A Magic Within

A Magic Within #1

by Sara V. Zook

Normalcy. I need to get back to a state of normalcy. What’s happened to me? Why am I here in this orphanage, and why am I forbidden to leave? Everyone is so very cruel here. I can’t eat. I can’t sleep. It’s the paranoia getting to me. It’s like someone’s always watching, always listening. There’s a general fear around here, and for some reason, it seems fueled by my arrival, but why are they afraid of me? I didn’t ask for this. I don’t even know how I got here. I need to go home. My parents must be worried sick. There has to be someone here who can help me, who can give me answers and lead me in the right direction so I can get out of here. There is this one boy, Lydic. Could he be my key to getting out? I can see it in his eyes he feels sorry for me. He seems to know more than he’s letting on. These people aren’t like anyone I’ve ever met before.

Genres: Fantasy

266 pages, Paperback

First published June 17, 2014

About the author

Sara graduated from Pitt with a degree in creative writing. After a short hiatus of having children, she is back to doing what she loves and has been writing ever since.

She resides in Pittsburgh with her husband, three kids and two Labradors.

She's the author of the Strange in Skin Trilogy: Strange in Skin, Evadere and Solace. She also wrote Clipped, a stand alone novel, The Sempiternal Series: Evanescent and Reminiscence, A Magic Within Series: A Magic Within and A Chaos Within, Six Guns, Six Guns 2, The Pull, The Push, Beautiful Rugged and Take Me.

Sara does not respond to messages through Goodreads. Please contact her via Facebook or her website.

Reviews

[Mai · Rating 2 out of 5]

Not my cup of tea, but I guess a decent enough book for the first in a series. Weirdly wrapped up at the end.

[Katie Harder-schauer · Rating 4 out of 5]

When Riley finds herself lost and alone in the woods after chasing after her escaped dog, she fears that she will die there, unable to find her way back to camp. But luck is on her side, maybe, and a mysterious stranger comes along and carries her off. But she finds herself with far more questions than answers.

The idea behind this story, is excellent. It's somewhat reminiscent of The Wizard of Oz (at least the movie version. I'm ashamed to admit that I have yet to read the books), and even mentions it a time or two (which earns it bonus points from me). Like Dorothy Gale, Riley suffers a trauma and then wakes up in a strange place. However, she doesn't receive the warm welcome from the locals that Dorthy gets in Munchkinland. I'm sure her welcome would have been much warmer if she'd killed the wicked witch upon her arrival though.

I really felt like I was in Riley's shoes for most of this story. I spent a large portion of the book completely confused as to what was going on, just like Riley, and I wasn't even really able to figure out what was going on before Riley did, and I'm usually pretty good at figuring major plot points out long before the characters do, so bravo Ms. Zook for keeping me confused.

This book had action, adventure, mystery, and some pseudo-mythology, overall a really good fantasy combination. It let me down in the end though, and left me with a lot of unanswered questions. There were a few things that I was hypothesizing about while reading, that failed to happen or be revealed, and the ending wrapped up very quickly, almost like Ms. Zook just ran out of ideas (or maybe she has so many still swirling around in her head for these characters that there is going to be a second book. I'm genuinely hoping that is the case). This book ended basically in an HEA when I was really looking for a cliffhanger, considering where the characters were towards the end.

Overall I give it 4.5 out of 5 stars, because it was really well written, a very unique idea, and it kept me engaged through the end. The missing half-star is for the quick wrap up at the end. I would still definitely recommend this book to fantasy fans and I will be checking out some of Sara's other books in the future. - Katie


Book reviewed for Just Another Girl and Her Books blog.
Http://www.justanothergirlandherbooks...

Since posting this review on my blog, I have been informed that it is the first book in a series, which makes me less disappointed with the ending, but I stand by my half star detraction because it still wrapped up really quickly.

[Just Another Girl And Her Books · Rating 5 out of 5]

When Riley finds herself lost and alone in the woods after chasing after her escaped dog, she fears that she will die there, unable to find her way back to camp. But luck is on her side, maybe, and a mysterious stranger comes along and carries her off. But she finds herself with far more questions than answers.

The idea behind this story, is excellent. It's somewhat reminiscent of The Wizard of Oz (at least the movie version. I'm ashamed to admit that I have yet to read the books), and even mentions it a time or two (which earns it bonus points from me). Like Dorothy Gale, Riley suffers a trauma and then wakes up in a strange place. However, she doesn't receive the warm welcome from the locals that Dorthy gets in Munchkinland. I'm sure her welcome would have been much warmer if she'd killed the wicked witch upon her arrival though.

