What do you think?
Rate this book
A Magic Fierce and Bright
A young technomancer teams up with a handsome thief to save her sister in this propulsive, magic-filled young adult fantasy that is perfect for fans of Gearbreakers and Iron Widow .
Adya wants nothing more than to be left alone. Content to be loyal to no one but herself in the isolated jungles of South India, she dreams only of finding her lost sister, Priya, and making enough money to take care of their family. It’s too bad that her rare ability to wake electric machines—using the magic that wiped them out five centuries ago—also makes her a coveted political pawn. Everyone seems to believe that her technomancy can help them win the endless war for control over the magic’s supernatural source.
These senseless power struggles mean little to Adya. But when her enemies dangle news of her sister before her, she’s all too quick to leap at the chance to bring Priya home—even if it means teaming up with a rakish, disreputable thief in order to do it. With the threat of invasion looming ever larger on the horizon, Adya must reconcile the kind of person she is with the kind of person she wants to be and untangle the web of intrigue, conspiracy, and deceit that threatens to take all of India down with it.
Adya wants nothing more than to be left alone. Content to be loyal to no one but herself in the isolated jungles of South India, she dreams only of finding her lost sister, Priya, and making enough money to take care of their family. It’s too bad that her rare ability to wake electric machines—using the magic that wiped them out five centuries ago—also makes her a coveted political pawn. Everyone seems to believe that her technomancy can help them win the endless war for control over the magic’s supernatural source.
These senseless power struggles mean little to Adya. But when her enemies dangle news of her sister before her, she’s all too quick to leap at the chance to bring Priya home—even if it means teaming up with a rakish, disreputable thief in order to do it. With the threat of invasion looming ever larger on the horizon, Adya must reconcile the kind of person she is with the kind of person she wants to be and untangle the web of intrigue, conspiracy, and deceit that threatens to take all of India down with it.
384 pages, Hardcover
Published July 9, 2024
31 people are currently reading
879 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
November 29, 2024
A Magic Fierce and Bright
by Hemant Nayak
YA Fantasy
NetGalley eARC
Pub Date: July 9, 2024
Simon and Schuster
Ages: 13+
Adya is a technomancer, gifted with the rare magic to bring ancient machines back to life, and is using her ability to bring a rickshaw back to life so she can find her sister who disappeared. But her debts have caught up with her and she is to be sold to the British to pay it off. Escaping, she find herself drawn into the politics of war, as was her sister.
This book started off a little slow as Adya, the world, and the magic were introduced, and sadly that was pretty much the explanation. It made for a lot of guessing for the rest of the book about the reasons why, and how, and what. It made it feel as if the last half of the book was hurried, but the ending was more so.
I really did like this world and magic, and with more depth, I would have liked it a lot more. It's a unique world with interesting characters. There were different types of magic, and Adya's was described in detail, but the others were not, mostly summed up and that took away from the story.
A lot more depth to the world, the magic, and the rest of the characters would have earned this another star.
3 Stars
by Hemant Nayak
YA Fantasy
NetGalley eARC
Pub Date: July 9, 2024
Simon and Schuster
Ages: 13+
Adya is a technomancer, gifted with the rare magic to bring ancient machines back to life, and is using her ability to bring a rickshaw back to life so she can find her sister who disappeared. But her debts have caught up with her and she is to be sold to the British to pay it off. Escaping, she find herself drawn into the politics of war, as was her sister.
This book started off a little slow as Adya, the world, and the magic were introduced, and sadly that was pretty much the explanation. It made for a lot of guessing for the rest of the book about the reasons why, and how, and what. It made it feel as if the last half of the book was hurried, but the ending was more so.
I really did like this world and magic, and with more depth, I would have liked it a lot more. It's a unique world with interesting characters. There were different types of magic, and Adya's was described in detail, but the others were not, mostly summed up and that took away from the story.
A lot more depth to the world, the magic, and the rest of the characters would have earned this another star.
3 Stars
March 24, 2025
An interesting read, adequately paced, but nothing memorable.
July 3, 2025
3 Stars for A Magic Fierce and Bright (audiobook) by Hemant Nayak read by Shiromi Arserio.
I enjoyed some of the elements of this story. It’s a fantasy set in India with an interesting magical character. She has connection with cars and motorcycles. They seem to come alive when she’s around. It’s a good book but not great.
I enjoyed some of the elements of this story. It’s a fantasy set in India with an interesting magical character. She has connection with cars and motorcycles. They seem to come alive when she’s around. It’s a good book but not great.
gave-up-on
April 7, 2024I'd like to thank the publisher and NetGalley for a chance at reading this.
25% into this book I had to DNF it. The characters are absolutely flat. The world building started off pretty awesome with the introduction of the meteorite that came and changed the world (our world). Then, 400 years into the future, and that's were we got so much 'telling' and no world building.
