Family Magic

Hayle Coven #1

by Patti Larsen

Her mom's a witch. Her dad's a demon. And she just wants to be ordinary.

Sydlynn Hayle's life couldn't be more complicated. Trying to please her coven, starting over in a new town, and fending off a bully cheerleader who hates her are just the beginning of her troubles. What to do when delicious football hero Brad Peters--boyfriend of her cheer nemesis--shows interest? If only the darkly yummy witch, Quaid Moromond, didn't make it so difficult for her to focus on fitting in with the normal kids. Add to that her crazy grandmother's constant escapes driving her family to the brink and Syd's between a rock and a coven site. Forced to take on power she doesn't want to protect a coven who blames her for everything, only she can save her family's magic. If her family's distrust doesn't destroy her first.

"A great, inventive plot, a deeply flawed, self-deprecating, heroine . . . What more could you want?" -- Amazon reviewer Hobbitual.

Don't miss the exciting sequels in the Hayle Coven Novels: Witch Hunt Demon Child The Wild The Long Lost Gatekeeper Flesh and Blood Full Circle Divided Heart First Plane Light and Shadow Queen of Darkness Dark Promise Unseelie Ties Ancient Ways The Undying Shifting Loyalties Enforcer Coven Leader The Last Call"

Genres: Fantasy, Paranormal, Young Adult, Magic, Witches, Urban Fantasy, Romance

466 pages, Paperback

First published October 15, 2011

About the author

I write a lot of paranormal books for someone who is afraid of the dark. And I wonder why I have to sleep with the lights on. Sometimes life is a teenaged B horror movie and I'm the one who investigates when the scary music is playing. But the voices are calling and resistance is… Yes. I am a Star Trek geek, too. And a fan of RPG’s. With a slight coolness factor since I've been told I'm allowed to join the pops.

Naw. I like being a nerdy girl :)

Reviews

[Federica the heir of fire]

DNF 11%

I was so excited to read this book but that excitement quickly turned into disappointment.The MC is too bratty,selfish and moody for my tastes.It's true that she's 16 but i've read books where young adult are much more mature than her,i tried to go on but it's not doing it for me.

[Mlpmom (Book Reviewer) · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 Stars

You will find me hard pressed to ever pass up the chance to read anything that has to do with witches. For some inexplicable reason, I am always drawn to them. Maybe it is the possibility that with magic, anything can happen. Or maybe I'm just a big kid at heart and still believe that in some way, in some form, magic does exist. ;)

Either way I knew I couldn't pass up the chance to read a story about a young girl both witch and demon and this was a really interesting story line with some very fun aspects.

In fact, I actually really enjoyed it. My only big complaint was that the protagonist wasn't very lovable. In short, even though she is sixteen, she is prone to acting like a two year through most of the first half of this story and even into the second. She is a brat, a very selfish one but yet, some how, this story still managed to make me want to continue to see what would transpire next.

Don't get me wrong, Syd isn't all bad. She does have some good and unselfish moments that shine through but even with those moments, she didn't completely redeem herself in my eyes. I did however love the whole witch demon aspect of the story and her crazy grandma, was a hoot.

Throw in a demon cursed to be a cat, a dog that is anything but normal, a coven of witches, vampires and of course, one demon loving father and this was something that isn't like anything else I can think of out there right now in the genre.



And even with Syd's faults and some extreme immaturity, this was a fun read that I found hard to put down.


*A Copy of this was Provided by the Author in exchange for an honest review.*

[Runningrabbit · Rating 4 out of 5]

First book free on Amazon.
This was a really easy, pleasant read but very much a young adult novel. Easy characters, plenty of teen angst with family dynamics at their best and worst. As they say, anyone who thinks bringing up a baby is hard work, then they haven't had a teenager. :)

[Heidi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Four Stars: A fun, coming of age witch read.

