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Fall of Magic #2
Dark Mind
Magic is dying out. There are only two people who can stop it: a psychopathic wizard who can’t keep it in his pants and an autistic mage with crippling anxiety.
Nikolai no longer wants to kill Medea—he’d much rather sleep with her, certain it’s the key to winning her heart and learning the secret to immortality. But she seems oblivious to his advances, and Yoxtl won’t stop cockblocking him. The damned spirit won’t relent until he builds it a following.
Medea has sensed the decline of magic for years. Now that she has an apprentice who can help her discover the cause, she finds her own discomfort with an ever-changing society getting in the way. Nikolai has been acting odd, too, though she can’t put her finger on why.
Their research takes them to America, where Medea struggles to navigate the Mundane world and Nikolai thrives, relying on his newly honed telepathy skills—a branch of magic that Medea despises and fears he’ll use against her. Will she ever learn to trust him? Should she?
And when they stumble upon a mysterious magical signature in the unlikeliest of places—the heart of a Mundane city—will it shed some light on the fall of magic or lead to more questions?
Contains:
-psychopathic protagonist who could be triggering to some
-autistic protagonist whose actions don’t always make sense to neurotypicals
-swearing, murder, violence, gore, trauma
-no sex scenes, but not for lack of Nikolai trying
-graphic depictions of what passed for mental healthcare in 1957
-racism and ableism and homophobia - oh my!
-Now with more Medea!
Nikolai no longer wants to kill Medea—he’d much rather sleep with her, certain it’s the key to winning her heart and learning the secret to immortality. But she seems oblivious to his advances, and Yoxtl won’t stop cockblocking him. The damned spirit won’t relent until he builds it a following.
Medea has sensed the decline of magic for years. Now that she has an apprentice who can help her discover the cause, she finds her own discomfort with an ever-changing society getting in the way. Nikolai has been acting odd, too, though she can’t put her finger on why.
Their research takes them to America, where Medea struggles to navigate the Mundane world and Nikolai thrives, relying on his newly honed telepathy skills—a branch of magic that Medea despises and fears he’ll use against her. Will she ever learn to trust him? Should she?
And when they stumble upon a mysterious magical signature in the unlikeliest of places—the heart of a Mundane city—will it shed some light on the fall of magic or lead to more questions?
Contains:
-psychopathic protagonist who could be triggering to some
-autistic protagonist whose actions don’t always make sense to neurotypicals
-swearing, murder, violence, gore, trauma
-no sex scenes, but not for lack of Nikolai trying
-graphic depictions of what passed for mental healthcare in 1957
-racism and ableism and homophobia - oh my!
-Now with more Medea!
579 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 25, 2022
5 people are currently reading
71 people want to read
About the author
Val Neil
5 books69 followersVal was diagnosed with autism at the age of forty-one and couldn't be happier to have her weirdness professionally validated. She lives in California with her ADHDer spouse, three children (two neurodiverse and one undecided), a normal number of dogs, and an abnormal number of birds.
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June 26, 2023Buy direct and get the bonus epilogue included, or order from your favorite store.
The audiobook is now available! Get it here.
The audiobook is now available! Get it here.
February 3, 2023
Thank you to BookSirens as well as the author for providing me with a free e-copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Full review on my blog here!
Dark Mind is by far more uncomfortable to read than its prequel. A large part of this is due to the increased depictions of violence—people not willing to read too much of graphic violence and gore should probably think twice before buying this book, because there's plenty to be had—but another important reason is the heavy focus on the era's social evils. One begins the novel thinking it'll reproduce the same atmosphere as Dark Apprentice, with an undercurrent of humor running through several scenes and tying them together, but this novel runs in a completely different direction. There's still an abundance of humor, clearly an integral feature of the writing style and particularly refreshing when contrasted with the darker themes being explored; the change lies in the center of attention shifting solidly to those themes. At certain points during my read I was afraid Dark Mind would skew too heavily into the category of books whose writers feel compelled to comment on everything from racism to misogyny to ableism occurring within a specific time frame, believing it paramount to delineating what it was like to live during that time. This book does toe that line, but ultimately it ensures such discussions are incorporated seamlessly into the plot so that they're given a purpose as well as direction for future novels in the series.
Which brings me to another way Dark Mind differs from its predecessor: there is a structured plot. Granted, that plot still progresses at a slow pace, but there's much more going on than just Nikolai's training. Elements from the first book left largely unexplored are expanded upon in this one, tying up some loose ends while also creating questions so that readers look forward to their answers in the next installment. More plot does not equal less character exposition, though: the relationship between Nikolai and Medea, and the way in which they understand and misunderstand each other, is given special attention; a whole cast of new characters is also introduced, giving the reader more people to root for or despise.
Something I'm not sure I concur with is the amount of what reads as self-defense in the author notes. Certain things definitely need to be said, considering the amount of criticism regularly directed at writers who misrepresent categories of people to which they themselves do not belong; however, there's plenty that can be understood without it having to be stated outright. In my opinion, a story should be able to stand on its own weight and work as its own defense, which I believe Dark Mind has been able to do relatively successfully without the accompaniment of the surplus explanation.
Overall, I've had an excellent time reading this series as far as it has currently progressed, and have been (and will continue) recommending it to all adult dark fantasy enthusiasts.
Full review on my blog here!
