Magical ‘Knives Out’ is a hell of a tagline, and one that this book seems to do well living up to. With parts that feel like a movie and twists that took me by surprise even after I thought I had everything figured out, THESE DEADLY PROPHECIES is a pretty quick and enjoyable read. Its worldbuilding takes the basics of much fantastical magic, gives it a simple clarification within the book’s world and lets that be it. The narrative is a bit irreverent, more confessional than I assumed it would be, and all wrapped in a mystery that can keep you guessing despite the Knives Out comparisons. Somewhat strangely, all of these things seem to work for the book; it’s not particularly groundbreaking but I don’t think it needs to be to be worth the read. I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a quick and twisty mystery with some definite Nancy Drew vibes.

Tabatha Zeng is a prophet sorcerer-to-be, the apprentice of the most well-known prophet, right up until he’s brutally murdered. With the messy family of any wealthy eccentric, this is a mystery that has no quick solution, and gets even messier with the question of inheritance along the way. This book has a pretty steady through line as it comes to the overall mystery, driving everything along at a pace that keeps any one moment from feeling like it dragged. While I actually enjoyed the short length of the book, I do still feel that there were some elements that didn’t seem to carry as much weight as others (re: the Detective, etc.) But it’s still fun to read nonetheless.

Character wise, Tabatha’s frontal narration is really interesting, and helps weave together various elements of the story when they seem a little distant. She’s certainly a somewhat messy YA protagonist as all teenagers are, but there was a level of both self-awareness and obliviousness that I appreciated, and that made things like the slightly cliché romance more enjoyable than they would have been had Tang written them as straightforward or simply sweet. Every member of the family is interesting, and makes you wish that you knew just a little bit more of how they got where they are.

I think that this book ultimately lives up to what it promises, and makes it worth the read along the way. It’s captivating enough to keep you on the edge of your seat without perhaps requiring as much mental exhaustion as a more in-depth fantasy or mystery. I would definitely recommend it!

These Deadly Prophecies was such a fun read! I really enjoyed how the prose felt conversational, as if the main character were directly speaking to the reader. The pacing was great and I think the magical elements added a little something special to the murder mystery element. It definitely reads as a YA novel, successfully managing to be digestible for a younger audience without taking away from the seriousness of a murder mystery. The “Knives Out/Inheritance Games but with magic” pitch is so spot on, and I’ve got no doubt that fans of either or both will have a blast with this book!

Andrea Tang weaves a spellbinding tale of magic and mystery in "These Deadly Prophecies." With an engaging protagonist, an intriguing murder case, and a touch of the fantastical, this book keeps readers on the edge of their seats from beginning to end.

Tabatha Zeng, an apprentice to the renowned sorcerer Sorcerer Solomon, never expected her journey to involve solving crimes. However, when her boss predicts his own brutal death and the prophecy tragically comes true, Tabatha becomes embroiled in a perilous situation. The police have their eyes set on her and Callum Solomon, the youngest son of the murdered sorcerer. Faced with mounting suspicion, Tabatha and Callum join forces to uncover the truth and clear their names.

As they delve into the investigation, they encounter a suspect list populated by the wealthy, influential, and magically gifted members of Sorcerer Solomon's family. Amidst a backdrop of intrigue and danger, Tabatha must grapple with the question of just how much she can trust Callum Solomon, all while trying to navigate a world where nothing is as it seems.

Andrea Tang's writing is quick-witted and immersive, blending elements of magic and mystery seamlessly. The author skillfully crafts a captivating murder mystery, keeping readers guessing and second-guessing as they follow Tabatha and Callum's quest for justice. Tang's world-building is rich, bringing the fantastical elements to life and adding depth to the story's setting.

Tabatha Zeng is a compelling protagonist, and readers will find themselves rooting for her as she confronts the challenges and dangers that come her way. Tang deftly explores Tabatha's growth throughout the story, allowing her to evolve from an apprentice sorcerer into a formidable and resourceful investigator.

The dynamic between Tabatha and Callum is a highlight of the book. Their partnership is filled with tension, chemistry, and a constant undercurrent of uncertainty. Tang expertly develops their relationship, gradually peeling back the layers to reveal hidden depths and unexpected connections.

While "These Deadly Prophecies" is an enthralling read, some readers may find that certain plot twists and reveals are somewhat predictable, especially for seasoned mystery enthusiasts. However, the strength of Tang's storytelling and the well-drawn characters compensate for any predictability, ensuring an enjoyable reading experience.

In conclusion, "These Deadly Prophecies" is a gripping blend of magic and mystery that will captivate fans of the genre. Andrea Tang's skillful storytelling, intricate world-building, and well-rounded characters make this book a must-read for those who appreciate quick-witted narratives with a fantastical twist. Prepare to be immersed in a world where secrets lurk around every corner and where solving a murder requires both intellect and a touch of sorcery.

I love me a good murder mystery, and you want to go and add magic ontop of that!? Yes please!!!!! This book was amazing! The twists, the turns, the banter amazing. I can't wait till this is out and I have more people to talk to about this because wow just wow

So it’s June 2023 and I’m reading a February 2024 ARC but it sounded so good! And, spoiler alert, it was so good!

Knives Out + magic is literally the best way I can describe this book and it was a fast paced thrill ride. The romance was sweet and not so abundant that it overshadowed the mystery plot. The world building was interesting and unique but done to the perfect degree where I wasn’t trying to pick apart how it “couldn’t be possible”.

I loved this story and it had some strong messages about finding yourself and believing in yourself which I loved so much.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️