I vaguely grasped what the main character could do, but the author did not build it up enough to make me understand the character. It felt like pieces of the plot were just there to make her 'seem' bad-ass. When her grandmother and her village were attacked, I felt no sympathy. Because we never met them, we never got to see the main character interact with them. Then, her brother appears, and he too felt under-developed.
Everything just seemed to be conveniently 'there' for the plot.
Out of respect for the author I will not rate this book because I did not finish it.
25% into this book I had to DNF it. The characters are absolutely flat. The world building started off pretty awesome with the introduction of the meteorite that came and changed the world (our world). Then, 400 years into the future, and that's were we got so much 'telling' and no world building.
I vaguely grasped what the main character could do, but the author did not build it up enough to make me understand the character. It felt like pieces of the plot were just there to make her 'seem' bad-ass. When her grandmother and her village were attacked, I felt no sympathy. Because we never met them, we never got to see the main character interact with them. Then, her brother appears, and he too felt under-developed.
Everything just seemed to be conveniently 'there' for the plot.
Out of respect for the author I will not rate this book because I did not finish it.
February 24, 2024
USELESS THE CAT I LOVE YOU <33
The soul arrows are so cool?? I feel like getting places in this book was rushed but the rest of it is really good, would love a book two
The soul arrows are so cool?? I feel like getting places in this book was rushed but the rest of it is really good, would love a book two
May 8, 2025
DNF'ed 40% in
This is my fault for falling for pretty covers.
A bunch of wild magical jungle kids, and a dirt bike? What could possibly go wrong?
A lot. A lot can go wrong. Like this story.
It wasn't terrible, it was just boring. I really didn't care what happened with this weird magic system and talking Yamaha bike.
Also, I skimmed to the end. It doesn't get better.
This is my fault for falling for pretty covers.
A bunch of wild magical jungle kids, and a dirt bike? What could possibly go wrong?
A lot. A lot can go wrong. Like this story.
It wasn't terrible, it was just boring. I really didn't care what happened with this weird magic system and talking Yamaha bike.
Also, I skimmed to the end. It doesn't get better.
Want to read
September 26, 2024bought this from the bookstore last week bc the cover was pretty and forgot to put it on my tbr. whoops. here's to hoping it won't disappoint
Read
July 28, 2024Tentative DNF almost halfway through. Nothing is happening and the worldbuilding is all over the place. I was really hoping to love this, but I'm having a hard time turning every page.
June 24, 2024
Set against the lush backdrop of South India, the story follows Adya, a technomancer who can awaken electric machines with her rare magical abilities. Living a life of solitude in the jungles of India, Adya's primary focus is to find her lost sister. However, her unique powers make her a valuable asset in the ongoing political wars for control. Reluctantly, she is forced to team up with a charming yet untrustworthy thief who might have information about her sister.
This has such an amazingly rich world-building. Nayak deftly creates a vibrant and immersive setting. The concept of technomancy—using magic to animate the souls of machines—is fascinating. The author's quirky dad-slanted humor adds a delightful touch because it really aligns with my own sense of humor.
I really like Adya and how she's driven by her fierce loyalty to her family and her determination to find her sister. Her growth throughout the novel, as she navigates the complexities of her abilities and the moral dilemmas she faces, is wonderful. The dynamic between Adya and the other characters is delightful. The supporting characters are equally well-developed, each contributing their own charms the story. The inclusion of a motorcycle with a personality of its own is a particularly charming touch, adding a unique element to the technomancy aspect.
While the book is aimed at a younger audience, its themes should resonate with readers of all ages. The story is fast-paced and engaging, with a balance of action, humor, and heartfelt moments. This is a great time! Thanks to the author and the publisher for the copy. This review is based on a complimentary pre-released copy and it is voluntary.
This has such an amazingly rich world-building. Nayak deftly creates a vibrant and immersive setting. The concept of technomancy—using magic to animate the souls of machines—is fascinating. The author's quirky dad-slanted humor adds a delightful touch because it really aligns with my own sense of humor.
I really like Adya and how she's driven by her fierce loyalty to her family and her determination to find her sister. Her growth throughout the novel, as she navigates the complexities of her abilities and the moral dilemmas she faces, is wonderful. The dynamic between Adya and the other characters is delightful. The supporting characters are equally well-developed, each contributing their own charms the story. The inclusion of a motorcycle with a personality of its own is a particularly charming touch, adding a unique element to the technomancy aspect.
While the book is aimed at a younger audience, its themes should resonate with readers of all ages. The story is fast-paced and engaging, with a balance of action, humor, and heartfelt moments. This is a great time! Thanks to the author and the publisher for the copy. This review is based on a complimentary pre-released copy and it is voluntary.
February 19, 2025
Great world building and characters! I enjoyed the fast paced adventure
September 22, 2025
I loved this book. The setting and magic system are among the most unique and interesting I've encountered in a while. And the motorcycle? Incredible! 🧑🍳🤌
2024
October 7, 2025ANHPI TBR
📱 Thank you to NetGalley and Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers
📱 Thank you to NetGalley and Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers
July 16, 2024
Review copy was provided by publisher. [Note: While the text doesn’t go into explicit detail, there are scenes that include significant bodily harm, including the loss of a limb, and character death. There are also scenes involving human experimentation and torture, though most of that is implied/mentioned rather than shown directly.]