Sydlynn once again finds herself muddling through another boring ceremony. At sixteen, Syd is the daughter of a powerful witch and a demon. Syd should be excited at the prospect of one day leading the coven, but she wants nothing to do with magic. Syd can't wait until the day she turns eighteen so she can renounce her magic and live a normal life. Unfortunately for Syd, things in her new town are about to take a strange turn. Darkness is coming, and something is after Syd's family. As the witches fall, Syd and her inner demon are the only thing standing between her family and destruction. Will Syd stand up and seize her power?
What I Liked:
*What a fun, witchy read. This is a book with a teen witch who is dealing with plenty of normal teenage angst, as well as some paranormal problems as well. I thought this was a good coming of age novel with lots of interesting paranormal characters from witches, to demons, vampires and even a talking cat. If you want a witchy read a bit on the lighter side, definitely consider Family Magic.
*Syd, at first, was a difficult character for me to warm up to. She starts out a bit bratty and self centered, but in fairness, aren't many sixteen year olds a bit dramatic and egocentric? Syd is struggling with another new school, her magic and bullying at school. Finally, Syd decides enough is enough and she takes a stand. At this point, Syd does a strong turn around, and from there on out, I liked her. Once she starts to accept who she is, she takes control and stands up for herself and fights for her family. She goes from a brat to a strong witch who is willing to fight for those she loves.
*I liked the eclectic cast of paranormal characters. There are vampires, witches, a demon cat and even a faerie. I think what I liked the most about the characters was that none of them were scary and evil, not even the demons. This was a light paranormal read, perfect for younger readers.
*When Syd was bullied by the school's mean girl, I did an inward groan. I can't stand the whole mean girl theme, but I ended up being pleasantly surprised. Syd ends up doing something unexpected, and everything turns around. I was impressed at the way it all played out. I thought it sent out a great message for teens.
*I was also happy that there wasn't a romance. There is a set up for two potential love interests, but by the end of the book, neither relationship had progressed beyond friendship. I was thinking a love triangle was in the works, but instead there ended up being no romance. I liked that the romance didn't develop, and I was even more pleased that there wasn't a love triangle. For all of you romance fans, no worries, the foundation is in place for a romance down the road.
*This is an independent book, and one you shouldn't miss. It is well written, entertaining, clean and polished. An indie gem!
*The book ends with a nice, solid resolution. No cliffhangers or nagging questions. I love when the first book in a series avoids the cliffhanger.
And The Not So Much:
*One issue I had with the story was that I thought it lacked a bit in development and explanation. The reader is introduced to witches, vampires and demons, but there isn't a lot of description on these entities as far as their powers, origins and all that. For instance, Syd's uncle is a vampire. How does the brother of a witch become a vampire? There was no information on the vampires. I was also bothered by the fact that there was not much information on Syd's demon father. I would love to get to know him more, and I would be interested to know the details on how a demon marries a witch. I was also confused by the lack of explanation on the powers, what are edges in powers? I hope that in the next book, the author takes time to flesh things out a bit more.
*For me, it was rather apparent from the get go who the villain was. No big surprise when the perpetrator was exposed. I was disappointed that the family didn't clue in sooner.
*What was the deal with the senile grandmother? Was she crazy because of old age or was there something more to it? I struggled a bit with the fact that a once powerful witch was reduced to a crazed, drooling old lady.

Family Magic is a good, fun, paranormal read perfect for younger teens. It is a coming of age story with a paranormal twist. I enjoyed watching, Syd, the heroine, grow and mature as she learned to accept who she was. I also liked that all the paranormal entities were of the friendly variety. This is a read you can hand to your younger read with confidence. I enjoyed this one, and I will be on the lookout for the sequels.

I received a copy of this book from a tour promoter in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own, and I was not compensated for this review.
Posted@Rainy Day Ramblings.

[Kim · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sydlynn Hayle is me, you and every teenager. She battles for independence and battles against her own identity. She battles herself as she fights her strong family loyalty against her need for independence. The only difference between Syd and most teenagers is that she has immense power. Syd is not perfect but she is perfectly drawn as a teenager fighting to figure out her own identity separate from that of her family's. But at the heart of it the strong loyalty that Syd has to her family wins out over her independent spirit.
Patti Larsen has created another series where her characters are the heart-beat of the story. Patti shows an intense understanding of her characters so that you forget Patti Larsen is the author and believe you are reading a diary of sorts from Syd's perspective. As a reader you are drawn into the internal conflicts that Syd has and they become your own. Syd is a multi-layered character that has all the best and worst traits of adolescence rolled into one fully-rounded out character. The secondary characters in the book build a world that you can see, hear and feel as much as you can your own world.
Patti Larsen has not written just another YA paranormal. She has written a book that works through the age old human question of who am I? You will read this book in one sitting and then immediately want the next book.

[Erin Maurer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Patti Larsen's Family Magic is another top-notch tale that delves into the paranormal world. It's the first book in the Hayle Coven novels, and if this one is any indication, I will certainly be scooping up the others. The story centers on the Hayle Family of witches and their beloved coven. Alongside of coven leader, Miriam Hayle, her daughters Sidlynn and Meira, demon-dad Harry, demon-cat Sassy and crazy Gram are trying to live a normal life. Well, as normal a life as a magical family in a normal town could possibly live.


Unfortunately for the future of the powerful Hayle coven, sixteen year old Sidlynn has no interest in learning magic, gaining control of her craft and eventually succeeding her mother has the leader of the coven. Could you imagine, trying to combat the normal pressures of high school while coping with magical powers you do not even want? Sidlynn's delimma sucks you in from page one, especially for anyone who struggled through high school.


Larsen crafts a tale that is both endearing and exciting. As trouble brews for the coven and for Sidlynn, you find yourself cheering for her. Still, she is not without her faults, which is one of the reasons I was drawn to her. Sidlynn finds herself facing off against her mother at every turn. She can be bratty, stubborn, and well....sixteen.



Still, I could not help but love her. In the face of adversity she finds herself standing up to bullies, high school bullies AND witch buddies. Though I would classify Family Magic as a YA novel, there is definitely something in it for everyone including: plenty of witchy magic, adventure at every turn, drama, love, suspense. No matter what your normal "read" looks like, be sure to give this book a try.



