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Of Feathers and Thorns
After manifesting thorned magic and nearly destroying his hometown, Kieren Belltower is summoned to join the Magic Service—an institution in charge of magical affairs—and start an apprenticeship with a high-ranking magician. But instead of the mage assigned to teach him, Kieren is greeted by his haughty and annoyingly handsome senior apprentice Esten, who clearly has more important things to do than chaperone some newbie. Their teacher has disappeared on a secret assignment, leaving Esten no instructions other than a warning not to trust a soul. But as Kieren’s unruly magic proves too dangerous to leave unattended, Esten has no choice but to involve him in the matter.
Together they retrace their teacher’s last known mission—an investigation into the illegal use of magic and its connection to the devastating phenomenon called sludge, which has plagued the country for weeks. But as Kieren and Esten grow closer, they uncover a plot that thrusts their lives into danger and threatens to shatter everything they know about magic and the world they were born into.
Together they retrace their teacher’s last known mission—an investigation into the illegal use of magic and its connection to the devastating phenomenon called sludge, which has plagued the country for weeks. But as Kieren and Esten grow closer, they uncover a plot that thrusts their lives into danger and threatens to shatter everything they know about magic and the world they were born into.
312 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2022
170 people are currently reading
7170 people want to read
About the author
Kit Vincent
3 books219 followersKit Vincent is the bestselling author of queer Science Fiction and Fantasy, including Us, Et Cetera and Of Feathers and Thorns. In addition to writing books, Kit has moved continents as a first-generation immigrant, produced award-winning indie films, studied film scoring at UCLA, and is a proud parent of a potbelly pig and two rescued tortoises.
Kit is third gender (any pronoun) and currently resides in New England.
Connect with Kit on TikTok and Instagram @kitvincentbooks or on their website www.kitvincentbooks.com
Kit is third gender (any pronoun) and currently resides in New England.
Connect with Kit on TikTok and Instagram @kitvincentbooks or on their website www.kitvincentbooks.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 184 reviews
March 27, 2024
I have a story! Back in the good ole days, my cousin and I watched the live action Avatar: The Last Airbender movie, and to my surprise, she was adamant about how it wasn’t that bad. Now, I won’t get into why that movie is the worst movie to ever movie (because duh), but the weird thing is that we were in total agreement about why it was a complete betrayal of the original! After hating on it for the better part of an hour, she still insisted that the movie… was fine!? You probably already know where I’m going with this, huh? After finishing this, Of Feathers and Thorns, it felt like I was hit with a sudden, excruciating clarity; I finally understood what my cousin was talking about. The thing is, I really don’t have many nice things to say about this book, I thought it was generic and dull. But it doesn’t feel right to say something as extreme as “I hated it,” because what I’m feeling right now definitely isn’t hate. It was fine. Moving on though, I liked our main character, Kieren. As hapless as he was, I couldn’t help but find him endearing. Unfortunately he never really grows out of this, which normally wouldn’t be an issue with me, but because he’s paired opposite the likes of Esten, an uptight, prideful so-and-so, every one of their interactions is basically just Kieren getting steamrolled. He never stood up for himself, he never got angry, and he never gave as good as he got. After a while, it wasn’t even annoying anymore, just incredibly boring. There’s a reason why the “enemies-to-lovers” thing works best when it’s centered around stubborn and prideful people. That’s where the juice is, the fire! Mixed up metaphors aside, I’m left wondering where the spark is between these two guys? If you can find it, let me know. I think adjusting expectations could definitely do this book wonders, because as a purely YA book, there is some good stuff here. Just don’t ask me for examples, because… I don’t know. As a fantasy, it’s lackluster. As a historical-fiction, we have barely any frame of reference for when this story takes place. And finally, as a romance book, it’s about as entertaining as jury duty. I hope that isn’t too harsh, because I maintain that this book was fine.
Thinking back, I’m always going on and on about how much I hate the love-interest in these kinds of books, and well, I’m going to do that again here. I’m not a creature of change. The thing is, I don’t want people to think that I need every character in a story to be good, benevolent people without any faults! I love following deeply flawed people, unlikable jerks, and hell, I’ll read a book with a hateful main character if it’s written right. I mean, I love Chuck McGill from Better Call Saul, and he’s the greatest hater ever put to screen! But if I’m going to read a romance, then there needs to be a good back-and-forth! If the love-interest is going to be an ass, then the main guy better have something resembling a retort. That’s all I ever ask. Chemistry doesn’t have to only show up when the characters start liking each other, water under the bridge and all that, there can be a musical quality to the dialogue between rivals too. Just because two people dislike each other at first doesn’t mean the reader needs to have a miserable experience reading along. This is my way of saying that I didn’t really buy into Esten and Kieren’s relationship. it took an astounding amount of time for me to actually warm up to Esten and… actually, scratch that, I’m pretty sure I actually never did. Damn. Their dynamic always felt more like a struggling student forced to appease a power-tripping T.A. (teacher’s assistant) than something actually romantic. I guess you could say that he was a little too thorny. Ha ha. The book goes out of its way to show how much stress he’s under to excuse the cold demeaner, but my main takeaway was still that… Esten’s a dick, the end. And putting a “fifteen-years-ago-sad-backstory-chapter” right before his cruelest outburst really did nothing to change my opinion of him. Maybe that makes me heartless, but it’s the truth. Sorry. If Esten hadn’t been Mr. Snappy, snapping his way through the entire story, then the effect might have been different, because this was just another example of him being an ass in a long list of asshole behavior. Wow! The mean guy continues to shows how mean of a guy he is. Groundbreaking stuff.