The world of A MAGIC FIERCE AND BRIGHT is a unique magic-induced post-apocalypse set in a fractured India on the verge of a total colonial takeover by the British. Author Hemant Nayak clearly had a lot of fun creating this world and populating it with all sorts of magical and mythological creatures. There is more than one type of magic, though I had some difficulty understanding the differences between them and the limits of their power beyond the technomancy that Adya herself practiced. It left me a little confused at points about what was or wasn’t possible in the setting, which was occasionally distracting.
I enjoy when characters who tend to focus most on their (and their family’s) survival end up swept up into greater scope plots against their will. Adya’s determination to protect her little brother and find her missing twin were relatable ways to help ground the fantastical plot, though I do wish we had been able to develop Mohan more deeply. Mohan isn’t on page for significant stretches of the book, which limited how often Adya herself could reminisce about Priya, and thus limited Priya's character depth as well.
In fact, character development was generally limited across the board. A MAGIC FIERCE AND BRIGHT has so much world building, plot movement, and location changes that there aren’t very many opportunities to really explore people or places in depth. This occasionally hinders the emotional impact of the story, like the discovery that the villain has turned a side character into a monster—we had exactly one on-page scene with the character beforehand. Sure, it was a surprise that the villain could do that with their magic, but it didn’t have the same emotional weight as it would have if we had more time with that character. Imral had a decent character arc, which I appreciated, and Dsouza had good banter with Adya but a woefully under-explored backstory. The motorcycle was endearing, and the resolution of the question of Priya was satisfying.
That said, A MAGIC FIERCE AND BRIGHT had a compelling, action-oriented plot. The characters moved from one set piece to the next, and many of the fights were memorable. I enjoyed seeing how the author would up the stakes or change up the pieces on the board the next time, and there were only one or two places where I felt the action faltered. If you’re looking for an action-oriented fantasy with spectacular fights, you’ll enjoy this. If you prefer your fantasy centered on deep dives into characters or magic, this may not be the best fit for you.
Recommendation: Stick A MAGIC FIERCE AND BRIGHT on your borrow someday list, though if you’re itching for some action/adventure this summer, bump it several spots higher. This book excels at keeping the plot moving though the magic-induced post-apocalypse with serviceable characters and a protagonist who is determined to find and keep her remaining family members alive.
The world of A MAGIC FIERCE AND BRIGHT is a unique magic-induced post-apocalypse set in a fractured India on the verge of a total colonial takeover by the British. Author Hemant Nayak clearly had a lot of fun creating this world and populating it with all sorts of magical and mythological creatures. There is more than one type of magic, though I had some difficulty understanding the differences between them and the limits of their power beyond the technomancy that Adya herself practiced. It left me a little confused at points about what was or wasn’t possible in the setting, which was occasionally distracting.
I enjoy when characters who tend to focus most on their (and their family’s) survival end up swept up into greater scope plots against their will. Adya’s determination to protect her little brother and find her missing twin were relatable ways to help ground the fantastical plot, though I do wish we had been able to develop Mohan more deeply. Mohan isn’t on page for significant stretches of the book, which limited how often Adya herself could reminisce about Priya, and thus limited Priya's character depth as well.
In fact, character development was generally limited across the board. A MAGIC FIERCE AND BRIGHT has so much world building, plot movement, and location changes that there aren’t very many opportunities to really explore people or places in depth. This occasionally hinders the emotional impact of the story, like the discovery that the villain has turned a side character into a monster—we had exactly one on-page scene with the character beforehand. Sure, it was a surprise that the villain could do that with their magic, but it didn’t have the same emotional weight as it would have if we had more time with that character. Imral had a decent character arc, which I appreciated, and Dsouza had good banter with Adya but a woefully under-explored backstory. The motorcycle was endearing, and the resolution of the question of Priya was satisfying.
That said, A MAGIC FIERCE AND BRIGHT had a compelling, action-oriented plot. The characters moved from one set piece to the next, and many of the fights were memorable. I enjoyed seeing how the author would up the stakes or change up the pieces on the board the next time, and there were only one or two places where I felt the action faltered. If you’re looking for an action-oriented fantasy with spectacular fights, you’ll enjoy this. If you prefer your fantasy centered on deep dives into characters or magic, this may not be the best fit for you.
Recommendation: Stick A MAGIC FIERCE AND BRIGHT on your borrow someday list, though if you’re itching for some action/adventure this summer, bump it several spots higher. This book excels at keeping the plot moving though the magic-induced post-apocalypse with serviceable characters and a protagonist who is determined to find and keep her remaining family members alive.
