This is the second novel in the series of Young Magic. This time, the Variants face many unlikely challenges. At first glance, the challenges may not seem as demanding as in the first novel. The Variants do not face powerful magical spells of dark magic. Their chief adversary is a voodoo master. Magic is more one of deception, illusion, and confusion.

Along with this adversary is the confusion and deception within their relationships. The relationships within the group are challenged and often fractured. Ultimately, they find their way through the confusion and unite stronger than ever.

In writing this novel, I wanted to delve deeper into their characters and relationships. I also wanted to show that sometimes in life, the greatest challenges are often related to the confusion surrounding us and our struggle to hold onto the clarity within us. In short, at times, the worst enemies we have are our thoughts and feelings.

This book is a fictive representation of certain aspects of Voodoo, which have become fictive representations of the religion and bear little relation to the actual practices.

The Series:

A racially and socially diverse group of teenagers with different magical abilities meet each other and form an unlikely bond. They are each in their ways unique, having their particular character traits and challenges. I portray them as average teenagers with issues that normally arise at this time in life. They have different upbringings, magical abilities, and unique histories, yet in many ways, they are the same. They conform to society, yet they are also separate from it. The novel doesn’t focus unnecessarily on sexuality and avoids profane language.

It is an engaging mystery and action novel woven into the fantasy genre. It is written for teens and young adults and brings out the magic of life.

Rachael Cheeseman

Stem