Family magic follows a teenage girl called Sydlyn Hayle.Syd could be a normal teenage girl if she didn’t try so hard to fit in, but when you’re mother’s leader of a coven, your father is a demon and your little sister looks like one in her down time, normal just doesn’t seem to work out.We follow Syd, the reluctant witch, as she steadfastly refuses to use her magic and makes every attempt to break out of the coven. Unfortunately for Syd she soon finds that her reluctance in using magic means that as her powers grow so does her lack of control. To make matters worse she can’t seem to have a conversation with her mother without having raging arguments that put the whole family on edge.Every aspect of her life seems to be dominated by her smothering coven and Syd find herself losing her temper and her control far too often.When an evil force infiltrates the coven she is dragged into the dispute and her family is implicated Syd finds herself having to learn to control her powers and her anger.But there is something different about Syd’s magic, something that scares even her demon father, and despite the need for Syd to take control of herself and her powers she is constantly waging a war between using her magic and bottling it up.I really got into the head of Syd and couldn’t help but be carried away with her tempestuous temper. This is the first book in a fantastically magic series. I loved it!Sydlynn Hayle is a not so typical teen. She is a powerful witch, who also happens to be part demon. I liked her a lot, even though the angst and self pity sometimes got on my nerves. Her life is not simple by any means, but when danger threatens her family, she is one of the bravest heroines to grace the pages of a book. She is stubborn and determined, and even more powerful than she fully realises.I downloaded this book after a friend recommended it a while ago. Unfortunately, I have only just now managed to get to read it. I am really kicking myself, because it was a fantastic story!I started to read and couldn't put it down! Sydlynn may not be a typical teen, but her desire to be normal and fit in is something that everyone can relate to. It was interesting to see how this character grew through the story; her confidence in her magic and the relationships with new friends. I loved Syd's grandmother, who although damaged by a powerfully misfired spell, is still a formidable woman in her lucid moments. There are several twists in this story, which kept me hooked! The coven is facing a dangerous foe and, although I kind of guessed who that was before it was revealed, the mystery and suspense that is built up was electrifying. Syd's also facing a potential love triangle, and a fight between her witch half and what her demon half wants. I must admit that I am not really a fan of love triangles, but Brad Peters and Quaid Moromond are like chalk and cheese. Brad may be the star football player of the school, but I liked his warmth and charm. Quaid is the typical bad boy, but it's more image than reality. He is dark and brooding, but also has a vibe that Syd's demon is drawn to. He is still a bit of an enigma though, so I am hoping that I'll get to know him better. There was one surprise I didn't see coming, and that involves a cheerleading bully. I will leave it to you to find out what happened. I will say that it did bring a tear to my eye, in a good way. I was a bit sad when I reached the end of the story, as I wanted to keep reading. I am now looking forward to continuing this series - of which there are 20 books so far - I have a lot of catching up to do!Patti Larsen has written a fast paced, magical YA novel. I loved the way the author has created characters that are lifelike and likable, but with a paranormal twist. I loved the pace and flow. I am adding this author to my Favourite Authors list.I highly recommend this book (and series) if you love YA or Paranormal Romances. - Lynn Worton
What do You think about Family Magic (2011)?
Good story, but it lagged a bit for me. I will read the next one, though!
—marinel