I really felt like I was in Riley's shoes for most of this story. I spent a large portion of the book completely confused as to what was going on, just like Riley, and I wasn't even really able to figure out what was going on before Riley did, and I'm usually pretty good at figuring major plot points out long before the characters do, so bravo Ms. Zook for keeping me confused.

This book had action, adventure, mystery, and some pseudo-mythology, overall a really good fantasy combination. It let me down in the end though, and left me with a lot of unanswered questions. There were a few things that I was hypothesizing about while reading, that failed to happen or be revealed, and the ending wrapped up very quickly, almost like Ms. Zook just ran out of ideas (or maybe she has so many still swirling around in her head for these characters that there is going to be a second book. I'm genuinely hoping that is the case). This book ended basically in an HEA when I was really looking for a cliffhanger, considering where the characters were towards the end.

Overall I give it 4.5 out of 5 stars, because it was really well written, a very unique idea, and it kept me engaged through the end. The missing half-star is for the quick wrap up at the end. I would still definitely recommend this book to fantasy fans and I will be checking out some of Sara's other books in the future. - Katie


After posting this review on the blog, I have been informed by the author that this is the first book in a series, which makes me less upset about the ending, but I stand by my 4.5 star rating as the ending still wrapped up quickly.

[N Swaffar · Rating 4 out of 5]

Right from the beginning I knew I would enjoy the story. After Riley had her accident, she met a boy about the same age as her named Lydic. He was caring and was taken by Riley right away. He cared for her and protected her in anyway he can. He was such a nice boy, that Riley couldn't do anything but trust him.

Feeling prisoned by the place, she was getting more and more scared being there. Everyone acted like they hated her and no one would tell her anything. All they said is she didn't belong there, she couldn't agree more. For some reason, the person in Cordelia still wouldn't let her leave. Everyday that passes, she grew more and more worried about her parents and if she will ever get home to see them ever again. Lydic swore to her that he will do anything he can to get her home, he will find a way. No matter what, the way is, he will find it.



On her journey to this new world called Nimbus, she actually found a really good friend, a girl named Muriel. She was sweet, quiet (except with her) and liked her. After going through some changes, Lydic asked his grandfather Leibold for help. He knew if anyone can figure it out, it will be him. After his grandfather finally agreed, they went through some really hard obstacles to get out of the place that imprisoned them. On their journey to find a place that will help to get Riley home, they find more and more people hungry for power. The A Magic Within greediness, doesn't with Cordelia. Everyday that passes they are getting closer and closer to danger. Will they Riley ever get home? Or will she find a home in Nimbus with her friend Lydic and Muriel?

I really did enjoy this book, but at the same time felt lost when it ended. The story ended rather abruptly. I felt like the ending wasn't enough, Lydic deserves so much more. Is there book 2? I am hoping so, because I left with a lot of unanswered questions. If you see this Author Sara Zook, please tell me there's book 2. Till then I'll keep my fingers cross. ;)

[Tween 2 Teen Book Reviews · Rating 3 out of 5]

I love Sara. I'm part of her street team and she's is loads of fun. I wasn't quite sure what to expect from A Magic Within. It's definitely not as fun as Evanescent, and there's no romance to speak of, but I flew through the book. I'm one of the biggest procrastinators out there, and the fact that I finished the book the night before my post was due to go up, says that loud and clear. And the fact that I finished it in a couple hours flat.

Characters: Riley, Lydic, Leibold, Cordelia, Muriel

Of the characters, I don't have particular favorite. I can't tell the exact age of the characters, but from what I can tell, I believe they are younger than me. That makes it a tad harder to relate, as with any novel that's closer to middle grade than YA. I liked Muriel's character. She showed what the normal was like in their world, or at least the perception of normal. I wish I could have gotten a bit more time to know Riley, because I think I really would have liked her, if only I had more background info.

First Impressions: 4/5

The story definitely had an interesting start. Riley lost her dog, and before she knows it, she's being sucked into another world. It was a beginning that left me wanting to read more, which I promptly did.

Writing: 4/5
Plot: 4/5
World Building: 5/5
Characters: 4/5

Overall, I really did enjoy this novel, and am glad I read it. A few things confused me, but I think if I had taken more time in reading the book, it would have made more sense. I'm definitely hoping that the second book (will there be a second book?) will shed some light on what's happening in the two worlds.

