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Swirls of Magic: A Scottish Fantasy Adventure
Step into an 18th century Edinburgh bursting with magic, monsters, and thieves.
What readers are
“Swirls of Magic is rich in atmosphere, dazzling in imagination and very hard to put down.”
“Isla is such a strong, independent person. She is fierce, loyal, and funny – a winning combination.”
“Will keep you awake all night to finish.”
“The world building in this book is amazing as is the character development.”
“And oh my God, that ending!"
Isla Campbell knows stealing is wrong, she just happens to be really good at it. And with her family struggling under a huge debt, she’ll do whatever it takes to free them.
When an opportunity appears that could solve all her family’s troubles, Isla jumps at it. Sure, it might be working for Edinburgh’s most black-hearted gangster. And it might involve meddling with the rich and powerful Royal College of Magic. But what’s the worst that could happen?
With her partner in crime, Valeria, Isla infiltrates the secretive college to steal from the city’s mages. But as her burgeoning trade in black market magic causes chaos, Isla discovers the harrowing truth of Edinburgh’s magic and the mages who wield it.
As the city’s dark magic comes roaring to the surface, being hanged as a thief is the least of Isla’s worries. Magical beings prey on the Old Town, there’s blood in the streets, and the city is coming apart at the seams.
Perfect for fans Scottish fantasyDark magicTales of survivalBrave but flawed heroines
With a bold and memorable heroine, Swirls of Magic is the gripping start to a fantasy trilogy set in an Edinburgh with a shockingly dark heart.
What readers are
“Swirls of Magic is rich in atmosphere, dazzling in imagination and very hard to put down.”
“Isla is such a strong, independent person. She is fierce, loyal, and funny – a winning combination.”
“Will keep you awake all night to finish.”
“The world building in this book is amazing as is the character development.”
“And oh my God, that ending!"
Isla Campbell knows stealing is wrong, she just happens to be really good at it. And with her family struggling under a huge debt, she’ll do whatever it takes to free them.
When an opportunity appears that could solve all her family’s troubles, Isla jumps at it. Sure, it might be working for Edinburgh’s most black-hearted gangster. And it might involve meddling with the rich and powerful Royal College of Magic. But what’s the worst that could happen?
With her partner in crime, Valeria, Isla infiltrates the secretive college to steal from the city’s mages. But as her burgeoning trade in black market magic causes chaos, Isla discovers the harrowing truth of Edinburgh’s magic and the mages who wield it.
As the city’s dark magic comes roaring to the surface, being hanged as a thief is the least of Isla’s worries. Magical beings prey on the Old Town, there’s blood in the streets, and the city is coming apart at the seams.
Perfect for fans Scottish fantasyDark magicTales of survivalBrave but flawed heroines
With a bold and memorable heroine, Swirls of Magic is the gripping start to a fantasy trilogy set in an Edinburgh with a shockingly dark heart.
- GenresFantasy
418 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 21, 2024
146 people are currently reading
185 people want to read
About the author
Kerry Law
8 books42 followersKerry Law is an international Amazon #1 bestselling author of epic YA fantasy books.
Kerry grew up reading fantasy in the 90s and found that there weren’t many inspiring female characters, or in some cases any female characters! Thankfully a lot has changed since then but she still enjoys redressing that imbalance by writing fantasy books full of awesome female characters.
She also has vitiligo – a skin condition which gives her patches of colourless, pigment-free skin – and this has been a big source of inspiration for Kerry. It’s what she gave Aimee, her protagonist in the Sparks series. It’s harder for Aimee, because in her world, patchy skin makes her a freak, but we know better, we know that really it makes her special.
Kerry also finds inspiration for her fantasy worlds in the magical landscapes of Scotland, where she lives. She’s convinced there are dragons living among the mountains and lochs. And she especially thinks Edinburgh is the most magical of cities and it’s the inspiration behind her Old Town Trilogy.
The Sparks series is an emotional dragon rider fantasy adventure where an outcast must rise above prejudice, bond with a dragon and claim her place among warriors. All 4 books in the series are available now.
The Old Town Trilogy is a dark urban fantasy set in an alternate 18th century Edinburgh full of magic and monsters. Books 1 and 2 are available now with book 3 due for publication in early 2026.
Kerry grew up reading fantasy in the 90s and found that there weren’t many inspiring female characters, or in some cases any female characters! Thankfully a lot has changed since then but she still enjoys redressing that imbalance by writing fantasy books full of awesome female characters.
She also has vitiligo – a skin condition which gives her patches of colourless, pigment-free skin – and this has been a big source of inspiration for Kerry. It’s what she gave Aimee, her protagonist in the Sparks series. It’s harder for Aimee, because in her world, patchy skin makes her a freak, but we know better, we know that really it makes her special.