Dark Mind is by far more uncomfortable to read than its prequel. A large part of this is due to the increased depictions of violence—people not willing to read too much of graphic violence and gore should probably think twice before buying this book, because there's plenty to be had—but another important reason is the heavy focus on the era's social evils. One begins the novel thinking it'll reproduce the same atmosphere as Dark Apprentice, with an undercurrent of humor running through several scenes and tying them together, but this novel runs in a completely different direction. There's still an abundance of humor, clearly an integral feature of the writing style and particularly refreshing when contrasted with the darker themes being explored; the change lies in the center of attention shifting solidly to those themes. At certain points during my read I was afraid Dark Mind would skew too heavily into the category of books whose writers feel compelled to comment on everything from racism to misogyny to ableism occurring within a specific time frame, believing it paramount to delineating what it was like to live during that time. This book does toe that line, but ultimately it ensures such discussions are incorporated seamlessly into the plot so that they're given a purpose as well as direction for future novels in the series.
Which brings me to another way Dark Mind differs from its predecessor: there is a structured plot. Granted, that plot still progresses at a slow pace, but there's much more going on than just Nikolai's training. Elements from the first book left largely unexplored are expanded upon in this one, tying up some loose ends while also creating questions so that readers look forward to their answers in the next installment. More plot does not equal less character exposition, though: the relationship between Nikolai and Medea, and the way in which they understand and misunderstand each other, is given special attention; a whole cast of new characters is also introduced, giving the reader more people to root for or despise.
Something I'm not sure I concur with is the amount of what reads as self-defense in the author notes. Certain things definitely need to be said, considering the amount of criticism regularly directed at writers who misrepresent categories of people to which they themselves do not belong; however, there's plenty that can be understood without it having to be stated outright. In my opinion, a story should be able to stand on its own weight and work as its own defense, which I believe Dark Mind has been able to do relatively successfully without the accompaniment of the surplus explanation.
Overall, I've had an excellent time reading this series as far as it has currently progressed, and have been (and will continue) recommending it to all adult dark fantasy enthusiasts.
December 24, 2022
Actual rating: 4.5
Cohesive review to come but it’s a fantastic sequel to Dark Apprentice. If you loved Medea and Nikolai’s relationship you’re in for a treat!!
Cohesive review to come but it’s a fantastic sequel to Dark Apprentice. If you loved Medea and Nikolai’s relationship you’re in for a treat!!
June 15, 2025
Nikolai: Psychopathic wannabe dark wizard, natural-born telepath, too horny for his own good. Medea’s apprentice.
Medea: Immortal autistic bookworm with a special interest in magic and kicking ass.
This one felt more meandering compared to book one. Developing Nikolai’s telepathic abilities and testing Medea’s hypothesis about weakening magic in America away from the comfort of her island.
What didn’t work for me - Nikolai’s sudden lust and desire for Medea. Now he is intent on getting her attention by fainting his body and paying attention to her. What I enjoyed about book one was the lack of romance. Falling for your mentor troupe is overdone, even if it is a psychopath who wants to manipulate his mentor.
”People like their cages. They like being controlled. It gives them the ability to abdicate responsibility. That way, when their life is hard, they can point the finger at someone else and say, ‘It’s not my fault.’”
The second instalment is definitely darker. It covers heavy topics like racism and mental health treatment in 1957. While not historical fiction, the book uses magic to showcase the horrific treatment of minorities.
It was heavy-handed and there were certain historical inaccuracies, but I would advise reading the author’s note to find out why Val decided to write this.
My bad thinking this was a completed duology.
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Medea: Immortal autistic bookworm with a special interest in magic and kicking ass.
This one felt more meandering compared to book one. Developing Nikolai’s telepathic abilities and testing Medea’s hypothesis about weakening magic in America away from the comfort of her island.
What didn’t work for me - Nikolai’s sudden lust and desire for Medea. Now he is intent on getting her attention by fainting his body and paying attention to her. What I enjoyed about book one was the lack of romance. Falling for your mentor troupe is overdone, even if it is a psychopath who wants to manipulate his mentor.
”People like their cages. They like being controlled. It gives them the ability to abdicate responsibility. That way, when their life is hard, they can point the finger at someone else and say, ‘It’s not my fault.’”
The second instalment is definitely darker. It covers heavy topics like racism and mental health treatment in 1957. While not historical fiction, the book uses magic to showcase the horrific treatment of minorities.
It was heavy-handed and there were certain historical inaccuracies, but I would advise reading the author’s note to find out why Val decided to write this.
My bad thinking this was a completed duology.
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August 12, 2024
this was absolutely fucking perfect. even though i was a bit iffy about the added characters, it ended up being fun to read and i love love loveeee medea and nikolai. i do hope that the author will make this series LONG because this book definitely sets up for a long journey and a big, big plot that i'm excited to read, plus i can never get enough of medea and nikolai's shenanigans
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December 28, 2022"'I'm taking his soul.'
It was the sexiest thing he'd ever heard."
I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
4.5 stars, rounded up to 5
I absolutely adored Dark Apprentice and I've been waiting for Dark Mind to come out since basically the day it was announced. Val Neil is apparently nothing if not consistent because I loved Dark Mind as well.
Since this is a sequel and I don't want to risk spoilers, I've included some random thoughts below.
- I re-read Dark Apprentice before starting Dark Mind, but there is a handy-dandy "Obligatory Reminders" section in case you don't have that kind of time.
- Dark Mind takes place about a year after Dark Apprentice.
- Medea is still very much a bad bish and Nikolai is still one of my favorite literary psychopaths. (I wonder what it says about me that I have a list...)