[Ange from Cover to Cover Book Blog · Rating 5 out of 5]

So what happens when you are lost, alone, and injured in the woods? Well for Riley, you wake in a strange place in another realm, a magical realm. She doesn’t know that right from the beginning but quickly learns about the new world she is in. The first person she meets is Lydic. Naturally, Riley is full of questions. She wants to know where she is, how she got there, and who everybody is. Unfortunately, no one will tell her the truth right away. I instantly liked Lydic. He wanted to tell her the truth but knew he couldn’t, yet. In the meantime she is given vague answers that only lead to more questions.

Of course every story has an evil villain and in this one, her name is Cordelia. She is a headmaster of sorts. She is also power hungry. Cordelia has discovered a way to siphon magic from people to stay young and strong. Riley, with the help of Lydic and his grandfather, escapes the “orphanage” but their adventure has just begun. Lydic begins his journey to help get Riley home to her own realm.

The story was very gripping. The author has a way with words that puts you right into the story. At the beginning when Riley fell down a hill and hurt her ankle, I felt like I was standing there watching it happen. The rest of the story is the same way. Very well written! I loved the good guys and loathed the bad ones. Lydic was such a great character to read. He has a heart of gold. The only issue I had with the book was the ending. It’s wasn’t a cliffhanger but I felt the ending was lacking. The rest of the story had such a great buildup and kept you guessing and on your toes. All in all, I would recommend the story to anyone who is a fan of magic.

[Rachael Hood · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was so excited to get a chance to read this amazing book, even though it is not my typical read. This book is about a girl who gets trapped into a realm that is completely unfamiliar to her and nothing makes sense. Her name is Riley Green. She meets a boy name Lydic who is the one who brings her to this realm on accident. I find I was waiting for more of a love story with them, and hoping there is a next book (fingers crossed) so we can see if anything ever comes out of that.


“It seems as if I’ve misjudged your wisdom, boy. You seem unable to keep your mouth shut,” Leibold scolded him.
So, Riley gets take to a realm called Nimbus where an evil woman named Cordelia has complete control (or so she thinks) and is keeping everyone from using their magic powers. No one is to even talk about their magic within. When Riley starts to explore this unknown place she finds everyone hates her because she is like an alien to them. In my mind they were more scared of her than anything but once they learned she was harmless they were more inclined to like her, which I liked.

"You put my grandson at risk because he has befriended you. You put us all at risk.”

I didn't really have any similarities with any of the characters but I found they were all relatable and likeable. My favorite character was Lydic. He was so adorable and I never knew what his mind was thinking but I liked that he was always looking out for Riley.

GO BUY YOUR COPY OF THIS BOOK TODAY ITS A 5 STAR BOOK :)

[Tammy Hall · Rating 5 out of 5]

Right off the bat I was taken in by the cover of this book. It is gorgeous! I then read the synopsis and knew immediately I was hooked and I had to know more about the story that lie waiting for me to read it! A Magic Within is a wonderful story with some quirky adventures. Riley the main character with some spunk behind her. When she ends up in an alternate realm she causes a bit of trouble and the story takes off on a heart pounding thrill ride picking up some other characters that leaves Riley wondering who she can trust all she wants to do is go home but that maybe the last place she goes to. Lydic is a boy from this realm and is determined to get Riley home if only he knew how, As the character list expands I myself began to wonder who could really help Riley and who was there to take advantage of the magic the lie inside of Riley waiting to be awoken! Would Riley make it home or would she stay and fight for what was rightfully hers in a realm unlike any she ever knew? I won't give you the answers you seek I will however, tell you that even though this book is a YA genre it is so worth reading. Sara Zook took me through a realm of a world that still has my head spinning and I loved every minute of it! I would love to read more about Riley and the others. I believe there is more to this story than meets the eye!

[Ebbie ~Author Groupies · Rating 4 out of 5]

Title: A Magic Within
Author: Sara Zook
Rating: 4 Groupie Stars
Reviewer: Ebbie

A Magic Within started with Riley chasing after her dog; she got lost in the woods and fell. When she woke up she was in a strange place with other kids. Some said it was an orphanage and others said it was a school. One thing for sure it was a strange place and everyone seemed to be scared of and hate Riley. Riley wanted nothing more than to get out of there and return home to her parents. Lydic seemed to be the only one who would befriend her and want to help her find her way home.

Although this is not a genre that I would usually read, I enjoyed Sara’s look into different realms of the world. This was a quick read for me; I couldn’t wait to see what was going to happen next as Lydic and Riley traveled through portals and encountered mind readers
and fairies. It was a crazy Alice in Wonderland kind of ride as Lydic tried to help Riley find her way home. At times it was very dark and didn’t look very hopeful for her but through all the twists and turns of portals and realms Riley found her HEA.