Kerry also finds inspiration for her fantasy worlds in the magical landscapes of Scotland, where she lives. She’s convinced there are dragons living among the mountains and lochs. And she especially thinks Edinburgh is the most magical of cities and it’s the inspiration behind her Old Town Trilogy.
The Sparks series is an emotional dragon rider fantasy adventure where an outcast must rise above prejudice, bond with a dragon and claim her place among warriors. All 4 books in the series are available now.
The Old Town Trilogy is a dark urban fantasy set in an alternate 18th century Edinburgh full of magic and monsters. Books 1 and 2 are available now with book 3 due for publication in early 2026.
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
August 14, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 1/2
I loved this book so much! Our main character, Isla, is such a strong, independent person. She is steadfast in her goal to help her struggling family get out from under a crushing debt that is not of their making. She is fierce, loyal, and funny - a winning combination.
I also loved the historic Edinburgh setting. It took me some time to get used to some of the Scottish phrases, but there was a helpful glossary at the beginning of the book and within a few chapters I didn’t need it any longer.
I loved the relationship dynamics and interactions with Isla’s friend, Cat, her partner Valeria, as well as with Isla’s Ma and Da. These all felt so real and organic to me.
As the truth of Edinburgh’s magic was revealed and the adventure and tension ramped up, this became unputdownable! I’m excited to continue the trilogy and see where things go next!
I loved this book so much! Our main character, Isla, is such a strong, independent person. She is steadfast in her goal to help her struggling family get out from under a crushing debt that is not of their making. She is fierce, loyal, and funny - a winning combination.
I also loved the historic Edinburgh setting. It took me some time to get used to some of the Scottish phrases, but there was a helpful glossary at the beginning of the book and within a few chapters I didn’t need it any longer.
I loved the relationship dynamics and interactions with Isla’s friend, Cat, her partner Valeria, as well as with Isla’s Ma and Da. These all felt so real and organic to me.
As the truth of Edinburgh’s magic was revealed and the adventure and tension ramped up, this became unputdownable! I’m excited to continue the trilogy and see where things go next!
January 17, 2026
Characters 4.75⭐️
Plot 5⭐️
Setting/world building 5⭐️
Emotional connection 4⭐️
Themes 4.5⭐️
My enjoyment 4.75⭐️
Average: 4.7⭐️
Swirls of Magic, book one of three, is a historic fiction (with some loose historic artistic added flair) mixed with magical realism, set in Edinburgh. But now add hidden dark magic and agenda and you have an even more atmospheric backdrop for a 17 year old to go on an adventure and try to battle monsters in.
The book opens so well, the scene setting and imagery is great and we immediately learn about the magic system, where it is and how it works but more importantly we are introduced to our main character Isla. Isla, 17, is fiery by hair colour and nature. She’s sassy, cocky and confident and in the time and world she lives in she needs these traits.
Edinburgh is the only City to ever have magic and all children at the age of 13 are tested to see if they have powers and if they have, they are inducted into the Royal College of Magic to become a Mage. Isla is desperate to have magic but when was tested, she didn't pass. She thinks she's lucked out because of this and that as she faces living in a one room home sharing with her parents with not enough food, she believes that Mage’s are living it up in The Lantern with great wages and a lifestyle she can only dream of. But what is it really like being a Mage?
In order to help her parents Isla pushes her way into some dark and distressing situations that even being the cocky teen she is starts to think she's taken it too far. She finds out information about the dark side of magical Edinburgh that her conscience struggles to battle.
The plot in the book builds to such great action that just kept coming. The ending reads like a war scene in a movie where I was gripped and desperate to find out what happens.
Although YA this book is definitely for mid age teens+. It has violence, physical threats, cursing and graphic descriptions. These scenes are not gratuitous and absolutely placed well and used in context of the wider plot and story.
There were so many things I really loved about this book, but mostly I loved that the author doesn’t patronise the reader that this is aimed at, which happens in some other YA books. There is no shying away from topics and as I said above, if anything it faces graphic details with gusto. Some of the themes in this book deal with suicide, family and relationships, gambling, poverty, friendship, corruption within people in power and the moral issues faced through this. It does all of this and still shines with love at the heart. The book also explores the complexities of being a teenager and the push and pull of feeling like your parents want to hold you back, maybe not fully trust you and the want as a young adult to explore and find your own way.
I'd recommend this to anyone wanting an atmospheric, compulsive and gory adventure, with high stakes in the dramatic Scottish backdrop of Edinburgh. And even better you’ll read some cracking Scottish words like boak, bawbag and feart.