It's really sad because I truly believe that there’s a fantastic story hidden somewhere in here. I can see it with my third eye that in terms of the atmosphere and setting, this really could have been something special. It just wasn’t meant to be, I guess. I think my problem is that the characters didn’t spend enough time on the page together, leading to the fact that they never felt like they were more than strangers, which in turn made their big kiss moment incredibly awkward and abrupt. Man, this is just like the movie, Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time! And if you’ve ever seen that movie, you’d understand how unflattering of a comparison that is. Separating heroes only works when they’ve already gotten to know each other, and more importantly, we’ve gotten to know them. That’s why all the great “part 2’s” like Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back or The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers, are so comfortable keeping their core cast apart; we already know and love the characters, their group dynamic’s been established, so the focus can now be on separate story beats without worry that the audience will feel indifferent. Because… when you try to do everything in a three-hundred-page book, where the narrative isn’t allowed to breathe, it can be nauseating. You could say that the closest approximation the couple in this book would have to be Simon and Baz from the Simon Snow books… if Simon and Baz had cardboard chemistry. I can see that the vision was there. Only, the reason why it worked in those books is because we’d get Baz’s constant yearning (what’s the point in dual perspectives if there isn’t any yearning involved?) in his inner-monologues to balance out his icy exterior. See, it doesn’t just serve as a relatable character trait, but it showed us his humanity and long-suffering feelings, so that when he does get his “big kiss moment” with Simon, it feels earned and we get to let out a big cheer. And you know why people like “enemies-to-lovers” so much? Because people instinctively understand how a volatile emotion like hatred can evolve into a blossoming romance. Here, Esten regards Kieren with barely anything other than indifference. Sorry, can’t work with indifference. Anyway, this book was fine. Didn’t love it, didn’t hate it. Oooh, I think the word I’m looking for is “indifference.” Hm.
I, here's to the highlights when I was convinced / That this was much more to you than some some night shit / I know you don't need me right now / And to you, it's just a late night out (Good Guy – Frank Ocean).
Thinking back, I’m always going on and on about how much I hate the love-interest in these kinds of books, and well, I’m going to do that again here. I’m not a creature of change. The thing is, I don’t want people to think that I need every character in a story to be good, benevolent people without any faults! I love following deeply flawed people, unlikable jerks, and hell, I’ll read a book with a hateful main character if it’s written right. I mean, I love Chuck McGill from Better Call Saul, and he’s the greatest hater ever put to screen! But if I’m going to read a romance, then there needs to be a good back-and-forth! If the love-interest is going to be an ass, then the main guy better have something resembling a retort. That’s all I ever ask. Chemistry doesn’t have to only show up when the characters start liking each other, water under the bridge and all that, there can be a musical quality to the dialogue between rivals too. Just because two people dislike each other at first doesn’t mean the reader needs to have a miserable experience reading along. This is my way of saying that I didn’t really buy into Esten and Kieren’s relationship. it took an astounding amount of time for me to actually warm up to Esten and… actually, scratch that, I’m pretty sure I actually never did. Damn. Their dynamic always felt more like a struggling student forced to appease a power-tripping T.A. (teacher’s assistant) than something actually romantic. I guess you could say that he was a little too thorny. Ha ha. The book goes out of its way to show how much stress he’s under to excuse the cold demeaner, but my main takeaway was still that… Esten’s a dick, the end. And putting a “fifteen-years-ago-sad-backstory-chapter” right before his cruelest outburst really did nothing to change my opinion of him. Maybe that makes me heartless, but it’s the truth. Sorry. If Esten hadn’t been Mr. Snappy, snapping his way through the entire story, then the effect might have been different, because this was just another example of him being an ass in a long list of asshole behavior. Wow! The mean guy continues to shows how mean of a guy he is. Groundbreaking stuff.
It's really sad because I truly believe that there’s a fantastic story hidden somewhere in here. I can see it with my third eye that in terms of the atmosphere and setting, this really could have been something special. It just wasn’t meant to be, I guess. I think my problem is that the characters didn’t spend enough time on the page together, leading to the fact that they never felt like they were more than strangers, which in turn made their big kiss moment incredibly awkward and abrupt. Man, this is just like the movie, Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time! And if you’ve ever seen that movie, you’d understand how unflattering of a comparison that is. Separating heroes only works when they’ve already gotten to know each other, and more importantly, we’ve gotten to know them. That’s why all the great “part 2’s” like Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back or The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers, are so comfortable keeping their core cast apart; we already know and love the characters, their group dynamic’s been established, so the focus can now be on separate story beats without worry that the audience will feel indifferent. Because… when you try to do everything in a three-hundred-page book, where the narrative isn’t allowed to breathe, it can be nauseating. You could say that the closest approximation the couple in this book would have to be Simon and Baz from the Simon Snow books… if Simon and Baz had cardboard chemistry. I can see that the vision was there. Only, the reason why it worked in those books is because we’d get Baz’s constant yearning (what’s the point in dual perspectives if there isn’t any yearning involved?) in his inner-monologues to balance out his icy exterior. See, it doesn’t just serve as a relatable character trait, but it showed us his humanity and long-suffering feelings, so that when he does get his “big kiss moment” with Simon, it feels earned and we get to let out a big cheer. And you know why people like “enemies-to-lovers” so much? Because people instinctively understand how a volatile emotion like hatred can evolve into a blossoming romance. Here, Esten regards Kieren with barely anything other than indifference. Sorry, can’t work with indifference. Anyway, this book was fine. Didn’t love it, didn’t hate it. Oooh, I think the word I’m looking for is “indifference.” Hm.
