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.

In this debut novel by Maiga Doocy, “Sorcery and Small Magics” is magical and charming. Beginning with an intense rivalry and intriguing magic worldbuilding, the story, much like the curse, slowly winds its way into your heart with every page you read. 

Leovander is absolutely charming and vulnerable and Grimm is his complete opposite. But as the narrative develops, the pair slowly build trust between them and as the characters develop so too does the feelings between them in a very slow burn that is incredibly intense. The secondary characters add heart and intrigue and there is an underlying poignancy to Leo’s rationale over his abilities that will leave readers heartbroken. It is a breathtaking and masterful novel, magical, wonderful and endearing. 

If you like very slow burn relationships, musically infused magic, intrigue and vulnerable mages, this story is intense and the relationship is dynamic. Leovander and Sebastian along with the secondary characters are complex and endearing. Even some of the magical monsters are compelling and fun. This is a magical and charming story that is masterful and full of depth. 

Rating: 5 out of 5 song spells