An Unreliable Magic

An Unreliable Magic by Rin Chupeco, published by Sourcebooks in 2022, is the second installment in the A Hundred Names for Magic trilogy. This edition, written in English and spanning 464 pages, presents a unique alternative history fairy tale that explores themes of found family and modern-day magic. The narrative follows Alex, who is striving to lead the kingdom of Avalon six months after its retaking, alongside his best friend Tala. The sudden appearance of the Nameless Sword in the stone introduces new challenges, as it draws various individuals to Avalon, leaving the kingdom vulnerable to external threats.
Readers will encounter a blend of action and adventure as mysterious portals bring nightwalkers, ice maidens, and a dragon into the mix. The plot thickens when the Snow Queen, with an unexpected ally, seeks to access the legendary Buyan, a land known for its life-giving waters. Alex, Tala, and their companions must unite to confront these dangers, especially after facing betrayal that tests their bonds. This book incorporates elements of fantasy, fairy tales, and contemporary issues, making it a rich addition to the genre for those interested in diverse characters and creative interpretations of classic stories.
Official synopsis Publisher
This second book in the A Hundred Names for Magic trilogy is not your average fairytale. An unforgettable alternative history fairy-tale series from the author of The Bone Witch about found family, modern day magic, and finding the place you belong.
It’s been six months since the lost city of Avalon was thawed and retaken. And Alex is doing his best to be a good leader, even though he’s not entirely sure what he’s doing. He needs all the help he can get, which is why his best friend, Tala, is by his side. Unfortunately, when the Nameless Sword in the stone appears suddenly in the castle courtyard, it brings a new set of problems. Avalon custom dictates that anyone is free to try to pull it out, attracting people from all walks of life and leaving the kingdom vulnerable to attack.
Attempts to infiltrate Avalon begin in the form of mysterious portals that start appearing without warning bringing nightwalkers, ice maidens, and even a surly dragon.
When the Snow Queen comes out of the woodwork with an unlikely ally and attempts to open a portal to the legendary Buyan, a long-lost country whose life-giving waters could make her even more powerful, Alex, Tala, and their friends will have to work together to stop her, even after their biggest betrayal leaves them broken.
Gripping, fantastical, and delightfully funny, An Unreliable Magic is perfect for readers looking for:
- young adult magic, mythology, and folklore
- LGBTQ representation
- diverse characters
- creative new takes on classic stories
- fresh and dazzling world building
Praise for Wicked As You Wish:
“Glorious.”–Shelf Awareness
“Combining legends, myths, fairy tales, and classic children’s literature from Oz to Neverland, Chupeco (The Bone Witch) creates an enchanting story that is both a feast for the senses and a unique spin on the hero’s journey…A nail-biting quest that introduces a gripping new series.”–STARRED review, Publishers Weekly
“…A truly original novel. A deftly executed melding of folklore and reality grounded in contemporary issues.”–STARRED review, Kirkus
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