July 7, 2024
More reviews (and no fluff) on the blog http://surrealtalvi.wordpress.com/
I greatly enjoyed this book. It is somewhat gritty (as are most post apocalyptic) but also engaging enough that I read through to the end very quickly. The setting is quite unique and the author does an excellent job of weaving Indian culture into a somewhat magical dystopian future Earth. The human characters were a bit flat and underwritten but the personalities in the machines were especially fun.Story: The Earth is in desolation after a meteor strike. Four hundred years in the future, young Adya is desperately trying to survive - her parents dead and she is doing all she can repairing machinery to make enough food for her two siblings. Like many in her tribe, she is a technomancer - the ability to wake the souls of machines. When her twin sister Priya's idealism causes her to sneak off and go to help a neighboring country protect themselves from British colonizers, pragmatic Adya only wants to get her sister back. But to do so, she will have to deal with the local warlord first - a warlord who has other plans for Adya and her talents.
I really enjoyed the worldbuilding. An India being colonized/overrun by the British who have their own magic - werewolves, vampires, and abilities from their culture. Other territories in India also have their own magic - whether it is the ability to sing magic or weave elemental spells. The technomancy is especially sought after since it is the only way to make machines live again - machines that can be used to wage war.
Adya as a character is very damaged and hesitant to take chances; strong-willed and pragmatic to a fault, she can be inscrutable at times. Side characters often felt like heroes and villains from a Bollywood blockbusters; that can be both appealing and off putting (fortunately, there are no songs and dance numbers in a book). But on the whole, I did like all the characters, even the younger brother. They were a bit simplistic but offset by the wonderful personalities given to the machines that Adya awakes. The Kawasaki motorbike was especially well done and easily the best character in the story.
There is plenty of action and I never got bored. The story had a complete arc and did not end on a cliff hanger though room was left open for the story to continue. I am looking forward to the next book in the series. Reviewed from an advance reader copy provided by the publisher.
April 24, 2024
"A Magic Fierce and Bright" by Hemant Nayak is a fun and unique YA fantasy novel that blends elements of Indian mythology with a futuristic setting. The premise of this book is so unique as the setting is in the future but it’s a version of Earth where technology fails and magic resurfaces. I have never read a book like this, especially one that made me emotional about a sentient motorbike, but I absolutely loved the plot and the world that Nayak created.
The story follows Adya, a young technomancer with a rare ability to awaken electric machines, as she navigates through political intrigue and personal challenges in her quest to save her sister, Priya. This book has the found family troupe, which I always adore, as well as some unique heist moments while also focusing on the politics of this unique world. Also, there is a cat in this book named Useless who I loved and was incredibly invested in even though Useless was just a minor character. In my heart, Useless was the star of the slow (I love the name!).
From the very start, Nayak's writing style draws you in with its gorgeous prose, creating a vivid world filled with unique characters and unexpected twists. Despite facing constant pressure to use her powers for political gain, Adya remains determined to reunite with her sister and protect her family, showcasing her strength and resilience throughout the story. Her drive to reunite with her sister is the foundation of the book, and I loved how Adya never gave up no matter what happened, even a specific traumatic incident about halfway through the book.
One of the other highlights of the book is the dynamic between Adya and her love interest. Their partnership adds depth to the story, as they embark on a thrilling adventure filled with bickering and a tinge of romance that only grows as the plot progresses. Additionally, the inclusion of sentient beings such as a motorbike adds a touch of whimsy. As stated earlier, going into the book, I wasn’t expecting to become attached to a motorbike, but I think the motorbike ended up being my favorite character (behind Useless the cat).
While the pacing may feel rushed at times, especially when important details are glossed over, the overall storytelling remains compelling, keeping you engaged from beginning to end. Overall, "A Magic Fierce and Bright" is a spellbinding tale with such a unique premise that I hope to continue reading about this world as well as other stories that Nayak creates.
The story follows Adya, a young technomancer with a rare ability to awaken electric machines, as she navigates through political intrigue and personal challenges in her quest to save her sister, Priya. This book has the found family troupe, which I always adore, as well as some unique heist moments while also focusing on the politics of this unique world. Also, there is a cat in this book named Useless who I loved and was incredibly invested in even though Useless was just a minor character. In my heart, Useless was the star of the slow (I love the name!).
From the very start, Nayak's writing style draws you in with its gorgeous prose, creating a vivid world filled with unique characters and unexpected twists. Despite facing constant pressure to use her powers for political gain, Adya remains determined to reunite with her sister and protect her family, showcasing her strength and resilience throughout the story. Her drive to reunite with her sister is the foundation of the book, and I loved how Adya never gave up no matter what happened, even a specific traumatic incident about halfway through the book.
One of the other highlights of the book is the dynamic between Adya and her love interest. Their partnership adds depth to the story, as they embark on a thrilling adventure filled with bickering and a tinge of romance that only grows as the plot progresses. Additionally, the inclusion of sentient beings such as a motorbike adds a touch of whimsy. As stated earlier, going into the book, I wasn’t expecting to become attached to a motorbike, but I think the motorbike ended up being my favorite character (behind Useless the cat).
