In Kara Buchanan's Magica Riot, the first book in the Maidensong Magica series, Claire Ryland's life takes a fantastical turn. One night, a fight with interdimensional monsters leads to an unexpected encounter—her favorite band's drummer transforms into a magical girl, and soon, so does Claire. Juggling her newfound identity as a transgender woman with her role in Portland's secret magical girl defense squad, Magica Riot, Claire faces thrilling adventures and complex challenges. This action-packed, musical journey blends classic magical girl anime tropes with a distinctly Pacific Northwest vibe and a diverse LGBTQ+ cast. Magica Riot is a vibrant story about self-discovery, battling monsters, and finding your voice, both literally and figuratively, proving that saving the world starts with embracing your true self.
Review Magica Riot
Magica Riot absolutely charmed me! It's the kind of book that grabs you from the first page and doesn't let go. The premise itself – a transgender woman discovering her identity while simultaneously becoming a magical girl fighting interdimensional monsters in Portland – is already incredibly inventive and exciting, but the execution is even better. This isn't just a fun, action-packed adventure; it's a heartfelt story about self-discovery, belonging, and the power of found family.
The three-act structure works brilliantly, escalating the stakes and introducing new challenges at just the right moments. Each act felt like a satisfying chapter in Claire's journey, both as a person and as a magical girl. I particularly appreciated how the world-building was woven seamlessly into the narrative; it wasn't an info dump, but rather a series of carefully placed details that gradually painted a vivid picture of Portland's hidden magical world. The casual approach to world-building made it feel less like a lecture and more like being welcomed into a secret society, which added to the overall immersive experience.
The decision to have Claire join an already established band of magical girls was a smart one. It immediately gives her a support system and a sense of community, something incredibly important given her personal journey. The interactions between the band members are snappy, witty, and full of genuine affection, making them a joy to read about. I loved the way their powers were tied to their musical instruments—it's a clever and creative touch that adds another layer of originality to the story.
The writing itself is superb. Buchanan’s prose is crisp and energetic, perfectly mirroring the pace and excitement of the plot. The descriptions are vivid and engaging, and the dialogue feels natural and authentic, creating truly believable characters. Claire's journey of self-discovery is handled with sensitivity and grace, never falling into clichés or stereotypes. The story celebrates trans joy and inclusivity without being preachy or overly sentimental. It’s a refreshing and much-needed representation in the genre.
While there's a romantic subplot, it's not the central focus, which allows the story to breathe and prioritize the development of Claire's identity and the overall group dynamic. The balance between action, humor, and emotional depth is beautifully executed. It’s a book that manages to be both exhilarating and heartwarming, leaving you feeling uplifted and energized long after you've finished the last page. Honestly, I can't wait for the next book in the series; Magica Riot is a fantastic start to what I hope will be a long and wonderful series. Highly recommended!
Information
- Dimensions: 5.5 x 0.62 x 8.5 inches
- Language: English
- Print length: 248
- Publication date: 2024
- Publisher: Storm Maiden