I, here's to the highlights when I was convinced / That this was much more to you than some some night shit / I know you don't need me right now / And to you, it's just a late night out (Good Guy – Frank Ocean).
November 4, 2022
Time of death @76%
Up until this point it was a good(ish) book, then there was a worldbuilding development I didn't like and suddenly I just lost interest, I didn't want to know about the rest.
The story takes place in an alternate universe in 1900s America (think the Zeppelin).
The main character was kind of boring to me and a bit cliché, but if anyone liked HP or the MC in Pacat's Dark Rise, they shall like Kieren too.
I liked Esten, again a bit cliché, but I chose broodiness over boredom. XD
One thing I truly liked and appreciated is the magic system. It was explained really well, how it worked. It wasn't really complicated, mind you. When Esten was trying to teach Kieren, he explained everything step by step. I have only one thing that's not clear to me, but maybe I just wasn't paying attention. o-o
The romance was incredibly meh. At first I didn't even mind, but as the story progressed I wanted more actual communication between them before anything more happened. I'm not sure if there's sex in it, because I didn't reach that part, but probably not. It gives a very YA feel.
2.5 stars
Up until this point it was a good(ish) book, then there was a worldbuilding development I didn't like and suddenly I just lost interest, I didn't want to know about the rest.
The story takes place in an alternate universe in 1900s America (think the Zeppelin).
The main character was kind of boring to me and a bit cliché, but if anyone liked HP or the MC in Pacat's Dark Rise, they shall like Kieren too.
I liked Esten, again a bit cliché, but I chose broodiness over boredom. XD
One thing I truly liked and appreciated is the magic system. It was explained really well, how it worked. It wasn't really complicated, mind you. When Esten was trying to teach Kieren, he explained everything step by step. I have only one thing that's not clear to me, but maybe I just wasn't paying attention. o-o
The romance was incredibly meh. At first I didn't even mind, but as the story progressed I wanted more actual communication between them before anything more happened. I'm not sure if there's sex in it, because I didn't reach that part, but probably not. It gives a very YA feel.
2.5 stars
September 23, 2022
Packed with adventure, swoony romance, and of course, magic! This book will absolutely enchant you!
October 26, 2025
I'm too old for this.
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November 2, 20222.5
if it's the first book in the series then I would say it's a nice story but if this is standalone, then i would say it's dry because the main characters are apart for like 70% of the time, doing their own shit, not talking, etc
it's a cute steampunk setting i just needed more interaction and more magic lessons
if it's the first book in the series then I would say it's a nice story but if this is standalone, then i would say it's dry because the main characters are apart for like 70% of the time, doing their own shit, not talking, etc
it's a cute steampunk setting i just needed more interaction and more magic lessons
November 20, 2022
☆ гейство целомудренное. Два мальчика-зайчика (один сельская ромашечка, другой городская модная сволочь) первые полкниги пытаются поговорить, а потом внезапно целуются на ковре, потому что почему бы и нет, а потом не целуются, потому что некогда, мир надо спасать.
Романтика фоновая, драм не замечено. Впрочем, мальчики милые, желаю им добра и побольше ковров.
☆ рассказ в основном от лица ромашечки, и хотелось бы для него хоть какую-то арку развития, а то он плывет по сюжету, как бревно с восторженными глазами. Может, в следующей книге дадут (да, в финале есть намеки на серию).
Иногда попадаются главы от лица модника, в которых он вбрасывает нужную для сюжета инфу или рассказ о тонкой душевной организации, что не сволочь он, не сволочь, а только исключительно травма. Тут становится ясно: автор не очень умеет в разные повы.
☆ стиль с описаниями, диваны уютные, главы заканчиваются тем, что все пошли спать (а не богомерзкими клиффхенгерами), поэтому эта книжка-малышка по ощущениям тянется долго.
☆ магия любовно выписанная и логичная, вплоть до уроков и цитат из учебников, уважаю.
И магия не просто стоит красивая, а вплетена в социалочку, и вообще у нас тут магический детектив. Ромашечка абсолютно случайно ебошит заклинания, огребает последствия и влипает в политические заговоры. Сьюха, а что вы хотели.
☆ все остальное время мальчики пекут пироги и пьют чай с хорошо одетыми образованными людьми, потому что типа 19 век со стимпанком. Но из стимпанка один несчастный корабль судного дня, эх.
☆ первую половину сюжета нет, потому что автор еще не весь чай выпил и лор пересказал. А потом оказывается, что жжж было неспроста и автор реально замахнулся на политический детектив, а не просто на декорации к гейству.
И сразу две звезды как корова языком слизала. Злодеи с отклеившимися усами хохочут и декламируют злодейство, пока герои верхом на роялях и в темпе вальса впихивают в зрителя конфликт. Ну такое. Колобок был интереснее. Там интрига была.
☆ женщин аж две и обе отвратительно гетеросексуальные. Тьфу.
Итого: 3,5☆ за пироги. Вторую книгу буду читать. Если выйдет, конечно.
Романтика фоновая, драм не замечено. Впрочем, мальчики милые, желаю им добра и побольше ковров.