So if you’re not feart of monsters, give this a read.
Plot 5⭐️
Setting/world building 5⭐️
Emotional connection 4⭐️
Themes 4.5⭐️
My enjoyment 4.75⭐️
Average: 4.7⭐️
Swirls of Magic, book one of three, is a historic fiction (with some loose historic artistic added flair) mixed with magical realism, set in Edinburgh. But now add hidden dark magic and agenda and you have an even more atmospheric backdrop for a 17 year old to go on an adventure and try to battle monsters in.
The book opens so well, the scene setting and imagery is great and we immediately learn about the magic system, where it is and how it works but more importantly we are introduced to our main character Isla. Isla, 17, is fiery by hair colour and nature. She’s sassy, cocky and confident and in the time and world she lives in she needs these traits.
Edinburgh is the only City to ever have magic and all children at the age of 13 are tested to see if they have powers and if they have, they are inducted into the Royal College of Magic to become a Mage. Isla is desperate to have magic but when was tested, she didn't pass. She thinks she's lucked out because of this and that as she faces living in a one room home sharing with her parents with not enough food, she believes that Mage’s are living it up in The Lantern with great wages and a lifestyle she can only dream of. But what is it really like being a Mage?
In order to help her parents Isla pushes her way into some dark and distressing situations that even being the cocky teen she is starts to think she's taken it too far. She finds out information about the dark side of magical Edinburgh that her conscience struggles to battle.
The plot in the book builds to such great action that just kept coming. The ending reads like a war scene in a movie where I was gripped and desperate to find out what happens.
Although YA this book is definitely for mid age teens+. It has violence, physical threats, cursing and graphic descriptions. These scenes are not gratuitous and absolutely placed well and used in context of the wider plot and story.
There were so many things I really loved about this book, but mostly I loved that the author doesn’t patronise the reader that this is aimed at, which happens in some other YA books. There is no shying away from topics and as I said above, if anything it faces graphic details with gusto. Some of the themes in this book deal with suicide, family and relationships, gambling, poverty, friendship, corruption within people in power and the moral issues faced through this. It does all of this and still shines with love at the heart. The book also explores the complexities of being a teenager and the push and pull of feeling like your parents want to hold you back, maybe not fully trust you and the want as a young adult to explore and find your own way.
I'd recommend this to anyone wanting an atmospheric, compulsive and gory adventure, with high stakes in the dramatic Scottish backdrop of Edinburgh. And even better you’ll read some cracking Scottish words like boak, bawbag and feart.
So if you’re not feart of monsters, give this a read.
August 13, 2025
This book is abit of a slow starter but do not give up as it will grip you and keep you awake all night to finish and join Isla, Cat, Ma, Da and Valeria.
The only slight negative is not everyone would be able to follow the Scottish phrases it got alot easier as you got used to it and there is a glossary at the front to help understand.
Now there is no soppy love story and romance as such it is a strong family orientated story with a strong witty determined female lead. she will do anything to help her family and just when you think everything is OK the action and anticipation ramps up.
The only slight negative is not everyone would be able to follow the Scottish phrases it got alot easier as you got used to it and there is a glossary at the front to help understand.
Now there is no soppy love story and romance as such it is a strong family orientated story with a strong witty determined female lead. she will do anything to help her family and just when you think everything is OK the action and anticipation ramps up.
May 19, 2025
I feel like I have drank all the bottles at once… iykyk… blown away 🤯 super excited to have read this one, after being obsessed with Sky Riders. Kerry did not disappoint with Swirls Of Magic! I adored Isla as a character, she was so funny! Her wittiness and sarcasm, just broke up the tensity of the story! I often found myself giggling or laughing out loud quite a few times (my partner thought I was crazy) saying that, all the characters I loved! Well definitely not Lachlan, Agnes and whatnot, but Da, Ma, Cat, Valeria all will hold a place in my heart. I honestly cannot wait for the next book!
August 20, 2025
From the opening moments of this book I was immediately swept away with its charm. Kerry Law's vibrant prose has the kind of magnetic pull that places you immediately into the story - no slow descriptive world building needed here - just straight into the action.
The setting is an alternative 18th-century Edinburgh that brilliantly blends the grit of historical reality with the sensational excitement of the fantastical. Law doesn’t just create a fantasy world, she reimagines an Edinburgh that holds echoes of real history to ground the narrative in facts with just enough enchantment for the city to keep a few secrets of its own, ensuring suprises at the turn of each page.
