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A Practical Guide to Sorcery #1
A Conjuring of Ravens
In a world where magic is a science, Siobhan Naught is a genius.
But even geniuses need schooling.
Siobhan has just been banned from the country's only magical university. As the unwitting accomplice to the theft of a priceless magical artifact, she has suddenly become a wanted criminal. There are fates worse than death, and if caught, she will face them. Unwilling to give up on her dream of becoming the world's most powerful sorcerer, she resolves to do whatever it takes to change her fate.
Even if it means magically disguising herself as a boy and indebting herself to a gang of criminals to pay for University tuition.
With the coppers after her, the pressure of trying to keep her spot in the devilishly competitive magic classes, and the gang calling in favors to repay her debts, Siobhan will need every drop of magic she can channel.
But even geniuses need schooling.
Siobhan has just been banned from the country's only magical university. As the unwitting accomplice to the theft of a priceless magical artifact, she has suddenly become a wanted criminal. There are fates worse than death, and if caught, she will face them. Unwilling to give up on her dream of becoming the world's most powerful sorcerer, she resolves to do whatever it takes to change her fate.
Even if it means magically disguising herself as a boy and indebting herself to a gang of criminals to pay for University tuition.
With the coppers after her, the pressure of trying to keep her spot in the devilishly competitive magic classes, and the gang calling in favors to repay her debts, Siobhan will need every drop of magic she can channel.
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First published February 11, 2021
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About the author
Azalea Ellis
23 books170 followersAzalea Ellis loves to bend the world to her will. Maybe that's why she likes writing books. Creating worlds and people and then sending them through every ordeal imaginable might even give her some kind of sick thrill. Who knows?
Azalea is also an artist, so perhaps she just likes taking things from her head and bringing them to life. Because of her artistic background, she's lucky enough to also be able to do all of her own book covers, and does freelance illustration when she feels like it.
She's fascinated by almost everything, and wishes she could live to be a thousand, so she would have time to learn and do everything she wants.
Azalea is also an artist, so perhaps she just likes taking things from her head and bringing them to life. Because of her artistic background, she's lucky enough to also be able to do all of her own book covers, and does freelance illustration when she feels like it.
She's fascinated by almost everything, and wishes she could live to be a thousand, so she would have time to learn and do everything she wants.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 93 reviews
May 31, 2021
Yes, there are flaws, but I enjoyed this book so much, I'm not going to pick it apart. I'll leave it to other reviewers to do that. Or you can read the book and decide for yourself.
The book spent a lot of time describing the magic system, and actually showing magical spells. I loved it! Like the main character, Siobhan, the more I found out, the more I wanted to know. Some readers might have found those parts boring, but I didn't.
Siobhan wants nothing more than to go to the University, and learn magic. She already has some training and natural talent, but without an education, she'll never achieve her dream of being the greatest sorceress she can be.
But her good-for-nothing father steals a valuable grimoire, and Siobhan has to flee from the law. She still has one chance to grab her dream, but she has to make an expensive deal that puts her in just as much danger as the stolen book.
I liked Siobhan a lot! She was arrogant, judgmental, smart, ambitious, and a whole lot of other things you rarely see in fantasy novels. She's not exactly nice, but she's not hateful or cruel either. She just has a lot of confidence in herself, and her abilities. With good reason - part of the magic system relies on Will, and if you don't have the confidence to make magic work, then tough luck.
The universe was dark, and dystopian. Those who have, have almost everything. The oppressed are kept in poverty. A group of people are trying to change that, and I'm looking forward to seeing what happens next.
The book spent a lot of time describing the magic system, and actually showing magical spells. I loved it! Like the main character, Siobhan, the more I found out, the more I wanted to know. Some readers might have found those parts boring, but I didn't.
Siobhan wants nothing more than to go to the University, and learn magic. She already has some training and natural talent, but without an education, she'll never achieve her dream of being the greatest sorceress she can be.
But her good-for-nothing father steals a valuable grimoire, and Siobhan has to flee from the law. She still has one chance to grab her dream, but she has to make an expensive deal that puts her in just as much danger as the stolen book.
I liked Siobhan a lot! She was arrogant, judgmental, smart, ambitious, and a whole lot of other things you rarely see in fantasy novels. She's not exactly nice, but she's not hateful or cruel either. She just has a lot of confidence in herself, and her abilities. With good reason - part of the magic system relies on Will, and if you don't have the confidence to make magic work, then tough luck.
The universe was dark, and dystopian. Those who have, have almost everything. The oppressed are kept in poverty. A group of people are trying to change that, and I'm looking forward to seeing what happens next.
January 13, 2022
immature world building
The writing is good. Clean prose, good dialogue. But the world building is inconsistent and attempts to add modern concepts to a fantasy medieval setting without considering the impact of said concepts.
For instance, the economy. First, gold is stated to be valuable, and useable in magic spells. Then, gold coins struck by the state have a spell preventing them from being counterfeited (?), and *to preserve their value* (!!?!). Then the MC borrows 1,000 gold for a single semester at the magic college (!). Then the MC notes that a “common laborer” makes 100 gold in 4 months…so the financial portion of the world is not well understood and far too present (this all happens in the first 1/4 of the book).
There is also the fact that entry to the magic college is expensive, difficult, and largely only achievable by nobles and the wealthy. But she uses a magic chamber pot and a magic bathtub. And there are several magic devices in the hands of common thugs. But you have to graduate the magic college to be licensed to practice magic, and there are strict laws. But I can’t conceive of a noble or wealthy person making a chamber pot…
Essentially, rules for the world are broken almost as soon as they are established. Or simple, inescapable logic is ignored because narrative (one character is worried about being followed so he turns *his horse* into an alley and changes his cloak and puts on a mask. Meanwhile, he is *riding a horse through a poor area of town*!!!).
