Falling into Magic - A Review

 Review

FALLING INTO MAGIC by Elizabeth Pantley
The First Destiny Falls Mystery & Magic Book

Since she was a child Hayden has been aware that there was more to the world than could be seen, from the disappearance of her childhood cat to the boy in the mirror she'd glimpse out of the corner of her eye. All grown up, Hayden is walking home from the groomer with her cat when she's chased by a bearded man, a man just like the one her grandmothers described as wreaking havoc in their beauty parlor the day before. Hayden tumbles into a new world and discovers a family she never knew and the fact that magic does exist. But not all is well in Destiny Falls. Someone is looking for a better life and will stop at nothing to get it, even if it means destroying Hayden and her family.

I really enjoyed the storyline of the first Destiny Falls Mystery and Magic book. A play on a fish out of water, here the author takes our protagonist out of her element, but brings her home, where she can truly be who she was born to be. I love the concept of the town as a character, not only because of its setting and ambiance, but because it changes and seems to have a mind and purpose of its own.

It took me a while to get into FALLING INTO MAGIC for although I found the story intriguing I found the writing somewhat stilted. As the story progressed, however, it found its groove and the writing got tighter and more natural. Hayden is a bit immature, in her phrasing and actions, but she is likable. Her connection with her cat, Sassy, er Latifa, is heartfelt and fun. 

FALLING INTO MAGIC creates a new world wherein the town dictates the action and the players involved. It's a story with a youthful slant, a story of family and finding your place in the world.