While the pacing may feel rushed at times, especially when important details are glossed over, the overall storytelling remains compelling, keeping you engaged from beginning to end. Overall, "A Magic Fierce and Bright" is a spellbinding tale with such a unique premise that I hope to continue reading about this world as well as other stories that Nayak creates.
August 14, 2024
3.5 Stars
Content Warning: violence, death
+ The world building in this one is very unique. It’s a mixture of sci-fi and fantasy, in India. There is technomancy which is about magic and machines, which I thought was neat but maybe a better explanation of how this world came to be would have been helpful.
+ Adya is the main character and she’s gifted with technomancy. And she’s really connected to her sentient Yamaha motorbike, it’s like a friend to her which I thought was cool. I’d say she is very brave and loves her family. Her family is gone, except for her brother and maybe a sister, who she hasn’t given up hope on finding. Dsouza is her rival but we learn he’s more than a thief or renegade or whatever dangerous guy he’s portraying. I’d say there is some rivalry flirting going on between them but it’s not a focus at all. I think the two of them were fun together.
+ This story has a lot of action and violence that I wasn’t expecting. I think it made the story move fast. There was mention of Indian mythological creatures like the naga, drongo and yaksha.
~ The reader gets thrown into the story which made it hard to get my bearings at first. I would have liked more history about this world and what happened. I could grasp that Britain was trying to invade India but I don’t know why and at first I thought this was taking place in the past but then realized it was in the future since they had modern things.
~ Would have loved to connect more to the characters.
My Final Thoughts:
I thought this was an interesting and unique story because of the technomancy and sentient motorbike. Adya is an interesting character who can make machines magical. The Indian mythology added a lot to the story to make it more fascinating. I do feel like I didn’t quite connect to the characters but the story did move fast because it had so much action, sometimes very brutal. I think if you are into India, rebellion, sci-fi, magic and dystopia, this one may interest you.
Content Warning: violence, death
+ The world building in this one is very unique. It’s a mixture of sci-fi and fantasy, in India. There is technomancy which is about magic and machines, which I thought was neat but maybe a better explanation of how this world came to be would have been helpful.
+ Adya is the main character and she’s gifted with technomancy. And she’s really connected to her sentient Yamaha motorbike, it’s like a friend to her which I thought was cool. I’d say she is very brave and loves her family. Her family is gone, except for her brother and maybe a sister, who she hasn’t given up hope on finding. Dsouza is her rival but we learn he’s more than a thief or renegade or whatever dangerous guy he’s portraying. I’d say there is some rivalry flirting going on between them but it’s not a focus at all. I think the two of them were fun together.
+ This story has a lot of action and violence that I wasn’t expecting. I think it made the story move fast. There was mention of Indian mythological creatures like the naga, drongo and yaksha.
~ The reader gets thrown into the story which made it hard to get my bearings at first. I would have liked more history about this world and what happened. I could grasp that Britain was trying to invade India but I don’t know why and at first I thought this was taking place in the past but then realized it was in the future since they had modern things.
~ Would have loved to connect more to the characters.
My Final Thoughts:
I thought this was an interesting and unique story because of the technomancy and sentient motorbike. Adya is an interesting character who can make machines magical. The Indian mythology added a lot to the story to make it more fascinating. I do feel like I didn’t quite connect to the characters but the story did move fast because it had so much action, sometimes very brutal. I think if you are into India, rebellion, sci-fi, magic and dystopia, this one may interest you.
July 9, 2024
It was the Iron Widow comp title and the gorgeous cover that first caught my attention with this novel. Trust me, the cover is even more stunning in person.
This story is set in the jungles of South India four hundred years in the future. It’s a world full of magic, and the world-building is explained well and woven into the narrative. Adya’s unusual and highly valuable power is technomancy – she uses her magic to wake machines and communicate with them. One of those machines is a big-hearted Kawasaki motorcycle that became a favorite character and has a significant impact on the story. I liked the idea of machines having a sort of soul. Adya’s twin sister Priya is missing, and the journey to find her is full of obstacles – the first being a towering ring of fire surrounding the city where she was headed. Adya may communicate better with machines than people, but she’s fiercely loyal to her family, determined to find her sister, and keep her younger brother safe. Technomancers are nearly extinct, and Adya risks being captured and/or sold every minute during her search.
Usually I’m partial to one or two of the supporting characters (besides the previously mentioned motorcycle), but this cast is especially likable and well-drawn. I found myself rooting for the unlikely group of soldiers and snickered over their names. Besides the humorous moments, this story is full of tense action scenes and even some heartfelt moments. There’s a hint of romance between Adya and Dsouza, but it’s a very minor portion of the story.
