graphic. Oblique references to violence towards women and forces marriage and pregnancy. Main trigger warnings are se*ual violence and abuse, but none of it ever happens, and death of parents. So if there is something in either of those things that triggers you, steer clear for your own mental well-being.
Hello and welcome back to my blog! We’re back to book reviews today, with Droplets of Magic by Emily Bybee. I was asked if I’d like to review this book last minute and it sounded like fun so I grabbed it while I could…however, I didn’t realise I was agreeing to read the 4th book in a series, or I might have refused! I don’t like to come into a series part way through, especially the book before the finale! I don’t know this world yet I’m going to review it? It makes no sense to me (ASD brain again. Rigidity of thinking can cause me problems) to review the fourth book before reading books one, two and three first, and if I’d had longer than a week or so before a review was due I would have happily read them too, to make sure I was fair on this, the fourth book. So, with that in mind, let’s do this!
Here’s the blurb…
“Kira's spells always end the same-rain and violent storms. She's what's called a Defect, and that means one of two things in the witch world-losing your magic or death. After faking her demise, Kira is in hiding. She risks exposure and travels the world, making the Defective magic that would get her killed into a gift by bringing rains to places that most need water. The witch world has changed in the ten years Kira's been gone. Kira doesn't know that she has a much bigger part to play against an ancient danger that threatens the entire world. But the witches want her for their own greedy plans. Her only chance to escape the witch council is to hide in areas where her storms go unnoticed. After one last stop in Africa, she plans to disappear again. But Kira's past catches up with her and a decade old blood debt comes due. As if being prey to the witch world isn't enough, her family's history with the Russian Mafia causes an enemy who was once her childhood friend to hunt her down. She and her only ally Alexa naïve American-team up to escape the underworld warlord. As Kira's feelings for Alex grow, she fears he will be caught in the crossfire. To settle this debt, someone will have to die.”
Kira is an interesting character. I know that sounds like I’m damning her with faint praise, but I honestly do think she’s interesting! She’s extremely complex, yet at the same time she’s incredibly fragile. She relies on a code of honour, which, while keeping her strong enough to live the harsh life that is thrust upon her, which she and her mother are forced to adopt when they fake their deaths and run from their life in Russia, also weakens her by closing off certain emotions. To her, love means weakness, yet every action she takes is full of love. From the very start, when she risks everything to return to the village to help the community, it’s obviously love that motivates her. Love for the community there, and love for her parents. She feels the need to return to the village to visit her mother’s grave to say goodbye, and she feels great guilt because her mother chose to stay on the run with her rather than returning to treat the cancer that ultimately killed her. What Kira learns throughout the book, is that love is never a weakness, that no matter the outcome, loving people is a strength and something that takes courage. That opening yourself to another person, and letting down your defences, may seem scary - and believe me, I get it. I went through a similar, but less deadly, situation - but can often be the answer to a lot of your problems. At times she irritated me, beyond a doubt, because I wanted to shake her about her stubborn nature, but I understood where it came from, if not her reasons for holding on to it so tightly.
I enjoyed much of the supporting cast, but again felt hampered by coming into the story so far through, so I don’t know the backstories or threads of storylines that have come before. I could comment on who I think needed more character growth, but then find out that it happened in an earlier book! So, in fairness I’ll just say that I like them all, and look forward to reading more about their personal relationships, where I’ll hopefully see more of them all and their emotional growth. How’s that for diplomatic…?
The world building was beautiful, right from the start, with the descriptions of Africa conveying the savage beauty and danger perfectly. Again, I’m going to say that I assume that the world Kira enters with Alex has already been fully described in other books. At least I hope so, as here the world doesn’t seem as vibrant as the descriptions of Africa. Thankfully, the book rips along at a fair old pace, so it’s not too much of a distraction. I do think that the story could have concluded a little earlier. There was this huge build up to a final battle, that the battle, though exciting, was always going to pale in comparison.
All in all though, I really enjoyed this surprise book. I’m glad I agreed to review it as I probably would have passed on it as the cover doesn’t inspire me much, if I’m perfectly honest. I will definitely be grabbing the rest of the series, if I ever have a break from reviewing! I’m really interested in seeing if I’m correct about the world building, and she was just sketching it in for her longtime readers, thinking nobody would be daft enough to read the fourth one first!
I’d definitely recommend this to anyone who likes a little urban fantasy. This is a YA book, but there is sometimes more of a NA vibe, with some of the issues more of the adult side. Elements of fantasy and romance opens this up to an even wider audience, so if you’re not an UF fan (why not, it’s great!), but like some fantasy romance then this could suit you just fine. It gets slightly under ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ from me, due to the issues described, but no review site uses that system so I’m happy to round it slightly up, rather than quite a long way down. I enjoyed it immensely, and that’s mostly what I ask of books at the end of the day!
linktr.ee/merlinscove
I received a review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Thank you to Katie and Brey PA and Emily Bybee.
June 8, 2022
I’ve never flown through a full length novel so fast. I absolutely fell in love with the main character, Kira. She was tough and relatable, stubborn to a fault, and took herself very seriously. Then enters American Alex who, while not fitting into her life in anyway, seems to wiggle his way into Kira’s interest.