- Nikolai's character growth from the first book through this one is incredible. Medea also shows growth, though perhaps a bit less than Nikolai. Then again, Medea is old AF, so it's probably not surprising that her character develops more slowly. It's possible her autism plays into this also, but I don't know enough about autism to confidently assert that.
- I could honestly read about Nikolai thirsting after Medea for a frankly irresponsible amount of time.
- As with the first book, Dark Mind is very much a slow burn. While there's definitely action, a lot of time is spent sitting with the characters. I personally loved this and, if you picked up this sequel then you likely didn't mind the pacing of the first book either. That said, if you had an issue with the pacing of book one, you'll likely have the same issue here.
- I absolutely love the relationship between Nikolai and Medea. If they do end up getting together in a romantic capacity I'm sure I'd be all about it, but I'd honestly read an entire series just recounting their friend escapades. (Not that Nikolai, being Nikolai, will ever stop thirsting or that I will ever stop wanting to read his ho-bag POV.)
- It took me a while to start caring about the new characters, especially when their plotline diverged from Nikolai and Medea's, but by the end, I'd come to care about them as well. Josh, in particular, is pretty easy to root for.
- We stan an author who understands the magic power of Truth or Dare.
- I get the feeling Grace might grow into an antagonist and I would be all for that.
- I normally don't see the point in Author's Notes, but I do recommend reading this one. I suspect that Neil and I have slightly different political opinions but she clearly put a huge amount of care into the subjects she tackled, which is obvious in the text, but the Note provides more detail. Even if you don't care about her research or the writing process, you should at least check out "Medea's Expressions (According to Nikolai)."
Neil has a newsletter where she offers bonus content, so you can bet your ass I'll be checking that out. And then I guess I'll just go cry in a corner until book three comes out...
It was the sexiest thing he'd ever heard."
I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
4.5 stars, rounded up to 5
I absolutely adored Dark Apprentice and I've been waiting for Dark Mind to come out since basically the day it was announced. Val Neil is apparently nothing if not consistent because I loved Dark Mind as well.
Since this is a sequel and I don't want to risk spoilers, I've included some random thoughts below.
- I re-read Dark Apprentice before starting Dark Mind, but there is a handy-dandy "Obligatory Reminders" section in case you don't have that kind of time.
- Dark Mind takes place about a year after Dark Apprentice.
- Medea is still very much a bad bish and Nikolai is still one of my favorite literary psychopaths. (I wonder what it says about me that I have a list...)
- Nikolai's character growth from the first book through this one is incredible. Medea also shows growth, though perhaps a bit less than Nikolai. Then again, Medea is old AF, so it's probably not surprising that her character develops more slowly. It's possible her autism plays into this also, but I don't know enough about autism to confidently assert that.
- I could honestly read about Nikolai thirsting after Medea for a frankly irresponsible amount of time.
- As with the first book, Dark Mind is very much a slow burn. While there's definitely action, a lot of time is spent sitting with the characters. I personally loved this and, if you picked up this sequel then you likely didn't mind the pacing of the first book either. That said, if you had an issue with the pacing of book one, you'll likely have the same issue here.
- I absolutely love the relationship between Nikolai and Medea. If they do end up getting together in a romantic capacity I'm sure I'd be all about it, but I'd honestly read an entire series just recounting their friend escapades. (Not that Nikolai, being Nikolai, will ever stop thirsting or that I will ever stop wanting to read his ho-bag POV.)
- It took me a while to start caring about the new characters, especially when their plotline diverged from Nikolai and Medea's, but by the end, I'd come to care about them as well. Josh, in particular, is pretty easy to root for.
- We stan an author who understands the magic power of Truth or Dare.
- I get the feeling Grace might grow into an antagonist and I would be all for that.
- I normally don't see the point in Author's Notes, but I do recommend reading this one. I suspect that Neil and I have slightly different political opinions but she clearly put a huge amount of care into the subjects she tackled, which is obvious in the text, but the Note provides more detail. Even if you don't care about her research or the writing process, you should at least check out "Medea's Expressions (According to Nikolai)."
Neil has a newsletter where she offers bonus content, so you can bet your ass I'll be checking that out. And then I guess I'll just go cry in a corner until book three comes out...
November 25, 2022
(I was given an ARC by the author)
This was a really solid sequel!
I really appreciated getting to know more about both Nikolai's and Medea's pasts as well as seeing how their relationship and dynamic evolved. Their dynamic is really what carries this book (and series) the most for me. While the plot is engaging and I also really enjoyed the newly introduced characters, seeing how Medea and Nikolai interact and how their brains work in such absolutely opposing ways was really what kept me glued to the page in this book, just as in the first book. At the same time, just as with the first book it was still really uncomfortable for me being in Nikolai's head (in a good way). Medea is still my favorite, no doubt about it!
With the new characters it was kind of hit or miss, if I was just waiting to get to the next chapter with Medea and Nikolai or really interested in seeing what was happening to them (maybe the reason for that was also that I really couldn't stand 2 of them, but again in a "they're not necessarily supposed to be the most likeable characters" way and maybe the job was done too well) by the end tho, I am now really interested in seeing how the new characters will change the dynamic between Medea and Nikolai.
Overall. as i said, a really solid sequel, altho I probably slightly prefer the first book still.
This was a really solid sequel!
