Sorcery and Small Magics by Maiga Doocy

Book Description

Leovander Loveage is a master of small magics. He can summon butterflies with a song or turn someone’s hair pink by snapping his fingers. Though such minor charms don’t earn him much respect, anything more elaborate always blows up in his face, and so Leo vowed long ago never to use powerful magic again.

That is, until a mishap with a forbidden spell binds Leo to obey the commands of his longtime rival, Sebastian Grimm. Grimm is Leo’s complete opposite—respected, exceptionally talented, and absolutely insufferable. The only thing they can agree on is that revealing the curse between them would mean the end of their respective magical careers. They need a counterspell, and fast. To break the curse, they will have to uncover the true depths of Leo’s magic, set aside their long-standing rivalry, and—much to their horror—work together.

Review

Maiga Doocy’s debut novel, Sorcery and Small Magics, is an absolute treat. The perfect blend of fantasy and slow-burn romance, it hooked me right from the start.

The story introduces us to Leovander Loveage, a scriver who works with minor charms, and his long-time rival, Sebastian Grimm, a skilled caster.

First, let me say, I’m loving this trend toward magical practitioners who focus on a tiny corner of their craft. Leo works on minor charms in the same way that Tao only tells small fortunes.

The character development in this book is phenomenal. Watching Leo and Grimm evolve from rivals to allies feels authentic and heartfelt, and the humor woven into their interactions is such a delight.

And the romance? Slow-burn perfection.

It kept me savoring every moment as their relationship deepened.

Doocy also crafts a whimsical, immersive world with a standout magic system. The distinction between scrivers, who write spells, and casters, who perform them, adds such a fresh twist to the narrative, making the world feel both unique and alive.

For audiobook fans, let me say the narration is spot on. Ciaran Saward brings Leo’s wit and Grimm’s stoicism to life beautifully, making the story an even more engaging experience.

If I had one complaint about this book, it’s that I wasn’t ready for it to be over! Luckily, Sorcery and Small Magics is the first book in the Wildersongs Trilogy. I’m eager to spend more time in this world and can’t wait to see where Doocy takes us next.

In short, Sorcery and Small Magics is a charming, adventurous tale with just the right mix of humor, romance, and magic. If you’re into heartfelt fantasy with a dash of romance, this one’s a must-read!

Content Warning

Alcohol, Blood, Classism, Death of a Parent, Grief, Guilt, Injury, LGBT+ Romance, Murder, Panic Attacks, Power Imbalance, Self-Loathing, Stalking, Violence, War

The header photo is a composite image. Base image by Mrika Selimi on Unsplash