Yeah, so…I stopped reading. I get ‘magic’, and ‘things work different’, and ‘fantasy’. But the story lacks *internal* consistency. Suspension of disbelief only works so long as I can then believe things *in the story*.
DNF
The writing is good. Clean prose, good dialogue. But the world building is inconsistent and attempts to add modern concepts to a fantasy medieval setting without considering the impact of said concepts.
For instance, the economy. First, gold is stated to be valuable, and useable in magic spells. Then, gold coins struck by the state have a spell preventing them from being counterfeited (?), and *to preserve their value* (!!?!). Then the MC borrows 1,000 gold for a single semester at the magic college (!). Then the MC notes that a “common laborer” makes 100 gold in 4 months…so the financial portion of the world is not well understood and far too present (this all happens in the first 1/4 of the book).
There is also the fact that entry to the magic college is expensive, difficult, and largely only achievable by nobles and the wealthy. But she uses a magic chamber pot and a magic bathtub. And there are several magic devices in the hands of common thugs. But you have to graduate the magic college to be licensed to practice magic, and there are strict laws. But I can’t conceive of a noble or wealthy person making a chamber pot…
Essentially, rules for the world are broken almost as soon as they are established. Or simple, inescapable logic is ignored because narrative (one character is worried about being followed so he turns *his horse* into an alley and changes his cloak and puts on a mask. Meanwhile, he is *riding a horse through a poor area of town*!!!).
Yeah, so…I stopped reading. I get ‘magic’, and ‘things work different’, and ‘fantasy’. But the story lacks *internal* consistency. Suspension of disbelief only works so long as I can then believe things *in the story*.
DNF
February 15, 2022
Wasn’t what I hoped it would be. It spends a lot of time describing the magic system which I thought was going to be enjoyable. Unfortunately, it falls short and just becomes a chore to read through every little detail of each spell.
I spent a lot of time waiting for something exciting to happen since the first adrenaline rush in the beginning and wasn’t satiated until the last quarter of the book (and even that was lackluster).
I appreciate Azalea’s hard work in writing this book and I don’t want to completely crap all over it, but I honestly expected more from it. When 50% of the pages are all Siobhan’s classes and brewing potions, it becomes somewhat boring. The classes don’t really add much to the world. The few moments of the book where you get “lore dumps” are mostly, “we don’t know much” then proceeds to list a bunch of “what if’s” and “maybes”.
All that being said, I have purchased the second book and would like to see where it goes from here. I’m hoping the series picks up because this first book was not anything I thought it would be. Let’s hope I’m not disappointed again.
I spent a lot of time waiting for something exciting to happen since the first adrenaline rush in the beginning and wasn’t satiated until the last quarter of the book (and even that was lackluster).
I appreciate Azalea’s hard work in writing this book and I don’t want to completely crap all over it, but I honestly expected more from it. When 50% of the pages are all Siobhan’s classes and brewing potions, it becomes somewhat boring. The classes don’t really add much to the world. The few moments of the book where you get “lore dumps” are mostly, “we don’t know much” then proceeds to list a bunch of “what if’s” and “maybes”.
All that being said, I have purchased the second book and would like to see where it goes from here. I’m hoping the series picks up because this first book was not anything I thought it would be. Let’s hope I’m not disappointed again.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 6, 2022
I know that I was recommended this (I think) a while back. It was "a practical guide to [insert here]", and I can't remember which, so I will have to read both series, or at least book one of each.
This isn't really my type of book. I don't enjoy academy books, and I don't enjoy magic being so hard to perform. I see the author is trying to keep it as close to as believable as possible, but it is just uninteresting to me.
The entire series also seems to be people drawing the entirely wrong conclusions from events that put the protagonist in a more sinister / more powerful light. Like she is super skilled and is thumbing her nose at everyone. It is amusing to see this.
I don't know if I will read the sequel, as the protagonist isn't really the type I enjoy reading. I'm too jaded from decades of reading. Maybe if I read this when I was younger, I would enjoy it.
3/5 Stars
This isn't really my type of book. I don't enjoy academy books, and I don't enjoy magic being so hard to perform. I see the author is trying to keep it as close to as believable as possible, but it is just uninteresting to me.
The entire series also seems to be people drawing the entirely wrong conclusions from events that put the protagonist in a more sinister / more powerful light. Like she is super skilled and is thumbing her nose at everyone. It is amusing to see this.
I don't know if I will read the sequel, as the protagonist isn't really the type I enjoy reading. I'm too jaded from decades of reading. Maybe if I read this when I was younger, I would enjoy it.
3/5 Stars
May 26, 2022
Firstly, I'm over magical school stories. It's hard to imagine any ground left un-plowed in this subgenre. Having said that, this book is half and half. The formal studies are enlivened by the protagonist's work for a local philanthropic/criminal organization.
Siobhan is a likable enough main character who is set against an unjust world. For some reason, she decides her best course is to attend formal higher education. Sadly her course load is onerous enough to take up every spare moment, but she also has obligations outside of the school.
The magic system stands out as truly original. It's well thought out, and has limits and costs. Most of my enjoyment was in experiencing Sioban's attempts to do more with less and break long-held assumptions about what was possible.
I will probably continue with this series but I'm not driven to do so.
Siobhan is a likable enough main character who is set against an unjust world. For some reason, she decides her best course is to attend formal higher education. Sadly her course load is onerous enough to take up every spare moment, but she also has obligations outside of the school.
