The Bridge to Magic (The Sundered Web Book 1) by Alex Thornbury – Expert Book Review
A Good Quote from the Book
“Magic is not the power we think it is—it’s the power we fear, the power we cannot control.”
This quote resonates throughout The Bridge to Magic, encapsulating the central theme of fear and control over an uncontrollable force. It’s a gripping line that highlights the novel’s exploration of the precarious relationship between power, magic, and the human desire for control. It’s one of those moments that make you pause and reflect on how power, when misunderstood, can lead to fear and chaos.
Summary: A Gripping Start to The Sundered Web Series
The Bridge to Magic is a 341-page epic fantasy, published in February 21, 2023, and is the first book in The Sundered Web series. If you enjoy intricate magical systems and character-driven plots, this is a must-read. Available through major outlets like Amazon and Barnes & Noble, this book already has a dedicated fanbase.
The story revolves around Elira, a young woman torn between her natural affinity for magic and the fear it brings to her society. In this fractured world, magic has been both a savior and a curse, dividing the population. Elira’s journey is one of self-discovery as she wrestles with her emerging powers, societal expectations, and the ominous prophecies surrounding her. At the heart of the conflict lies a fractured magical web that could either save or destroy their world. Elira must confront her fears, align with unexpected allies, and face the dark forces that threaten everything she holds dear.
Key Facts: Magic and Fear at the Forefront
Although The Bridge to Magic has not yet won any major awards, its reception has been overwhelmingly positive. Brandon Sanderson, the master of fantasy himself, called it “an inventive and heart-driven debut,” noting its fresh take on traditional fantasy themes. Such an endorsement from Sanderson sets The Bridge to Magic apart, raising expectations for what’s to come in this new series.
10 Books Similar to The Bridge to Magic
For readers who loved The Bridge to Magic, these ten epic fantasy titles offer similar themes and magic-filled worlds:
Mistborn: The Final Empire by Brandon Sanderson
The Name of the Wind by Patrick Rothfuss
The Fifth Season by N.K. Jemisin
The Priory of the Orange Tree by Samantha Shannon
The Lies of Locke Lamora by Scott Lynch
The Poppy War by R.F. Kuang
A Darker Shade of Magic by V.E. Schwab
The Way of Kings by Brandon Sanderson
The Blade Itself by Joe Abercrombie
Shadow and Bone by Leigh Bardugo
These books, like The Bridge to Magic, explore morally complex characters, high-stakes magical conflicts, and richly imagined worlds.
About the Author: Alex Thornbury
Alex Thornbury is a debut author who brings a refreshing new voice to the fantasy genre. With a deep love for mythology and folklore, she draws inspiration from ancient legends and complex world-building traditions. Thornbury’s background in anthropology has lent a unique authenticity to her portrayal of fractured societies and the tensions between power, fear, and control. Her debut novel, The Bridge to Magic, marks the beginning of what promises to be an extraordinary series that pushes the boundaries of fantasy.
Writing Style Report: Lyrical and Immersive
Thornbury’s writing is immersive, richly descriptive, and deeply emotional. The prose flows effortlessly, pulling readers into the heart of her world without overwhelming them with unnecessary details. She manages to blend the grandeur of epic fantasy with the intimacy of personal struggle, allowing Elira’s journey to take center stage. The pacing is steady, with the tension slowly building towards a climactic end that leaves readers eager for more.
One of the novel’s standout features is its world-building. Thornbury paints vivid landscapes, from ancient cities to mystical forests, creating a world that feels as real as it is fantastical. She excels at balancing intricate magic systems with character-driven plots, ensuring that every magical detail serves a purpose in advancing the story.
Key Takeaways from The Bridge to Magic
Here are five insightful takeaways from this novel:
🌟 Magic as both gift and curse
Magic is portrayed as something deeply feared yet coveted, reflecting real-world anxieties about power and control.
🔥 The burden of destiny
Elira’s internal struggle against her fate adds depth to her character, making her journey relatable.
💡 Morally complex societies
Thornbury’s world isn’t divided into simple good vs. evil. There are layers of moral ambiguity that make the political and magical conflicts all the more compelling.
🌍 Exceptional world-building
The detailed landscapes and rich history provide a vivid backdrop to the story, enhancing the reader’s immersion.
💔 Powerful character development
Elira’s growth from a reluctant outsider to a powerful force for change is emotional and rewarding.
What’s Unique about This Book? A Deeper Exploration of Magic
Unlike many fantasy novels that depict magic as purely beneficial or destructive, The Bridge to Magic takes a nuanced approach. It presents magic as something deeply intertwined with fear, control, and societal norms. The novel’s examination of magic as a destabilizing force—both within individuals and across societies—makes it a standout entry in the genre.
Opinion: A Great Book with a Promising Future
Rating: ★★★★☆
The Bridge to Magic earns a solid four stars for its fresh take on epic fantasy and its emotionally resonant character arcs. Thornbury has crafted a world that feels alive with danger and intrigue, while still allowing the personal struggles of her protagonist to shine through. Though the pacing is slower in some parts, the steady build-up pays off, and by the end, you’ll be eagerly awaiting the next installment in The Sundered Web series. It’s a great book for fantasy lovers who crave stories with rich emotional depth and complex magic.
Who Would Enjoy This Book?
This book is perfect for readers who enjoy:
Epic fantasy with intricate world-building.
Character-driven plots that focus on personal growth and internal conflict.
Themes that challenge the traditional good vs. evil narrative, offering moral complexity instead.
Other Books by Alex Thornbury
The Bridge to Magic is Thornbury’s debut, so there aren’t other works to dive into just yet. However, with such a promising start, there’s no doubt her upcoming books will be eagerly anticipated.
Reading Plan: Preparing for The Sundered Web Series
As the first book in The Sundered Web series, The Bridge to Magic leaves readers on a cliffhanger, eager for more. The next step is simple: stay tuned for Book 2, where the story is sure to deepen, and the stakes will rise even higher.
Top Authors in Similar Genres
For those who love The Bridge to Magic, here are top authors in similar genres:
Brandon Sanderson (Mistborn)
Patrick Rothfuss (The Name of the Wind)
N.K. Jemisin (The Fifth Season)
V.E. Schwab (A Darker Shade of Magic)
Comprehensive List of Books Mentioned:
Mistborn: The Final Empire by Brandon Sanderson
The Name of the Wind by Patrick Rothfuss
The Fifth Season by N.K. Jemisin
The Priory of the Orange Tree by Samantha Shannon
The Lies of Locke Lamora by Scott Lynch
The Poppy War by R.F. Kuang
A Darker Shade of Magic by V.E. Schwab
The Way of Kings by Brandon Sanderson
The Blade Itself by Joe Abercrombie
Shadow and Bone by Leigh Bardugo
Happy reading 📖❤️