☆ рассказ в основном от лица ромашечки, и хотелось бы для него хоть какую-то арку развития, а то он плывет по сюжету, как бревно с восторженными глазами. Может, в следующей книге дадут (да, в финале есть намеки на серию).
Иногда попадаются главы от лица модника, в которых он вбрасывает нужную для сюжета инфу или рассказ о тонкой душевной организации, что не сволочь он, не сволочь, а только исключительно травма. Тут становится ясно: автор не очень умеет в разные повы.
☆ стиль с описаниями, диваны уютные, главы заканчиваются тем, что все пошли спать (а не богомерзкими клиффхенгерами), поэтому эта книжка-малышка по ощущениям тянется долго.
☆ магия любовно выписанная и логичная, вплоть до уроков и цитат из учебников, уважаю.
И магия не просто стоит красивая, а вплетена в социалочку, и вообще у нас тут магический детектив. Ромашечка абсолютно случайно ебошит заклинания, огребает последствия и влипает в политические заговоры. Сьюха, а что вы хотели.
☆ все остальное время мальчики пекут пироги и пьют чай с хорошо одетыми образованными людьми, потому что типа 19 век со стимпанком. Но из стимпанка один несчастный корабль судного дня, эх.
☆ первую половину сюжета нет, потому что автор еще не весь чай выпил и лор пересказал. А потом оказывается, что жжж было неспроста и автор реально замахнулся на политический детектив, а не просто на декорации к гейству.
И сразу две звезды как корова языком слизала. Злодеи с отклеившимися усами хохочут и декламируют злодейство, пока герои верхом на роялях и в темпе вальса впихивают в зрителя конфликт. Ну такое. Колобок был интереснее. Там интрига была.
☆ женщин аж две и обе отвратительно гетеросексуальные. Тьфу.
Итого: 3,5☆ за пироги. Вторую книгу буду читать. Если выйдет, конечно.
September 23, 2022
This fantasy was so good! I loved the two main characters and how they worked together to save the world. And it was refreshing to read about magic in a way I haven’t seen before. I highly recommend this book!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
December 18, 2025
oops i forgot to write my review for this one. i really liked it though. i would say its perfect for fans of carry on or a marvelous light
January 7, 2023
Picked this because of the gorgeous cover and it was a fun read.
An interesting magic system, although an odd one, especially once it got into the backstory - that concept was a bit difficult to accept.
I liked the the two main characters (although it was Kieren's story), but I thought the romance was a bit underdeveloped. I'm not sure we needed Esten's p.o.v. too - he had 9 chapters out of 39, which felt a bit disproportionate. Would have preferred a more even split, or just Kieren's p.o.v.
The plot held my attention, but it felt a bit unresolved in the end.
Enjoyed it overall, but I wasn't wowed.
An interesting magic system, although an odd one, especially once it got into the backstory - that concept was a bit difficult to accept.
I liked the the two main characters (although it was Kieren's story), but I thought the romance was a bit underdeveloped. I'm not sure we needed Esten's p.o.v. too - he had 9 chapters out of 39, which felt a bit disproportionate. Would have preferred a more even split, or just Kieren's p.o.v.
The plot held my attention, but it felt a bit unresolved in the end.
Enjoyed it overall, but I wasn't wowed.
October 8, 2022
thank u Kit Vincent for getting me out of a reading slump! this book is just about 300~ pages so it’s not too long/too short. It had a really unique magic system and loveable magical creatures! Also can we take a moment to appreciate the cover!! Some of the politics stuff was a bit confusing in this book but it’s not high fantasy. I think Simon snow fans are going to LOVE this book. The romance was <3
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February 15, 20243.00 ★
➸ Trigger warnings for .
▷ Representation: Kieran & Esten are achillean; genderfluid sc; BIPOC & queer scs.
Blog • Trigger Warning Database • StoryGraph
➸ Trigger warnings for .
▷ Representation: Kieran & Esten are achillean; genderfluid sc; BIPOC & queer scs.
Blog • Trigger Warning Database • StoryGraph
December 13, 2022
2 star book with 5 star cover.
First I just want to say, if you’re looking at this book because it compares itself to A Marvelous Light - this book is VERY YA and the only similarity is the suggestion of a 1900’s setting (the date is never confirmed) and the existence of magic.
The world building was decent (I’m not looking for anything amazing when I’m expecting romance to play a big part…but then romance did not play a big part so it felt lacking) and the magic system was pretty well thought out and explained. But the characters/dialogue/political intrigue? Totally lost me. The characters had zero personality and the dialogue really felt like it was coming from someone who…just does not know how people speak? (!!!SO MANY EXCLAMATION POINTS!!!)
I was passively engaged until about 75% of the way through when the plot absolutely derailed and the the two main characters basically stopped interacting with one another entirely. Idk what “swoony romance” people be talking about in other reviews. This gave me nothing. Not even yearning other than maybe two lines about 60% of the way in but they were both from Kieran and I’m convinced Esten is incapable of human emotion- not in the hot broody way but in the narcissistic way.
I know this book is a debut, but I’ve read SO many strong debut books this year and I’m really struggling to use that as an excuse.
First I just want to say, if you’re looking at this book because it compares itself to A Marvelous Light - this book is VERY YA and the only similarity is the suggestion of a 1900’s setting (the date is never confirmed) and the existence of magic.