The magic system stands out as truly original. It's well thought out, and has limits and costs. Most of my enjoyment was in experiencing Sioban's attempts to do more with less and break long-held assumptions about what was possible.
I will probably continue with this series but I'm not driven to do so.
August 29, 2023
A good, solid fantasy book that had a sci-fi-ish flavor due to the extremely detailed magic system. Unfortunately, the amount of time devoted to the magic details and theory meant that I didn't enjoy this book as much as I might have otherwise, just as a matter of personal taste. If you like detailed magic systems, you will probably really enjoy this book.
The characters were really solid, well-developed. Occasional shifts in POV helped to develop supporting characters nicely. The characters were consistent in their actions and motivations throughout, which was really nice.
The other thing I didn't love about the book is that it really read as episode 1 of a long story. Several minor adventures in the plot are resolved, but none of the other long-term plot lines are resolved - the coppers searching for Siobhan, Dryden's work through The Verdant Stag, how Siobhan does at the University, her relationships with the fellow students (surely these will become important at some point? Because right now, a lot of page space is devoted to them, and they have been growing and changing.... and otherwise serve no significance). None of these plotlines get resolved. It wasn't really a major problem, but I hadn't been aware that pretty much everything of importance would remain unresolved at the end.
The author's website suggests that this was originally written as a web serial. That explains the lack of internal consistency and strange plot structure (multiple short episodes, and multiple never-ending long plotlines). Unfortunate because these are the most common reasons I don't like web serials, and it makes me less likely to try the second book, because it likely has the same problems.
3 stars, average rating
The characters were really solid, well-developed. Occasional shifts in POV helped to develop supporting characters nicely. The characters were consistent in their actions and motivations throughout, which was really nice.
The other thing I didn't love about the book is that it really read as episode 1 of a long story. Several minor adventures in the plot are resolved, but none of the other long-term plot lines are resolved - the coppers searching for Siobhan, Dryden's work through The Verdant Stag, how Siobhan does at the University, her relationships with the fellow students (surely these will become important at some point? Because right now, a lot of page space is devoted to them, and they have been growing and changing.... and otherwise serve no significance). None of these plotlines get resolved. It wasn't really a major problem, but I hadn't been aware that pretty much everything of importance would remain unresolved at the end.
The author's website suggests that this was originally written as a web serial. That explains the lack of internal consistency and strange plot structure (multiple short episodes, and multiple never-ending long plotlines). Unfortunate because these are the most common reasons I don't like web serials, and it makes me less likely to try the second book, because it likely has the same problems.
3 stars, average rating
January 15, 2022
This was a wonderful read. The author did a great job with the characters & there is plenty of magic. This is a new author for me & I do believe I have another series to read.
Siobhan and her father steal a magical book. Her father is caught & goes to jail. Meanwhile Siobhan has nothing with her so she has to return to their room for her things. She knows the coppers will be watching for her so she has to break in. Of course as she is preparing to leave the coppers realize she's there and she goes out a window and runs. She gets help from a stranger but still thinks she will get caught. She didn't know the capabilities of a magical medallion in the book. It turned her into a boy so she was able to hide in plain sight.
Siobhan has dreams of becoming a great Sorcerer and she won't let anything stop her/him. As she struggles to pay for school & learn she will face many obstacles a long the way. She also learns that her father does not have her best interests in mind. A great read & the narrator was fabulous. Can't wait for book 2.
Siobhan and her father steal a magical book. Her father is caught & goes to jail. Meanwhile Siobhan has nothing with her so she has to return to their room for her things. She knows the coppers will be watching for her so she has to break in. Of course as she is preparing to leave the coppers realize she's there and she goes out a window and runs. She gets help from a stranger but still thinks she will get caught. She didn't know the capabilities of a magical medallion in the book. It turned her into a boy so she was able to hide in plain sight.
Siobhan has dreams of becoming a great Sorcerer and she won't let anything stop her/him. As she struggles to pay for school & learn she will face many obstacles a long the way. She also learns that her father does not have her best interests in mind. A great read & the narrator was fabulous. Can't wait for book 2.
May 21, 2023
this is a review of the first book, although as of the time i post this review i have read around halfway into the 4th. somewhat influenced by the next books in the series (the author gets much better).
initially kind of derivative of stuff like kkc, but quickly diverges into doing its own thing. big fan of siobhan as a main character; she's a complicated woman who is very not perfect, and her fuckups are geniunely quite endearing. honestly, this book is mostly setup (setup that i do like very much) that gets shot off in later books. mild unspecific spoiler:
still interesting enough by itself to rate 4 stars. without the influence of the next books, maybe 3.5? (a very high 3.5 though.)
initially kind of derivative of stuff like kkc, but quickly diverges into doing its own thing. big fan of siobhan as a main character; she's a complicated woman who is very not perfect, and her fuckups are geniunely quite endearing. honestly, this book is mostly setup (setup that i do like very much) that gets shot off in later books. mild unspecific spoiler:
still interesting enough by itself to rate 4 stars. without the influence of the next books, maybe 3.5? (a very high 3.5 though.)
October 14, 2023
I loved this book! The magic system is so darn interesting, presented as a rapidly evolving science upon which the country of Lenore relies. Siobhan is a fascinating character, with secrets, flaws, and a sharp tongue. Having unwittingly stolen a priceless tome from the very university she dreams of attending, Siobhan finds herself on the run in an unfamiliar city. The leader of a rebel gang rescues her and strikes a deal - her services as a budding thaumaturge in exchange for a massive 'student loan' to pay the university tuition fees.