This novel releases today and appears to be a standalone, but there’s potential for a sequel – which I’m totally here for. Recommended for readers who enjoy futuristic settings filled with unusual magic, unexpected characters who’ll steal your heart, and strong sibling bonds.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
This story is set in the jungles of South India four hundred years in the future. It’s a world full of magic, and the world-building is explained well and woven into the narrative. Adya’s unusual and highly valuable power is technomancy – she uses her magic to wake machines and communicate with them. One of those machines is a big-hearted Kawasaki motorcycle that became a favorite character and has a significant impact on the story. I liked the idea of machines having a sort of soul. Adya’s twin sister Priya is missing, and the journey to find her is full of obstacles – the first being a towering ring of fire surrounding the city where she was headed. Adya may communicate better with machines than people, but she’s fiercely loyal to her family, determined to find her sister, and keep her younger brother safe. Technomancers are nearly extinct, and Adya risks being captured and/or sold every minute during her search.
Usually I’m partial to one or two of the supporting characters (besides the previously mentioned motorcycle), but this cast is especially likable and well-drawn. I found myself rooting for the unlikely group of soldiers and snickered over their names. Besides the humorous moments, this story is full of tense action scenes and even some heartfelt moments. There’s a hint of romance between Adya and Dsouza, but it’s a very minor portion of the story.
This novel releases today and appears to be a standalone, but there’s potential for a sequel – which I’m totally here for. Recommended for readers who enjoy futuristic settings filled with unusual magic, unexpected characters who’ll steal your heart, and strong sibling bonds.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
September 28, 2024
Adya is a technomancer, living in the wild forests in India with her younger brother. Like many protagonists, she used to have parents (they did indeed perish of course), and a sister who just one day disappeared.
Adya can communicate with machines and repair them with her magic, and we learn she’s apparently the last of her kind. She really wants to find her sister, so with the help of a cat named Useless, her brother Mohammed and a very large bird, she accidentally re-animates a rickshaw to go save her sister. She’s aided by a semi-thug she’s nicknamed “Bad day” (she’s got the moniker “Mongoose”), and a “stolen” princess.
The story follows a traditional hero’s arc, but it is unique in its setting in India, with a unique magic system which blends various traditions and also new and unique ideas. (Never would I have thought to create a magic where a human could commune with a bulldozer). I felt the India magicians vs the British werewolves was pretty on the nose- blending the supernatural with history very well. All in all a solid YA fantasy where good triumphs in the end. Highly recommend for YA for the unique magic system, diverse setting and characters and easy to follow pacing.
So, this was written by a practicing Emergency Med Physician, and it’s very good. I had felt like many descriptions of the battle wounds and pain were pretty spot on (as a former ED RN) but I had kind of imagined the author well, not as an ED doc, but it explains so much, especially the spot on nicknames!
July 14, 2024
My thanks for the ARC goes to NetGalley and Simon and Schuster Children's Publishing. I'm voluntarily leaving a review.
Genre: Science Fiction, Fantasy, Southeast Asian Literature, Post-Apocalyptic Fiction
Audience: Young adult (fun for adults too)
Language: A handful of swearing
Spice Level: Kiss
Gore Level: Medium
A MAGIC FIERCE AND BRIGHT is a high-octane fantasy. Adya has the ability to wake machines with her rare magical ability—that's why this is really a combo of fantasy and sci-fi. She wants to find her sister, and the powers-that-be want to use her gift in the political fight for world dominance.
The ancient strife between England and India is featured in this post-apocalyptic story. I felt like it was a genuine way to approach how countries might fight for power—and of course, this is also rooted in history, which also made sense.
I liked how it moved quickly and how Adya had problem after problem pile up on her.
One of my favorite characters is the motorcycle—truly it is so much fun, and its voice is perfect!
I think this book has a good crossover between male and female readers enjoying it. There's a b-plot with a romance, but it is really very minor.
This one is going on my list to watch for a sequel. It would also make an excellent movie (Hollywood, are you listening?). People should give this book some hype!
Happy reading!
Genre: Science Fiction, Fantasy, Southeast Asian Literature, Post-Apocalyptic Fiction
Audience: Young adult (fun for adults too)
Language: A handful of swearing
Spice Level: Kiss
Gore Level: Medium
A MAGIC FIERCE AND BRIGHT is a high-octane fantasy. Adya has the ability to wake machines with her rare magical ability—that's why this is really a combo of fantasy and sci-fi. She wants to find her sister, and the powers-that-be want to use her gift in the political fight for world dominance.
The ancient strife between England and India is featured in this post-apocalyptic story. I felt like it was a genuine way to approach how countries might fight for power—and of course, this is also rooted in history, which also made sense.
I liked how it moved quickly and how Adya had problem after problem pile up on her.
One of my favorite characters is the motorcycle—truly it is so much fun, and its voice is perfect!
I think this book has a good crossover between male and female readers enjoying it. There's a b-plot with a romance, but it is really very minor.
This one is going on my list to watch for a sequel. It would also make an excellent movie (Hollywood, are you listening?). People should give this book some hype!
Happy reading!
September 13, 2024
Once in a while I read a debut novel and come away from it knowing I’ll happily read whatever the author writes next. A Magic Fierce and Bright is one of those debuts.
