Od Magic

Magic unbound was suspect, dangerous. Therefore it was not permitted anywhere in Numis. The wizards of Numis, like its nobles, were subject to the laws of the land. All power ultimately belonged to the king. The wizard of Od, now nearly mythical herself, accepted all these rules once upon a time--but no longer.

Brenden Vetch has a gift. With an innate sense he cannot explain to himself or describe to others, he is able to connect to the agricultural world, nurturing gardens to flourish and instinctively knowing the healing properties each plant and herb has to offer. But Brenden's gift isolates him from his community, until the day he receives a personal invitation from the wizard Od. She needs a gardener for her school in the great city of Kelior, where every potential wizard must be trained to serve the Kingdom of Numis.

For decades, the rulers of Numis have controlled the school, believing they can contain the power within it. They punish any wizard who dares defy the law. But unknown to the reigning monarchy is the power possessed by the school's new gardener, a power even Brenden isn't fully aware of and which is the true reason Od recruited him.

"[Od's] enigmatic appearance and demeanor...and her lyrical, poetic mode of speech elevate the few scenes in which she appears into high art. The magic itself as it manifests in the novel is similarly strange and delightful...Gabrielle de Cuir's narration of Od Magic captures the playful essence of the novel's best passages. Her performance of Od's dialogue chimes in the ears like a tinkling stream, and she carries the emotions and idiosyncracies of the other female characters comfortably as well."

"A terrific fantasy tale starring a delightful protagonist, a vile villain, and an assortment of eccentric supporting characters, including the mysterious wonderful Wizard of Od. The story line grips...mesmerizes readers until the final spell is spun."

"Gabrielle de Cuir has a light touch with this narration. She maintains the undercurrent of tension...[and] reflects a fondness for the young princess who is to be betrothed."

"Lyrically told, the novel evokes an enchanting atmosphere and thoughtful tone."

"McKillip demonstrates once again her exquisite grasp of the fantasist's craft...An otherworldly delight."

"McKillip shines in her presentation of the characters, the city of Kelior, and in her depiction of what magic really means. The varied districts of Kelior, including the mysterious Twilight Quarter, are nearly tangible, rich in sensory heft."

"More enchantments and wonders from McKillip."

"With lyrical prose, well-limned characterizations, vibrant action, a sense of the wonder of magic, and a generous dollop of romance, this is a story that will bind readers in its spell."