Mr Dryden is nothing like the gang leaders we're used to. He's a philanthropist with big plans and a big heart. There is an innocence about him that contrasts brilliantly with the swarm of illegal activity happening all around them. I'm looking forward to seeing these characters develop further over the course of the series, and to learn more about Siobhan's past and the source of her persistent nightmares.
Mr Dryden is nothing like the gang leaders we're used to. He's a philanthropist with big plans and a big heart. There is an innocence about him that contrasts brilliantly with the swarm of illegal activity happening all around them. I'm looking forward to seeing these characters develop further over the course of the series, and to learn more about Siobhan's past and the source of her persistent nightmares.
January 1, 2022
Have you heard of Gaslamp Fantasy?
Gaslamp fantasy, also called gaslight fantasy, is Steampunk's more magically-inclined cousin. It's a subgenre of fantasy (and more specifically of Historical Fantasy) with a setting that is clearly recognizable as the real-world 19th or very early 20th century (or a reasonable analogue thereof)
This story is a remarkable tale that gives off such a vibe. The Era is reminiscent of what the 1800s would have looked like had they happened on a world quite unlike Earth, with a solidly fleshed out system of magic that I define as hard magic. Of course this story is not set on Earth. Or at least it’s implied. It could indeed be set on Earth in the far future or past with a changed name. We simply don’t know.
Anyways, it’s a good read. If you liked what I described above. Give it a shot.
Gaslamp fantasy, also called gaslight fantasy, is Steampunk's more magically-inclined cousin. It's a subgenre of fantasy (and more specifically of Historical Fantasy) with a setting that is clearly recognizable as the real-world 19th or very early 20th century (or a reasonable analogue thereof)
This story is a remarkable tale that gives off such a vibe. The Era is reminiscent of what the 1800s would have looked like had they happened on a world quite unlike Earth, with a solidly fleshed out system of magic that I define as hard magic. Of course this story is not set on Earth. Or at least it’s implied. It could indeed be set on Earth in the far future or past with a changed name. We simply don’t know.
Anyways, it’s a good read. If you liked what I described above. Give it a shot.
December 28, 2022
After I finished this book, i immediately purchased the sequel because I could not stand the idea of not continuing to read this story. It is incredibly intelligent with a sophisticated magic system that gets told in a way that I feel I could become a sorceress in this realm. I love the characters with all their flaws and misgivings. This book has all I could ask for. A great and well-rounded universe, a commentary on the need for the rich to keep the poor in their place for fear of losing their power, and a possibly unintentionally display of how men get treated differently than women. I give this book a 9.8/10, for the completely arbitrary reason of not enough romance. I truly cannot wait to read through the sequel and I want to join this author's Patreon so I can get information on the 3rd book of this series.
May 27, 2022
4.5. A fun and interesting magic system ,a creative twist on gender swap, cool science ideas like the spontaneous generation experiments from the 1600’s, and all the humor that arises from imperfect information in an investigation.
(I.e. the bad guy must be super powerful and dangerous and who knows what they’re doing next because they’re so scary and impressive vs said bad guy freaking out because they don’t know anything, didn’t mean to do anything in the first place, and everything is spiraling out of control)
I also really like a lot of the ideas brought up in and about education. They’re fun to think about.
(I.e. the bad guy must be super powerful and dangerous and who knows what they’re doing next because they’re so scary and impressive vs said bad guy freaking out because they don’t know anything, didn’t mean to do anything in the first place, and everything is spiraling out of control)
I also really like a lot of the ideas brought up in and about education. They’re fun to think about.
January 18, 2024
DNF
Liked chapter 1, but vibe didn’t continue. Didn’t like the writing style, thoughts in italics are not for me. Couldn’t get into it. Would read a book all about the events in chapter 1 though.
Liked chapter 1, but vibe didn’t continue. Didn’t like the writing style, thoughts in italics are not for me. Couldn’t get into it. Would read a book all about the events in chapter 1 though.
March 28, 2024
magic school trope have my babies!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Read
April 9, 2025The titles and the cover suggest a young adult fantasy with a plucky heroine, but this is probably the first one that has not only a fully shaped XIX-century steampunk/gaslamp fantasy worldbuilding together with a brewing revolution , but magic-as-science that puts mine to shame. In vol. 3 a professor teaches optics and the rules of microscopy. As a microscopist by trade, I'll tell you it is well done. And Siobhan is "one of my people". :>
I've binged the 4 parts and preordered the 5th. Meaty worldbuilding, sprawling intrigue. A potential for a romance did not materialize yet and it's fine - Siobhan does not have time for that. For science! Erm. Magic.
I've binged the 4 parts and preordered the 5th. Meaty worldbuilding, sprawling intrigue. A potential for a romance did not materialize yet and it's fine - Siobhan does not have time for that. For science! Erm. Magic.
January 8, 2023
I tried, I really did. I wanted to like this book so much, but I had no interest in the book. I found the characters boring and I wasn't interested in them at all. It felt like i had to force myself to read it and no one wants that. I am sure this book is great for others, just not for me. The writing was good, which is why I gave it two stars, but the story just fell flat.
June 24, 2025
3.6☆
I binge-read this, I know. This finale wasn't really a finale. I think it's a bit obvious that the author had to end this book somewhere so it wouldn't get too long. It feels more like a Part 1 than a Book 1, although it's lengthy like one.
RTC!
I binge-read this, I know. This finale wasn't really a finale. I think it's a bit obvious that the author had to end this book somewhere so it wouldn't get too long. It feels more like a Part 1 than a Book 1, although it's lengthy like one.
RTC!
August 23, 2021
Not as interesting as I wanted it to be
May 10, 2021
I am not continuing with this eventual series (Vol.2 due 2022) because the plot points are going to be spread over prolly 8 books with the bulk of the pages filled with magic system minutiae.