I do not think there was anything Larsen could have done to make Family Magic any better. It is written brilliantly, weaving together the mystical life of a witch with someone who wants to be a "normal high school girl." The way she writes has you easily transitioning between worlds without even a second glance. I found myself wondering if there are covens of powerful witches hiding out here in New Jersey.

[Alexia Purdy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was left floored by how amazing this story was. Endearing storytelling that sucks you in and doesn’t let go, even when it’s over. I never thought a family of witches could get into so much chaos! A nonstop ride into the depths of the powerful Hayle coven, where things can go haywire in an instant.

I absolutely loved this book. The world building, the characters…all of it was so easy to fall into and love the people like good friends. It follows Sydlynn Hayle, a reluctant teenage witch who’ll do anything to get rid of the magic she’s born into. Her mother is the coven leader and her father is a Demon Lord. Can’t get much farther from normal than that. But all she wants is to be normal, a goal that seems to be slipping from her hands more and more as each day passes. Bullied at school no matter how hard she tries to fit in, she finds empowerment in places and in people she never thought possible.

But someone is out to destroy the Hayle coven and it will ultimately be up to Syd to find out who and why, before it’s too late. Could it be the Moromonds- old friends of Miriam (Syd’s mom) who just rejoined the coven with their oddly magnetic son Quaid? Or is it some unknown magic that threatens them all?

You’ll love the twists and turns, Syd’s snarkiness and stubbornness and oh, the magic of course. It gives us an inside look at how a coven works, a magical family that I’d want to belong to! There are traitors, different magical beings and a world that beckons you in with ease. It’s definitely a world you want to just stay in and follow Syd around. The stuff that happens to this chick are just unforgettable.

I can’t wait to start book 2 of this 20 book series. It’s a definite must read!

[TigerLily · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really really loved reading this. I was totally hooked from the first page.

[Katherine B. · Rating 1 out of 5]

DNFed at 7%.

After this book somehow ended up on my currently reading (I really don't understand how, because my kindle didn't have WiFi, so there's no way it could have automatically added this book. Plus I was reading a different book on my kindle? Whatever. It happened), I decided to try reading it.

I couldn't do it. The writing sucks, the storyline is ridiculous, and I can't decide what I hated more. The main character's ridiculous name, her annoying angst (how could everyone else just shrug off the magic stuff they did? She couldn't. Oh, and she doesn't want to be a witch. She's leaving as soon as she's 18. Because she doesn't want to be a monster. Because her daddy's a demon. But she loves her parents. But HOW COULD SHE DO MAGIC AND NOT BE A MONSTERRRR!), her almost creepy description of her too-perfect mother (who is apparently also an emotional mess), her father's nickname (a demon named Harry is just too much), or the fact that her coven is such a cliche and serves a demon. Actually, it's the weird romance between her parents and the fact that they act like a normal family. Or all the above. I can't decide.

I'm done!

[Dani · Rating 4 out of 5]

Born into powerful magic and next in line to lead her coven, Sydlynn Hayle has never been able to embrace who and what she is and how to reconcile that with what's expected of her. At sixteen, Syd wants nothing more than to be a normal teenager, to find a place where she truly belongs, and to do that she plans to leave the coven once she turns eighteen - when the choice is finally hers. However, when her family and coven are threatened by an unknown source, will Syd choose the life she wants or the life she was born to lead?

Though Family Magic boasts an intriguing, well-developed, well-paced plot, the book focuses more on the personal growth of Syd throughout the story. Syd is so believably sixteen. Often at odds with her perfect, coven-leader mother about her continual refusal of all things magic, she can be surly, rash, petty and spiteful in the heat of the moment. And yet, she also has moments of extreme maturity, determination, courage and self-sacrifice. She's a flawed character, and so perfectly personifies teenager-hood - that weird no-man's land between childhood and adulthood - simultaneously prickly and vulnerable, with fits of childishness mixed in between displays of admirable maturity. As a quick aside, I love that Larsen developed Syd's little sister, Meira as a large part of the novel. Syd adores her younger sister and Meira's character does a fantastic job at softening some of Syd's rough edges and putting Syd's behavior into perspective for both Syd and the reader. Ultimately, Syd is just a girl who's searching for who she really is, in spite of what she is, and is someone who's trying to figure out what she really wants. A concept that many readers, no matter their age, will be able to identify with. So, all that to say: I really enjoyed the authenticity of Syd, and loved watching her develop throughout the novel.

Another developing plot point I enjoyed reading about was Syd's relationship with her mother. Sydlynn's mother, Miriam, is the Hayle coven leader, and as her eldest daughter, Syd is the obvious next choice in continuing the Hayle magical dynasty. However, Syd wants no part in it. And yet, because of certain circumstances that arise throughout the book, Syd is pushed further into the world she's so desperately trying to escape, and many times because of her mother's urging or decisions. And so magic, their drastically contrasting opinions on the issue, and the question of Syd's future are all huge points of contention between them. And yet, they love each other. No matter how much they hurt each other, Syd and Miriam both seem to honestly yearn for some understanding and reconciliation and I love that about Family Magic. So often it's easy to portray family relationships in a bad light, and I love that Larsen shows tension and disagreement between family members, but also shows the love that ultimately binds them together despite their differences.