The world building was decent (I’m not looking for anything amazing when I’m expecting romance to play a big part…but then romance did not play a big part so it felt lacking) and the magic system was pretty well thought out and explained. But the characters/dialogue/political intrigue? Totally lost me. The characters had zero personality and the dialogue really felt like it was coming from someone who…just does not know how people speak? (!!!SO MANY EXCLAMATION POINTS!!!)
I was passively engaged until about 75% of the way through when the plot absolutely derailed and the the two main characters basically stopped interacting with one another entirely. Idk what “swoony romance” people be talking about in other reviews. This gave me nothing. Not even yearning other than maybe two lines about 60% of the way in but they were both from Kieran and I’m convinced Esten is incapable of human emotion- not in the hot broody way but in the narcissistic way.
I know this book is a debut, but I’ve read SO many strong debut books this year and I’m really struggling to use that as an excuse.
October 31, 2022
3.5 🌟 this was so cute!!! Loved it!!! I do wish it was a bit longer but it was a very fun, quick read. 🥰
November 19, 2022
2.5 rounded up
Interesting premise and magic system but ultimate execution was mediocre and needed more depth and refinement. The beginning was extremely slow and Kieren's POV throughout the book had so much unnecessary filler. I wanted to delete entire chapters (we get it, their master is the second highest ranking magician and everybody likes eating potato pie) and ended up speeding up the narration just to get through. Once the story picks up around the 70% mark, it becomes more engaging, but I never felt hooked. The big reveal and conflicts were skimmed over quite quickly and could have been developed more. The romance between the two MCs felt awkward as well, as they went from virtual strangers to mild physical attraction to a relationship with minimal build up.
Interesting premise and magic system but ultimate execution was mediocre and needed more depth and refinement. The beginning was extremely slow and Kieren's POV throughout the book had so much unnecessary filler. I wanted to delete entire chapters (we get it, their master is the second highest ranking magician and everybody likes eating potato pie) and ended up speeding up the narration just to get through. Once the story picks up around the 70% mark, it becomes more engaging, but I never felt hooked. The big reveal and conflicts were skimmed over quite quickly and could have been developed more. The romance between the two MCs felt awkward as well, as they went from virtual strangers to mild physical attraction to a relationship with minimal build up.
October 20, 2022
FIVE STARS! Kit Vincent's debut novel was entrancing and a must read. This queer fantasy novel was both captivating and kept me guessing. The character interactions feel very fluid and real. Kit introduced new magics to us in the most beautiful way. This book was wonderfully written and easy to read.
"After manifesting thorned magic and nearly destroying his hometown, Kieren Belltower is summoned to join the Magic Service—an institution in charge of magical affairs—and start an apprenticeship with a high-ranking magician. But instead of the mage assigned to teach him, Kieren is greeted by his haughty and annoyingly handsome senior apprentice Esten, who clearly has more important things to do than chaperone some newbie. Their teacher has disappeared on a secret assignment, leaving Esten’s no instructions other than a warning not to trust a soul. But as Kieren’s unruly magic proves too dangerous to leave unattended, Esten has no choice but to involve him in the matter.
Together they retrace their teacher’s last known mission—an investigation into the illegal use of magic and its connection to the devastating phenomenon called sludge, which has plagued the country for weeks. But as Kieren and Esten grow closer, they uncover a plot that thrusts their lives into danger and threatens to shatter everything they know about magic and the world they were born into.
Set in alternative 1900s America, Of Feathers and Thorns is an LGBTQ+ historical fantasy perfect for fans of Carry On and A Marvelous Light."
"After manifesting thorned magic and nearly destroying his hometown, Kieren Belltower is summoned to join the Magic Service—an institution in charge of magical affairs—and start an apprenticeship with a high-ranking magician. But instead of the mage assigned to teach him, Kieren is greeted by his haughty and annoyingly handsome senior apprentice Esten, who clearly has more important things to do than chaperone some newbie. Their teacher has disappeared on a secret assignment, leaving Esten’s no instructions other than a warning not to trust a soul. But as Kieren’s unruly magic proves too dangerous to leave unattended, Esten has no choice but to involve him in the matter.
Together they retrace their teacher’s last known mission—an investigation into the illegal use of magic and its connection to the devastating phenomenon called sludge, which has plagued the country for weeks. But as Kieren and Esten grow closer, they uncover a plot that thrusts their lives into danger and threatens to shatter everything they know about magic and the world they were born into.
Set in alternative 1900s America, Of Feathers and Thorns is an LGBTQ+ historical fantasy perfect for fans of Carry On and A Marvelous Light."
June 12, 2024
i love magical gays sm
August 17, 2025
Honestly, I am glad that I gave this a chance.
I wasn't completely sure what to think of this from the start, but I like urban magical settings well enough and I quite liked the art of the cover so I figured why not?
The only thing I do need to mention is that the story didn't feel quite... round? It is a 300-ish page story, but I just had a sense that there was so much more to the worldbuilding that in the end that amount of pages wasn't enough to explore it all. Especially not since it was also a mystery-detective type story. In the end, it felt like the romance subplot was more a romance background bulletpoint, so I wouldn't recommend this if you came for the romance. I think Kieren is adorable: the right amount of clueless I'd expect from a main character that didn't quite grew up in the world he's about to be thrust into but has always been aware of said world nonetheless. And I think Esten is a nice counterpart to that. I do like their chemistry. For the minuscule amount of time it is explored.
