Renowned YA fantasy author Leigh Bardugo has released her latest novel, The Familiar. It is completely different from her previous works.

"The Familiar" follows Luzia Cotado, who uses magic powers secretly to endure life in the busy Madrid. Her life changes for the worse after Luzia's mistress discovers her secret and makes her use her talents to improve their social standings. Luzia's powers bring attention to her from the likes of Antonio Perez, an erstwhile royal secretary. She is drawn into a deceptive world of court intrigue and alternating loyalties.

Determined to seize opportunities for a better life, Luzia navigates a landscape where magic, science, and deceit intersect. Yet, as her fame grows, so does the danger of persecution due to her Jewish heritage. Facing imminent danger, Luzia must depend on her wit and alliances, including the mysterious Guillén Santángel, to navigate a society where survival is always uncertain.

The Author

Bardugo is a celebrated writer renowned for her captivating narratives and inventive fictional realms. She achieved widespread acclaim for crafting an intricate and immersive fantasy universe called Grishaverse, which has garnered a loyal following. Her short fiction has also appeared in several anthologies, including The Best American Science Fiction and Fantasy. Currently residing in Los Angeles, she also serves as an associate fellow of Pauli Murray College at Yale University.

According to Screen Rant, Bardugo has repeatedly mentioned that "The Familiar" draws inspiration from her family background. She also noted it was the first of her works written entirely during nighttime. Furthermore, she has characterized it as her most romantic creation to date, which is noteworthy given the abundance of romantic elements in her Grishaverse novels and the alluring tension in the Alex Stern series.

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A Blend of Magic, Wit, and Intrigue

NPR described "The Familiar" as a colorful mix of historical fiction, fantasy, magic, and wit. It depicts a romantic setting and a youthful story full of unspoken feelings and unease. Hence, the book is subject to ambition, passion, and conflict. The storyline is contrasted with the historical background of slavery, conflict of interests, and cunning. It shows how many parties are connected and the leading character.

Despite the complexity of its plot and a large ensemble of characters, Bardugo navigates the narrative with clarity and humor, infusing the novel with lively dialogue and a quick-witted protagonist. While incorporating familiar elements such as magic battles and impossible love, Bardugo breathes new life into these tropes, ensuring a fresh and engaging reading experience.

Intricacies of Magic and Narrative Development

Kirkus Reviews pointed out that the book encounters a typical challenge in fantasy literature: why characters do not rely solely on magic to resolve their issues. Bardugo addresses this concern thoughtfully, although her solutions may not be fully satisfactory, particularly in the latter part of the narrative.

Paste Magazine said this novel has a slower pace than her other works, a deliberate choice given its historical context and personal significance to the author. Despite this shift, Bardugo's meticulous attention to detail in depicting sixteenth-century Spain and rich prose imbues the setting with vibrant life.

The novel's compelling plot ensures the story's continuous momentum and that readers remain engaged throughout. Through different genres, Bardugo demonstrates her versatility as a writer and marvels readers by leading them to question whether her literary gifts are restricted in any area.

The NPR review also noted some issues regarding the pacing, too many characters, and subplots. Despite these minor flaws, Bardugo's captivating prose elevates the story. Her masterful control of tension and dialogue is guaranteed to keep readers engaged. At its core, "The Familiar" is a story of hope, with Luzia's resilience and determination making her a character readers will root for until the end.

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