In terms of the romance, Larsen lays a foundation for the rest of the series, but I must say... my inner-romance junkie wished for just a little bit more. On the one side you've got normal, all-American jock Brad who embodies everything Syd thinks she wants and wishes she could be. On the other mysterious, new-to-the-coven Quaid who's infuriating beyond belief, yet has a vulnerable side that she identifies with and with whom she has a strange magical connection. As I said before, this book mainly focuses on Syd, so the romance isn't necessarily the focal point, but I wish that the boys had been given a bit more page time and a little more development. Or at least one in particular. I definitely have a favorite between the two, and I can't wait to discover how Larsen develops this plot line and that character throughout the series.

Storywise, Larsen builds the tension and mystery at a nice, steady pace until it reaches the climax of the novel. Some of the conclusions Syd comes to at the conclusion felt a bit on the predictable side, but there were definitely many pieces of the puzzle that I didn't see coming. Larsen did a good job of making the all the pieces click together and creating a great conclusion while also staging the story for the second novel in the series, Witch Hunt.

Overall, with a fantastic, empathetic heroine, plenty of magic, an intriguing mystery and incorporating themes involving the search of self, familial relationships, duty and free will, Family Magic is an enchanting and enjoyable read.

[Dianne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Being a teen is often hard enough, you aren’t quite old enough to think, act, make decisions like an adult, yet, you’re too old for that gapped tooth, pink, fluffy cuteness of a child. You also haven’t quite mastered the art of tact, self-assuredness, etc. What’s left for a teen to do? Rebel, of course! But if your mother is a powerful witch coven leader, your father is a “nice” demon, and your uncle is a vampire, and you want to be “normal,” well, it takes teen rebellion to a new level! Everyone scrutinizes your every move, you are a public figure in the world of the supernatural, and it’s probably worse than being a preacher’s child. Sydlynn Hayle tries to act “normal” at school, but she is an outcast, picked on brutally by the “in crowd” and there isn’t a thing she can do about it, because her magic isn’t exactly reliable and besides, it’s against the laws of the coven. Yep, the teen years are tough.

When strange things start happening to the Hayle Coven, or, just about anywhere Sydlynn is, of course, she gets blamed and feels totally misunderstood, even more of an outcast. When the very existence of the coven is threatened, and her family’s lives are at risk, will Sydlynn finally put her rebellious streak to good use? There is dark magic in the air, and no one senses it but Sydlynn, why won’t people believe or trust in her? And at school? Is there a way to turn her misfortune around there? Is there anywhere Sydlynn can feel like she fits in? She has gifts and abilities with far more power than everyone realizes, even her, but will it be enough in the end?
Family Magic by Patti Larsen had me from the first page as her tale unfolded around the Hayle family, snarky Sydlynn in particular. With an array of great characters, including a demon cat with an attitude, my favorite was, by far, Syd. Attitude or not, that girl has a huge heart, one that she seemed to almost try to hide, because she felt so misunderstood. The plot runs in high gear, with great subplots, and a few completely comical scenes, to boot! Worried about teen angst? Don’t, Syd is one tough teen!

I guess you could say I was ‘spellbound’ by Family Magic! Although I already own this book, I did receive a review copy from Story Cartel and the author in exchange for my honest review.

Publication Date: October 14, 2011
Publisher: CreateSpace/Patti Larsen
Series: Hayle Coven, #1
ISBN: 978-1466451032
Number of pages: 466
Genre: YA Paranormal Fantasy
Recommended Age: 13 & up
My Rating: 5 Stars
Available at: Amazon / Barnes & Noble
For more reviews check out Tome Tender's Book Blog or find us on Facebook.

[Lynn Worton · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first book in a fantastically magic series. I loved it!

Sydlynn Hayle is a not so typical teen. She is a powerful witch, who also happens to be part demon. I liked her a lot, even though the angst and self pity sometimes got on my nerves. Her life is not simple by any means, but when danger threatens her family, she is one of the bravest heroines to grace the pages of a book. She is stubborn and determined, and even more powerful than she fully realises.

I downloaded this book after a friend recommended it a while ago. Unfortunately, I have only just now managed to get to read it. I am really kicking myself, because it was a fantastic story!
I started to read and couldn't put it down! Sydlynn may not be a typical teen, but her desire to be normal and fit in is something that everyone can relate to. It was interesting to see how this character grew through the story; her confidence in her magic and the relationships with new friends. I loved Syd's grandmother, who although damaged by a powerfully misfired spell, is still a formidable woman in her lucid moments. There are several twists in this story, which kept me hooked! The coven is facing a dangerous foe and, although I kind of guessed who that was before it was revealed, the mystery and suspense that is built up was electrifying. Syd's also facing a potential love triangle, and a fight between her witch half and what her demon half wants. I must admit that I am not really a fan of love triangles, but Brad Peters and Quaid Moromond are like chalk and cheese. Brad may be the star football player of the school, but I liked his warmth and charm. Quaid is the typical bad boy, but it's more image than reality. He is dark and brooding, but also has a vibe that Syd's demon is drawn to. He is still a bit of an enigma though, so I am hoping that I'll get to know him better. There was one surprise I didn't see coming, and that involves a cheerleading bully. I will leave it to you to find out what happened. I will say that it did bring a tear to my eye, in a good way. I was a bit sad when I reached the end of the story, as I wanted to keep reading. I am now looking forward to continuing this series - of which there are 20 books so far - I have a lot of catching up to do!

