A radical act of free magic encompasses the essence of rebellion against oppressive forces. It is a powerful declaration of autonomy and self-determination, through the boundless realm of magic. In a society dominated by rigid structures and arbitrary rules, free magic represents an alternative path, a renunciation of conformity. It challenges the notion of control, urging individuals to tap into their inner power and embrace the unpredictable nature of magic. Free magic rejects the notion that power should be held by a select few. It defies hierarchical systems that seek to suppress individuality and diversity.
Kirkus Reviews Issue: April 15, 2021
With a first-rate blend of political drama and magic battle action, Parry manages to inject tension and stakes into a historical drama where average readers will know at least the broad strokes of the ending. The nature of the story is heavily focused on politics and war strategy, and yet Parry s prose makes it easy to understand and comprehend, making even the political debates interesting.
It defies hierarchical systems that seek to suppress individuality and diversity. Instead, it celebrates the inherent magic within every being, encouraging them to explore and experiment with their own unique abilities. This act of reclaiming magic as a personal birthright is an act of defiance against societal norms and expectations.
A RADICAL ACT OF FREE MAGIC
Leaders of Britain’s abolitionist movement join forces with a veteran of the Haitian revolution to push back Napoleon’s deadly forces in Parry’s second Shadow Histories novel.
Napoléon Bonaparte isn’t a particularly talented magician, but his potential as a general and conqueror attracts the attention of the same mysterious figure who manipulated Robespierre to set off the Reign of Terror in A Declaration of the Rights of Magicians (2020). When Bonaparte summons a kraken to serve the French navy and later finds a dragon hidden in the sands of Egypt, it’s only a matter of time before France and Europe fall at his feet. William Pitt, meanwhile, is growing weaker by the day as he works to keep a deadly and dangerous magical secret from his enemies. William Wilberforce continues to fight for abolition but is stymied at every turn. Fina uses her magic to help Toussaint Louverture keep hold of Saint-Domingue, but she eventually makes the journey to London and meets Pitt and Wilberforce. With a first-rate blend of political drama and magic battle–action, Parry manages to inject tension and stakes into a historical drama where average readers will know at least the broad strokes of the ending. Effortlessly switching from France to England to Egypt to Saint-Domingue, Parry folds in show-stopping new characters like Kate Dove, a commoner weather mage dead-set on avenging her brother’s death by kraken, and Lady Hester Stanhope, who would become one of the most famous explorers of the 19th century. When the three main characters, Fina, Pitt, and Wilberforce, finally face off with the stranger, the resulting conflict brings the series’ meditations on idealism, the fight for human rights, and the necessary limits of institutional power to a head.
Pub Date: July 20, 2021
ISBN: 978-0-316-45915-0
Page Count: 464
Publisher: Redhook/Orbit
Review Posted Online: March 30, 2021
Kirkus Reviews Issue: April 15, 2021
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It disrupts the status quo and invites individuals to question the established order, taking them on a transformative journey of self-discovery. Free magic transcends the boundaries of traditional spellcasting. It is not confined to ancient grimoires or arcane rituals. Instead, it emboldens individuals to forge their own path, creating spells based on intuition, personal experiences, and desires. It taps into the raw, untamed energy of the universe, infusing everyday experiences with enchantment and wonder. By embracing free magic, individuals take responsibility for their actions and the consequences that follow. It is a call to harness one's power ethically, with the understanding that magic always carries a price. It encourages users to be mindful of the intentions behind their spells, to consider the impact they may have on themselves and others. In a world that often seeks to standardize and control, the practice of free magic is an act of rebellion and liberation. It challenges the notion of what is possible and empowers individuals to shape their own reality. It invites us to be bold, adventurous, and unapologetically ourselves. Ultimately, the act of embracing free magic is a revolutionary act. It dismantles oppressive systems, encourages self-expression, and fosters a deeper connection with the world around us. It is a reminder that true power lies within each of us, waiting to be unleashed through our choice to freely practice the magic that resides within..
Reviews for "Unlocking the Secrets: Free Magic as a Radical Act of Exploration"
1. Jane - 2 stars
I was really excited to read "A Radical Act of Free Magic" based on the rave reviews I had seen, but unfortunately, I found it to be quite disappointing. The plot was convoluted and confusing, and I struggled to connect with the main characters. Additionally, I felt that the world-building was lacking, leaving me with more questions than answers. Overall, I found the book to be underwhelming and not worth the hype.
2. Michael - 2.5 stars
I had high hopes for "A Radical Act of Free Magic," but it fell short for me. The pacing was incredibly slow, and I found myself getting bored and disinterested. The magic system also felt underdeveloped and inconsistent, which made it hard for me to fully immerse myself in the story. While the concept had potential, the execution just didn't live up to my expectations.
3. Sarah - 3 stars
I found "A Radical Act of Free Magic" to be an average read. While the writing was solid, I struggled to connect with the characters, who felt one-dimensional and lacked depth. The world-building was intriguing, but it wasn't enough to compensate for the lackluster plot development. Overall, I would recommend this book to those who enjoy slow-paced stories with intricate world-building, but it didn't leave a lasting impression on me.