I really appreciated getting to know more about both Nikolai's and Medea's pasts as well as seeing how their relationship and dynamic evolved. Their dynamic is really what carries this book (and series) the most for me. While the plot is engaging and I also really enjoyed the newly introduced characters, seeing how Medea and Nikolai interact and how their brains work in such absolutely opposing ways was really what kept me glued to the page in this book, just as in the first book. At the same time, just as with the first book it was still really uncomfortable for me being in Nikolai's head (in a good way). Medea is still my favorite, no doubt about it!
With the new characters it was kind of hit or miss, if I was just waiting to get to the next chapter with Medea and Nikolai or really interested in seeing what was happening to them (maybe the reason for that was also that I really couldn't stand 2 of them, but again in a "they're not necessarily supposed to be the most likeable characters" way and maybe the job was done too well) by the end tho, I am now really interested in seeing how the new characters will change the dynamic between Medea and Nikolai.
Overall. as i said, a really solid sequel, altho I probably slightly prefer the first book still.
June 6, 2024
4.5 stars
the only reason this isn't 5 stars is because after a while I started to get tired of the new povs introduced in this book, but they are slowly growing on me too
i love nikolai and medea's dynamic, I love seeing them develop their relationship slowly into becoming partners (hopefully!). its so refreshing to me to see anything being developed slowly lately that i feel everything is in a rush. plus, the book kept me distracted while i was sick and this is the best thing a book can do for me
I CANT WAIT for the next one!! im excited to see their relationship now after the recent development
the only reason this isn't 5 stars is because after a while I started to get tired of the new povs introduced in this book, but they are slowly growing on me too
i love nikolai and medea's dynamic, I love seeing them develop their relationship slowly into becoming partners (hopefully!). its so refreshing to me to see anything being developed slowly lately that i feel everything is in a rush. plus, the book kept me distracted while i was sick and this is the best thing a book can do for me
I CANT WAIT for the next one!! im excited to see their relationship now after the recent development
January 10, 2023
I love it! I was so excited to get an ARC of this novel after devouring the first book in the series. I love that we’re getting to see more of the “behind the scenes” stuff for Madea, which makes her a little more understandable and relatable as a character. I also love all of the little mentions thrown in that relate back to her being on the autism spectrum. She’s a powerful character who has a disability and has found ways to work around her quirks and kick ass in the process.
Advanced copy received from BookSirens in exchange for an honest review.
Advanced copy received from BookSirens in exchange for an honest review.
June 17, 2023
He laughed. “Every day in Haven was beige before I met you.”
I breezed through this book. Loved Medea and Nikolai more than I did in Book 1 (even though I’d thought that to be impossible). I love the pacing and the vibes of this entire series. It makes me feel as if I am sitting on a comfortable couch in my little hut in the middle of nowhere with no one to disturb me and as if I have all the time in the world, which definitely makes it one of my comfort reads. (The beige walls thing really resonated with me, I almost cried.)
I wish I could take away your pain, but I can’t. All I can say is that this too shall pass, and I’ll stay with you until it does.
July 23, 2023
*mild spoilers for individual scenes, no plot points are spoiled.*
Nikolai and Medea relationship/dynamic enjoyers, this book is for you. I absolutely adored them in this book. Nikolai basically pours his heart out in this book and Medea’s understanding of him becomes much more well rounded. We have yet to truly get a Medea backstory but its coming and Nikolai is beginning to figure her out.
‘“What did you do?”
“Summoned a few loaves of bread into his naval passage and trachea.”
Ok now that was the sexiest thing he’d ever heard.’
There is one scene in which Nikolai practices his telepathy by guiding would-be rapists out of the dungeon Medea holds them in and making them jump off a cliff. Then because they don’t want the bodies to smell up their island, he and Medea chop the corpse up with their minds and Nikolai practices telekinesis by chucking the body parts through hoops positioned over the open ocean. They watch the fish eat the chunks of flesh while they eat sandwiches. It’s a hilariously fucked up scene but also shows that the two of them are actually pretty compatible and Nikolai’s contentment is surprising and sweet.
‘It was taking all his focus to hide them from the prisoner, or Expendable Subject Three, as Medea called him.’
Although Nikolai being a complete and utter idiot by jumping to the most self absorbed conclusions possible is amusing in the first book, I’m glad the author didn’t drag it out and here he has at least some humility and rationality. There are several scenes in which he internally accuses Medea of setting him up to fail because she hates him and is intimidated by his prowess and she’ll beg him for power one day… before he chastises himself because that very vein of thinking spectacularly blew up in his face on multiple occasions in the last book. It’s actually a bit sweet that he’s coming to trust her and her intentions- at least as much as he’s able- and he’s trying very hard to earn her trust (and trying to sleep with her, which fails completely every time).
‘“Each piece wound around her foot, criss-crossing and finally flattening under her sole to create a makeshift sandal.
“Handy.”
“Footy,” she mumbled.’
Because Nikolai is less of a miserable conniving wet paper towel, he and Medea start to have borderline friendly conversations that rise above the complexity of Medea talking down to Nikolai for being an asshole. It’s not a buddy cop dynamic, but they are working together towards a mutual unknown rather than Nikolai fighting strawman and Medea struggling to teach him, and some of their interactions are incredibly funny, especially when there are other characters in the scenes with them. Nikolai’s talents really shine in this book and between his natural charm and his frightening grasp on telepathy, he’s able to make up for the social graces Medea doesn’t have.
‘“What the hell was that?”
“Language, my dear woman. We’re in public.”
“Oh, I’m sorry. What the fuck was that?”’