Patti Larsen has written a fast paced, magical YA novel. I loved the way the author has created characters that are lifelike and likable, but with a paranormal twist. I loved the pace and flow. I am adding this author to my Favourite Authors list.

I highly recommend this book (and series) if you love YA or Paranormal Romances. - Lynn Worton

[Carol Holaday · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read a teaser for Family Magic, a young adult paranormal novel by Patti Larsen, and have been looking forward to this book for a while.

Sydlynn is a 16 year-old half witch/half demon (the good kind) who wants nothing to do with magic (it makes her queasy) but is expected to take over leadership of the family someday. All Sydlynn wants is to have a normal life with real friends, to be a normal, non-magical teen. Unfortunately, after having been moved from town to town and school to school whenever their secret is compromised, Sydlynn struggles to fit in but mostly finds herself the target of bullies. And things only get worse for Sydlynn when the captain of the football team's girlfriend notices that he's taken a liking to her. Sydlynn is faced with stepping up to take her power or be eaten by the school "mean machine," and when her family is put in extreme danger Sydlynn is forced to accept her family role and take action to save them all. Unfortunately, her past unwillingness to learn how to control and use her magical abilities is going to be a problem . . .

Family Magic is paced to keep you reading (until all hours of the night) and an excellent blend of the paranormal and real life. There was a great mix of angst, humor, danger, excitement, friendship and family. The interactions between the main character, Sydlynn and her mother will likely take you back to the struggle for adulthood we all experience as a teen. Family Magic is more proof that Indie authors can produce great books. I thoroughly enjoyed this first book in the series and am looking forward to the next one.

Family Magic is currently available as an e-book at Amazon.com and Smashwords.com. The paperback is forthcoming and the sequel, Witch Hunt, is scheduled for release in November.

[Jonel · Rating 5 out of 5]

This novel is captivating, enthralling, and fast-paced while still remaining a light and very enjoyable read. Larsen’s phenomenal descriptions paint a vivid world for you. They support the very well developed story that this amazing storyteller presents to us. I also enjoy how she meshes the world of witchcraft with the mundane world of mere mortals. This story is developed in such a manner that allows you to see the possibility of it happening right next door.

This novel takes the well-known to-be-a-witch story, and gives it to the audience backwards. Larsen writes a thrillingly captivating tale about accepting who you are. Throughout her very well thought out and solidly put together novel Larsen illustrates how, regardless of who you are or who you think you want to be, life is always best if you are above all, yourself.

Larsen puts together a very interesting cast of characters. There is a large variation in personalities, physical appearances, and walks in life, yet the characters mesh together into a cohesive unit that has at least one person that everyone can relate to. Larsen’s cast of characters is also very well developed. Each one is uniquely developed to fit their role in the story. I also appreciate the varied degree of development found throughout the cast. Larsen doesn’t over or under develop any of her characters. As a reader, you find out what is relevant to the character in question.

As a whole, this was a very captivating novel that I couldn’t put down. I was enthralled throughout and cannot wait to read more about these characters and to dive into further work by this very talented author.

Please note that I received this novel free of charge from the author in exchange for an honest review.

[Laura Thomas · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a story about a sixteen year old girl. She wants what everyone wants. To fit in. To find her place. But being a teen, she’s dealing with all of that angst, those hormones. Being bullied at school, responsible for her insane grandmother, and clashing with her mother have Syd all torn up inside.

She must find herself. Discover what she wants. She thinks she doesn’t wanted her magic. Doesn’t want to be a witch. And she keeps her demon half locked down inside her. All of this frustration and anger find a way out sometimes, like a pot boiling over.

It seems like every time Syd makes up with her mother, something else happens and she’s screaming how much she hates her, the family, the coven, her powers, and witches. She wants out and doesn’t want to wait until she’s 18 to give up her power.

After a huge blow out with her mother, Syd’s dad is waiting for her. When she enters the basement, both of her parents are there, but her uncle butts into the family meeting. He insists they stop lying to Syd. Tell her the truth. She needs to get control of her demon now more than ever.

Syd’s never whiney. She grows strong as she learns more, faces herself and her demon. Embraces her power. The author keeps her in character, genuine and believable. She’s a teenager and stays one, showing her growth, her confusion, her determination, and her doubts.

As the end of the book drew near, I became worried. I couldn’t see how it would all work out. I was worried, afraid for the characters.

The very first sentence in the last chapter is to telling and true. I wish I could share it with you, but you’ll see what I mean when you read it. So insightful. So powerful. As strong as the characters and magic displayed in this book.

I received this book for my honest review.