I'm used to melodrama being used a filler so I only recognized the pages and pages of magic details for what it was upon reaching the book's ending, which was like an Episode ending of a Netflix Limited Series.
I asked myself what use was all that detail? The bulk of it wasn't essential to appreciate the magic that actually was deployed.
And, while I like the magic and the MC and the Main Sorcerous Professor, clearly the author's going to tease the hell out of it, so, no, I'll enjoy imagining for myself various resolutions instead.
I'm used to melodrama being used a filler so I only recognized the pages and pages of magic details for what it was upon reaching the book's ending, which was like an Episode ending of a Netflix Limited Series.
I asked myself what use was all that detail? The bulk of it wasn't essential to appreciate the magic that actually was deployed.
And, while I like the magic and the MC and the Main Sorcerous Professor, clearly the author's going to tease the hell out of it, so, no, I'll enjoy imagining for myself various resolutions instead.
dnf
July 17, 2024I was on the edge of DNF due to the first 5k words. I just don't understand whys she didn't slow down think out some type of plan instead of panic whining I have to go to school I have to go to school. She was semi safe when the cops left her. Think of an actual plan. Instead of randomly trusting "some dood" she meets in a dark alley. Just.............. nice chase scene great job showing small bits of magic. But random dark alley guy. It's the medieval equivalent of getting into a white van. And that was my DNF point. Even though I'm listening to an audiobook. It's like bruh.
I DNF this so hard that I actually created a DNF exlcusive shelf. I've literrally only DNF 18 books in over 20 plus years of adult reading. I have OCD levels of finsihing off a book. But something about this first 5k words is that much of a turn off.
I DNF this so hard that I actually created a DNF exlcusive shelf. I've literrally only DNF 18 books in over 20 plus years of adult reading. I have OCD levels of finsihing off a book. But something about this first 5k words is that much of a turn off.
March 7, 2024
Altogether a fun read (just read the first 4 books). It's what I imagine Harry Potter would feel like if Brandon Sanderson were in charge of designing the magic system. There's intrigue, solid character development, and enough drama to keep you hooked all the way through. I recommend it if you're a fan of magical schooling.
Thematically, magic is a science, and several of the educational lectures experienced by the protagonist are akin to a physics or chemistry lesson you would find in our world. The fact that the author was able to create a whole new branch of modern-day "science" around the magic system is impressive, and in many ways you feel you are learning something real instead of trying to understand what the author is making up.
The author is very good at implementing good setup and payoff, too. It is a common enough occurrence for an innocuous trick or skill learned earlier in the series having a huge, unforeseen impact later on.
All in all, I recommend you give it a read!
Thematically, magic is a science, and several of the educational lectures experienced by the protagonist are akin to a physics or chemistry lesson you would find in our world. The fact that the author was able to create a whole new branch of modern-day "science" around the magic system is impressive, and in many ways you feel you are learning something real instead of trying to understand what the author is making up.
The author is very good at implementing good setup and payoff, too. It is a common enough occurrence for an innocuous trick or skill learned earlier in the series having a huge, unforeseen impact later on.
All in all, I recommend you give it a read!
January 10, 2023
A Conjuring of Ravens has quite a few interesting moments throughout the book. The magical classes are fascinating and I loved the explanations for how everything works. While I still lack actual experience in spellcasting I really do feel like I understand how the magic functions well enough to perform it myself, if such a thing was possible. Not every fantasy book meets this criteria.
However, the plot itself left me wanting more. There was a lot of set up and worlbuilding but nothing to show for it yet. What I expect to be considered the climax of the book was underwhelming, though the consequences of it are quite promising and set up interesting developments for the further progression of the story. A Conjuring of Ravens doesn't stand very well on its own, though I suspect it will be much greater if viewed as merely a part of a greater whole. Not its own separare story, but the first step to Siobhan's destiny.
However, the plot itself left me wanting more. There was a lot of set up and worlbuilding but nothing to show for it yet. What I expect to be considered the climax of the book was underwhelming, though the consequences of it are quite promising and set up interesting developments for the further progression of the story. A Conjuring of Ravens doesn't stand very well on its own, though I suspect it will be much greater if viewed as merely a part of a greater whole. Not its own separare story, but the first step to Siobhan's destiny.
Read
May 27, 2021DNF. Siobhan’s internal thoughts constantly intruding are really annoying.
December 27, 2022
I went into this book knowing nothing except for the synopsis, excited by the concept, only to find that what was written in the synopsis lined up with the occurences in the story in the barest sense of the word.
When the synopsis starts with Siobahn's banning from the university, I expected the story to start there as well. I also expected said banning to have something to do with the whole becoming an unwitting accomplice to theft, since that's what the synopsis insinuated to me. Instead I found them completely uncorrelated beyond the theft having occured at said University. The disguising herself as a boy part being an accidental stroke of luck rather than part of her "willing to do anything" attitude also left me feeling a little cheated.
The quality of the prose is good, for the most part it holds up throughout the story. I found the characters themselves one dimensional and in most case almost caricatures. The do-gooder outlaw, the one-upping school rival, the mysterious and awe-inspiring young teacher who sees in our young protagonist all the amazing things that his bumbling idiots for peers overlook in their obsession with wealth or power or what-have-you. Side characters were bland and interchangeable, I forgot most of their names from one page to the next and had to refresh my memory at least once or twice in most chapters.