The plot also picks up in this book and more characters and returning POVs are added (although the focus stays on Nikolai and Medea). The first book is character driven and so is this one, but the mystery of why magic is disappearing is more of the main conflict. Witch Hunters don’t pose a problem to Medea and barely any to Nikolai, but the introduction of other characters really puts the insane scale of our main character’s abilities into perspective. Nikolai seemed like a helpless little shit compared to Media in the first book, but he’s actually pretty impressive by the standards of anyone other than a literal god.
‘She could blast this place wide open, remove the patients, and nuke the staff into oblivion, but for subtlety, she needed him. It was a power imbalance of her own making that he was enjoying quite immensely.’
Nikolai in the general public is a flirtatious kleptomaniac and Medea spent every minute of social interaction pissed off and wanting to be anywhere else. Medea sticks out like a sore thumb and Nikolai runs in circles trying to cover for his crazy little sister. It makes them realize that together, they make a good team because they cover for each other’s weaknesses.
‘“You’re terrible at healing!”
“One day I’m going to die under all the unsolicited praise you heap upon me.”’
I’m trying not to mention the other plotline too much because it’s a spoiler, but this book is a lot darker than its predecessor, dealing with 1950s American racism, mental health, sexism, and the general non-tolerant society, and it doesn’t shy away from it. Those who perpetuate hate are not just the evil bad guys, but some of the main characters themselves. I appreciated this plotline because it developed the narrative outside of our uncaring main characters (well, Medea sorta cares, but it's complicated).
This review is way too long and I basically just wrote it for myself because I love these books so so much; I read both back to back in 4 days and they just keep getting better. I’ve already forced a few friends to read them too. I haven’t seen any mention of a third, but with the way Dark Mind ended I can’t imagine there won't be. Eagerly awaiting!
Nikolai and Medea relationship/dynamic enjoyers, this book is for you. I absolutely adored them in this book. Nikolai basically pours his heart out in this book and Medea’s understanding of him becomes much more well rounded. We have yet to truly get a Medea backstory but its coming and Nikolai is beginning to figure her out.
‘“What did you do?”
“Summoned a few loaves of bread into his naval passage and trachea.”
Ok now that was the sexiest thing he’d ever heard.’
There is one scene in which Nikolai practices his telepathy by guiding would-be rapists out of the dungeon Medea holds them in and making them jump off a cliff. Then because they don’t want the bodies to smell up their island, he and Medea chop the corpse up with their minds and Nikolai practices telekinesis by chucking the body parts through hoops positioned over the open ocean. They watch the fish eat the chunks of flesh while they eat sandwiches. It’s a hilariously fucked up scene but also shows that the two of them are actually pretty compatible and Nikolai’s contentment is surprising and sweet.
‘It was taking all his focus to hide them from the prisoner, or Expendable Subject Three, as Medea called him.’
Although Nikolai being a complete and utter idiot by jumping to the most self absorbed conclusions possible is amusing in the first book, I’m glad the author didn’t drag it out and here he has at least some humility and rationality. There are several scenes in which he internally accuses Medea of setting him up to fail because she hates him and is intimidated by his prowess and she’ll beg him for power one day… before he chastises himself because that very vein of thinking spectacularly blew up in his face on multiple occasions in the last book. It’s actually a bit sweet that he’s coming to trust her and her intentions- at least as much as he’s able- and he’s trying very hard to earn her trust (and trying to sleep with her, which fails completely every time).
‘“Each piece wound around her foot, criss-crossing and finally flattening under her sole to create a makeshift sandal.
“Handy.”
“Footy,” she mumbled.’
Because Nikolai is less of a miserable conniving wet paper towel, he and Medea start to have borderline friendly conversations that rise above the complexity of Medea talking down to Nikolai for being an asshole. It’s not a buddy cop dynamic, but they are working together towards a mutual unknown rather than Nikolai fighting strawman and Medea struggling to teach him, and some of their interactions are incredibly funny, especially when there are other characters in the scenes with them. Nikolai’s talents really shine in this book and between his natural charm and his frightening grasp on telepathy, he’s able to make up for the social graces Medea doesn’t have.
‘“What the hell was that?”
“Language, my dear woman. We’re in public.”
“Oh, I’m sorry. What the fuck was that?”’
The plot also picks up in this book and more characters and returning POVs are added (although the focus stays on Nikolai and Medea). The first book is character driven and so is this one, but the mystery of why magic is disappearing is more of the main conflict. Witch Hunters don’t pose a problem to Medea and barely any to Nikolai, but the introduction of other characters really puts the insane scale of our main character’s abilities into perspective. Nikolai seemed like a helpless little shit compared to Media in the first book, but he’s actually pretty impressive by the standards of anyone other than a literal god.
‘She could blast this place wide open, remove the patients, and nuke the staff into oblivion, but for subtlety, she needed him. It was a power imbalance of her own making that he was enjoying quite immensely.’
Nikolai in the general public is a flirtatious kleptomaniac and Medea spent every minute of social interaction pissed off and wanting to be anywhere else. Medea sticks out like a sore thumb and Nikolai runs in circles trying to cover for his crazy little sister. It makes them realize that together, they make a good team because they cover for each other’s weaknesses.
‘“You’re terrible at healing!”
“One day I’m going to die under all the unsolicited praise you heap upon me.”’