[Megan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Review taken from my blog http://readingawaythedays.blogspot.com
updated 2015



I really enjoyed Family Magic, I love a good paranormal read and I have found that I'm Family Magic.


I really liked the magic in Family Magic it is different from any I have read before, the coven leader, that being Syd's mother Miriam, can control the magic of the coven during ceremonies, she hones in and uses the coven's power but not in evil way. I also really like that the Demon's in Family Magic aren't portrayed as scary monsters after they just live on a different plane called Demonicon where Syd's dad lives, there are good and bad demons the same as there is good and bad humans.


Syd had a lot to deal with. With being the new girl at school, to being bullied by the head cheerleader and also to top it of it doesn't help that humans can sense she is different and tend to avoid her. There is alot of teen angst. The angst did grate a little as Syd did complain an awful lot however Syd does mature as the book continues as she has to finally understand that it her who isn't confident within herself to fully embrace herself and not her mother's fault.


Of course there was a romance in Family Magic. The story didn't delve too much into the romance side but I think its a great set up for the rest of the books in the series.


Finally there were some other awesome characters I loved. Meria, Syd's little sister is so cute. We also have Gram, Syd's grandmother who is plain crazy but really funny. 


All together Family Magic is a great book. Has a good fast paced storyline, great characters and a great bases for more to come!

[Masquerade Crew · Rating 4 out of 5]

WALKI'S REVIEW

The Hayle Coven. Powerful, but they had to move a few times and generally overnight, because of a few magical accidents. An inconvenience for sixteen-year-old Syd who has to feel the outsider in every high school, while her eight-year-old sister Meira has to make sure she keeps her human appearance at school. Their mother is the powerful and generous witch Miriam Hayle, head of the Hayle Coven; their father is the Demon Lord Haralthazar. Their uncle Frank is a vampire. Syd has trouble controlling her powers, while for Meira It is…….. child's play.

Patti Larsen spent 100 pages describing Syd's life and almost lost me, despite her humorous style. However she did then get around to deliver a captivating story with characters easy to warm to, and an entertaining cat.

In this book Syd turns two lives around (the bully and the football hero in her school) and, despite her strong desire to be normal, finds herself the only one 'left standing' to save her family and her coven, because she is in a rebel phase.

I would say that what ultimately saves the Hayle Coven from betrayal and destruction, is the close bond between Syd and her mother. And the mother's determination to stop burning the home-made cookies.
A sequel, with more cookies, would be definitely welcome.

[Rachel Lynn Sterling · Rating 4 out of 5]

I downloaded this book as a freebie and was a little wary of it because of the demon/witchcraft content. I am a christian and I'm not comfortable with the direction in which some authors take these subjects. Don't get me wrong, I'm no nun & certainly never claim to be! I love a good fantasy and that's exactly what this was. The story as a whole wasn't dark & demonic like I was afraid it would be.

It had good, well-built characters and the plot-line was entertaining and moved at a good pace. I have to mention that the author really won me over with her writing. She really put clear pictures of everything in my head without over doing it & being too wordy. There have been few times that I have found a book that was so well written that I found myself reading it out loud like poetry. This was one of those times. I think I enjoyed the flow and rhythm of the writing as much as the story itself!

I also very much appreciate the fact that, although this is the first in a series, I wasn't left hanging at the end. I felt perfectly content when I finished the book and even though I look forward to reading the next in the series, I don't feel that I'm being forced to in order to complete the story.

[Erin Cawood · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's not easy being at high school and Syd's got it harder than most. Daughter of a coven leader witch and the lord of a demonic plane Syd made the decision to walk away from her magical destiny along time ago. She just wants to be normal. When the coven is attacked by forces set out to destroy it this half witch, half demon isnt the only one surprised by her magical inheritance.

I loved Family Magic. I spent most of it wrapped in a cloud of nostalgia, remembering the traumas of high school, run ins with the popular kids and the bullies, feuds with my sisters and parents. Totally related to poor Syd's situation (without the magic of course!). I loved the teen angst of the first love interest and the development of friendships. Loved the fact that even with the happy ending the world isn't perfect. It's real.

YA is not normally my thing and books written from a 1st person point of view drive me crazy. I don't normally get passed the first chapter. Patti Larsen is truly gifted because I read Family Magic cover to cover and I'm on the edge of my seat waiting for the next instalment!

[Cassandra · Rating 5 out of 5]

My Thoughts - 5 out of 5 unicorns - I loved it!!!

**Received the ebook free in exchange for an honest review as part of the blog tour

I really loved this book :) It was easy to be sucked into Syd’s life. High school is a rough enough time without adding witch and demon problems to the mix. She is trying so hard to be her own person on home, but fit in at school. She is an emotional mess, but this is typical for a 16 year old girl. I love how strong she is and that she stands up against bullying. This book is packed with all sorts of things like high school bullies, boys, teen angst, talking cat, vampires, coven, crazy grandma, spells gone awry, and so much more.

I recommend to all paranormal book lovers of YA age or adults. You will not be bored reading this book. And when I looked to see if it is a series, it is and has like 20 books. I’m going to have to read them all!! And I’m going to have to buy them in paperback, so I can have them for my classroom because I think the kids will love them.