Isla is such a captivating protagonist with her bold, yet daring approach to life and the delightful penchant to say the wrong thing at any given moment. But her love for her family and friends and her unwavering courage leapt off the page to place her straight into the spotlight centre stage. I found her flawed heart relatable, she’s someone who trips over her tongue but means well and I rooted for her every step of the way.
To summon up the narrative I'd say the momentum felt compelling as each chapter ended with such a twist you just had to keep on reading. Magic swirled around every alley and mystical beasts lingered on the peripheral - this is the kind of storytelling that is addictive to say the least. This alchemy of past and possibility is what makes Law’s writing feel both grounded and wondrous, balancing Edinburgh’s historical character with a fully immersive magical realm - that is where the excitement lies.
Swirls of Magic is rich in atmosphere, dazzling in imagination and very hard to put down. With a historically fantastical world and a strong heroine thrown into the mix you can't help but love this world that glitters with both reality and enchantment.
The setting is an alternative 18th-century Edinburgh that brilliantly blends the grit of historical reality with the sensational excitement of the fantastical. Law doesn’t just create a fantasy world, she reimagines an Edinburgh that holds echoes of real history to ground the narrative in facts with just enough enchantment for the city to keep a few secrets of its own, ensuring suprises at the turn of each page.
Isla is such a captivating protagonist with her bold, yet daring approach to life and the delightful penchant to say the wrong thing at any given moment. But her love for her family and friends and her unwavering courage leapt off the page to place her straight into the spotlight centre stage. I found her flawed heart relatable, she’s someone who trips over her tongue but means well and I rooted for her every step of the way.
To summon up the narrative I'd say the momentum felt compelling as each chapter ended with such a twist you just had to keep on reading. Magic swirled around every alley and mystical beasts lingered on the peripheral - this is the kind of storytelling that is addictive to say the least. This alchemy of past and possibility is what makes Law’s writing feel both grounded and wondrous, balancing Edinburgh’s historical character with a fully immersive magical realm - that is where the excitement lies.
Swirls of Magic is rich in atmosphere, dazzling in imagination and very hard to put down. With a historically fantastical world and a strong heroine thrown into the mix you can't help but love this world that glitters with both reality and enchantment.
August 20, 2025
This is book one in the old town trilogy and is based in 18th century Edinburgh, but not as as we know it. For one there is magic and two the city is run on it, from heating lighting ovens machinery it’s a bit like electricity but way cooler, And it is the only city in the country to have it.
Our FMC is 17 year old Isla Campbell and she is strong willed, opinionated, she doesn’t have an off switch and her mouth sometimes runs away with her. Her family are struggling under a mountain of debt but not of their making and she is willing to do anything to get them out of it. So when she comes across an opportunity that may help them but means working for the cities most dangerous gang, she jumps at it and finds herself working in the Royal College of magic and is tasked with stealing from the university. Easy right!
So what you need to know about our girl Isla is that she is a wee bit impulsive and has a tendency to jump in feet first without thinking About the consequences. She is feisty and sassy and impetuous but above all she is willing to do anything for her family. And this is what lands her in the mess she finds herself in. Trouble seems to follow Isla wherever she goes and of course her new job is no different.
I really enjoyed this book, I love the writing style, the world building is great, as is the character development. The plot is fab, and it turned dark pretty quickly which I wasn’t really expecting. One minute Isla is up to no good in an effort to help her family but not hurting anyone, the next minute they are running for their lives. And oh my God, that ending! That was some emotional damage right there! This was a great four star read for me and I would definitely recommend. I’m looking forward to reading book 2.
Our FMC is 17 year old Isla Campbell and she is strong willed, opinionated, she doesn’t have an off switch and her mouth sometimes runs away with her. Her family are struggling under a mountain of debt but not of their making and she is willing to do anything to get them out of it. So when she comes across an opportunity that may help them but means working for the cities most dangerous gang, she jumps at it and finds herself working in the Royal College of magic and is tasked with stealing from the university. Easy right!
So what you need to know about our girl Isla is that she is a wee bit impulsive and has a tendency to jump in feet first without thinking About the consequences. She is feisty and sassy and impetuous but above all she is willing to do anything for her family. And this is what lands her in the mess she finds herself in. Trouble seems to follow Isla wherever she goes and of course her new job is no different.
I really enjoyed this book, I love the writing style, the world building is great, as is the character development. The plot is fab, and it turned dark pretty quickly which I wasn’t really expecting. One minute Isla is up to no good in an effort to help her family but not hurting anyone, the next minute they are running for their lives. And oh my God, that ending! That was some emotional damage right there! This was a great four star read for me and I would definitely recommend. I’m looking forward to reading book 2.