I’m trying not to mention the other plotline too much because it’s a spoiler, but this book is a lot darker than its predecessor, dealing with 1950s American racism, mental health, sexism, and the general non-tolerant society, and it doesn’t shy away from it. Those who perpetuate hate are not just the evil bad guys, but some of the main characters themselves. I appreciated this plotline because it developed the narrative outside of our uncaring main characters (well, Medea sorta cares, but it's complicated).
This review is way too long and I basically just wrote it for myself because I love these books so so much; I read both back to back in 4 days and they just keep getting better. I’ve already forced a few friends to read them too. I haven’t seen any mention of a third, but with the way Dark Mind ended I can’t imagine there won't be. Eagerly awaiting!
January 2, 2023
What a pleasure to go back to the world of Medea and Nikolai!
I completely adored the first novel in this series and I was really excited to pick up the second one. It was a good follow-up. In terms of writing and character development, the author did not disappoint.
This time, Medea and Nikolai join the Mundane world and more precisely the US. The period the novel is set in however is not a period when the US shone for their open-mindedness, and their history of segregation is thoroughly dealt with.
That made for a really good book overall but I personally was not as enthralled as for the first one.
I think the author did a good job in writing about all the discriminations and stigmas suffered by the various characters. Her assessment was right but the overall plot lacked a definite purpose to me. I couldn't put down the first volume because the rhythm of the novel was great. The main character was driven, there was a sense of urgency that swept me with it. I feel like it was lost in this second volume that focused on describing the characters and how they suffered from who they were.
Well, the author announced a long series so I certainly hope that the pace will pick up in the next volume because it is a series that is definitely worth reading.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I completely adored the first novel in this series and I was really excited to pick up the second one. It was a good follow-up. In terms of writing and character development, the author did not disappoint.
This time, Medea and Nikolai join the Mundane world and more precisely the US. The period the novel is set in however is not a period when the US shone for their open-mindedness, and their history of segregation is thoroughly dealt with.
That made for a really good book overall but I personally was not as enthralled as for the first one.
I think the author did a good job in writing about all the discriminations and stigmas suffered by the various characters. Her assessment was right but the overall plot lacked a definite purpose to me. I couldn't put down the first volume because the rhythm of the novel was great. The main character was driven, there was a sense of urgency that swept me with it. I feel like it was lost in this second volume that focused on describing the characters and how they suffered from who they were.
Well, the author announced a long series so I certainly hope that the pace will pick up in the next volume because it is a series that is definitely worth reading.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 27, 2022
I received an ARC of this novel, so I purchased the first in the series and finished these both in about 2.5 days. I have to say that this second part of the series is my favorite, purely because the relationship changes between Medea and Nikolai. Not to dive into spoiler territory, but we do get to see their relationship expand from distrustful strangers and the author does a great job of making that change gradual instead of going from hostile strangers to best friends in a chapter, which seems to be the running theme that some authors fall in to these days. I love how the author shows that people aren’t just one thing or another and can be either wonderful or terrible and still have so many other facets to them that form these really complex individuals. I do have to admit that I was a little bored when following the other characters in this book, but it definitely picked up at the end and I’m curious to see where at least some of them go. I think the ending was a little abrupt, but it doesn’t take away from the overall too much.
Medea needs a hug in every sense of the word, but please don’t. It would make her highly uncomfortable.
Medea needs a hug in every sense of the word, but please don’t. It would make her highly uncomfortable.
September 21, 2024
i love this series so much! while the first book remains my favourite its been great to see the growth these characters had and how the plot is developing.
the dynamic between nikolai and medea is a standout for me, it’s good to see nikolai making an effort but also its just so fun to have them make assumptions about each other and be completely wrong, lmaoo. and their interactions (specially the funny moments) never fail to give me an instant rush of serotonin, i would read a bunch more books about them, the third one can’t come soon enough!
the dynamic between nikolai and medea is a standout for me, it’s good to see nikolai making an effort but also its just so fun to have them make assumptions about each other and be completely wrong, lmaoo. and their interactions (specially the funny moments) never fail to give me an instant rush of serotonin, i would read a bunch more books about them, the third one can’t come soon enough!
January 5, 2023
medea: *in her own thoughts saying the most ordinary sentence ever*
nikolai: You Want Me
LOVEEEEE THIS SERIES SO MUCH. medea forever babygirl *smooch* also nikolai and medea being comedians as usual
i love their dynamic so much. those little bonding moments they have >>>>>
third book. NOW.
nikolai: You Want Me
LOVEEEEE THIS SERIES SO MUCH. medea forever babygirl *smooch* also nikolai and medea being comedians as usual
i love their dynamic so much. those little bonding moments they have >>>>>
third book. NOW.
December 20, 2022
I am trying to put all that I am feeling and processing into words after finishing this book. First, I found it very different from the first book, most likely because the relationship between Nikolai and Medea is evolving. It took me a while to figure out what the rescued Magi meant to this story; some scenes added to the length of the book, and Gloria and Josh are the characters to whom you can most sympathize/relate. I think the title Dark Mind has multiple meanings which finally hit when you finish the book. Val has done remarkable research on the setting and activities of that time period and portray them with fidelity. Maybe four stars aren't enough- maybe 4.75 stars- I just don't know about the ending- it was abrupt, but I appreciate the author notes.
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April 15, 2023This book was heavier than the first, so i’ll (attempt) collate the jumbled mess that are my conclusions tomorrow, since it’s 1:30am
March 10, 2023
“What is that? What are you doing?”
“I’m taking his soul.”
It was the sexiest thing he’d ever heard.
Nikolai's infatuation (?) with Medea went from amusing to irritating but honestly, I get him. I want her too.