[Lburt · Rating 3 out of 5]

Debated on whether to give this book 3 or 4 stars and settled for 3 because although I like the main character Syd, man she can be whiny. I kept excepting her to just grow up and take responsibly. But is seemed she could only do it for a short while then she'd go all whiny again and throw why me fits. The fits could have brought the rating down more but there were to many other good points keeping it up. I really enjoyed Syd's family and when it comes to handling her school friends/bullies etc Syd turns into a top rate person anyone could love. She makes mistakes but owns up to them. When she is feeling strong and not so concerned with her "situation" she becomes the character that keeps this story going. Looking forward to reading the next one and seeing if Syd continues to grow up and become a great character.

[Krystal Marlein · Rating 5 out of 5]

So this book has been sitting on my kindle for far to long and I have no idea why I waited so darn long to read it. I'm kicking myself in the butt rather hard! I also have signed paperback copies of books 1&2 on my bookshelf that have been taunting me for months! But I am glad I finally started this fabulous series!!! Mrs. Larsen has a wicked imagination and definitely knows how to spin a magical tale! Witches, demons, vampires, Fay.
I absolutely LOVE Sydlynn! She's your typical 16 year old girl except that she's a witch. An extremely powerful witch who has always refused to learn to hone her craft. Do yourself a favor and grab this book! Start a magical journey into the Hayle coven series. I'm onto book 2 and am extremely pleased this series had close to 20 books in it!! I can't wait to devour them all!

[Aki · Rating 1 out of 5]

See, there's this small infinitesimal blurb on the front cover of this book claiming to be the best story ever, or some such nonsense.

It's a lie.

I got to page 57 before I just got fed up with the shiny sixteen year old who has the shittiest life, dontch'a know?

Honestly, I'm growing tired of the YA fandom in general. Perhaps because I'm older and wiser and that much more cynical than the stupid teenagers portrayed in bookstores the YA genre today.

I'd like to see characters that have actual issues and not just I'm a teenager, woe is me for my parents being in charge bullshit.

Sadly this books has none of that.

In fact, the only thing this book does have is a whinny spoiled brat.

Give this a large pass.

[Kimberly Kinrade · Rating 5 out of 5]

Part demon, part witch, Syd is obviously not like other girls. But she hides who she really is in an attempt to try. When her family's powerful coven is threatened by insidious forces bent on destroying them, Syd has to make choices about her magic that could affect the rest of her life.

This book has everything. Great family drama, hot boys, magic, witches, demons and difficult choices. This is one of my new favorite books of 2011 and I CANNOT WAIT to read the rest of the series. Good thing this author wields her own brand of magic with the keyboard, because we won't have to wait long for the sequels.

A MUST READ!!!

[Eden Baylee · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm not surprised Ms. Larsen dedicated this book to her main character, Syd. It's been a long time since I've read a YA novel, but I found myself identifying with Syd from the beginning. She is a heroine worth cheering for.

Filled with suspense, magic, demons, and so much more, Family Magic, above all, is an intelligent read I would have loved as a young girl.

Patti Larsen is an advocate for smart and imaginative stories aimed at young adults, but I suspect many adults will fall in love with her stories too.

[Donna Huber · Rating 5 out of 5]

Since watching the book trailer, I have wanted to read this book. I was thrilled when I won the first 4 books in the series in a recent giveaway. It lived up to expectation. I really enjoyed it and would start the next one immediately if my Nook wasn't telling me to charge it.

[Avid · Rating 1 out of 5]

Absolute trash.

Written at a 4th-grade reading level.
A constant ...he said ...she said ... ran through the entire book. 🙄

The main character was a spoiled little brat. A teenager in rebellion. The remainder of the characters also don't have any redeeming qualities.

All I kept thinking the whole time I read this book was I wonder if this was a project someone in junior high did and was able to have their parents get published.

Even for teenagers, which must have been the intended audience, this is an awful read.

NOT recommended 👎
📚

[George Floyd · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great!

I read this in one day, barely leaving my chair. Riveting, fast paced. Excellent characters and superb plot. I look forward to the rest of the series and others by the author!

[Sapphyria · Rating 5 out of 5]

Setting: Wilding Springs, PA

Sydlynn Hayle is the 16 year-old daughter of Miriam Hayle, witch, and coven leader. All Sydlynn has ever wanted was to forget she has magical powers and just be normal. This, of course is extremely difficult in a family full of witches, demons, and vampires.

Sydlynn's father is Haralthazar, Demon Lord of the Seventh Plane of Demonicon. Because he resides on a different plane, Sydlynn is lucky to see him more than a handful of times each year. Her sister, 8 year-old Meira, takes after their dad's side and proudly sports the reddish coloring and a couple of horns. She constantly has to keep up an illusion out in public so her peers and neighbors don't go screaming into the night. And Grandmother - poor grandmother - is mentally unstable since protecting their coven from an evil coven back when Sydlynn was a baby. Uncle Frank, the vampire, and his vampire companion, Sunny, round out the family nicely. Oh, and then there is Sassafras. He's their talking cat that is, in all actuality "a demon teenager; a boy so terrible the demon elders punished him by placing him in the body of a house cat" (Larsen, P., 2011, pg. 49). Sassafras has been in the Hayle family for 150+ years.