The story has so many incredible elements. First, I love the unusual magic of the technomancers. In this book, machines have souls, and Adya can sense them. They communicate with her, too. Honestly, there’s one motorcycle that’s quite possibly my favorite character in the whole book. It’s got a great personality and hilarious insults.
I’m also a huge fan of sister stories, so Adya’s quest to find her missing sister absolutely resonated with me. Her relationship with her overly optimistic younger brother is so sweet, and her antagonistic relationship with Dsouza, the boy she refers to as Bad Day made me laugh. (And maybe swoon, a little bit.)
I devoured chapter after chapter of this book, getting lost in its dense jungle and magic-soaked cities. It’s a fantastic adventure with a sliver of romance. I have no idea if it’s a standalone or the beginning of a series, but I will eagerly watch for the next book by this author.
Fans of Flower and Thorn by Rati Mehrotra or The Star-touched Queen by Roshani Chokshi will not want to miss this one.
The story has so many incredible elements. First, I love the unusual magic of the technomancers. In this book, machines have souls, and Adya can sense them. They communicate with her, too. Honestly, there’s one motorcycle that’s quite possibly my favorite character in the whole book. It’s got a great personality and hilarious insults.
I’m also a huge fan of sister stories, so Adya’s quest to find her missing sister absolutely resonated with me. Her relationship with her overly optimistic younger brother is so sweet, and her antagonistic relationship with Dsouza, the boy she refers to as Bad Day made me laugh. (And maybe swoon, a little bit.)
I devoured chapter after chapter of this book, getting lost in its dense jungle and magic-soaked cities. It’s a fantastic adventure with a sliver of romance. I have no idea if it’s a standalone or the beginning of a series, but I will eagerly watch for the next book by this author.
Fans of Flower and Thorn by Rati Mehrotra or The Star-touched Queen by Roshani Chokshi will not want to miss this one.
September 18, 2024
Before I read this A Magic Fierce and Bright by Hemant Nayak, I wouldn't have believed I could fall in love with a sentient motorbike. That wasn't the only thing that took me by surprise in this book. I'm not a big fan of fantasy, but this book kept me completely engaged - not a dull moment. The worldbuilding, the action, the plot, and the writing of it all is impressive.
This book is set in a post-apocalyptic Mysore (one of my favorite cities), and draws heavily from mythology (of which I'm a fan), and has some unexpected character names that I recognize as Kannada words (gudugu!), and has names and foods that I know so well, so it all felt familiar. On the other hand - technomancy? Unlike anything I've read. This juxtaposition of opposites worked out well for me.
I listened to the audiobook, and the narrator is great. I just wish the pronunciation of some names and terms had been closer to the original. Another gripe I have is that we know too less of the characters - especially D'Souza. I would have loved more backstory.
The twists and turns were highly satisfying, and the ending was great. And I have to mention how gorgeous the cover is!
I like books that make me want to read more books by the author, and this one does that!
This book is set in a post-apocalyptic Mysore (one of my favorite cities), and draws heavily from mythology (of which I'm a fan), and has some unexpected character names that I recognize as Kannada words (gudugu!), and has names and foods that I know so well, so it all felt familiar. On the other hand - technomancy? Unlike anything I've read. This juxtaposition of opposites worked out well for me.
I listened to the audiobook, and the narrator is great. I just wish the pronunciation of some names and terms had been closer to the original. Another gripe I have is that we know too less of the characters - especially D'Souza. I would have loved more backstory.
The twists and turns were highly satisfying, and the ending was great. And I have to mention how gorgeous the cover is!
I like books that make me want to read more books by the author, and this one does that!
May 4, 2025
Thank you to Simon and Schuster and Netgalley for sending me a copy of this book! All opinions are my own!
This book had so much potential, but in the end, I just felt like I wanted *more*. When it first started with the description of the world and its magic and how things had come to be, I thought I was going to fall in love. But it felt like the book was trying to do too much and not doing any of it to a deep enough depth.
I felt like the characters were really flat, and I wanted more from the romance. I didn't really get a real connection between anyone other than Adya and Priya and that was at the very end. But my biggest issue was that I wanted more from the world and the magic. The beginning was so promising and then it felt like that was the end of the worldbuilding. Between the technomancer magic and the introduction of vampires and werewolves, it felt like the was a lot going on but not enough meat to any of it. I wanted more of other people's magics, more of what it could all do and what it all meant.
I enjoyed Adya's growth, particularly with her family, but I just wanted to see so much more. It was an overall enjoyable read, but just left me wanting.
(3 stars, rounded up)
This book had so much potential, but in the end, I just felt like I wanted *more*. When it first started with the description of the world and its magic and how things had come to be, I thought I was going to fall in love. But it felt like the book was trying to do too much and not doing any of it to a deep enough depth.