“I’m taking his soul.”
It was the sexiest thing he’d ever heard.
Nikolai's infatuation (?) with Medea went from amusing to irritating but honestly, I get him. I want her too.
May 8, 2025
dnf at 40%
I feel like the author got so offended by everyone thinking the first book was extremely funny that she moved Madea and Nikolai to America so she can shove as many social commentaries as possible in this book. the problem is that it's created a huge disconnect between the first and second book for me I don't feel like I'm reading the same series anymore, it's a shame because I was excited to know what was causing the magic to die out and learn more about Madea and Nikolai's pasts but I do nooooot care anymore.
I feel like the author got so offended by everyone thinking the first book was extremely funny that she moved Madea and Nikolai to America so she can shove as many social commentaries as possible in this book. the problem is that it's created a huge disconnect between the first and second book for me I don't feel like I'm reading the same series anymore, it's a shame because I was excited to know what was causing the magic to die out and learn more about Madea and Nikolai's pasts but I do nooooot care anymore.
January 9, 2023
Okay, let's start this by saying how great it is to include a little mini recap of the characters, their motivations and an overview of main points in the previous book. This made it so much easier since I last read the first book going on 2 years ago now.
Then, the content warnings. Much more than a brief one sentence mention but an actual overview. Although I don't often take note if content warnings this was much more helpful than the vague notions of what a book contains.
Overall the book felt a little slow paced at time but honestly I love the characters and the slower pace for extra development was worth the pace. It also picked up at the end which was good when all the drama kicked off.
Quite a lot of new characters were introduced which I wasn't that keen on originally, granted, now I have spent more time reading they have grown on me but I would need more content before I truly settle.
A lot of the book also made for uncomfortable reading and I want to make that clear. I enjoyed the book but it was uncomfortable. It discussed early mental health practices in which dignity and respect were not always present as well as addressing racism and sexism. I appreciate the lengths the author has gone to to try and ensure that this is as realistic as possible by taking on a sensitivity reader and multiple beta readers.
Overall the plot kept me captivated and although at times I hated the state humanity sometimes is, it was great reading. I am very much looking forward to the next installment in the series.
Favourite Quote - Nothing unifies people like shared trauma.
Favourite Character - Nikolai
Then, the content warnings. Much more than a brief one sentence mention but an actual overview. Although I don't often take note if content warnings this was much more helpful than the vague notions of what a book contains.
Overall the book felt a little slow paced at time but honestly I love the characters and the slower pace for extra development was worth the pace. It also picked up at the end which was good when all the drama kicked off.
Quite a lot of new characters were introduced which I wasn't that keen on originally, granted, now I have spent more time reading they have grown on me but I would need more content before I truly settle.
A lot of the book also made for uncomfortable reading and I want to make that clear. I enjoyed the book but it was uncomfortable. It discussed early mental health practices in which dignity and respect were not always present as well as addressing racism and sexism. I appreciate the lengths the author has gone to to try and ensure that this is as realistic as possible by taking on a sensitivity reader and multiple beta readers.
Overall the plot kept me captivated and although at times I hated the state humanity sometimes is, it was great reading. I am very much looking forward to the next installment in the series.
Favourite Quote - Nothing unifies people like shared trauma.
Favourite Character - Nikolai
January 30, 2023
3.5 stars.
Nikolai is still my favourite character in this book. I laughed so hard when he was rambling about his tragic childhood and relationship with food but Medea was only interested in knowing why he was cutting squares in a round pie. I loved their strange relationship dynamic and am looking forward to seeing if Nikolai is able to seduce her in the end or not.
I loved the portrayal of autism in this book, but I wasn't as interested in the backgrounds and characters of the other Magi. I have to be honest; I skimmed over their chapters because it just felt like they were dragging the plot. It just felt boring to me, but maybe someone else might enjoy that.
Overall, I liked this book just because of Medea and Nikolai's hilarious interactions, so I'm going to read the next one for them too.
Nikolai is still my favourite character in this book. I laughed so hard when he was rambling about his tragic childhood and relationship with food but Medea was only interested in knowing why he was cutting squares in a round pie. I loved their strange relationship dynamic and am looking forward to seeing if Nikolai is able to seduce her in the end or not.
I loved the portrayal of autism in this book, but I wasn't as interested in the backgrounds and characters of the other Magi. I have to be honest; I skimmed over their chapters because it just felt like they were dragging the plot. It just felt boring to me, but maybe someone else might enjoy that.
Overall, I liked this book just because of Medea and Nikolai's hilarious interactions, so I'm going to read the next one for them too.
December 5, 2022
First, the font of the title, to die for!
Second, this book, to die for!
I couldn’t find the first book to read, so I thought, what the heck, let's do the dumbest thing in the world, and start the second book of the series. I made the right choice!
Just a few examples of why you can jump into this book and go back to read, part 1.
“Nikolai: (psychopathy) confirmed by psychologist”
“Medea: autistic bookworm with a special interest in magic and kicking ass.”
Yoxtl: Furloughed trickster spirit, will work for souls.
If you can't relate to one of these three characters, leave now!
Clearly this book has a lot of fans, and I dare not say anything other than, this book does not disappoint, whether you are old to it, or new to it!
Second, this book, to die for!
I couldn’t find the first book to read, so I thought, what the heck, let's do the dumbest thing in the world, and start the second book of the series. I made the right choice!
Just a few examples of why you can jump into this book and go back to read, part 1.
