Book Review: Splintered Magic: A Paranormal Women’s Urban Fantasy Novel by Jilleen Dolbeare
Ah, there’s nothing quite like diving into a world of magic, especially when a talking cat is involved! When I stumbled upon Splintered Magic by Jilleen Dolbeare, I was instantly intrigued. The premise of a divorced woman returning to her ancestral home only to discover her fae lineage felt refreshing and promised adventure—and I was not disappointed.
Brigid Donovan, our spirited protagonist, is an everywoman we can all resonate with. The story opens with her heart in shambles, dealing with the fallout of a crumbling marriage and an equally crumbling mansion perched in the luscious Oregon forest. Imagine my delight when her chilling reality morphs into a whimsical narrative filled with supernatural secrets and magical entities! Immediately, I felt for Brigid; her struggle to reclaim not just her physical dwelling but also a sense of self was palpable. It’s this very nuance of her character that made my reading journey feel personal and relatable.
One of the standout elements of Splintered Magic is its remarkable blend of fantasy and realism. Dolbeare elegantly wields humor and wit—particularly through the sharp-tongued Mr. Mittens, Brigid’s magical feline companion. I found myself chuckling at their banter, and the way he introduces her to her latent magical powers was nothing short of captivating. It’s refreshing to see a middle-aged female character navigating life’s complexities, embracing both her strengths and shortcomings without falling into tired tropes.
The pacing is brisk, threaded with unexpected twists. As Brigid sets out to renovate her ancestral home, she encounters a motley crew of werewolves, witches, and intriguing townsfolk. I particularly loved the whimsical charm of Kilchis—Dolbeare’s description of the town’s surreal atmosphere was vibrant and lush, making it almost a character in its own right. It’s a world that felt achingly real, yet enchantingly distant—a beautiful escape from the mundane.
In terms of writing style, Dolbeare’s voice is conversational and inviting, encouraging readers to invest emotionally in Brigid’s journey. The emotional depth she weaves throughout the narrative elevates it from a simple fantasy tale to a heartfelt exploration of resilience and self-discovery. As readers, we celebrate Brigid’s missteps just as much as her victories, which creates a relatable character arc.
What resonated with me most was the idea that magic isn’t just a means to an end; it’s deeply intertwined with family legacies and personal empowerment. One poignant quote that encapsulates this is when Brigid realizes, “To reclaim your heritage is to reclaim yourself.” It left me pondering my own roots and the magic they hold, a lovely sentiment that lingers well after closing the book.
I wholeheartedly recommend Splintered Magic to anyone yearning for a warm, witty urban fantasy that champions a strong female lead. This book will appeal to those who appreciate tales of self-discovery and personal growth amidst fantastical elements. Fans of magical realism, paranormal fiction, or just a good, solid romp through the supernatural will find themselves enchanted.
In sum, Jilleen Dolbeare has crafted a delightful beginning to what promises to be a thrilling series. As I close this chapter, I find myself eagerly anticipating Brigid’s next adventure—after all, magic is best when it’s shared with kindred souls. ✨
You can find Splintered Magic: A Paranormal Women’s Urban Fantasy Novel here >>