The bad guy in this story is Kira’s childhood best friend and first love, Rurik. *sigh*. But there is the tiniest spark of his adolescent crush just under the surface of his completely despicable actions.
Emily Bybee’s writing is soooo good. I read this book (book 5 of the Defect Stories) and was left with zero questions as to who I was following, where we were, and why we were there. I don’t know how she did it, but now I am confident I could completely read all of these out of order and be perfectly fine. Bybee wrote such a strong main character that the stakes and drama stayed at such a level, I couldn’t stop turning pages. Lines like, “One of us would die. Here. In the gardens where love once grew.” And for chapters you are left guessing who!
Great read. Five Stars. I plan on getting this whole series.
The bad guy in this story is Kira’s childhood best friend and first love, Rurik. *sigh*. But there is the tiniest spark of his adolescent crush just under the surface of his completely despicable actions.
Emily Bybee’s writing is soooo good. I read this book (book 5 of the Defect Stories) and was left with zero questions as to who I was following, where we were, and why we were there. I don’t know how she did it, but now I am confident I could completely read all of these out of order and be perfectly fine. Bybee wrote such a strong main character that the stakes and drama stayed at such a level, I couldn’t stop turning pages. Lines like, “One of us would die. Here. In the gardens where love once grew.” And for chapters you are left guessing who!
Great read. Five Stars. I plan on getting this whole series.
November 1, 2025
I really enjoyed Droplets of Magic, it was a lovely read. I loved Kira and Alex and their adventures! And omg, the cover and title are great. Droplets of Magic is the fourth book of a series, which I haven’t read, but I had no problem in reading it. They can be read as standalones because the secondary characters of this book have their own book.
~ August, 2022
~ August, 2022
May 6, 2022
Droplets of Magic is the forth book in the Unstable Magic series, but I didn't have any trouble diving right in and following along. There were references to events that clearly happened in earlier books, but those only added to the feeling of the story being set in a wider, more intricate world.
This book is a love-at-first-sight story--a trope that I don't tend to like because it often forces the characters into an emotional intimacy that I have trouble believing--but the character interactions in this book were still believable and the romance played second-fiddle to the main plot, so I won't hold that against it.
The main character is a Defect--a witch who can't use magic in the usual way. In Kira's case, she can only manipulate water, and not always well. If she gets upset, she's likely to cause a downpour. Since Defects are hunted by the magic council as a threat to the secrecy of witch society, Kira has been on the run and in hiding for most of her life. After losing her mother to cancer, she's been on her own and has some definite trust issues. I think Kira was portrayed well, and her internal (and external) conflicts were quite believable. As I mentioned above, insta-attraction tends to bother me, but at least Kira didn't let her hormones override her judgement.
There were a few issues that threw me momentarily out of the story, but none so badly that I had any problem diving back in. One was the sheer number of times Kira popped her knuckles. I get that it was a character affectation, but sometimes she did it two or three times in the space of a single dialogue exchange. I'm not sure it's even physically possible to crack joints that much.
Another issue I had was with Kira finding her "element." This was a real head-scratcher for me because my first thought was, "Well duh, her element is water." But no, it turns out they were referring to the word in a more scientific sense, as in the periodic table of elements. I also didn't understand why she only had a couple of elements to pick from. The periodic table is huge. So that's one place that I definitely floundered. I hope those issues were explained in earlier books, but even if they were previously covered it would have been nice to drop a note in this one with a quick explanation. Maybe even have Kira have the same element = water moment that I did as a first-time reader.
The final trip up I had will be hard to explain without spoilers, but I'll do my best. At one point Kira and friends are stuck in a magical minefield, literally. The mines react to magic, and anyone magical, which they know because a magically charged pebble sets one off. At this point I figured, "Just charge some more pebbles and toss them to find the mines. You already know that works." Yeah, they didn't do that. I love the way they eventually ended up getting out of the minefield, but the first few missteps were pretty painful and I just wanted to slap them for ignoring the obvious.
Those three things aside, the rest of the book was pretty smooth sailing, with a fast pace, engaging characters, and wonderfully expressive writing. I'm excited to read the 5th book in the series, and will definitely go back to check out the previous three. ;)
Note: I received a free copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.
This book is a love-at-first-sight story--a trope that I don't tend to like because it often forces the characters into an emotional intimacy that I have trouble believing--but the character interactions in this book were still believable and the romance played second-fiddle to the main plot, so I won't hold that against it.
The main character is a Defect--a witch who can't use magic in the usual way. In Kira's case, she can only manipulate water, and not always well. If she gets upset, she's likely to cause a downpour. Since Defects are hunted by the magic council as a threat to the secrecy of witch society, Kira has been on the run and in hiding for most of her life. After losing her mother to cancer, she's been on her own and has some definite trust issues. I think Kira was portrayed well, and her internal (and external) conflicts were quite believable. As I mentioned above, insta-attraction tends to bother me, but at least Kira didn't let her hormones override her judgement.
There were a few issues that threw me momentarily out of the story, but none so badly that I had any problem diving back in. One was the sheer number of times Kira popped her knuckles. I get that it was a character affectation, but sometimes she did it two or three times in the space of a single dialogue exchange. I'm not sure it's even physically possible to crack joints that much.
