This book was such a fantastic blend of avi-fi and fantasy in a world that still resembles our own. Set in a slightly futuristic Toronto, Blood Like Magic follows Voya, a young witch from one of the most powerful families of Black witches. She’s started her Calling, a time when young witches come into their power and receive their magical gift, IF they can pass a test given by their ancestors. But the task Voya gives seems impossible, especially for someone as indecisive as she is. The task is to destroy her first love, but there are major consequences if she chooses otherwise.

I loved this story so much. For starters, Voya is an incredible character who loves her family and always puts them first. The problem is that she pours so much of her love and energy into everyone else that her belief in herself is flimsy at best. Seeing her learn, grow, gain confidence, and find balance is an incredible journey. And her love interest is trans and I love him. The two characters have great chemistry together.

The story takes place in a future that’s both hopeful and grounded in reality. The technology is definitely believable, and the added quips like “back in my day we Googled” were hilarious to me. Everything is based in AI and genetics, which totally tracks. The hopeful part? We see a world in which people of all identities are treated more equitably than ever, even on a systemic level. Or at least, this works is getting there, as there’s definitely still work to do. I think it’s amazing to see a sci-fi-esque setting that isn’t a complete utopia or dystopia. It’s real and hopeful.

The story was just so good, and the more I read the more I got sucked into Voya’s journey. I cannot wait for the next book. There are so many things I want to say, but I feel like they’re too spoiler-y.

(The antagonist of the book was so creepy too. Every time a certain trait of theirs was mentioned I got the heebie jeebies.)