But I could have honestly overlooked all of the above and called this a good story, if it were not for the pacing. I ended up skimming basically entire chapters of pure exposition of Siobahn taking classes. She's apprenticed to a specific professor (and I finished the book not thirty minutes ago and couldn't for the life of me tell you his name) but they interact in a school setting only once in the entire story. We are given chapter upon chapter of Siobahn/Sebastian attending classes for seemingly no apparent reason, fed swathes of information as the reader with no discernable need for me to know any of it. By the end of almost thirty chapter, when the actual events picked back up again, I was so uninvested in the characters on the page that I felt no pressure or alarm for the sudden appearance of stakes in the plot.
I know this seems to be a trend, using the first book of a series as essentially worldbuilding; and there are authors who could probably get away with it. Big names with an established presence and reputation. If I pick up a story from an author I've never heard of, the first part of a series, the onus is on the author to sell me the story. The first book sets the precedent for how the rest of the series will go. What I gleaned here is that if I continue this series I will become bloated on the abudance of background knowledge and lore that may or may not be intrinsic to the story at a future point, who knows!
Because of this, I won't be continuing the series. Good writing, poor execution. 1.5/5.
When the synopsis starts with Siobahn's banning from the university, I expected the story to start there as well. I also expected said banning to have something to do with the whole becoming an unwitting accomplice to theft, since that's what the synopsis insinuated to me. Instead I found them completely uncorrelated beyond the theft having occured at said University. The disguising herself as a boy part being an accidental stroke of luck rather than part of her "willing to do anything" attitude also left me feeling a little cheated.
The quality of the prose is good, for the most part it holds up throughout the story. I found the characters themselves one dimensional and in most case almost caricatures. The do-gooder outlaw, the one-upping school rival, the mysterious and awe-inspiring young teacher who sees in our young protagonist all the amazing things that his bumbling idiots for peers overlook in their obsession with wealth or power or what-have-you. Side characters were bland and interchangeable, I forgot most of their names from one page to the next and had to refresh my memory at least once or twice in most chapters.
But I could have honestly overlooked all of the above and called this a good story, if it were not for the pacing. I ended up skimming basically entire chapters of pure exposition of Siobahn taking classes. She's apprenticed to a specific professor (and I finished the book not thirty minutes ago and couldn't for the life of me tell you his name) but they interact in a school setting only once in the entire story. We are given chapter upon chapter of Siobahn/Sebastian attending classes for seemingly no apparent reason, fed swathes of information as the reader with no discernable need for me to know any of it. By the end of almost thirty chapter, when the actual events picked back up again, I was so uninvested in the characters on the page that I felt no pressure or alarm for the sudden appearance of stakes in the plot.
I know this seems to be a trend, using the first book of a series as essentially worldbuilding; and there are authors who could probably get away with it. Big names with an established presence and reputation. If I pick up a story from an author I've never heard of, the first part of a series, the onus is on the author to sell me the story. The first book sets the precedent for how the rest of the series will go. What I gleaned here is that if I continue this series I will become bloated on the abudance of background knowledge and lore that may or may not be intrinsic to the story at a future point, who knows!
Because of this, I won't be continuing the series. Good writing, poor execution. 1.5/5.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 28, 2024
that was very, very good. actually good prose (and dear God there's been such a dearth of this lately) and compulsively readable. can't believe it took me this long to discover it!
on the surface, there are some name of the wind resemblances, from the university entrance test to the student loan arc, but these are really truly surface level. ellis does such good job fleshing out siobhan/sebastian and the world and the people around that it the similarities don't really strike you until after.
progression-wise, i love that we get to see sebastian learning and improving. we get to go through lessons with her, which simultaneously function as infodumps but luckily, ellis write compelling lore. what's up with the cataclysm?? and titans?? (like literal attack on titan's titans??) i am so interested in what's next. the magic lessons arc was fun too and almost cozy, even: was surprised she actually got time and space to learn. usually, these characters in magic school stories are always plagued by sabotaging enemies, unhelpful mentors and some bigger life threat like debt. well sebastian has damien, but so far he's come across as relatively funny/silly and harmless, and lacer is (shocker) made more interesting by being a sensible (if harsh) taskmaster, rather than a useless eccentric. overall, she has time to progress without an immediate danger, and the reader can come with her, which was actually really nice.
unique parts of the story: i was genuinely surprised by the gender bender bit, which i normally hate, but i think it's done well here. it's always unnecessarily stressful to read about characters in flimsy gendered disguises, so i'm glad siobhan/sebastian can fully transform. was also surprise by the unique narrative thread that is oliver's charitable gangster organisation for the greater good. a truly unexpected direction in what i would've thought to be a normal progression fantasy.
and the last part with lacer and titus breaking doing the debrief on siobhan's escapades was absolute gold. the way her little glass plate turned her into a free casting genius - hilarious and also plot-wise, what a deftly plotted, well-executed bit. ellis really made full use of the dramatic irony here.
overall, this really scratches the whole magic school itch without being derivative.
on the surface, there are some name of the wind resemblances, from the university entrance test to the student loan arc, but these are really truly surface level. ellis does such good job fleshing out siobhan/sebastian and the world and the people around that it the similarities don't really strike you until after.
progression-wise, i love that we get to see sebastian learning and improving. we get to go through lessons with her, which simultaneously function as infodumps but luckily, ellis write compelling lore. what's up with the cataclysm?? and titans?? (like literal attack on titan's titans??) i am so interested in what's next. the magic lessons arc was fun too and almost cozy, even: was surprised she actually got time and space to learn. usually, these characters in magic school stories are always plagued by sabotaging enemies, unhelpful mentors and some bigger life threat like debt. well sebastian has damien, but so far he's come across as relatively funny/silly and harmless, and lacer is (shocker) made more interesting by being a sensible (if harsh) taskmaster, rather than a useless eccentric. overall, she has time to progress without an immediate danger, and the reader can come with her, which was actually really nice.
unique parts of the story: i was genuinely surprised by the gender bender bit, which i normally hate, but i think it's done well here. it's always unnecessarily stressful to read about characters in flimsy gendered disguises, so i'm glad siobhan/sebastian can fully transform. was also surprise by the unique narrative thread that is oliver's charitable gangster organisation for the greater good. a truly unexpected direction in what i would've thought to be a normal progression fantasy.
and the last part with lacer and titus breaking doing the debrief on siobhan's escapades was absolute gold. the way her little glass plate turned her into a free casting genius - hilarious and also plot-wise, what a deftly plotted, well-executed bit. ellis really made full use of the dramatic irony here.
overall, this really scratches the whole magic school itch without being derivative.