Another issue I had was with Kira finding her "element." This was a real head-scratcher for me because my first thought was, "Well duh, her element is water." But no, it turns out they were referring to the word in a more scientific sense, as in the periodic table of elements. I also didn't understand why she only had a couple of elements to pick from. The periodic table is huge. So that's one place that I definitely floundered. I hope those issues were explained in earlier books, but even if they were previously covered it would have been nice to drop a note in this one with a quick explanation. Maybe even have Kira have the same element = water moment that I did as a first-time reader.
The final trip up I had will be hard to explain without spoilers, but I'll do my best. At one point Kira and friends are stuck in a magical minefield, literally. The mines react to magic, and anyone magical, which they know because a magically charged pebble sets one off. At this point I figured, "Just charge some more pebbles and toss them to find the mines. You already know that works." Yeah, they didn't do that. I love the way they eventually ended up getting out of the minefield, but the first few missteps were pretty painful and I just wanted to slap them for ignoring the obvious.
Those three things aside, the rest of the book was pretty smooth sailing, with a fast pace, engaging characters, and wonderfully expressive writing. I'm excited to read the 5th book in the series, and will definitely go back to check out the previous three. ;)
Note: I received a free copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.
August 28, 2022
‘The clouds developed, swirling in the winds of the lower troposphere, darkening to a threatening gray. The first drops splashed against my parched skin. Exclamations of joy spread throughout the village.
Kira is a witch, but a Defect one, which means her magic works differently from other witches. She can manipulate water and, during the years, has learnt how to use that skill to help others—bringing rain to parts of the world that desperately need it. But she is also on the run from the council, a defect shouldn’t exist. Then Rurik shows up, her childhood friend, but no longer the person she used to know. He hates her, blames her for his father’s death and plans to make her pay for it. But others need her as well. Alex is sent to protect and return her to her father. She needs to get away; whom can she trust, what do they want, and how do you hide from someone you are magically bonded to…
I waved him out.”Come on.” I turned and formed stairs out of the falling rain, smashing the molecules of water together with my power until they held as strong as wood or metal.
This was a fun story to read. Kira, our main character, is intelligent, independent, and with a good heart, saving the world one rainstorm at a time. I liked that her magic is unique, that she works just with water, or anything that contains water, instead of having access to all magic like other witches. Rurik, our villain, is clearly a little crazy and won’t let anything stand in his way of the revenge he needs. The gang that helps Kira is funny and creative.
This is book four in a series, but it works as a standalone. I didn’t feel like I missed the whole plot because I didn’t read the first three. I liked the magic system, I liked the characters (even Rurik, I mean, all books need a crazy villain, right), and there’s a familiar! (Of course, witches need familiars…) The story has some sad parts and a little romance (though it was an instant attraction). Although I usually prefer new magic worlds, when a story takes place in our world, I like to think that magic is really out there, I just haven’t found it yet…
Thank you to the author and KatieandBreyPA for introducing me to this series.
August 24, 2022
🌟 Droplets of Magic ARC Review 🌟
I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. First of all, thank you to Katie and Brey PA and Emily Bybee for the ARC of this book!
When I started it, I didn’t realize that it was book 4 of a series, but it holds up well on its own as a standalone. Kira is a fiercely independent and strong character. When we meet her, she’s on the run and trying to save drought-ridden communities at the same time. She runs into Alex along the way and the rest of the story unfolds.
I really enjoyed the world building in this story and thought it was very thorough, even though it was the fourth book in the series. I enjoyed the mixture of modern technology and ancient myths that the magic system is based on.
While I enjoyed the dynamic between Kira and Alex, I would have liked to have seen more development in their relationship after their shared traumatic experience - this is nothing on the book, just my personal tastes. The scenes that we did get of them together were good! Since this book is for a YA audience, we don’t get more than a few kissing scenes and flirting, so not much spice in this book
Overall, I enjoyed this book and it has some of my favorite tropes, including found family, stubborn/sunshine, emotional scars/traumatic backstory, and strong protector vibes. I’m definitely curious about the other couples in this series and I’m inspired to read the rest of them now too!!
If you’re a fan of YA fantasy, then this is a great book for you!! It’s available in ebook and paperback, and it’s on KU!
I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. First of all, thank you to Katie and Brey PA and Emily Bybee for the ARC of this book!
When I started it, I didn’t realize that it was book 4 of a series, but it holds up well on its own as a standalone. Kira is a fiercely independent and strong character. When we meet her, she’s on the run and trying to save drought-ridden communities at the same time. She runs into Alex along the way and the rest of the story unfolds.
I really enjoyed the world building in this story and thought it was very thorough, even though it was the fourth book in the series. I enjoyed the mixture of modern technology and ancient myths that the magic system is based on.