I felt like the characters were really flat, and I wanted more from the romance. I didn't really get a real connection between anyone other than Adya and Priya and that was at the very end. But my biggest issue was that I wanted more from the world and the magic. The beginning was so promising and then it felt like that was the end of the worldbuilding. Between the technomancer magic and the introduction of vampires and werewolves, it felt like the was a lot going on but not enough meat to any of it. I wanted more of other people's magics, more of what it could all do and what it all meant.
I enjoyed Adya's growth, particularly with her family, but I just wanted to see so much more. It was an overall enjoyable read, but just left me wanting.
(3 stars, rounded up)
July 11, 2024
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the eARC of this novel. 4/5 stars.
I really loved the concept of it. It's set in a distant future where civilization rebuilt on top of a technological world (and is no longer technological) combined with magic and fantasy elements. I do think some of the world building could have been improved...like why is Britain vampires, fae, werewolves, etc. and then the tribes of India have different powers? Like, why is one singing, why is one tribe technology magic, etc.
I really did like the concept and the plot was well done. Never thought I'd like a sentient motorcycle as a character but here we are. I also think it leaves a lot open in this world for further exploration. The plot did either drag or felt too quick (esp at the end) but I mean....overall I enjoyed it? It was a nice change of pace for YA fantasy.
I really loved the concept of it. It's set in a distant future where civilization rebuilt on top of a technological world (and is no longer technological) combined with magic and fantasy elements. I do think some of the world building could have been improved...like why is Britain vampires, fae, werewolves, etc. and then the tribes of India have different powers? Like, why is one singing, why is one tribe technology magic, etc.
I really did like the concept and the plot was well done. Never thought I'd like a sentient motorcycle as a character but here we are. I also think it leaves a lot open in this world for further exploration. The plot did either drag or felt too quick (esp at the end) but I mean....overall I enjoyed it? It was a nice change of pace for YA fantasy.
May 16, 2024
A Magic Fierce and Bright by Hemant Nayak is an interesting and unique dystopian type YA fantasy that centers around Adya, who is a technomancer, and her journey to find her sister. The uniqueness of the story is what originally drew me into reading this book but unfortunately, after several attempts to finish reading this book, it was a DNF at 40% for me. I tried to get drawn into the world, magic, and story but the writing style just wasn't for me. What I read of the book was decent enough that I believe it will be a great book for some it just didn't hit the mark for me.
I would like to thank NetGalley and Simon and Schuster Children's Publishing for providing me with the ARC ebook.
I would like to thank NetGalley and Simon and Schuster Children's Publishing for providing me with the ARC ebook.
November 26, 2024
I loved this book! I like how the author uses history to repeat itself, but in a new context. I love how there were different kinds of magic, and how that magic actually defines the people. Unfortunately, character building was sloooowww. Fortunately, I stuck with this, and was very well rewarded later on in the book, when some of the more confusing characters/magic abilities/started coming together and making sense. I hope there’s a sequel, so that we can jump right in without all the character and world building. I think this book would be best for someone who is well versed in fantasy, science fiction, and/or folklore. If you’re willing to stick through the slow burn into the meat of the book, it’s totally worth it.
June 9, 2024
3.5 stars. Amazing worldbuilding but not a ton else that appealed to me.
What I liked:
- magical sentient machines
- accurate portrayal of sibling relationships
- I don't think I've ever read a YA fantasy set in India. I've read lots of worlds inspired by various aspects of Indian culture, but I really appreciated that this one took place in the future of our world.
What I didn't like:
- Dsouza (the love interest) was trying to hard to be a brooding tragic past antihero
- The characters in general weren't overly compelling
- Everyone is constantly getting hurt; there is a ton of description of pain
ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
What I liked:
- magical sentient machines
- accurate portrayal of sibling relationships
- I don't think I've ever read a YA fantasy set in India. I've read lots of worlds inspired by various aspects of Indian culture, but I really appreciated that this one took place in the future of our world.
What I didn't like:
- Dsouza (the love interest) was trying to hard to be a brooding tragic past antihero
- The characters in general weren't overly compelling
- Everyone is constantly getting hurt; there is a ton of description of pain
ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
April 8, 2024
I loved the storytelling in this book, and could not believe that the author got me to care so much about a sentient motorbike! I haven't read tons of books set in India, and enjoyed the chance to explore fantasy that introduced traditional elements of Indian mythology into a futuristic setting where science and tech are failing and magic is re-emerging. Aadhya was smart and capable, and I loved her devotion to her sister. This was a fun read!
Disclosure: I received a free ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Disclosure: I received a free ARC in exchange for an honest review.
July 18, 2024
The world building in this book is probably the best thing about it. Nayak created such a unique, interesting world that I just wanted to keep learning more about it. It was such a fascinating magic system, and I would definitely read more stories set in this particular world!
Some of the characters could have been fleshed out a little more, but as a YA fantasy debut, I thoroughly enjoyed this one!
Some of the characters could have been fleshed out a little more, but as a YA fantasy debut, I thoroughly enjoyed this one!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews