In her sophomore novel, Breanne Randall weaves a tale as intricate and compelling as the magical strings that bind her protagonists. “Spells, Strings, and Forgotten Things” builds upon the foundation of magical realism that Randall established in her debut, “The Unfortunate Side Effects of Heartbreak and Magic,” while delving deeper into themes of familial bonds, generational trauma, and the bittersweet nature of remembrance.
A Tapestry of Magic and Memory
Set in the charming town of Gold Springs, the novel introduces us to the Petridi sisters—Calliope, Thalia, and Eurydice (known affectionately as Dissy)—whose magic comes with a steep price: memories. For each spell cast, a memory must be sacrificed. This ingenious magical system serves as a perfect metaphor for the painful choices we all make about what to hold onto and what to let go.
Calliope, our headstrong protagonist, has developed an almost casual relationship with memory sacrifice, preferring to forget painful experiences rather than process them. Her reckless use of magic stands in stark contrast to her eldest sister Thalia’s refusal to practice at all, creating a tension that drives much of the early narrative. When Calliope’s investigations into strange occurrences lead her to accidentally bind herself to Lucien Deniz, a brooding Shadowcrafter from a rival magical lineage, the stage is set for both conflict and unexpected alliance.
What unfolds is a richly layered narrative that balances magical adventure with profound emotional depth. As enchantments weaken around the mysterious Dark Oak and wraiths threaten the town, the sisters must confront their family’s complicated past and heal fractures in their own relationships before they can restore the magic that protects Gold Springs.
Strengths That Shine Like Spellcraft
Nuanced Character Development
Randall excels at crafting multidimensional characters whose flaws are as compelling as their strengths. Calliope’s journey from self-destructive avoidance to courageous acceptance provides the emotional backbone of the story. Her mismatched socks, scattered belongings, and endless chatter aren’t just quirky character traits—they’re manifestations of a deeper chaos she’s trying to manage.
Equally compelling is Lucien, whose gruff exterior masks a profound devotion to his sister Eléa. His evolution from antagonist to ally to love interest feels earned rather than contrived, and the tension between him and Calliope crackles with authenticity.
A Fresh Take on Magical Systems
The memory-for-magic exchange creates constant, meaningful stakes. Unlike systems where magic is free or costs some abstract “energy,” each spell in Randall’s world requires genuine sacrifice. This concept brilliantly ties the magical elements to the novel’s emotional core—what are we willing to lose to gain what we think we need?
The dichotomy between Lightcraft and Shadowcraft initially seems straightforward but is gradually revealed to be a product of prejudice rather than inherent difference—a nuanced exploration of how bias perpetuates across generations.
Skillful Pacing and Tension
Randall masterfully balances quieter, character-driven moments with pulse-quickening action sequences. The gradual revealing of family secrets keeps pages turning, while the climactic confrontation at the Dark Oak delivers both magical spectacle and emotional catharsis.
Areas That Could Use a Spell of Enhancement
Occasional Predictability
While the novel’s emotional beats land with impact, some plot developments follow somewhat predictable patterns for the genre. The revelation of Roz’s true identity, while touching, may not surprise readers familiar with fantasy narratives about hidden familial connections.
Supporting Cast Development
Some members of the supporting cast, particularly within Lucien’s coven, remain somewhat underdeveloped despite their importance to the plot. Characters like Luna and Feng show promise but don’t quite receive the depth of characterization given to the main players.
Worldbuilding Beyond Gold Springs
The town of Gold Springs is vividly realized, but the broader magical world remains somewhat nebulous. References to covens in other locations and the history of the Great Rift tantalize but leave questions about the larger context in which these magical families exist.
Thematic Richness
What elevates “Spells, Strings, and Forgotten Things” above typical paranormal romance is its thoughtful exploration of complex themes:
- Memory and Identity: By making memory the currency of magic, Randall forces readers to consider how our experiences shape who we are – and what happens when those experiences are erased.
- Inherited Prejudice: The animosity between Lightcraft and Shadowcraft practitioners mirrors real-world biases passed down through generations, often without questioning their origins.
- Chosen Family: While blood ties are important in the narrative, the novel also celebrates chosen bonds, from Calliope’s friendship with Danny to the familial relationship that develops between the Petridi sisters and Eléa.
- Healing Generational Trauma: The ultimate resolution of the Dark Oak’s power requires acknowledging and healing past wrongs rather than continuing cycles of fear and resentment.
Prose That Enchants
Randall’s writing style balances lyrical description with snappy dialogue, creating a reading experience that feels both magical and grounded. Her prose particularly shines in sensory descriptions:
“The smell of crocuses and wet earth drifted in from the open window. For some reason, the tranquility made Calliope want to scream.”
These juxtapositions highlight the emotional complexities at play as characters navigate both mundane and magical challenges.
Comparisons and Context
Fans of contemporary fantasy with strong female protagonists and romantic elements will find much to love here. The novel shares DNA with Lana Harper’s “The Witches of Thistle Grove” series and Sarah Beth Durst’s work, combining magical adventure with authentic emotional arcs.
While Randall’s debut novel established her voice in the magical realism space, “Spells, Strings, and Forgotten Things” demonstrates significant growth in narrative ambition and thematic depth. The incorporation of Greek heritage and mythology adds cultural specificity that enriches the worldbuilding.
Final Verdict
“Spells, Strings, and Forgotten Things” casts a potent spell that lingers long after the final page. Despite some minor shortcomings, Randall has created a magical world that feels both fantastical and emotionally authentic. The novel successfully balances action, romance, and family drama while exploring profound questions about memory, identity, and reconciliation.
Particular praise must be given to the recipes included at the end – from Mnimi Soup to Orange Fairy Tea Cakes – which add a delightful interactive element and further ground the magical elements in sensory experience.
For readers seeking fantasy with heart, complex female protagonists, and a love story that feels earned rather than predestined, this novel delivers a thoroughly satisfying experience. Like the mismatched socks Calliope favors, the strength of this story comes not from perfect symmetry but from the unexpected harmony of disparate elements brought together with care and intention.
Whether you’re a returning fan of Randall’s work or new to her enchanting storytelling, “Spells, Strings, and Forgotten Things” offers a magical journey worth taking – one that reminds us that sometimes the memories we’re most afraid to face are precisely the ones we need to embrace.
Who Should Read This Book
- Fans of contemporary fantasy with strong female protagonists
- Readers who enjoy family-centered magical narratives
- Those interested in stories that explore memory, identity, and healing
- Anyone looking for romance that develops organically alongside adventure
- Readers who appreciate magical systems with meaningful costs and consequences
