Once I started reading The Maker of Spells, it was hard to put it down. Alas, I had to work the next day, and I try to be a responsible adult. So I finished it the next evening.
This debut novel by Jenny O’Kell is a mesmerizing tale of magic, honour, intrigue, and queer love, with a sprinkling of dragons.
I follow the author on Threads. When I saw that she had a book signing at an Indigo in my neighborhood, I rushed over just before it ended, bought The Maker of Spells and had a brief conversation.
The protagonist, Juno, is a bit out of her depth. She is a talented spellwright who has been sent on a diplomatic mission by her ex-lover, who is now the queen of one of the Six Realms in the area. She stumbles a bit at first, but finds her way and finds adventure and love along the way.
I liked many things about this book. The protagonist is smart and capable but not invincible. She has feelings and desires but is an adult about relationships. There be dragons and Very Bad People and heroes. There’s even steamy sex that walks the fine line between silly and smutty very well.
I really hope there’s a sequel. I want to know what happens next in Juno’s life.
Want to buy The Maker of Spells? The author has a handy page showing where to buy the book.