October 5, 2025
This is the first book in the Old Town Trilogy series and I was instantly drawn to it by the gorgeous front cover and title.
It's my first read by this author so wasn't sure what to expect, but I absolutely loved this read.
This was the perfect kind of fantasy read for me.
I don't read too much in this genre, but I sometimes find that they can get a little heavy and big me down.
This, however, was so much fun to read and I found that I was racing through the pages, eager to find out more.
I loved Isla and her whole backstory really made me connect with her and root for her all the way.
I knew that messing with the college was going to cause other issues much darker than we first thought, making this a tense read in places.
But Isla was always there with a sarcastic remark which never failed to lighten the mood.
It was great to get to know lots of the side characters too as I have a feeling that lots of them will be playing more of an important role through the next two books too.
The setting was just perfect. Although I've never been to Edinburgh, I've read a fair few books set there and this really felt authentic for both the area and the time period.
There was such a magical atmosphere created and I loved all the extra bits of background historical information too.
The writing style was engaging and I was completely immersed during each sitting, even staying up way too late to get this finished off.
I want to say that I'd have loved this when I was much younger and hungry for books of this genre - but it doesn't matter because I've read it now....and still loved it!!
Can't wait for book 2!!
It's my first read by this author so wasn't sure what to expect, but I absolutely loved this read.
This was the perfect kind of fantasy read for me.
I don't read too much in this genre, but I sometimes find that they can get a little heavy and big me down.
This, however, was so much fun to read and I found that I was racing through the pages, eager to find out more.
I loved Isla and her whole backstory really made me connect with her and root for her all the way.
I knew that messing with the college was going to cause other issues much darker than we first thought, making this a tense read in places.
But Isla was always there with a sarcastic remark which never failed to lighten the mood.
It was great to get to know lots of the side characters too as I have a feeling that lots of them will be playing more of an important role through the next two books too.
The setting was just perfect. Although I've never been to Edinburgh, I've read a fair few books set there and this really felt authentic for both the area and the time period.
There was such a magical atmosphere created and I loved all the extra bits of background historical information too.
The writing style was engaging and I was completely immersed during each sitting, even staying up way too late to get this finished off.
I want to say that I'd have loved this when I was much younger and hungry for books of this genre - but it doesn't matter because I've read it now....and still loved it!!
Can't wait for book 2!!
August 19, 2025
This urban fantasy novel tells a teen/YA coming-of-age story for main character Isla, but it is definitely not one for the faint of heart or sensitive of stomach! Beneath Edinburgh’s sparkly magical surface lies dark secrets and when the monsters eventually reveal themselves it involves absolute carnage for the everyday citizens of the city.
I loved Isla from the start and was constantly reading on the edge of my seat as she leapt confidently from one bad decision to another. But I can see why she did, because her initial family circumstances started out bleak and unfair, and then managed to go downhill from there, so she was pushed to the point of risk-taking in her desperation to change the lives of her loved ones. And, incidentally, I ended up caring about her loved ones as much as she did too.
The worldbuilding is really interesting, with the mages segregated and mysterious in the university – a world away from Isla’s scrabble for a shared cup of tea or a discarded ribbon – and while we initially see Isla’s resentment at the privileges she is excluded from, it quickly becomes clear that all is not as it seems and that the ’emotional overspill’ creatures may not actually be the only, or the worst, monsters in town.
As this is the first book in a trilogy, the story ends with plot and characters all still very much in progress and in peril respectively, so I obviously need to pick up books 2 and 3 to find out whether Isla manages to survive monsters, criminals and dark magics. I think she will… she’s pretty resourceful!
I loved Isla from the start and was constantly reading on the edge of my seat as she leapt confidently from one bad decision to another. But I can see why she did, because her initial family circumstances started out bleak and unfair, and then managed to go downhill from there, so she was pushed to the point of risk-taking in her desperation to change the lives of her loved ones. And, incidentally, I ended up caring about her loved ones as much as she did too.
The worldbuilding is really interesting, with the mages segregated and mysterious in the university – a world away from Isla’s scrabble for a shared cup of tea or a discarded ribbon – and while we initially see Isla’s resentment at the privileges she is excluded from, it quickly becomes clear that all is not as it seems and that the ’emotional overspill’ creatures may not actually be the only, or the worst, monsters in town.
As this is the first book in a trilogy, the story ends with plot and characters all still very much in progress and in peril respectively, so I obviously need to pick up books 2 and 3 to find out whether Isla manages to survive monsters, criminals and dark magics. I think she will… she’s pretty resourceful!