While I enjoyed the dynamic between Kira and Alex, I would have liked to have seen more development in their relationship after their shared traumatic experience - this is nothing on the book, just my personal tastes. The scenes that we did get of them together were good! Since this book is for a YA audience, we don’t get more than a few kissing scenes and flirting, so not much spice in this book
Overall, I enjoyed this book and it has some of my favorite tropes, including found family, stubborn/sunshine, emotional scars/traumatic backstory, and strong protector vibes. I’m definitely curious about the other couples in this series and I’m inspired to read the rest of them now too!!
If you’re a fan of YA fantasy, then this is a great book for you!! It’s available in ebook and paperback, and it’s on KU!
September 1, 2022
Kira is a Defect, born a witch, but unable to perform traditional spells. She only has the power to control water. Defects are hunted and killed by the council. Due to this, Kira and her mother go into hiding. Her father, being on the council, fakes their deaths to protect them. Kira has been on her own now for four years since her mother’s death from cancer. While her mom was still alive, they made a pact to use Kira’s power for good, and Kira continues to hold true to that promise.
Alone, Kira travels far and wide using her power to bring rains to drought-ravaged lands. Once communities are stable, she moves on. Recently, there has been an uptick in unfamiliar people around. Has the council finally found her? She becomes cornered in a remote village when her childhood friend, Rurik, finds her claiming her dad has sent him, but then the stranger, Alex, shows up claiming the same thing. Can she trust either of them?
Kira’s life suddenly takes a turn as she learns her “defect” is actually highly sought after and other witches want to get their hands on her to access her power. She ends up with a group of Defects all learning to harness their powers. As she learns to trust them, she finds what she is capable of and helps the team fight a powerful foe.
Kira then learns that she was once betrothed to Rurik, and he wishes to renew this connection, but there is also Alex who has shown her belonging and community, things she never imagined having. When she finally reunites with her father, her decision is made, but will it be the right one? And can she defy her father’s wishes?
I adored this book. Fourth in a series, I was able to read it as a standalone. The writing is fantastic, and I fell in love with the characters. If you enjoy YA fantasy, check it out!
Alone, Kira travels far and wide using her power to bring rains to drought-ravaged lands. Once communities are stable, she moves on. Recently, there has been an uptick in unfamiliar people around. Has the council finally found her? She becomes cornered in a remote village when her childhood friend, Rurik, finds her claiming her dad has sent him, but then the stranger, Alex, shows up claiming the same thing. Can she trust either of them?
Kira’s life suddenly takes a turn as she learns her “defect” is actually highly sought after and other witches want to get their hands on her to access her power. She ends up with a group of Defects all learning to harness their powers. As she learns to trust them, she finds what she is capable of and helps the team fight a powerful foe.
Kira then learns that she was once betrothed to Rurik, and he wishes to renew this connection, but there is also Alex who has shown her belonging and community, things she never imagined having. When she finally reunites with her father, her decision is made, but will it be the right one? And can she defy her father’s wishes?
I adored this book. Fourth in a series, I was able to read it as a standalone. The writing is fantastic, and I fell in love with the characters. If you enjoy YA fantasy, check it out!
January 1, 2023
Top Points Book Review!
💧The fourth installment of the fantastic paranormal series, Undtable Magic, that is easily read as a stand-alone. I have not read the others yet and still enjoyed this installment quite a bit!
💧Kira is one awesome character! Using her powers for the good of the world, even when doing so as a Defect could put her life in danger, makes her kick-ass. Plus, she’s well written, strong, and knows how to handle herself! Alex is a fun character that bounces off Kira well and helps add some depth to the story. I found him easy to like and with a personality that was unique!
💧The romance between Alex and Kira was organic, entertaining, and fit into the story so so well. I loved Alex’s naive take on things and how well he and Kira worked together through out the story.
💧 Author Katie Bybee brings us a story that moved through the worlds of both witches and magic and the Russian Mafia and blended it together so smoothly I did not want to stop reading. The magic was intriguing and the danger was scintillating.
💧Overall, it was a quick read! I recommend this book to someone looking for a young adult fantasy read with an entirely new world hidden between the pages and a thirst for adventure!
💧 Favorite Quote: ‘You’re not dying today, so quit with the martyr act.’
💧Tropes: Blood Debt, Stand-alone, Magical Realms
💧Page Count: 309
💧Cliffhanger: Yees
Goodreads Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Bookish Page Turners Rating: 9.5/10
Spice Level: 🌶
For full book review, check out my review on Goodreads. Links in bio!
Thanks to author Emily Bybee and @KatieandBreyPA team for the ARC to read and review!
💧The fourth installment of the fantastic paranormal series, Undtable Magic, that is easily read as a stand-alone. I have not read the others yet and still enjoyed this installment quite a bit!
💧Kira is one awesome character! Using her powers for the good of the world, even when doing so as a Defect could put her life in danger, makes her kick-ass. Plus, she’s well written, strong, and knows how to handle herself! Alex is a fun character that bounces off Kira well and helps add some depth to the story. I found him easy to like and with a personality that was unique!
💧The romance between Alex and Kira was organic, entertaining, and fit into the story so so well. I loved Alex’s naive take on things and how well he and Kira worked together through out the story.
💧 Author Katie Bybee brings us a story that moved through the worlds of both witches and magic and the Russian Mafia and blended it together so smoothly I did not want to stop reading. The magic was intriguing and the danger was scintillating.