Also good to mention is that I think Vincent's writing style is that nice type of style that's easy to read through, which I always think is a plus. No pretentious stumbling blocks!
All in all, very enjoyable read. One I think held more potential and maybe wasn't quite finished yet.
I wasn't completely sure what to think of this from the start, but I like urban magical settings well enough and I quite liked the art of the cover so I figured why not?
The only thing I do need to mention is that the story didn't feel quite... round? It is a 300-ish page story, but I just had a sense that there was so much more to the worldbuilding that in the end that amount of pages wasn't enough to explore it all. Especially not since it was also a mystery-detective type story. In the end, it felt like the romance subplot was more a romance background bulletpoint, so I wouldn't recommend this if you came for the romance. I think Kieren is adorable: the right amount of clueless I'd expect from a main character that didn't quite grew up in the world he's about to be thrust into but has always been aware of said world nonetheless. And I think Esten is a nice counterpart to that. I do like their chemistry. For the minuscule amount of time it is explored.
Also good to mention is that I think Vincent's writing style is that nice type of style that's easy to read through, which I always think is a plus. No pretentious stumbling blocks!
All in all, very enjoyable read. One I think held more potential and maybe wasn't quite finished yet.
December 24, 2022
M/M, hea, magic, mystery
I struggled between giving this 2 or 3 stars because I really liked the story. Or could have liked the story. There was a lot of moving pieces and they almost seemed to get away from me as I read.
Esten is focused on finding his missing master when Kienen shows up at his house ready to be trained by the missing master.
Kienen's magic appears suddenly and violently. He knows next to nothing about the power within him and without a teacher he takes matters into his own hands. Esten realizes, belatedly, that he needs to do something to help Kienen because leaving him on his own is turning into one disaster after another. Meanwhile, the whole world as they know it is at risk.
Please read no further if you do not wish for spoilers
My issue with this book stems from the fact that these two apprentice magicians seem to be able to out smart and overpower the older and way more experienced magicians. Not to say that isn't possible but it's very Harry Potter-esque (without Hermione).
I struggled between giving this 2 or 3 stars because I really liked the story. Or could have liked the story. There was a lot of moving pieces and they almost seemed to get away from me as I read.
Esten is focused on finding his missing master when Kienen shows up at his house ready to be trained by the missing master.
Kienen's magic appears suddenly and violently. He knows next to nothing about the power within him and without a teacher he takes matters into his own hands. Esten realizes, belatedly, that he needs to do something to help Kienen because leaving him on his own is turning into one disaster after another. Meanwhile, the whole world as they know it is at risk.
Please read no further if you do not wish for spoilers
My issue with this book stems from the fact that these two apprentice magicians seem to be able to out smart and overpower the older and way more experienced magicians. Not to say that isn't possible but it's very Harry Potter-esque (without Hermione).
January 1, 2023
2,75⭐️
Książka niezwykle lekka, idealna, jeżeli komuś braknie większej ilości czarogejów w swoim życiu; sięgając po nią liczyłam na coś zgoła innego, a przynajmniej bardziej youngadultowego, bo mam wrażenie, że Of Feathers and Thorns plasuje się bliżej middle grade. Jeśli mogłabym nanieść jakieś poprawki, to dodałabym stron i wydarzeń – wiele elementów z przeszłości (nawet niedalekiej od aktualnej linii wydarzeń) głównych bohaterów ma ogromny wpływ na nich, a przez to, że osoba autorska ich nie opisała, obrazek jest trochę jak puzzle bez trzech kawałków. I podkręciłabym intrygę, bo późno się rozkręca. Odczucia są bardziej pozytywne niż neutralne, lektura trochę przypomina grę w magiczną visual novel, ale nie był to czysty strzal w dziesiątkę.
Książka niezwykle lekka, idealna, jeżeli komuś braknie większej ilości czarogejów w swoim życiu; sięgając po nią liczyłam na coś zgoła innego, a przynajmniej bardziej youngadultowego, bo mam wrażenie, że Of Feathers and Thorns plasuje się bliżej middle grade. Jeśli mogłabym nanieść jakieś poprawki, to dodałabym stron i wydarzeń – wiele elementów z przeszłości (nawet niedalekiej od aktualnej linii wydarzeń) głównych bohaterów ma ogromny wpływ na nich, a przez to, że osoba autorska ich nie opisała, obrazek jest trochę jak puzzle bez trzech kawałków. I podkręciłabym intrygę, bo późno się rozkręca. Odczucia są bardziej pozytywne niż neutralne, lektura trochę przypomina grę w magiczną visual novel, ale nie był to czysty strzal w dziesiątkę.
November 20, 2022
2.5 stars
Everything about this story felt disjointed and half baked.
The cover has a lovely cotton candy bubble gum vibe I like though.
Everything about this story felt disjointed and half baked.
The cover has a lovely cotton candy bubble gum vibe I like though.
October 20, 2022
Let’s start with the cover because is so pretty, now that we got that out of the way let’s talk characters and I’m going to talk about Oi 1st because listen I love dolls and if they’re magical better anyways I’ll be replicating it so I can display with the book what can I say I’m a bit of and artsy gal, Esten the moody well dress one lord made me wanna slap him for being so short and judgy of Kieren without even knowing him but can’t fault him for that I’m at that point in my life that I trust almost no one, on the other hand Kieren got abandon by his family for being different something that happens in this world a lot and is sad.
Kit has introduced me to 2 new types of magic plus it was made very simple to understand the basics and principles I also appreciate the fact that I’m being kept guessing what’s going on with the disappearances and the sludge.