January 22, 2026
Promising premise, uneven execution
The idea of an 18th-century Edinburgh steeped in dark magic, thieves, and secretive mages immediately caught my attention. On paper, this had all the elements I usually love—an outlaw heroine, high stakes, and a gritty historical fantasy setting. Unfortunately, the execution didn’t quite live up to the promise.
While Isla is positioned as a bold and memorable heroine, she often felt underdeveloped, and her motivations became repetitive rather than compelling. Much of the plot relies on familiar tropes without adding enough depth or originality to make them feel fresh. The pacing was also uneven—some sections dragged with exposition, while major events that should have carried emotional weight felt rushed.
The worldbuilding, though ambitious, was inconsistent. Edinburgh’s dark magical underbelly sounded fascinating, but the rules of the magic system and the larger stakes were often unclear, making the chaos feel more confusing than thrilling. Secondary characters, including Valeria, had potential but weren’t explored deeply enough to leave a lasting impression.
Overall, this book has an intriguing concept and moments of atmosphere, but it didn’t fully deliver on character development, pacing, or clarity. Fans of darker fantasy might still find something to enjoy here, but for me, it fell short of being the gripping start to a trilogy it aims to be.
The idea of an 18th-century Edinburgh steeped in dark magic, thieves, and secretive mages immediately caught my attention. On paper, this had all the elements I usually love—an outlaw heroine, high stakes, and a gritty historical fantasy setting. Unfortunately, the execution didn’t quite live up to the promise.
While Isla is positioned as a bold and memorable heroine, she often felt underdeveloped, and her motivations became repetitive rather than compelling. Much of the plot relies on familiar tropes without adding enough depth or originality to make them feel fresh. The pacing was also uneven—some sections dragged with exposition, while major events that should have carried emotional weight felt rushed.
The worldbuilding, though ambitious, was inconsistent. Edinburgh’s dark magical underbelly sounded fascinating, but the rules of the magic system and the larger stakes were often unclear, making the chaos feel more confusing than thrilling. Secondary characters, including Valeria, had potential but weren’t explored deeply enough to leave a lasting impression.
Overall, this book has an intriguing concept and moments of atmosphere, but it didn’t fully deliver on character development, pacing, or clarity. Fans of darker fantasy might still find something to enjoy here, but for me, it fell short of being the gripping start to a trilogy it aims to be.
August 18, 2025
Looking for an interesting new historic vibes fantasy? Then check this one out!
Here's some reasons why!
Set in 18th century Edinburgh
Filled with magic, mages, potions and monsters.
Thieving FMC with a heart of gold, and a real mouth on her.
I really enjoyed this one. It starts off slow as the author builds on the characters and tension as our FMC finds herself in a world of trouble with the local gangsters.
The world building is intriguing. I love the accents and historic vibes of this one.
Isla is just so likeable. She is quick-witted and determined to get her family out of debt.
From there, the real fantasy aspect of this book starts!
And what a ride!! I'm so excited that book two is already out and its next on my reads list, so I can carry this series on ASAP!
Not wanting to give too much away, the magical university is not all it seems and monsters are everywhere. Tensions really build from here as chaos reigns down, and I love the way the author creates so many levels within this book.
Definitely worth a read.
Thanks to Love Book Tours for my gifted copy. All thoughts are my own
Here's some reasons why!
Set in 18th century Edinburgh
Filled with magic, mages, potions and monsters.
Thieving FMC with a heart of gold, and a real mouth on her.
I really enjoyed this one. It starts off slow as the author builds on the characters and tension as our FMC finds herself in a world of trouble with the local gangsters.
The world building is intriguing. I love the accents and historic vibes of this one.
Isla is just so likeable. She is quick-witted and determined to get her family out of debt.
From there, the real fantasy aspect of this book starts!
And what a ride!! I'm so excited that book two is already out and its next on my reads list, so I can carry this series on ASAP!
Not wanting to give too much away, the magical university is not all it seems and monsters are everywhere. Tensions really build from here as chaos reigns down, and I love the way the author creates so many levels within this book.
Definitely worth a read.
Thanks to Love Book Tours for my gifted copy. All thoughts are my own
August 20, 2025
4.5 stars.
I loved this book!
I was a little bit thrown to start with, with the Scottish dialect being spelt phonetically.. I wasn’t sure if it would make it hard to read, but actually it really helped bring the story to life.
This book is set in the late 1700’s and is perfect for those historical fantasy fans, but there is also charm, wit and youthful naivety that makes this book captivating.
Isla is 17 and is part of the poorest demographic in Edinburgh due to some inherited debt, but her over confident demeanour has her making adult decisions without considering the consequences, until one day she makes a decision that will change everything, and she ends up being in way over her head.
Edinburgh University is full of hidden mysteries that the author brings to life wonderfully and terrifyingly. Each plot twist had me surprised and fixated, needing to know how the story would end.
Thankyou to LBT and the author for the arc.
I loved this book!
I was a little bit thrown to start with, with the Scottish dialect being spelt phonetically.. I wasn’t sure if it would make it hard to read, but actually it really helped bring the story to life.
This book is set in the late 1700’s and is perfect for those historical fantasy fans, but there is also charm, wit and youthful naivety that makes this book captivating.
Isla is 17 and is part of the poorest demographic in Edinburgh due to some inherited debt, but her over confident demeanour has her making adult decisions without considering the consequences, until one day she makes a decision that will change everything, and she ends up being in way over her head.
Edinburgh University is full of hidden mysteries that the author brings to life wonderfully and terrifyingly. Each plot twist had me surprised and fixated, needing to know how the story would end.
Thankyou to LBT and the author for the arc.
August 20, 2025
Book one of a fantasy series set in a historic Edinburgh, it sounded interesting, and it was.
What does the renowned Royal College of Magic have to do with Edinburgh’s "dirtiest, low-life criminal" ? Well, I don't want to give spoilers so you'll have to read to find out. Isla, her family crippled under her uncle’s unpaid debts, finds herself embroiled in a plot to steal from the Royal College but discovers many more secrets while inside its walls.
I really would recommend this book (and will be keeping my eyes peeled for the rest of the series). It has a good flow and relatable characters who are just trying to do the best they can and protect those they care about. I love how the historic is blended with the fantastic giving a more gritty story than some. The glossary at the beginning of the book is very helpful, and its little touches like this show that Law has thought about her readers.
What does the renowned Royal College of Magic have to do with Edinburgh’s "dirtiest, low-life criminal" ? Well, I don't want to give spoilers so you'll have to read to find out. Isla, her family crippled under her uncle’s unpaid debts, finds herself embroiled in a plot to steal from the Royal College but discovers many more secrets while inside its walls.
I really would recommend this book (and will be keeping my eyes peeled for the rest of the series). It has a good flow and relatable characters who are just trying to do the best they can and protect those they care about. I love how the historic is blended with the fantastic giving a more gritty story than some. The glossary at the beginning of the book is very helpful, and its little touches like this show that Law has thought about her readers.
August 15, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ out of 5
🚫🌶
The cover of this book immediately drew me in, along with the promise of a Scottish fantasy, not something I've read before, so I was pretty excited, and it didn't disappoint!
The main character is a young, fiery red head from Edinburgh with a larger than life personality. She is funny, witty and has balls larger than most men! 🤣 I absolutely loved her, and this book showed her determination to dig her family out of financial ruin, her massive strength of character, and loyalty to her family perfectly.
She is a morally grey character who whilst turning to crime to pay her family's way out of poverty discovers the dark heart of Edinburgh and its exploitation of the mages wielding magic.
This is book 1 in a trilogy, and I'm SO excited to read book 2!
🚫🌶
The cover of this book immediately drew me in, along with the promise of a Scottish fantasy, not something I've read before, so I was pretty excited, and it didn't disappoint!
The main character is a young, fiery red head from Edinburgh with a larger than life personality. She is funny, witty and has balls larger than most men! 🤣 I absolutely loved her, and this book showed her determination to dig her family out of financial ruin, her massive strength of character, and loyalty to her family perfectly.
She is a morally grey character who whilst turning to crime to pay her family's way out of poverty discovers the dark heart of Edinburgh and its exploitation of the mages wielding magic.
This is book 1 in a trilogy, and I'm SO excited to read book 2!
August 28, 2025
I absolutely loved this book and the setting of 18th century Edinburgh was perfect in so many ways. Magic is everywhere and the city actually runs on it which is believable even in modern day Edinburgh.
The MC, Isla was feisty, sarcastic and witty and her commitment to her family was heartwarming. Unfortunately her willingness to do anything for her family is precisely what lands her in trouble.
The world building in this book is amazing as is the character development. It is an easy read and I read it in a little over a day (sleep can be a pesky interruption sometimes). I can’t wait to get the second book in this series!!
Thank you to Love Books Tours and the author for the free review copy.
The MC, Isla was feisty, sarcastic and witty and her commitment to her family was heartwarming. Unfortunately her willingness to do anything for her family is precisely what lands her in trouble.
The world building in this book is amazing as is the character development. It is an easy read and I read it in a little over a day (sleep can be a pesky interruption sometimes). I can’t wait to get the second book in this series!!
Thank you to Love Books Tours and the author for the free review copy.
August 17, 2025
Swirls of Magic by Kerry Law.
Old Town Trilogy Book 1.
This was a good read. I had to get used to the writing style. I did like the cover. That's what drew me to come up. I did like Isla's character. She was such a strong character. I loved how outspoken she was. I also liked Cat, Ma, Da, and Valerie. I loved the friendship between Isla and Cat. I did like the Edinburgh setting. It was very well described. I struggled a bit with the Scottish phrases. But I persevered and kept reading. I did not see that coming. The boggles were described well. They sounded spooky. I can't wait for the next book.
Old Town Trilogy Book 1.
This was a good read. I had to get used to the writing style. I did like the cover. That's what drew me to come up. I did like Isla's character. She was such a strong character. I loved how outspoken she was. I also liked Cat, Ma, Da, and Valerie. I loved the friendship between Isla and Cat. I did like the Edinburgh setting. It was very well described. I struggled a bit with the Scottish phrases. But I persevered and kept reading. I did not see that coming. The boggles were described well. They sounded spooky. I can't wait for the next book.
August 20, 2025
This was a really good start to the trilogy. I loved the concept and that it was set in Scotland!
The cover is great and spot on for the genre. I liked the imagery of the Edinburgh streets as the backdrop. It worked so well.
The book is well written and flows nicely. I enjoyed the writing and the descriptiveness.
The magic and magical world building was excellent. It was beautiful extension to Edinburgh.
I loved the characters. Isla was a fun character and I enjoyed how her story began. Her interactions were good and I liked her a lot.
I definitely recommend this and look forward to the next in the series.
The cover is great and spot on for the genre. I liked the imagery of the Edinburgh streets as the backdrop. It worked so well.
The book is well written and flows nicely. I enjoyed the writing and the descriptiveness.
The magic and magical world building was excellent. It was beautiful extension to Edinburgh.
I loved the characters. Isla was a fun character and I enjoyed how her story began. Her interactions were good and I liked her a lot.
I definitely recommend this and look forward to the next in the series.
August 20, 2025
Isla’s family is buried under a pike of debt that isn’t even theirs. Their previously comfortable life has become one of extreme poverty and Isla has had enough. When she becomes involved with a notorious gangster in an effort to save her family, she has no idea how things are going to play out and endanger the whole of Edinburgh. Isla is a fantastic character! She is hard as nails, strong, defiant and has a great potty mouth! Yet she has a heart of gold. I loved the setting of Edinburgh of long ago. I could see it so clearly. The storyline is great and made for a thrilling read. I can’t wait to read book 2.
September 20, 2025
I loved this book. The setting was magical, and dark... And the author has a way with words, creating this edgy atmosphere where the story plays out... I loved Isla, and just how fierce and resilient she is... The other characters added so much to the story building... And when each twist was revealed, I got goosebumps... I can't wait to read the rest of the trilogy. This is one I will definitely recommend if you like dark magical realism...
December 5, 2025
Swirls of Magic
Isla is a very stubborn and hard headed Irish lass. With her uncle's debt now passed on to her family, she turns to picking locks to help her family. What she finds out is that monsters are real, and the University is at fault.
The book dragged a little for me, but once it takes off, it's hard to put down. Kerry Law definitely has a creative imagination. Her character's come alive on the pages. The ending went out with a huge bang and gut wrench.
Isla is a very stubborn and hard headed Irish lass. With her uncle's debt now passed on to her family, she turns to picking locks to help her family. What she finds out is that monsters are real, and the University is at fault.
The book dragged a little for me, but once it takes off, it's hard to put down. Kerry Law definitely has a creative imagination. Her character's come alive on the pages. The ending went out with a huge bang and gut wrench.
December 15, 2025
Ooh this took a little while to get into but once I did, I was hooked. Love the fact that the world building is based on 18th century Edinburgh, love that the FMC is a badass and there's no romance/spice. I even really got into the phonetically spelt Scottish dialect. Can't wait to read the second book but I think my favourite character out of them all is her dad. He's giving me 'my grandad' vibes and for that I love him
January 6, 2026
Something different
This is a totally different read for me. I liked that I can hear their accents when they speak as I read. You can feel the way each room was by the description. And the crackle of the magic.
Can't wait to start the next book
Thebookmum13 I'll tell her to read it (my daughter)
This is a totally different read for me. I liked that I can hear their accents when they speak as I read. You can feel the way each room was by the description. And the crackle of the magic.
Can't wait to start the next book
Thebookmum13 I'll tell her to read it (my daughter)
January 24, 2026
so sorry i couldnt finish it. it had such a great premise but Isla was annoying.
February 3, 2026
Was OK a bit slow had the second one but decided not to read it
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