Sydlynn is very much a typical teenager - all magic aside - and struggles with trying to be who she wants to be while dealing with people who expect her to be something else. She's fiercely independent and has is set in her mind that when she turns 18 she renouncing her heritage and walking away from the coven. Unfortunately, she has another thing coming.

An old friend, and former member of the Hayle coven, Batsheva and Dominic Moromond, along with their son Quaid, seek out Miriam after their own coven breaks apart. Sydlynn isn't really sure about the new family and finds it quite disconcerting that she finds Quaid staring or smirking at her quite often. There is an attraction between the two, however Syd has her eyes set on Brad, a football player she goes to school with.

Unfortunately, Brad has the attention of head cheerleader and Miss Popularity herself. When Alison finds Brad talking to Syd, all hell breaks loose and she ramps up the already bullying that happens to Syd. And Syd has had enough.

It would also appear that the Hayle coven is under some sort of devious attack by another coven but Mirian, Syd, and the rest of the coven have a hard time trying to figure out who is behind the attacks. Will Syd be able to pull herself together and help the Hayle coven before it's torn apart?

Wow! Patti Larsen is a fantastic writer. There are so many storylines, yet each is distinct and handled well within the novel. While Family Magic is a paranormal book, it is also Young Adult and the situations created by the author are very much what you would expect in a household containing a teenager; witch or not. There is the teenage angst ~ Syd doesn't fit in, she's trying to hard, she's a constant new girl since they move around a lot, she gets bullied. There is the realization that there are boys in the world that might just like her. There is tension between Syd and her mother ~ her mother expects her to act certain ways and Syd just doesn't want to have anything to do with that. She wants to be her own person and leave some of the family baggage behind. Plus add in that her mother is leader of a coven and that adds a whole new layer to the family dynamics.

The world-building in this novel is created slowly, but not so slowly that you get bored and start skimming or skipping paragraphs. Being that this is the first book in a series currently hailing at 20 books, introducing the key characters and their lifestyles, mannerisms, and characteristics is very important. Nothing that develops is overwhelming and the book progresses at just the right pace. All is explained well and this is just an excellent book.

I will be continuing on with the series.

Review Copy Courtesy Of: The author, via book tour company, in exchange for an honest review.

[Lissette · Rating 4 out of 5]

At only sixteen years of age, Sydlynn Hayle has put up with quite a good many disappointments. She's the daughter of a very powerful witch and a demon lord. To the ordinary eye, her family has it all, and they live in the lap of a luxury unlike anything they've ever known. Her parents are content with the lives they lead, and her sister openly accepts who and what she is, embracing her powers to the fullest extent.

Unfortunately, she can't do the same. It's not that she can't, mind you. It's that she doesn't want to. In Sydlynn's mind, she sees herself as a monster, someone who is bound to fall to the darker side. She knows she shouldn't think this way. That despite what legends say, witches and demons are not like how they've been portrayed. Yet she can't help in denying who and what she is. The idea of using magic just doesn't sit well with her.

Determined to fit in at school, Sydlynn does her best to hold fast to the decisions she's been making. She knows her family and the coven don't quite understand where she's coming from. How could they? They're different in more ways than one. Still, if she's to succeed in letting go of everything that sets her apart, namely her magic, she knows she'll need to make the effort in becoming something she's truly not. Deep inside, she knows it's her only way in living a normal and magic-free life.

When a random act of violence disrupts the natural flow of events within the coven itself, Sydlynn soon realizes that things aren't as random as they seem. Someone is out to take the coven down, intent on picking everyone off, one by one. Although she's not quite sure as to who's behind the attacks, there's one thing she's sure of. Whoever it is wants to control everything. If they're to do just that, the throne of power must be taken out at all cost. Unfortunately, there's something no one counted on - Sydlynn's uncontrollable magic and the demon she harbors inside of herself.

This was honestly a very delightful story. It's a different take on all things witchy, which is sure to capture your attention, and keep it glued to every page. We meet Sydlynn, a magical teenager who's hell-bent on denying her true nature. She just wants to be a regular, ordinary teenager, one who isn't ruled by the magic that surrounds her.

We also get to meet her extraordinary family full of witches, warlocks, demons, vampires, and the like. A family that sticks out like a sore thumb. They're different, and she knows it quite well. For a girl who just wants to fade into the woodwork, she certainly has her work cut out for her. Sydlynn reminds me of young girl who just wants to fit in. She wants a simple life where nothing supernatural exists. Sadly, that's something she'll never get to know.

I think Patti captured her angst, triumphs, and deep insecurities quite beautifully. She paints a picture of a girl immersed in a world that isn't one of her choosing. By utilizing her family and the intrigue that surrounds the Hayle lore, we catch a glimpse of the determined young woman beneath the soft, and sometimes aloof, exterior. There's definitely more to come for the Hayle family, and I look forward to catching up on their shenanigans as time goes by.