I look forward to reading more from Sara and would recommend this book to those who like YA or sci-fi books.

[Sassy Southern Book Blog · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was totally enthralled with Riley as soon as I joined her in her search for her beloved dog, Sadie.
I felt her fright as she searched the woods, as the sun began to set, as she fell down the hill, and especially as she heard voices and the bag was placed over her head...
She struggles to accept her fate, the strange things that used to belong only in her dreams. She tries to understand this place fate has landed her into.
She tried to befriend Lydic and Muriel. What will be their fate from that small act? Cordelia is cruel, how bad will they suffer?
Running seems the only way to safety,But will it mean Riley can never go home again? What if she does embrace the magic within her? Fight the Evil? Will she even survive such a thing?
Of course she will! She is determined that is the only way it can be! right?
Well, stubbornness and determination have to get her somewhere.
Don't miss out! Find out if Riley does return home, makes a new home in this strange new world, or in the spirit of Harry Potter.....continues on to new adventures!

[Samaris Creech · Rating 5 out of 5]

Many of us have always wondered if there was more to our world such as different dimensions and other life forces out there. Imagine just running through the woods one say and when you wake up you are in a completely foreign land with no idea how you got there or how you are getting back home. This is what Riley faces and she is not going to take it sitting down. She causes trouble simply by asking questions only one person seems to be on her side and her trust in him is iffy at best. Lydric is both amazed and scared out of his mind when he finds Riley and brings her back to Nimbus. Magic if forbidden and those who are caught practicing are somehow never seen again. However since he created this mess he is bound and determined to fix it and get Riley back to her realm. How is anyone’s guess but it won’t stop him from trying. These children have some great adventures, learn some new things and above all else keep hope in their hearts. This is a nice tale of another dimension and the possibilities that maybe out there.

[Jen Wildner · Rating 5 out of 5]

I didn't know what to expect when I started reading this book. I've never read a YA story before, I typically stick to romance. The beautiful cover really caught my attention, then I read the synopsis and I was really drawn to it. Sara had me hooked from page one, I read this book straight through in one sitting, I just could not put it down. When Riley wakes up in a place unfamiliar to her and the story really starts to take place my heart started pounding. I didn't want the book to end but I was anxious to find out what was happening. I can honestly say my heart did not stop pounding until I finished the book. I was cheering in my head for these kids to find their way to where they needed to go, I was screaming at the evil Cordelia! This book is a well written, quick read, with suspense. I am excited to find out if there will be more books in the journey of Lydic and the rest of the crew. Great job Sara!!

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was given this as an ARC for an honest review.

What in intriguing book, like nothing I have ever read before.

Camping with her parents, Riley goes to walk her dog in the woods around the camp ground. The dog breaks loose and she finds herself lost and afraid. Hearing noises around her, she tries to run from them to find her way out but she slips and falls. The last thing she remembers is strong arms around her and darkness.

This story is about Riley and an adventure to another realm. Magical and captivating, this book is such a great read. The writing is amazing and the details paint the complete picture for the reader. The characters in the book are real and you find yourself pulling for Riley and her new friends to beat the villain.

Plot twists and an unexpected ending lead you to want to know more about this magical word of the “magic within”. I hope there is a sequel to this! I need to know what happened to Riley.

I gave this book 4 stars.

[Joood Hooligan · Rating 3 out of 5]

***3.5***

I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

This was an interesting read. I enjoyed getting absorbed into this world and learning about it and its characters. I do wish there was more background and detail on everything going on. Maybe a prequel? (hint)

My biggest issue was with the editing. It wasn't bad, but there is an over abundance of commas and a few typos/spelling errors that would take me out of the story from time to time.

I didn't like the end. Not because it wasn't realistic or it was poorly done. It was actually something I would expect most people to do in a similar situation. Still, I wanted to go into the book and smack Riley for what she did.

The author has mentioned that this will be a series. I look forward to seeing what happens next.

http://www.platypire.com/j-hooligan/a...

[Kristen Geist · Rating 4 out of 5]

After being thrown into an alternate realm, Riley is so utterly lost. She has no idea where she is and doesn’t know if she’ll ever see her family again. She starts to appreciate more and more the things she considered once considered “normal”. She has no idea who she can trust or who is on her side. Every time she tries to escape, she ends up getting herself into an even bigger mess. Can she escape once and for all? Will she ever be reunited with her family and return to her normal life in the realm she calls “home”?

I don’t typically read a lot of fantasy/paranormal but this one absolutely drew me in and held my interest from beginning to end. Very well written, and full of so many crazy twists and turns. I like this author’s style and look forward to reading more from her.

[Tabitha Jones · Rating 4 out of 5]

Although this is not my typical genre to read. This book spiked my interest. It was a super fast read. I was very excited to keep turning the page because I couldn't wait to see what happened next.Even though at times the scenery described was a bit gloomy. I was happy to read about all the glamour of fairies and learning about the different realms of the world. Riley didn't know what was going on one day as she lost her dog in the woods and fell to wake up in a whole new world. Every one in surrounding did not trust her and therefor it made getting to know others unbearable with the exception of Lydic. together they both tried to find a way out of the so called school that Cordelia was the head of. Their were lots of twist and turns but a great HEA.

[Twin Opinions · Rating 4 out of 5]

I had no idea what to expect with this read. It had been a while since I read a good YA, but this one blew me away. I loved every minute of it. The beginning really hooks you. I love Riley. I really related to her character and found myself highly engaged in this reading.

I also really loved the other dimensions. It is a cool idea and one I am sure everyone has thought of. There is very little romance in this book which I like. It's more about the adventure and lessons learned. I really enjoyed the read. Overall a great read and one that I recommend to YA fans. I am hoping for a second book so I can get to know these characters better. A great read.

[Sharon Obelenus Holland · Rating 5 out of 5]

Action packed, out of this world!!

While out walking her dog, Riley not only loses her dog but her way. Lost in the woods she panics. Racing away from a noise, she falls down a hill. But when someone grabs her from behind, she has no clue what is about to happen to her. Pulled into a different realm that holds many secrets, she has to find a way to survive and get back home. But there are too many with powers that want her gone. With the few friends she's made, they set out to find help to not only save Riley but their own world, and possibly others.

[Book Worms United · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a really great story. It's well written with great character development. Riley has an accident and is cared for by Lydic. No one wants her there except Lydic and Riley's new friend Muriel. As the gang embarks on a journey to try to get Riley home, danger lurks at every corner. Will Riley forever be stuck in this new world, or will Lydic succeed in getting her home? Looking for a second book in this series to see what happens next with this group!

[Pamijo Perkins · Rating 5 out of 5]

Not normally my type of reading but as I got into it more, I became more and more interested. The journey that Riley went on was a heart touching story. Reading this story made me wonder about all the missing children in the world. If only they could find "A Magic Within". At least the good magic.

Sara is an awesome writer. She has a unique way of storytelling. Cheers for Sara on another great book!

[Becca Sellers · Rating 4 out of 5]

I had a hard time getting into the book...I felt the first third of the book was rather slow. That being said, I felt the story was fresh and well written! Definitely a book that anyone of any age could read and parents wouldn't have to worry about anything inappropriate! I would like to read more about 'a magic within' and see where Riley and Lydic and company end up! I feel a series coming on!

[Erica · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book almost as much as Evadere (Strange in Skin #2).

Riley is an excellent character. The only drawback I saw was, I wish she did a little less telling in her reflections, and a little more observations and showing me. (That's why it's 4 stars and not 5.)

This book stops just when things really pick up speed, leading to me eagerly await the next installment.

[Danyca · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an amazing adventure! This book sucked me into the story on page one. The action started immediately and continued to the last page. The author did an amazing job bringing her world and characters to life. It is a wonderful story that I completely enjoyed and I'm hoping for a second book and a continuing adventure.

[A. McCarty · Rating 5 out of 5]

A cute, interesting story. A fast read, but also a must read. If you are into all things magical this one is for you. The world the book to place in was very easy to be seen with all the wonderful descriptions. I enjoyed it.

[A.C. Wilson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was a wondrous mix of magic, the ordinary, pain, mystery, and finding out where you belong. I was inspired by Lydic in his tenacity to not give up and Riley 's ability to want the truth and accept a foreign world. I can't wait to see what happens next!

[Lauren · Rating 3 out of 5]

A magic within

It wasn't necessarily a bad book just extremely confusing. For more than most of it I had no idea what was going on and was just as lost as Riley. I really liked lydic's character though.

Note: I received this book free on Amazon.

[Peggy · Rating 5 out of 5]

*ARC FOR HONEST REVIEW*

What an amazing and intriguing read! This book sure does draw the reader in! Sara V. Zook hit a home-run with this book! Mind boggling and a page turner!

[Danielle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book. I'm not much into "magic" but this was much different. Sara is an amazing storyteller and I can't wait to read what she has in store for us next.

[Jeanine Walsh palinkas · Rating 5 out of 5]

I need more! Not exactly what I was expecting, as I rarely read reviews, but this has me psyched for more of this story.....like NOW!