February 16, 2025
Brilliant
Azalea Ellis has written an amazingly compelling story, in the most unlikely way.
Siobhan should be an unlikeable character. She’s arrogant, abrasive, and she’s absolutely certain that she can become the best thaumaturge of her generation.
She’s also kind to servants and children and able to put them at ease. She tries to tell herself that her safety is more important than that of others but fails to convince herself or the reader. She’s extremely harsh on herself and constantly striving to do better. She’s driven, desperate and has terrible secrets which she hides even from herself, leaving the reader guessing at her past.
Despite being an overly paranoid hedgehog of a sorcerer, Siobhan is somehow endearing, the magic is well thought out and fascinating and the series only gets better the further in you get (I’ve read all the available books so far and only just realised I neglected to leave a review on this one).
I’ve described this book to my friends as being a grown up Harry Potter, minus the problematic author/themes and where the main character is not the centre of the universe but just one more player on the stage in a time of turbulence. Siobhan’s journey is amazing to watch, and seeing the misunderstandings grow that lead to her being the most wanted criminal in the city is, frankly, both a commentary on human nature and gullibility.
I highly recommend this book. It has quickly become one of my all time favourites.
Azalea Ellis has written an amazingly compelling story, in the most unlikely way.
Siobhan should be an unlikeable character. She’s arrogant, abrasive, and she’s absolutely certain that she can become the best thaumaturge of her generation.
She’s also kind to servants and children and able to put them at ease. She tries to tell herself that her safety is more important than that of others but fails to convince herself or the reader. She’s extremely harsh on herself and constantly striving to do better. She’s driven, desperate and has terrible secrets which she hides even from herself, leaving the reader guessing at her past.
Despite being an overly paranoid hedgehog of a sorcerer, Siobhan is somehow endearing, the magic is well thought out and fascinating and the series only gets better the further in you get (I’ve read all the available books so far and only just realised I neglected to leave a review on this one).
I’ve described this book to my friends as being a grown up Harry Potter, minus the problematic author/themes and where the main character is not the centre of the universe but just one more player on the stage in a time of turbulence. Siobhan’s journey is amazing to watch, and seeing the misunderstandings grow that lead to her being the most wanted criminal in the city is, frankly, both a commentary on human nature and gullibility.
I highly recommend this book. It has quickly become one of my all time favourites.
June 23, 2025
A novel look at a coming of age story
Before the story begins, we have a stolen ancient amulet falling into the hands of a young woman. Now she’s desperate to get into university to learn things that will open the doors to its abilities. She’s been working out things herself, but that’s only gets one so far. She’s needs teachers.
To get into school, she’s had to borrow heavily from a gang leader and swear a blood oath. Blood magic of any sort is punishable by death. Now, here’s the thing … she’s been doing blood magic - it just makes sense to her, as long as she’s not the one to cause the blood to flow. Like, for healing … why not use the patient’s pooling blood to help heal them?
Even though it makes sense to her, it puts her at the top of the constabulary’s Most Wanted, and she has to resort to some fancy hijinks in order to stay within the city. We follow her through the tests and trials for entry to the university, then to helping her benefactors, all of which are fascinatingly told.
The side characters are all wonderfully drawn; the gang leader with altruistic motives, the illegal sorceress who is as greedy as they come, the bully with a need to prove himself, and even the city itself.
The plotting gets thick. Not convoluted, but sufficiently meaty. When the book ended, I was speculating on what would happen next when I turned the page and was shocked to discover the book was over. I love it when I’m that absorbed.
Before the story begins, we have a stolen ancient amulet falling into the hands of a young woman. Now she’s desperate to get into university to learn things that will open the doors to its abilities. She’s been working out things herself, but that’s only gets one so far. She’s needs teachers.
To get into school, she’s had to borrow heavily from a gang leader and swear a blood oath. Blood magic of any sort is punishable by death. Now, here’s the thing … she’s been doing blood magic - it just makes sense to her, as long as she’s not the one to cause the blood to flow. Like, for healing … why not use the patient’s pooling blood to help heal them?
Even though it makes sense to her, it puts her at the top of the constabulary’s Most Wanted, and she has to resort to some fancy hijinks in order to stay within the city. We follow her through the tests and trials for entry to the university, then to helping her benefactors, all of which are fascinatingly told.
The side characters are all wonderfully drawn; the gang leader with altruistic motives, the illegal sorceress who is as greedy as they come, the bully with a need to prove himself, and even the city itself.
The plotting gets thick. Not convoluted, but sufficiently meaty. When the book ended, I was speculating on what would happen next when I turned the page and was shocked to discover the book was over. I love it when I’m that absorbed.
October 8, 2024
"How dull, to never wonder. How unambitious. One does not become great by only accepting what is given to them and never reaching for more."
This book was such a surprise! I was completely enamored by the magic system as it was so unique and loved the contrast between the magic school and Siobhan's outside "duties".