💧Overall, it was a quick read! I recommend this book to someone looking for a young adult fantasy read with an entirely new world hidden between the pages and a thirst for adventure!
💧 Favorite Quote: ‘You’re not dying today, so quit with the martyr act.’
💧Tropes: Blood Debt, Stand-alone, Magical Realms
💧Page Count: 309
💧Cliffhanger: Yees
Goodreads Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Bookish Page Turners Rating: 9.5/10
Spice Level: 🌶
For full book review, check out my review on Goodreads. Links in bio!
Thanks to author Emily Bybee and @KatieandBreyPA team for the ARC to read and review!
August 28, 2022
Kira is a Defect. She is being hunted by the Council and has done a good job of staying hidden – so far. Her past suddenly catches up to her, and she’s forced to confront her fears to stay alive. How far is she willing to go to protect herself?
This novel is a great YA fantasy read. It’s the fourth book in the Fractured Magic Series. It is great as a standalone because I didn’t even know it was part of a series until I read the note at the end of the book. Kira is the kind of heroine I look up to. She’s brave and strong, and she embraces her flaws and learns to work with them. As someone with anxiety, I completely related to Kira struggle around people and the demons in her past. I think her struggle was portrayed very thoughtfully and I appreciate that from the author.
I absolutely loved the magic in this world. There are traces of paganism with the Earth Witches, and that works well alongside of the more mystical/fantastical witches. I liked the plot itself. It was predictable, but there was enough banter and interaction between the characters that it kept everything moving well, and I was sucked into the story from the beginning.
If you’re into YA Fantasy and you like witchy things, I would definitely give this book (and the series) a read because you won’t be disappointed.
This novel is a great YA fantasy read. It’s the fourth book in the Fractured Magic Series. It is great as a standalone because I didn’t even know it was part of a series until I read the note at the end of the book. Kira is the kind of heroine I look up to. She’s brave and strong, and she embraces her flaws and learns to work with them. As someone with anxiety, I completely related to Kira struggle around people and the demons in her past. I think her struggle was portrayed very thoughtfully and I appreciate that from the author.
I absolutely loved the magic in this world. There are traces of paganism with the Earth Witches, and that works well alongside of the more mystical/fantastical witches. I liked the plot itself. It was predictable, but there was enough banter and interaction between the characters that it kept everything moving well, and I was sucked into the story from the beginning.
If you’re into YA Fantasy and you like witchy things, I would definitely give this book (and the series) a read because you won’t be disappointed.
August 26, 2022
Thank you @katieandbreypa for allowing me to read and review this ARC novel.
4 stars ⭐️
Spicy Level: kissing and the burning desire.
It’s a pretty tame YA novel.
While this is book 4 in it’s series it seems to be able to be read as a stand-alone but I’ll definitely be checking into 1-3 as I loved the writing style and story line.
It began with Kira and her story of being on the run for 10 + years the last alone.. she’s what in this world calls a defect. Where she can manipulate only one element, which in her case is water. Traveling the world, mostly sticking to third world countries trying to help those in need by raining down and helping crops go and staying off the radar of the council.
This story was rather unique in the way it told a sometimes over done trope: the one magic user trying to “dethrone” the other magic users. Where Bylee went right that I loved was the addition which I won’t add to avoid spoilers 🤫🤭.
But through the majority of this novel it did not make sense why the cover was pictured as it is but that point where a light 💡 bulb went off and I went OHHHHH. Cool, unique and science-y vs unrealistic magic.
I’d recommend it definitely to anyone who loves magic wielding users with a pretty strong female MC who happens to fall for her savior.
4 stars ⭐️
Spicy Level: kissing and the burning desire.
It’s a pretty tame YA novel.
While this is book 4 in it’s series it seems to be able to be read as a stand-alone but I’ll definitely be checking into 1-3 as I loved the writing style and story line.
It began with Kira and her story of being on the run for 10 + years the last alone.. she’s what in this world calls a defect. Where she can manipulate only one element, which in her case is water. Traveling the world, mostly sticking to third world countries trying to help those in need by raining down and helping crops go and staying off the radar of the council.
This story was rather unique in the way it told a sometimes over done trope: the one magic user trying to “dethrone” the other magic users. Where Bylee went right that I loved was the addition which I won’t add to avoid spoilers 🤫🤭.
But through the majority of this novel it did not make sense why the cover was pictured as it is but that point where a light 💡 bulb went off and I went OHHHHH. Cool, unique and science-y vs unrealistic magic.
I’d recommend it definitely to anyone who loves magic wielding users with a pretty strong female MC who happens to fall for her savior.
August 8, 2022
Thank you to Emily Bybee and Katie & Brey PA for providing me with this eARC in exchange for an honest review.
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As a disclaimer, I want to first acknowledge that I had no idea this was part of a series before I started reading it. And that’s on me! Regardless of that, this book was so easy to read! It does a great job of introducing you to the world and magic system without drowning you in exposition.
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This book was such a quick and fun read! The action picks up almost immediately and before you know it you’re lost in a whirlwind of danger and magic all across the globe. The magic system here is super interesting, too! While it hinges on elemental magic, it manages to be unique. I want to learn all the ins-and-outs of how their magic works.
