Skilled in Magic |
Gemma Kirkman |
Four orphaned children. A remote farm and a strange guardian.
Each child has a hidden gift and together they will
become skilled in magic, a circle of sorcerers. But first
they must harness their separate powers and uncover the
mystery of their birthright.
The eccentric Professor holds secrets too. Through him,
they learn the tragic truth of their parents’ death and
inherit a magic quest. Embarking on a reckless rescue
mission to three dark worlds controlled by the evil
sorcerer, Lord Mediarn, the children are tested by danger
and heartbreak.
What is the greater magical power that they must claim?
And why are five more powerful than four? Only by heroic
measures may they hope to defeat the dark wizard and
release the worlds he has held captive for so long.
Gemma Kirkman holds a Diploma in Professional Writing for Children and is a graduate of the Australian Writers Centre. She is currently writing and producing the fourth book in her fantasy, adventure filled series 'Skilled in Magic'.
Gemma will be Artist-in-Residence for two weeks at Chateau d'Orquevaux in Champagne, France. She is a recipient of The Denis Diderot Grant to fund her residency.
Reviewed by Liz Konkel for Readers' Favorite - '5
Stars'
... The relationship between the siblings is the heart of
the story and their magic is the key to the mysteries they
uncover. Each sibling has a unique ability to match their
personality. Each of their abilities comes into play for
key moments, but also as the center of their characters
and their secret they share, which adds to their bond.
Their magic is a fun thing for them as each year they show
off their powers on their birthdays and this adds a
certain sweetness to their relationship with each other.
They banter and argue as siblings do, at times lashing
out, but they're always quick to protect and support each
other. Their family unit is their safe haven as they're
the only ones they've had to rely on after being moved
from boarding school and sent to live with their new
guardian, the Professor. The professor starts off with a
personality similar to the absent-minded professor trope,
but as secrets are uncovered he slowly reveals the part he
plays in the siblings' past and becomes more involved in
what's happening. The house he lives in has an air of
mystery and these secrets are what drive the kids to
explore where they eventually discover the truth of Lord
Mediarn and their powers.
Gemma Kirkman incorporates mysterious foreshadowing
throughout, leading up to the the dangerous showdown with
Lord Mediarn and the ultimate test of their powers.
Skilled in Magic is a charming read which pulls you into a
magical adventure about four siblings who discover a
shocking family secret, band together to harness their
powers, and face the evil Lord Mediarn with an end that
will leave you wanting more.
Click here to check out more reviews on Goodreads.
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