Assessment:
Plot/Idea: Magic, Mystery and the Multiverse hits the ground running as two siblings with mysterious origins are catapulted into the multiverse via an app.
Prose: Winter writes in polished, even, and humor-sprinkled prose that has a grounding impact on the sometimes unwieldy fantastical circumstances.
Originality: Magic, Mystery, and the Multiverse has a number of familiar influences (several of which are referenced in the text), but the app that transports Ana and Zackary into the multiverse and the novel's integration of physics provide a degree of freshness.
Character/Execution: In some respects, Magic, Mystery, and the Multiverse bites off more than it can chew, and the unfolding events can be dizzying. Quieter moments exchanged between Ana and Zackary (including his grim thoughts about his own mortality) ultimately provide the most character development.
Date Submitted: August 30, 2023
Reminiscent of classic coming-of-age fantasy adventure fare but still freshened up for the era of apps, Magic, Mystery and the Multiverse offers genre-bending for all of its juxtapositioned settings—from medieval-like realms to highly advanced technologically driven worlds—human struggle, and a touch of dystopia and politics. Winter incorporates a world where oxygen is commercialized, and those in positions of power can cast a spell for forced obedience, creating societies where “It’s not safe to think a contrarian thought.” These facets serve as a socio-political commentary challenging a reflection of contemporary and perennial issues, drawing parallels to capitalism, the suppression of speech, and global protests against authoritarian regimes. Amid these, the core of the story remains tethered in a human struggle—Zack's cancer diagnosis.
Although fast-paced, the world-building is meticulous and exciting in the sense that as the story appears to be drawing near its conclusion, the intricate motivations of various characters come to the forefront, driving the narrative's momentum. Opus Die has yet to show himself, the Crimson Censor is still alive, Lord Orator comes with a bargain, and the rest of the ensemble believes Ana may be the key to fulfilling the prophecy. These intricate plot threads keep readers eagerly anticipating the forthcoming installment.
Takeaway: Inventive series starter that joy rides through an unpredictable multiverse.
Comparable Titles: Alix E. Harrow's The Ten Thousand Doors of January, Claudia Gray's A Thousand Pieces of You.
Production grades
Cover: A-
Design and typography: A
Illustrations: A
Editing: A
Marketing copy: A-
An often endearing cast enlivens this enjoyable introduction to otherworldly realms.
In this debut YA fantasy series-starter, Earth-born siblings find themselves stranded in a parallel world that suffers under a fiendish ruler’s reign. California teenager Zorana “Ana” Zest’s father ships her and her little brother, Zackary,off to London. They’ll stay with their beloved uncle, Shockley, and attend Beesneese Boarding School while their “movie mogul” dad, Ace, shoots a movie in Africa. Though the kids can’t wait to tour the beautiful city, there’s something fascinating in their uncle’s garage: the Parallel Universe Pod, or “PUP.” It’s an experimental vehicle that works just fine until Ana sets a course for “Random Joyride.” ...
Winter’s opening installment showcases a colorful primary cast—particularly Ana and Zackary, who make a superb duo. She dreams of being a Hollywood actor and is protective toward her brother, who’s immunocompromised and certain he’s a “goner,” even though his cancer is currently in remission. Their family has intriguing secrets, as well; their uncle hints at an unknown family “truth,” and their dad insists that Ana wear colored contact lenses to hide her naturally violet eyes. The supporting cast, too, is memorable.
Magic, Mystery, and the Multiverse by Aurora Winter is a captivating tale that follows the enthralling journey of siblings Ana and Zackary through a wondrous and magical Multiverse. Ana, with aspirations of becoming an actress in Hollywood, stumbles upon an extraordinary multi-verse app, which unwittingly catapults her and her brother into a mesmerizing escapade. ... Author Aurora Winter has written an exhilarating and fast-paced literary work brimming with creativity that exemplifies the boundless potential to construct novel worlds, thrilling exploits, and innovative concepts in writing while maintaining a sense of intrigue. ... I recommend this riveting tale to enthusiasts of renowned fantasy works. Aurora Winter’s talent for weaving a captivating narrative, brimming with imaginative realms and well-crafted characters, makes Magic, Mystery, and the Multiverse an absolute must-read for any lover of the genre.
Magic, Mystery, and the Multiverse: The Marvelous Multiverse App is a magical, fantasy fiction, adventure novel, and the first book in a planned series, by author Aurora Winter. This is a fun, fantastic, fast-paced, fantasy adventure, well-executed by Winter. With a unique and imaginative plot, a mesmerising magical multiverse, and a host of wonderful and magical creatures, this book will appeal to young adult readers who enjoy adventure and fantasy fiction. Inspired by books, such as Wizard of Oz and Harry Potter, and movies such as Back to the Future, this book can sit proudly alongside those classics.
Star rating: 5 Stars
Summary: A fun, fantasy fiction novel, packed full of magic and adventure. A thrilling ride through the multiverse, not to be missed!
Bestselling author Kelly Sullivan Walden interviews Aurora M. Winter about her latest book, Magic, Mystery and the Multiverse.
Discover why Aurora Winter wrote this new fantasy series and why Kelly said Magic, Mystery and the Multiverse is "a masterpiece!"