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Kira is both kindhearted and strong-willed. Although her powers as a water witch are dope as hell, it’s her personality that shines through. All of the other characters here feel three-dimensional, too. I want to spend more time learning about them and their abilities individually. I’ll definitely be going back to read more about Kira and everyone else we meet here.
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I did feel like the romance between Kira and Alex came a little bit too soon, but that might just be my preference. My only complaint about my experience is that I fucked up by not reading the other books first 😂 Like I said though! It was still such an enjoyable experience. If you need a dose of witches, elemental magic, and action, I highly recommend Droplets of Magic!
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Droplets of Magic is the fourth book in the Unstable Magic series and it is available for purchase now in ebook and paperback format. It is also available through Kindle Unlimited.
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As a disclaimer, I want to first acknowledge that I had no idea this was part of a series before I started reading it. And that’s on me! Regardless of that, this book was so easy to read! It does a great job of introducing you to the world and magic system without drowning you in exposition.
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This book was such a quick and fun read! The action picks up almost immediately and before you know it you’re lost in a whirlwind of danger and magic all across the globe. The magic system here is super interesting, too! While it hinges on elemental magic, it manages to be unique. I want to learn all the ins-and-outs of how their magic works.
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Kira is both kindhearted and strong-willed. Although her powers as a water witch are dope as hell, it’s her personality that shines through. All of the other characters here feel three-dimensional, too. I want to spend more time learning about them and their abilities individually. I’ll definitely be going back to read more about Kira and everyone else we meet here.
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I did feel like the romance between Kira and Alex came a little bit too soon, but that might just be my preference. My only complaint about my experience is that I fucked up by not reading the other books first 😂 Like I said though! It was still such an enjoyable experience. If you need a dose of witches, elemental magic, and action, I highly recommend Droplets of Magic!
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Droplets of Magic is the fourth book in the Unstable Magic series and it is available for purchase now in ebook and paperback format. It is also available through Kindle Unlimited.
August 23, 2022
“This would end tonight. One of us would die. Here. In the gardens where love once grew.”
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Droplets of Magic is ya fantasy and the 4th book in the Unstable Magic series. I want to preface this by saying I did not know this was part of a series going into it, but this works well as a stand-alone! I was able to follow along with the story very easily. Though, I think I will be going back and reading the other parts of the series because I enjoyed reading about the other characters!
This book had me hooked from the 1st page! It dove right into the action and just didn’t stop. If you love fantasy, I really think you’ll love this.
I enjoyed Kira’s character. She’s the definition of independent and driven. She was able to embrace who she was, “defect” and all and didn’t care what people thought of her. I LOVE a strong FMC and this book really delivered that.
I will say, I wanted more Kira and Alex! I thought they were super sweet and I would have liked more interaction between them, especially because this was their story.
Overall, a great read! It was fun and fast paced!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Droplets of Magic is ya fantasy and the 4th book in the Unstable Magic series. I want to preface this by saying I did not know this was part of a series going into it, but this works well as a stand-alone! I was able to follow along with the story very easily. Though, I think I will be going back and reading the other parts of the series because I enjoyed reading about the other characters!
This book had me hooked from the 1st page! It dove right into the action and just didn’t stop. If you love fantasy, I really think you’ll love this.
I enjoyed Kira’s character. She’s the definition of independent and driven. She was able to embrace who she was, “defect” and all and didn’t care what people thought of her. I LOVE a strong FMC and this book really delivered that.
I will say, I wanted more Kira and Alex! I thought they were super sweet and I would have liked more interaction between them, especially because this was their story.
Overall, a great read! It was fun and fast paced!
August 27, 2022
This YA fantasy is more than just another book about witches and magic. Take a Russian Mafia in a witch underworld, a group of outcasts called Defects, who find out their power is actually super special, an evil magic council out for blood, and you get a fast action packed adventure ride, with a side of romance. The action never stops, the magic and wonders of the defects is amazing, and the group of defects and outcasts form this super cool tight knit group that will have you cheering them on as they fight the evil witches coming after them.
This is book #4 in series. You don’t have to read the prior books to read this one, but I can promise you that once you read this one you’re going to want to read the 3 before just like I plan on doing. The book also leaves you in anticipation, eager to tackle book #5, by dangling the promise of a new type of Defect for the group to find bringing with it another type of magic and more secrets to unfold.
If you are fantasy lover, action lover, thriller lover, or magic lover, this book literally has it all! I highly recommend you check out this author and add this to your TBR!
This is book #4 in series. You don’t have to read the prior books to read this one, but I can promise you that once you read this one you’re going to want to read the 3 before just like I plan on doing. The book also leaves you in anticipation, eager to tackle book #5, by dangling the promise of a new type of Defect for the group to find bringing with it another type of magic and more secrets to unfold.
If you are fantasy lover, action lover, thriller lover, or magic lover, this book literally has it all! I highly recommend you check out this author and add this to your TBR!
August 23, 2022
I'd like to start by saying I was so excited to be offered the opportunity to read this book, as it sounded amazing. It certainly lived up to it.