Not a fan of Kieren overdoing magical stuff to impress Esten but is also funny when he realizes and apologize the. Esten goes well DUH!!!
In conclusion this is a great book that touches in a lot of today’s problems like politics with a magical touch.
Kit has introduced me to 2 new types of magic plus it was made very simple to understand the basics and principles I also appreciate the fact that I’m being kept guessing what’s going on with the disappearances and the sludge.
Not a fan of Kieren overdoing magical stuff to impress Esten but is also funny when he realizes and apologize the. Esten goes well DUH!!!
In conclusion this is a great book that touches in a lot of today’s problems like politics with a magical touch.
November 20, 2022
Mini-review from me: If anyone is looking for an intriguing coming of age fantasy with an interesting & well-thought out magical system & an adorable pairing, I would check out Of Feathers and Thorns! Also, the audiobook was a lovely listen. The narrators did a fantastic job!
Massive thanks to MTMC Tours & Kit Vincent for the gifted audiobook, which I voluntarily read & reviewed. All thoughts & opinions are my own.
Massive thanks to MTMC Tours & Kit Vincent for the gifted audiobook, which I voluntarily read & reviewed. All thoughts & opinions are my own.
October 20, 2022
This was such a great fantasy read! I loved the unique magic system. I enjoyed the interactions between main characters Kieren and Esten. This was a book that I didn’t want to put down and found myself wishing it had been longer. If you are looking for a delightful fantasy book, you may want to check this one out 😊
Read
March 14, 2024
Trigger & Content Warnings
Persecution for witchcraft/magic discussed
Familial disownment
Alcohol consumption
Accidental magical amputation of a hand
Physical injury & illness
Grief & loss depiction
Murder of a mentor (off-page)
Explosions & bombings (on-page)
War discussed
Persecution for witchcraft/magic discussed
Familial disownment
Alcohol consumption
Accidental magical amputation of a hand
Physical injury & illness
Grief & loss depiction
Murder of a mentor (off-page)
Explosions & bombings (on-page)
War discussed
February 22, 2025
Kieran was a great character in a really interesting world, and I love their connection with Esten - but the story seemed unresolved.
The world building in this book was really good and I enjoyed learning about magicians and their history. The main plot point, with the sludge, air ship, and portals, was interesting with a few good twists and turns. There were lots of great characters throughout too, that all brought something different from the quietness of Ellis, to the sweetness of Wyckett, to the loyalty of Oi.
I liked Kieran and Esten together, and their care for each other was really sweet. But for me there wasn’t enough romance! There could have been more of a slow build between them and more of a payoff too!
It seemed as though this story ended as if leading to a sequel. There still felt a lot unresolved in the world, for Kieran and Esten individually and for them together.
Overall, the world was great with a suspenseful story, I just wish there was more romance and a little more of the plot resolved.
🌪️✨🌳
The world building in this book was really good and I enjoyed learning about magicians and their history. The main plot point, with the sludge, air ship, and portals, was interesting with a few good twists and turns. There were lots of great characters throughout too, that all brought something different from the quietness of Ellis, to the sweetness of Wyckett, to the loyalty of Oi.
I liked Kieran and Esten together, and their care for each other was really sweet. But for me there wasn’t enough romance! There could have been more of a slow build between them and more of a payoff too!
It seemed as though this story ended as if leading to a sequel. There still felt a lot unresolved in the world, for Kieran and Esten individually and for them together.
Overall, the world was great with a suspenseful story, I just wish there was more romance and a little more of the plot resolved.
🌪️✨🌳
June 27, 2023
I am currently reading a series as you can tell on my page and I have been in the BIGGEST slump of all slumps. This gave me the magical whimsical hope I needed to break it. It may have taken a little time but I loved the book. I needed this book to break my slump. The magic inside this book will enchant you.
August 5, 2025
Pleasant world-building but not much to hold onto in terms of story.
Because I loved Kit Vincent's Us, Et Cetera, I came to Of Feathers and Thorns ready to fall in love. Perhaps it's not fair to assume the story would be driven by a romantic plot, but I was definitely let down by how tacked on and incidental the romantic storyline was.
The novel started strong enough but I quickly lost track of character names and descriptions. This only got harder as I discovered that the two POV protagonists would spend barely any time together, so I had to pay attention to who was with whom and where, but without a strong bond holding together the relationships or action. Of Feathers and Thorns has all the appearance of a team-up story, but the two protagonists never actually team up; they might be at the same magic showdown, but they are not working together and are generally not even in sight of one another. The friendship never truly develops, nor does the romance. (Kieren's growing friendship with the doll/spirit had far more texture and drama than his relationship with fellow young magician Esten.)
I was intrigued by the alt-world, magic system, and ethical quandaries Vincent introduces, but none of these ultimately carried the story—indeed, the main issue of Kieren's type of magic being ultimately fatal is left unacknowledged by the end.
I wondered if Vincent intended this to be Book 1 of a series where character relationships and magical rules would further develop. Even so, there wasn't enough to carry me through book 1, much less a 2 and 3. (Also, some grammatical stuffed kicked my ear pretty hard: "with an air of mysteriousness..."" etc.
I'll still check out further works by Vincent to see if some of the pathos and spark of Us, Et Cetera show up again.
