Fred Gracely’s MISFIT’S MAGIC: Twisting in Time works as a prequel to the Misfit’s Magic series, transporting readers back to follow Goffren of Slaathwick (the ancestor of modern-day protagonist Goff Graham). The novel cleverly connects the medieval fantasy world to the larger mythology of the Misfit’s Magic series, revealing the origins of the magical abilities and conflicts that echo into the modern-day setting of Spraksville.
As is the case with prior entries in the series, this one features some outstanding character development and impressive world-building. Gracely has convincingly transported his modern narrative into a medieval setting, painting a vivid picture of a long-forgotten world: “Dozens of tall towers, baileys, bastions, and chimneys rose from domed halls connected by battlements; round stained-glass windows glowed with color, and streaks of amethyst embedded in the rock made the whole structure shimmer soft violet.”
The story centers on the medieval ancestors of the present-day cast, with Goffren, Lydianna, and Halstrom echoing the personalities familiar to series readers. Lydianna’s endless enthusiasm and Halstrom’s love for precision provide a healthy dose of humor, while Goffren struggles with his identity as a Verlokken who’s learning to embrace his magical abilities. Initially convinced he’s a “monster” bringing “treacherous and complicated” consequences to everyone he meets, Goffren gradually learns to accept his role as a sort of “force of nature.” His journey from self-doubt to acceptance mirrors the path that present-day Goff progresses through while the unfolding backstory of Verlokken magic adds a whole new layer to this world.
While TWISTING IN TIME expands the Misfit’s Magic series in some interesting ways, the narrative occasionally relies on convenient solutions appearing at critical moments; and the early chapters tend to move at a measured pace as Gracely establishes the medieval world of Slaathwick. Both points, however, are minor quibbles that feel all the more understandable given that this is a prequel that carefully connects to an already existing series.
What really sets the book apart is how it answers long-held questions about the series’ mythology while delivering a standalone adventure; Gracely’s handling of the time-travel framing device is especially interesting. Newcomers to the world of Misfit’s Magic will find this prequel a perfect point of entry, while longtime readers will appreciate discovering how Goffren’s battles and ultimate sacrifice shape Goff’s own destiny.
Fred Gracely’s MISFIT’S MAGIC: Twisting in Time is an engaging addition to the author’s magical universe, offering both satisfying answers to some long-held mysteries and an exciting foundation for future adventures.
~James Weiskittel for IndieReader