A review by bzliz
Magic for Liars by Sarah Gailey

dark mysterious fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.25

I’ve not read anything by this author before but I would read more of their work in the future. I really enjoyed the narration here- it felt like a 30’s noir detective movie starring a jaded, world-weary woman who can’t turn down the paycheck. I also liked the ambiguity around the magic system. Ivy doesn’t understand it so why should readers?

It seems like Ivy was a divisive character for a lot of people but I don’t mind her characterization. She doesn’t come off as whiny to me; she’s just a person who’s holding on to a grudge that developed in her formative years and was then left behind in a traumatic situation. It would be weird for that to not leave some psychological scars. Anyone who doesn’t understand that should count their blessings. On the flip side- damn, I know she’s a PI not a trained cop but she misses so many little slips as people are talking and it was a little frustrating. There were times I wanted to shake her and tell her to put down the drink and listen!

I’m split 50/50 on the ambiguous ending. On one hand, I’m fine with her choice to let the responsible party own up to their misdeeds. On the other, I would’ve liked a little more hope for her person life, such as Rahul opening the door or meeting her on the steps leaving more room for a potential reconciliation. 

Also, if there’s a teacher who’s been the subject of many rumors of involvement with students and he’s a douche to everyone, just get rid of him. He shouldn’t be around children. And why is it always English teachers?
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