“Nikolai: (psychopathy) confirmed by psychologist”
“Medea: autistic bookworm with a special interest in magic and kicking ass.”
Yoxtl: Furloughed trickster spirit, will work for souls.
If you can't relate to one of these three characters, leave now!
Clearly this book has a lot of fans, and I dare not say anything other than, this book does not disappoint, whether you are old to it, or new to it!
May 9, 2023
the pacing felt off in this book. the parts about the history and the asylum were fascinating...I just think there's something about the pacing/organization of the book that makes it feel really draggy in certain parts. I'm not sure what it was, but I just had way more trouble following the characters in their various travels/journeys and keeping track of the motivation behind why they're taking certain actions. the dialogue is 10/10 as always, just the "bigger picture" wasn't there...but, honestly, I usually struggle a lot with the second book in series so this really could just be my fault. overall, still really liked it (thus the three stars)
December 11, 2022
i bought the epub as soon as it was out and i loved this sequel so much, maybe more than the first one because the tone was more serious and the cast of characters more diverse which is amazing. thought i must admit i was a bit disappointed by the portrayal of psychosis, as someone who deals with it i think it was cliché for the most part, it was well done for the most part just extremely cliché, but there’s so little good representation of psychosis that i’ll take anything so yeh that was good.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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December 25, 2022OMG this is absolutely amazing.
I have to say that this author is steadily becoming a favorite of mine. I LOVED the first book and the second did not disappoint at all!!
The characters are well written with a lot of depth and personality and I love their interactions with one another. I also love the story as well
If you havent read this series, you need to
I will be keeping an eye out for new books from Val Neil
I have to say that this author is steadily becoming a favorite of mine. I LOVED the first book and the second did not disappoint at all!!
The characters are well written with a lot of depth and personality and I love their interactions with one another. I also love the story as well
If you havent read this series, you need to
I will be keeping an eye out for new books from Val Neil
January 9, 2024
If you want to see inside an autistic/antisocial person's head and like fantasy, then this book is for you.
A fantastic follow-up to the series, I eagrly await Dark Whispers.
I continued to enjoy how much of a gobshite Nikoli is, and it was good to see him developing as a character. The book zigged when I thought it would zag a bit, which was very interesting given that we get to see what a 1950s American mental hospital, even if it was quite emotionally difficult to get through.
A fantastic follow-up to the series, I eagrly await Dark Whispers.
I continued to enjoy how much of a gobshite Nikoli is, and it was good to see him developing as a character. The book zigged when I thought it would zag a bit, which was very interesting given that we get to see what a 1950s American mental hospital, even if it was quite emotionally difficult to get through.
December 5, 2022
Another great entry in the Fall of Magic series, this book had what I was hoping for from the first book. I enjoyed the plot of the book and enjoyed what was happening in this world. Both books worked together and the characters felt like the same world sharing characters.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 19, 2023
Interesting enough, awaiting the next book. The author's notes at the end were unnecessary, though. Give me the story, I don't need you to spoil me on what your goals are with the characters, I can guess that easy enough for myself.
Nikolai's and Medea's relationship is evolving, I'm into that. Please release the 3rd book fast enough, I want to know what happens next.
Nikolai's and Medea's relationship is evolving, I'm into that. Please release the 3rd book fast enough, I want to know what happens next.
December 30, 2023
In several ways much better than the first book! Mostly because it has an actual plot.
Our unlikely duo, Nikolai and Medea, is going on a mission to save magic, which been slowly dying. They set of to USA to find a perfect location to do experiments to find why that is, and Nikolai learns the hard way the magic world works different in the US than it does in Europe.
Nikolai and Medea really is a duo that shouldn't work because they are so different, but they have certain few interests that align that make them work. Such as saving magic (though their motives differ) and slowly and painfully murder people. Also, since book one, their character growth and relationship growth been beautiful.
The series is set during late 50's. The first book didn't talk about real life events all that much, other than Nikolai talking a little about growing up in Russia during the war. That book mostly took part on a small isolated island. This book spend most time in the US and deals with racism, homophobia and mental health and healthcare during that time. The author has done her research and talks about it in her author's note. I really appreciate her mention sensitivity readers both for this one and the precious book. Not enough author talks about using sensitivity readers even though they are incredibly important.
This series is my new obsession, really recommend, and I cannot wait for Dark Whispers
Our unlikely duo, Nikolai and Medea, is going on a mission to save magic, which been slowly dying. They set of to USA to find a perfect location to do experiments to find why that is, and Nikolai learns the hard way the magic world works different in the US than it does in Europe.
Nikolai and Medea really is a duo that shouldn't work because they are so different, but they have certain few interests that align that make them work. Such as saving magic (though their motives differ) and slowly and painfully murder people. Also, since book one, their character growth and relationship growth been beautiful.
The series is set during late 50's. The first book didn't talk about real life events all that much, other than Nikolai talking a little about growing up in Russia during the war. That book mostly took part on a small isolated island. This book spend most time in the US and deals with racism, homophobia and mental health and healthcare during that time. The author has done her research and talks about it in her author's note. I really appreciate her mention sensitivity readers both for this one and the precious book. Not enough author talks about using sensitivity readers even though they are incredibly important.
This series is my new obsession, really recommend, and I cannot wait for Dark Whispers
August 25, 2023
This book made me understand my sister more, the characters are very true to how people with asd behave. This helped me understand their inner workings and in a way understand my sister's thought process. I am really grateful for that. Thank you Val.
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