The magic of ordinary things is often overlooked. We become so accustomed to the familiar that we forget to appreciate the beauty and wonder that surrounds us every day. But if we take a moment to stop and observe, we will discover that there is magic in even the most ordinary of things. For example, take a flower. On the surface, it may seem like just a simple plant. But when we look closer, we can see the intricate patterns and vibrant colors that make each flower unique.
"This tale spans centuries and walks the line between good and the darker side of magic. Magic and those who possess it have been feared and persecuted throughout most of human history. Find out what it is like to live for hundreds of years, mostly in solitude, and have to struggle with having the power to help people, but being afraid to use that power." --Affaire de Coeur
A lyrical and spell-binding time travel fantasy featuring an immortal witch who must summon all her powers to defeat the evil hounding her through the centuries. The leader of these creatures, the Nameless One, has been trapped in the Abyss for ages after having been severely wounded by the sword Ascalon wielded by Galian Berethnet.
But when we look closer, we can see the intricate patterns and vibrant colors that make each flower unique. We can marvel at its delicate petals and the way it unfurls and grows towards the sun. And we can appreciate the sweet scent that fills the air when a flower is in bloom.
THE WITCH'S DAUGHTER
History, time travel and fantasy combine in a solidly readable entertainment.
A white witch is pursued across time by her nemesis, a sorcerer who may also have been Jack the Ripper.
Stretching her tale over several centuries, British-based Brackston brings energy as well as commercial savvy to her saga of innocence and the dark arts. Young Bess Hawksmith is a teenager in Wessex in 1627 when the Black Death arrives in her village, killing her father, brother and sister. Bess’s survival is a miracle which her mother, Anne, a healer and midwife, won’t discuss, although it involves local man Gideon Masters, to whom Bess turns for protection when Anne is arrested for witchcraft and sentenced to hang. But Gideon is a warlock with plans to initiate Bess and then join forces with her. She evades him but uses his magic to escape her own death sentence, then finds herself condemned to an eternity of making amends, with Gideon in pursuit. As a nurse in Victorian London she encounters Masters in two guises, one of whom Bess suspects of savagely murdering prostitutes in Whitechapel. In 1917, on the battlefields of World War I, Bess tends wounded soldiers and finds a man who loves and understands her, but Gideon intervenes again. A contemporary narrative shows Bess befriended by a teenager who becomes her pupil, assisting at the all-female confrontation with Gideon, a fight of elemental proportions.
History, time travel and fantasy combine in a solidly readable entertainment.
Pub Date: Jan. 1, 2011
ISBN: 978-0-312-62168-1
Page Count: 320
Publisher: St. Martin's
Review Posted Online: Oct. 12, 2010
Kirkus Reviews Issue: Nov. 1, 2010
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Or consider the magic of a sunrise or sunset. Every day, the sun rises and sets, and yet each one is different and breathtakingly beautiful. The colors fill the sky in a dazzling display, painting a picture that cannot be replicated. The way the light reflects off the clouds and casts a glow on the world below is nothing short of enchanting. Even something as simple as a cup of tea can hold magic. The warmth it brings on a cold day, the comforting aroma that fills the room, and the soothing feeling as we take a sip can all transport us to a place of relaxation and contentment. It becomes a moment of respite from the chaos of the world, a small act of self-care that can bring joy and peace. The magic of ordinary things is not limited to nature or everyday objects. It can also be found in the relationships we have with others. The laughter and shared moments with loved ones, the conversations that spark ideas and connection, and the support and comfort we receive can all create a sense of magic in our lives. These ordinary interactions and connections have the power to uplift and inspire us. In a world that often seems hectic and chaotic, it is easy to overlook the magic that exists in the ordinary. But if we open our eyes and our hearts, we can rediscover the awe and wonder that surrounds us. The magic of ordinary things is always there, waiting to be appreciated and treasured. All we have to do is take a moment to recognize it..
Reviews for "The Allure of Ordinary Things: How We Find Magic in the Mundane"
- Jane - 2 out of 5 stars - I found "The Magic of Ordinary Things" to be quite dull and uninteresting. The storyline lacked depth and the characters were one-dimensional. I expected a magical and enchanting read, but instead, it felt mundane and predictable. The writing style was also lackluster, failing to capture my attention or evoke any emotions. Overall, I was disappointed and would not recommend this book.
- Mark - 1 out of 5 stars - "The Magic of Ordinary Things" was a complete letdown. The concept seemed promising, but the execution fell flat. The pacing was incredibly slow, and the plot meandered without purpose. I struggled to connect with the characters, none of whom had any interesting or unique qualities. The author's attempt at creating a magical world within everyday objects felt forced and unconvincing. I was left feeling bored and frustrated by the lackluster narrative.
- Emily - 3 out of 5 stars - "The Magic of Ordinary Things" had the potential to be a captivating story, but it ultimately fell short. While the writing was decent and the idea behind the book was intriguing, the execution didn't quite live up to my expectations. The pacing felt uneven, with some parts dragging on while others were rushed. Additionally, the characters lacked depth and development, making it difficult to form a connection with them. Overall, it was an okay read, but nothing particularly memorable or engaging.