Blood Like Magic

Bookseller recommendation

“How do you choose between killing your first love or being responsible for the end of the ancestral magic that your family has practiced for many generations? In a futuristic society that allows for social technological interaction with the glance of an eye, Sambury incorporates the Trinidadian-Canadian immigrant experience and casual queer representation into a story of Black witches and the choices we make in light of what our families expect from us and what we want for ourselves.”

— Sol • Quail Ridge Books

Bookseller recommendation

“What a phenomenal book!! This book takes place in the year 2049 but doesn't have a super futuristic-ky feel to it. It's a very plausible future, where tech has obviously advanced, but they still have Google, so it's not too far-fetched. I love the vast diversity in the book. The author, while seamlessly fitting in trans/gay/straight//cis characters into their story, also highlights the struggles some of the characters face in our current reality, such as misgendering for trans people. There are many current social issues that are touched on in this book, and the author does that with grace and poise. The audiobook version begins with trigger warnings, which was very helpful to know what was coming your way. The characters were relatable (even while being witches!) and likable. The story was fun and engaging and kept me hooked from the beginning. The messages from the author were clear and precise and timely for the current status of our world. All in all an overwhelmingly solid debut.”

— Sarah • The Book Worm Bookstore