The royal road to card magic refers to a systematic approach to learning and mastering magic tricks with playing cards. It is widely regarded as one of the best ways to develop skill and proficiency in card magic. Through practice and dedication, one can become an expert in this form of illusion. The journey begins with learning the basic principles and techniques involved in card handling. This includes learning how to hold and manipulate the cards, perform shuffles and cuts, and execute various flourishes such as fans and spreads. Developing a solid foundation in these fundamental skills is essential for performing more advanced card tricks.
This novel is a standalone which is uncommon in the fantasy genre. The story doesn't feel rushed at any point, though. There is enough of the world and its history established to ground the reader in the setting and enough of the characters' pasts explored to get a good understanding of them. Wren and Tamsin's connection doesn't feel sudden and jarring like I feared it might but develops gradually throughout the novel. The ending is open but hopeful which is a good balance to strike. It leaves the reader feeling satisfied but also, if Tooley wanted, she could write a sequel about Wren and Tamsin's futures.
The inclusion of diary entries is something I see a lot in books and I think that s because it s such an easy way to get to know a character we don t see on page. Wren is the sweet in the title as she shows through her actions that she is selfless, sees the best in people, and loves simple pleasures like picking wildflowers.
Developing a solid foundation in these fundamental skills is essential for performing more advanced card tricks. Next, the aspiring magician progresses to learning and mastering a set of fundamental card sleights. This involves techniques such as the double lift, the palm, the shuffle control, and the pass.
Swet nd bitter majic
cover art by Tara Phillips. cover design by Laura Eckes.
In this charming debut fantasy perfect for fans of Sorcery of Thorns and Girls of Paper and Fire, a witch cursed to never love meets a girl hiding her own dangerous magic, and the two strike a dangerous bargain to save their queendom.
Tamsin is the most powerful witch of her generation. But after committing the worst magical sin, she’s exiled by the ruling Coven and cursed with the inability to love. The only way she can get those feelings back—even for just a little while—is to steal love from others.
Wren is a source—a rare kind of person who is made of magic, despite being unable to use it herself. Sources are required to train with the Coven as soon as they discover their abilities, but Wren—the only caretaker to her ailing father—has spent her life hiding her secret.
When a magical plague ravages the queendom, Wren’s father falls victim. To save him, Wren proposes a bargain: if Tamsin will help her catch the dark witch responsible for creating the plague, then Wren will give Tamsin her love for her father.
Of course, love bargains are a tricky thing, and these two have a long, perilous journey ahead of them—that is, if they don't kill each other first…
Praise:
“Sweet & Bitter Magic challenges notions of monstrosity and weaves its own shape of fairytale, one that’s queer in its very making. Tooley leans into the complex dynamics of sisterhood, of guilt and regret, of what we owe to our families and to ourselves, in a way that the fairytale canon typically has not. This is a novel that lets girls be angry, and even unforgivably cruel, without ever losing sight of why, where they came from, or the systems that made them that way.” — Tor.com
“Tooley’s debut skillfully and subtly emphasizes the consequences of prioritizing power above people and the environment while the friction between regular people and magic-bearers poignantly echoes the fear and rejection queer people, who are accepted in this world, often face in ours. Thoughtful, ambitious, and unexpected.” — Kirkus Reviews
“With its combination of fresh and familiar elements and two heroines whose emotional journeys are sure to resonate, Sweet & Bitter Magic is a treat for readers who loved the queer fantasy of Melissa Bashardoust’s Girls Made of Snow and Glass and the atmospheric, witchy vibes of Peternelle van Arsdale’s The Beast Is an Animal.” — Bookpage
“High stakes and a wonderfully developed romance… A good choice for fans looking for readalikes to Melissa Bashardoust’s Girl, Serpent, Thorn” — School Library Journal
“The idea that magic has a price is common across YA fantasy, but this tale of transactional emotions offers a fresh twist on an old standard. This debut is a solid transitional title for middle-grade readers making their way into young adult.” — Booklist
While there is a high fantasy plot here, including magical duels, family secrets, and a world in the balance, it becomes obvious that the heart of this story is the romance between Wren and Tamsin. Wren is frustrated to find herself falling for someone who a) is incapable of loving her back, b) is going to take her love for her father from her as soon as Tamsin completes her end of the deal, and c) is kind of a jerk to her. [spoilers] I loved the element of Tamsin beginning to see flashes of color in Wren. Never has “Your hair is red” been such a swoon-worthy statement. [end of spoilers] In addition to the grumpy one/sunshine one trope, there’s also a “there’s only one bed” moment! Classic.
These sleights allow the magician to control the cards secretly, enabling them to perform a wide range of effects and illusions. Once the basic techniques and sleights are learned, the magician can then explore the vast range of card tricks and effects. This may involve tricks such as card transpositions, ambitious card routines, and mind-reading effects with playing cards. The magician can also learn to perform tricks with a borrowed deck of cards, adding to the versatility of their routine. Throughout this journey, practice is key. The magician must devote time and effort to perfecting their moves and routines. Endless hours of practice will lead to a smooth and effortless performance, captivating their audience with seemingly impossible feats. Additionally, studying and researching various resources on card magic is essential. This can include books, DVDs, and online tutorials. Learning from the experiences and techniques of seasoned performers can greatly enhance one's own skills. The royal road to card magic is not a shortcut – it requires dedication, persistence, and a love for the art of illusion. However, with enough time and practice, anyone can embark on this magical journey and become a master of card manipulation. The royal road to card magic offers endless possibilities and the opportunity to create truly awe-inspiring performances..
Reviews for "The royal road to card magic: Creating memorable moments."
1. Jennifer - 2/5 stars
"The Royal Road to Card Magic was not what I expected at all. The book claims to be a comprehensive guide to card tricks, but it fell short in its explanations and instructions. The author assumes that the reader has prior knowledge or experience in card magic, and as a beginner, I found it extremely difficult to follow. The illustrations were not helpful either, as they were unclear and poorly labeled. Overall, I was disappointed with this book and would not recommend it to beginners."
2. David - 1/5 stars
"I found The Royal Road to Card Magic to be highly overrated. The techniques and tricks explained in the book were outdated and lacked creativity. It felt like I was reading a textbook from decades ago rather than a modern guide to card magic. Additionally, the author's writing style was dry and lacked enthusiasm, making it tedious to read through. I was hoping to learn some new and impressive card tricks, but this book did not deliver. Save your money and look for more contemporary resources on card magic."
3. Sarah - 2/5 stars
"I was quite disappointed with The Royal Road to Card Magic. While the book does cover the basics of card magic, I found the explanations to be convoluted and confusing. The author did not provide enough clarity in his instructions, leaving room for interpretation and errors while attempting the tricks. Furthermore, the book did not introduce any advanced techniques or unique tricks, making it less appealing for intermediate or advanced magicians. Overall, I believe there are better resources available for learning card magic."