We follow Kira, who is a Defect in the witching world, who uses her water magic to help those in need, but the Witch Council despises her and others like her. On the run, she helps who she can, until her past catches up with her.
I loved this book, its set in modern times with lots of elemental magic on show. I loved the none stop action and fast pace and I devoured it over 24 hours. I love the idea of elemental magic, so was enthralled by those scenes. Kira is a fantastically strong MC and I loved following her on her journey. There is also a little romance, which I always love. (I think I've used 'love' too many times again 😊, but I did love this book)
What I especially love is that there are more books in the series, so can jump right in to reading about some of the other characters I met in this great read.
I'd recommend this to those who like modern day witchy stories, with elemental magic.
We follow Kira, who is a Defect in the witching world, who uses her water magic to help those in need, but the Witch Council despises her and others like her. On the run, she helps who she can, until her past catches up with her.
I loved this book, its set in modern times with lots of elemental magic on show. I loved the none stop action and fast pace and I devoured it over 24 hours. I love the idea of elemental magic, so was enthralled by those scenes. Kira is a fantastically strong MC and I loved following her on her journey. There is also a little romance, which I always love. (I think I've used 'love' too many times again 😊, but I did love this book)
What I especially love is that there are more books in the series, so can jump right in to reading about some of the other characters I met in this great read.
I'd recommend this to those who like modern day witchy stories, with elemental magic.
August 25, 2022
I requested this arc, not knowing it was the fourth in a series, and I'm so glad I did!
This book stands well on it's own!
Kira is a Defect, with 2 not so great options. Lose her magic or death. While on the run, Kira's past comes back to haunt her. It comes in the form of her childhood friend Alex. As Kira’s feelings for Alex grow, she fears he will be caught in the crossfire. To settle this debt, someone will have to die.
I always love a strong female lead, and Kira does not disappoint! A water witch, trying to save drought ridden communities?! Yes please. The magic in this book was beautifully written. Water magic is always one of my favorite (idk if tropes is the right word, but...)tropes. Water brings life, and hope, and so does Kira.
All in all, this book was a quick fun read! If you are looking for a YA book with a fun magic system, some romance, and pretty good world building, this is it!
Thank you Katieandbreypa and Emily Bybee for letting me read this book!
This book stands well on it's own!
Kira is a Defect, with 2 not so great options. Lose her magic or death. While on the run, Kira's past comes back to haunt her. It comes in the form of her childhood friend Alex. As Kira’s feelings for Alex grow, she fears he will be caught in the crossfire. To settle this debt, someone will have to die.
I always love a strong female lead, and Kira does not disappoint! A water witch, trying to save drought ridden communities?! Yes please. The magic in this book was beautifully written. Water magic is always one of my favorite (idk if tropes is the right word, but...)tropes. Water brings life, and hope, and so does Kira.
All in all, this book was a quick fun read! If you are looking for a YA book with a fun magic system, some romance, and pretty good world building, this is it!
Thank you Katieandbreypa and Emily Bybee for letting me read this book!
August 17, 2022
Droplets of Magic is Book 4 in the Unstable Magic series. The MFC is Kira, a witch with Defective magic who's been on the run for nearly a decade. Having been away from the witch world for so long, she isn't aware of the current and recent happenings. Kira is surprised to find out that essentially two groups are after her and her magic, each with different intentions.
In this fast-paced and well written story, we get to follow Kira as she figures out for herself who she should really trust, someone she's familiar with or the mystery man. I enjoyed going on the journey with her, and seeing Kira explore her powers and become more comfortable using them without feeling so dirty and cursed.
The characters she meets up with all have different backgrounds and I definitely grew attached to some of them the same way she did. It was nice seeing her open up to them, which we know was difficult since she's used to riding solo.
*These people slipped through all the walls, barbed wire, minefields, and guards I’d erected and took up residence in my heart.*
Get ready to be quickly drawn into this fantasy world full of witches, elemental and non-magic, and even potions that may shrink your balls or turn you into a frog 🤣 There's mystery, betrayal, and adventure, a little something for everyone. I'd definitely recommend this book and am looking forward to checking out the others in the series.
In this fast-paced and well written story, we get to follow Kira as she figures out for herself who she should really trust, someone she's familiar with or the mystery man. I enjoyed going on the journey with her, and seeing Kira explore her powers and become more comfortable using them without feeling so dirty and cursed.
The characters she meets up with all have different backgrounds and I definitely grew attached to some of them the same way she did. It was nice seeing her open up to them, which we know was difficult since she's used to riding solo.
*These people slipped through all the walls, barbed wire, minefields, and guards I’d erected and took up residence in my heart.*
Get ready to be quickly drawn into this fantasy world full of witches, elemental and non-magic, and even potions that may shrink your balls or turn you into a frog 🤣 There's mystery, betrayal, and adventure, a little something for everyone. I'd definitely recommend this book and am looking forward to checking out the others in the series.
August 27, 2022
Thank you to @katieandbreyPA and author, @emilybybeebooks for my copy in exchange for an honest review!
I hopped on this arc a little late so I had no idea until I started reading it that it was book number 4. With all intentions of going back and read the first few books, this one was perfectly fine as a standalone. All the information needed is within this book to avoid any confusion of it being part of a series.