Because I loved Kit Vincent's Us, Et Cetera, I came to Of Feathers and Thorns ready to fall in love. Perhaps it's not fair to assume the story would be driven by a romantic plot, but I was definitely let down by how tacked on and incidental the romantic storyline was.
The novel started strong enough but I quickly lost track of character names and descriptions. This only got harder as I discovered that the two POV protagonists would spend barely any time together, so I had to pay attention to who was with whom and where, but without a strong bond holding together the relationships or action. Of Feathers and Thorns has all the appearance of a team-up story, but the two protagonists never actually team up; they might be at the same magic showdown, but they are not working together and are generally not even in sight of one another. The friendship never truly develops, nor does the romance. (Kieren's growing friendship with the doll/spirit had far more texture and drama than his relationship with fellow young magician Esten.)
I was intrigued by the alt-world, magic system, and ethical quandaries Vincent introduces, but none of these ultimately carried the story—indeed, the main issue of Kieren's type of magic being ultimately fatal is left unacknowledged by the end.
I wondered if Vincent intended this to be Book 1 of a series where character relationships and magical rules would further develop. Even so, there wasn't enough to carry me through book 1, much less a 2 and 3. (Also, some grammatical stuffed kicked my ear pretty hard: "with an air of mysteriousness..."" etc.
I'll still check out further works by Vincent to see if some of the pathos and spark of Us, Et Cetera show up again.
July 12, 2025
This was a fun, fast, adventure story and I loved the audiobook narrator who did a wonderful job of bringing each character to life (The ebook version didn't capture me on my first try and I believe I only got to the end of chapter 1). Set in an alternate gas lamp era USA we meet our MC Kieran right after his magical awakening at the ripe age (for magicians) of 18. You instantly root for the young and naive Kieran who's whole town turns against him for his magic, even his own family rejecting him.
Picked up by Esten a fellow apprentice to his new teacher, who wants nothing to do with him. But stuck in his new home, with no one around Kieran, full of excitement and a want to find a place to belong, makes a deal with a mysterious doll Oi (who become my favorite character).
Eventually Kieran convinces Esten not only to teach him some magic but to allow him to help unravel the mystery around their missing teacher and the terrible sludge that has been devouring towns.
While this is listed as a MM romance, that is more of a subplot, and it is far more about unraveling the mystery which I loved. It was a fun adventure, and though it is a YA story it fitted the tone well as the reader learns alongside Kieran about the magic. It was also unique spin on magic with two sides feather magic and thorn magic, and thorn having blow back that can harm the user which added a good limitation to magic.
Though this is the only book and does read as a standalone, I was left wanting to know more: not just about what happens next, or more stories about this world, but I wanted to see more of Kieran and Esten as we really only just scratched the surface on these characters.
Picked up by Esten a fellow apprentice to his new teacher, who wants nothing to do with him. But stuck in his new home, with no one around Kieran, full of excitement and a want to find a place to belong, makes a deal with a mysterious doll Oi (who become my favorite character).
Eventually Kieran convinces Esten not only to teach him some magic but to allow him to help unravel the mystery around their missing teacher and the terrible sludge that has been devouring towns.
While this is listed as a MM romance, that is more of a subplot, and it is far more about unraveling the mystery which I loved. It was a fun adventure, and though it is a YA story it fitted the tone well as the reader learns alongside Kieran about the magic. It was also unique spin on magic with two sides feather magic and thorn magic, and thorn having blow back that can harm the user which added a good limitation to magic.
Though this is the only book and does read as a standalone, I was left wanting to know more: not just about what happens next, or more stories about this world, but I wanted to see more of Kieran and Esten as we really only just scratched the surface on these characters.
October 23, 2022
Magic. Not only is Of Feathers and Thorns about magic, the book itself is magic. Vincent weaves a magical tale that combines real worlds and magical worlds. One thing that completely amazed me was how well Vincent brings the characters to life! Her in-depth descriptions illustrated the characters so well that I felt as though they were standing in front of me. I had no problem picturing each individual in the book. Of Feathers and Thorns weaves a tale that shows protagonists and antagonists in such a realistic story that you will not want to put it down. Of Feathers and Thorns offers a bit of everything..magic, romance, intrigue, suspense, and so much more. The characters are so well created that when the book ended, I found myself longing for more. I can easily see this book being the first in a series, although I am not sure if that's what the author planned or not. If you enjoy fantasy, magic, and suspense, you will love Of Feathers and Thorns. It was a book I read very quickly, because honestly I didn't want to put it down. I needed to see what was going to happen next! Take a break from our harsh reality and immerse yourself into a world of fantasy for a little while. Read Of Feathers and Thorns by Kit Vincent. You'll be glad you did!
October 30, 2022
I loved this book sooooo much!!!!!! Kit shared with is a beautiful and wonderful debut novel about not only gay Magicians but of life, love and acceptance set in an alternate 1900’s America! Also being introduced to 2 different types of magic which just me wanting to learn more and more! I loved it! Kieran had to learn hard lessons fast which a lot of us, especially in our Queer community. It’s a really hard lesson but Kieran didn’t let it get to him. And on the other hand Esten is the perfect opposite to Kieran yet at the same time he’s the perfect other Half for Kieran as well! I just loved watching them come together. I just love them together! Also can we take a minute and talk about Oi? Omg!!!! I honestly say Oi is my fav character of the year!!!! I just wanna hug him sooo much! Just precious!!!!! Omg!!! I just loved this world and this book soooo much! I can’t wait to see what Kit gives us next!
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