Thoughts: SpellBinders: The Not-So-Chosen One by Andrew Aueson

Source: NetGalley & the Publisher – Thank you!
TL;DR: This was a fun, cleverly thought out fantasy story about a lonely young man in a wild new fantasy world.

Plot: A bit slow to start, but once the story gets going the humor and intrigue really grab you
Characters: Very funny, very unique characters – with clever twists on some old tropes
Setting: The fantasy world in this cracked me up, and I honestly can’t wait to read more books in this setting
Magic: Who doesn’t love a journal/writing based magic system?!

Thoughts:

Ben, like many of my fellow TTRPG nerds, begins this story feeling incredibly lonely. His normal crew of friends have seemingly abandoned him, and his Mom has become even more distant since his family broke apart. Sitting on a bench at a convention where it seems he was once again left, he is scooped up by Niara – an assassin from Lux – who believes he is the chosen one. Unfortunately for Ben he starts to believe he may not in fact be the Chosen One, he may just be a guy with a notebook.

I’m going to be 100% honest here – I run D&D games, I write ridiculous worlds and adventures for fun for a group of friends so everything about this book was a joy for me. From the idea of the world when you truly find out it’s source, to the magic that Ben discovers. I thought it was very cleverly done, and the messaging in this will really resonate with kids who have these types of hobbies (as we all seem to struggle with similar issues).

I thought the characters were clever and funny. I loved the casually diverse cast – and as a Non-Binary individual I adored a certain shape changing character you meet later in the series. The only real complaint I have about this book is that perhaps the start was a bit rocky. But once you get into the book, and really realize what exactly you’re dealing with? It’s hilarious and fantastic.

If you’re a fan of middle grade fantasy, or a fan of TTRPGs I highly recommend this one. It’s funny, inventive, and unique. I am definitely keeping my eyes out for the next in the series.