HOLLOW MAGIC

A young silver-haired witch searches for help navigating her unwieldy magic and discovers more than she bargained for in this debut graphic novel.

Desperate to learn to control her magic, 17-year-old Rosefinch, who appears white, journeys to Harp, a quiet village known for being a refuge to the fey and other magic folk. Upon arrival at Harp Castle, she discovers a young knight frozen by a curse and uses her magic to thaw them. Pale, black-haired Thierry doesn’t remember why they’re there or what happened before they were frozen. Exploring the castle together, the two discover Prince Morgan of Harp, who presents Black and had also been frozen. Morgan remembers more than Thierry, and together the trio work to unravel a series of mysteries: Who is the Witch-Queen of Harp? What are Thierry’s ties to the castle? Where did Morgan’s mothers, the Harp Queens, go? But Rosefinch is harboring secrets of her own, and ultimately, the trio must journey to the dangerous Feywild to get answers. The story’s pacing at times feels rushed, but the worldbuilding is robust and full of potential. While some of the paneling choices contribute to a stilted flow, Lauderbaugh’s character design, rich colors, and linework are highly appealing. Thierry and Rosefinch’s chemistry is immediate, but it never overshadows Morgan’s friendship with Thierry or his developing camaraderie with Rosefinch.

A satisfying story of found family and fey magic from an artist to watch.