I loved Siobhan as the FMC. She embodied strength, ambition, determination, cunning, confidence, talent, resilience, and a genius. The way she craved to learn and to perform was inspiring. Her struggles with her father, the lack of funds for her education, striking a deal for said education, and the pressure of her "double" life, created a relatable and compelling protagonist. The world building is immersive, filled with enchanting details that bring to life a universe where magic is both a gift and a burden.
This book emphasizes personal empowerment through the practice of magic, encouraging those to take control of their lives and reach for more. It also stresses the importance of intention in magic, promoting ethical practices and the responsibility that comes with wielding magical powers. Magic in this world is intricately tied to emotions, or WILL.
Like I mentioned, the magic system was so unique. The theme of interconnectedness is prevalent, highlighting how magic relates to the natural world and the surrounding energies. I loved the way science, nature, and mindfulness was woven into the magical aspect of the book.
The pacing is generally well balanced, although there were moments where the plot could have moved along quicker. Although, stakes build effectively, leading to a good climax that combines action, emotional depth, and resolution.
Overall, it's such a delightful read. Its charming characters and vivid world made it memorable.
This book was such a surprise! I was completely enamored by the magic system as it was so unique and loved the contrast between the magic school and Siobhan's outside "duties".
I loved Siobhan as the FMC. She embodied strength, ambition, determination, cunning, confidence, talent, resilience, and a genius. The way she craved to learn and to perform was inspiring. Her struggles with her father, the lack of funds for her education, striking a deal for said education, and the pressure of her "double" life, created a relatable and compelling protagonist. The world building is immersive, filled with enchanting details that bring to life a universe where magic is both a gift and a burden.
This book emphasizes personal empowerment through the practice of magic, encouraging those to take control of their lives and reach for more. It also stresses the importance of intention in magic, promoting ethical practices and the responsibility that comes with wielding magical powers. Magic in this world is intricately tied to emotions, or WILL.
Like I mentioned, the magic system was so unique. The theme of interconnectedness is prevalent, highlighting how magic relates to the natural world and the surrounding energies. I loved the way science, nature, and mindfulness was woven into the magical aspect of the book.
The pacing is generally well balanced, although there were moments where the plot could have moved along quicker. Although, stakes build effectively, leading to a good climax that combines action, emotional depth, and resolution.
Overall, it's such a delightful read. Its charming characters and vivid world made it memorable.
May 21, 2024
Now, I'm aware of the old saying don't judge a book by it's cover, but the cover for this absolutely drew me in! (not the one here on goodreads though, that needs to be updated).
Not to say the blurb and the story didn't keep me there though, Imagine if Harry Potter didn't have any inheritance and had to become a criminal to study magic, and instead of magic with wands and funny words it's with complex circles and science. It's like Fullmetal Alchemist with just a bit more magic mixed with the science!
And the worldbuilding! it's like D&D with just enough dungeon-punk to make it interesting, it's got magic used like a science and a distopian world that uses and abuses it accordingly.
If you can't tell already, I'm in love with this series, if you're into books that go in depth into there magic systems and have lots of ongoing intrigue you'll like this too. The only reason I didn't give this a full five stars is because I found myself a bit more interested in the stories on the street's then in the school, but I'm willing to keep reading cause the rest is just SO GOOD!
And also those covers.
Not to say the blurb and the story didn't keep me there though, Imagine if Harry Potter didn't have any inheritance and had to become a criminal to study magic, and instead of magic with wands and funny words it's with complex circles and science. It's like Fullmetal Alchemist with just a bit more magic mixed with the science!
And the worldbuilding! it's like D&D with just enough dungeon-punk to make it interesting, it's got magic used like a science and a distopian world that uses and abuses it accordingly.
If you can't tell already, I'm in love with this series, if you're into books that go in depth into there magic systems and have lots of ongoing intrigue you'll like this too. The only reason I didn't give this a full five stars is because I found myself a bit more interested in the stories on the street's then in the school, but I'm willing to keep reading cause the rest is just SO GOOD!
And also those covers.
August 24, 2025
I really liked this story. I like going into magical systems to understand how they work as long as they are interesting when they do work. this hit that spot. the magic is intricate, and I loved hearing the classes from the university with how things work. it was a gentle thought exercise while getting immersed in the world.
the Gold seems to be a bit inconsistent in value at this point, and Sioban seems to go from poverty to being able to drop 100+ gold by the end of the book (1-2 months).
one thread I really do love seeing here that I haven't seen before, is the evolution of Siobhan as a criminal from the limited POV of law enforcement. normally we only see one side of the story (the heroes) and we see their doubts and worries and while it looks amazing, we know how hard it was to get there. in this book, we get a view from the Coppers (police) and they are making her work and efforts far grander than Sioban realises. it does draw a nice parallel with life that we often just see the end result from others, not all the gritty pieces to get there or the doubt and chaotic fumbling to get through it all
I am very excited for the future of these books.
the Gold seems to be a bit inconsistent in value at this point, and Sioban seems to go from poverty to being able to drop 100+ gold by the end of the book (1-2 months).
one thread I really do love seeing here that I haven't seen before, is the evolution of Siobhan as a criminal from the limited POV of law enforcement. normally we only see one side of the story (the heroes) and we see their doubts and worries and while it looks amazing, we know how hard it was to get there. in this book, we get a view from the Coppers (police) and they are making her work and efforts far grander than Sioban realises. it does draw a nice parallel with life that we often just see the end result from others, not all the gritty pieces to get there or the doubt and chaotic fumbling to get through it all
I am very excited for the future of these books.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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