Kira and her mom fake their deaths to try and hide Kira. She is what's known as a 'Defect'. Which in the witch world it usually means death. She survives years on the run until one single day two men hunt her down. Rurik and Alex.
I loved everything about this book. Kira is amazing and her journey just pulls you in. Emily Bybee pured her heart in the book and it's very evident with each chapter you read further and further in to Kira and Alex's story. The way she built her worlds and the magic aspects was spot on.
I hopped on this arc a little late so I had no idea until I started reading it that it was book number 4. With all intentions of going back and read the first few books, this one was perfectly fine as a standalone. All the information needed is within this book to avoid any confusion of it being part of a series.
Kira and her mom fake their deaths to try and hide Kira. She is what's known as a 'Defect'. Which in the witch world it usually means death. She survives years on the run until one single day two men hunt her down. Rurik and Alex.
I loved everything about this book. Kira is amazing and her journey just pulls you in. Emily Bybee pured her heart in the book and it's very evident with each chapter you read further and further in to Kira and Alex's story. The way she built her worlds and the magic aspects was spot on.
September 4, 2022
Droplets of magic is a fantasy with a dash of romance. I loved how strong and independent the MC who is a witch and a great one at that but is considered a defect in their world for her inability to perform the traditional witch spells and her adventures with her new defect friends.
It’s a quick read and although it’s a book 4 it can be read as a standalone. The end did leave me wondering now what ? It’s not a cliffhanger but the end sure felt like abrupt. Like one second they are discussing something and they find an extra info and there it is just ends. I don’t know it maybe personal but I didn’t realise I was at the end which also shows how interesting it was ❤️
It was a witch story and it’s about magic well alone is enough to make me want to read it. I definitely recommend to all the fantasy readers.
Thank you @katieandbreypa for this wonderful book!!!!
It’s a quick read and although it’s a book 4 it can be read as a standalone. The end did leave me wondering now what ? It’s not a cliffhanger but the end sure felt like abrupt. Like one second they are discussing something and they find an extra info and there it is just ends. I don’t know it maybe personal but I didn’t realise I was at the end which also shows how interesting it was ❤️
It was a witch story and it’s about magic well alone is enough to make me want to read it. I definitely recommend to all the fantasy readers.
Thank you @katieandbreypa for this wonderful book!!!!
September 1, 2022
CW: Droplets of Magic depicts blood, stalking, parental abuse (this happens off page), parental death, murder, violence, and death.
Droplets of Magic is the fourth installment in the Unstable Magic series; however, I was unaware of this fact going into the novel. It read as a stand alone, despite being the fourth installment. The world and magical systems were easily explained, which prevented any confusion. The story follows Kira, a defect water witch, and how she's been on the run from the witch council. Until her past catches up with her and she can keep running from it. Along the way she meets Alex and other defects. The magical system is one of the most unique systems I have seen in a novel in long time, which was my favorite part of the Droplets of Magic. Kira's character development was extremely well done. My only issue is I felt the romantic relationship between Kira and Alex felt a little too much like instalove. I would have personally liked to see a little more tension and relationship building in the beginning. If you are looking for a book that is fast paced and entertaining I highly recommend picking up Droplets of Magic!!!
Droplets of Magic is the fourth installment in the Unstable Magic series; however, I was unaware of this fact going into the novel. It read as a stand alone, despite being the fourth installment. The world and magical systems were easily explained, which prevented any confusion. The story follows Kira, a defect water witch, and how she's been on the run from the witch council. Until her past catches up with her and she can keep running from it. Along the way she meets Alex and other defects. The magical system is one of the most unique systems I have seen in a novel in long time, which was my favorite part of the Droplets of Magic. Kira's character development was extremely well done. My only issue is I felt the romantic relationship between Kira and Alex felt a little too much like instalove. I would have personally liked to see a little more tension and relationship building in the beginning. If you are looking for a book that is fast paced and entertaining I highly recommend picking up Droplets of Magic!!!
August 28, 2022
Droplets of Magic is book 4 in the Unstable magic series but can be enjoyed as a standalone.
This book drops the reader right into the action and never has a dull moment. There is no filler in this book (which I loved) the story flows nice and keeps the reader intrigued and wanting more. The chapter endings felt like mini cliffhangers. It was always one more chapter.
The characters were easy to like and I really enjoyed reading from Kira’s perspective.
There’s a lot of magic and action but there is also some romance.
I loved this book way more than I expected to and I definitely will be reading the others in the series.
This book gets 5 stars from me.
Thanks to @katieandbreypa for a copy in exchange for an honest review.
This book drops the reader right into the action and never has a dull moment. There is no filler in this book (which I loved) the story flows nice and keeps the reader intrigued and wanting more. The chapter endings felt like mini cliffhangers. It was always one more chapter.
The characters were easy to like and I really enjoyed reading from Kira’s perspective.
There’s a lot of magic and action but there is also some romance.
I loved this book way more than I expected to and I definitely will be reading the others in the series.
This book gets 5 stars from me.
Thanks to @katieandbreypa for a copy in exchange for an honest review.
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