Witchmark
2018 • 320 pages
Ratings34
Average rating4.1
15
Ratings34
Average rating4.1
In an original world reminiscent of Edwardian England in the shadow of a world war, cabals of noble families use their unique magical gifts to control the fates of nations, while one young man seeks only to live a life of his own. Moving at a brilliant pace and pulsing with deadly intrigue and unforgettable characters, Witchmark grabs readers and doesn't let go until the thrilling conclusion.Magic marked Miles Singer for suffering the day he was born, doomed either to be a slave to his family's interest or to be committed to a witches' asylum. He went to war to escape his destiny and came home a different man, but he couldn't leave his past behind. The war between Aeland and Laneer leaves men changed, strangers to their friends and family. Even after faking his own death and reinventing himself as a doctor at a cash-strapped veteran's hospital, Miles can't hide what he truly is.
Series
3 primary booksThe Kingston Cycle is a 3-book series with 3 primary works first released in 2018 with contributions by C. L. Polk and C.L. Polk.
Reviews with the most likes.
I don't think I can write a long review yet, because my thoughts aren't really in order, but I absolutely loved this. I was eagerly anticipating it for months, and it met and exceeded my high expectations. I think it might be one of the best books I've ever read - a new classic of queer fantasy.
I'm primarily a romance reader these days, and I'm always a little hesitant to read a book that isn't marketed as romance but features queer characters, because it's so common that queer characters die. Nobody dies in this book and nothing tragic happens. The romance is perfect, and in general, this book has me considering fairy-tale tropes in a new way. Are they always about messing with the usual social order? I'm excited to approach some of my old favorites with this idea in mind.
Highly recommended.
Dropped 50 pages in. The writer just kind of drops the reader into the world without explaining anything and I spent the first few chapters confused about what was happening and why I should care. On top of that, some sentences simply didn't make sense, made-up words notwithstanding. Polk needs a better editor and a lesson in exposition.
This was a comfortingly cozy read. A mystery to solve, a betrayal to suffer, a romance to swoon into, all wrapped in a delightful cover of magic. Hints of [b:The Watchmaker of Filigree Street 22929563 The Watchmaker of Filigree Street (The Watchmaker of Filigree Street, #1) Natasha Pulley https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1418113344l/22929563.SY75.jpg 42499104], so if you liked that you'll probably like this one, but I enjoyed this one so much more.I started out listening to this one, but the narration was terrible. Read it, if you can.
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