These Deadly Prophecies

by Andrea Tang

Book Overview

"An incredibly fun thrill-ride by a masterful storyteller." --Marie Lu, #1 New York Times Bestselling author of Stars And Smoke

A teenage sorcerer's apprentice must solve her boss's murder in order to prove her innocence in this twisty, magic-infused murder mystery perfect for fans of Knives Out and The Inheritance Games.

Being an apprentice to one of the world's most famous sorcerers has its challenges;...

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 059352425X
• ISBN13: 9780593524251
• Release Date: January 2024
• Publisher: G.P. Putnam's Sons Books for Young Readers
• Length: 256 Pages
• Weight: 0.60 lbs.
• Dimensions: 1.5" x 5.6" x 7.9"
• Age Range: 14 years and up
• Grade Range: Grade 9 and higher

Customer Reviews

Pretty Good

Okay, this was a pretty good book. It was definitely a quick read with not too much world building. I would have loved a bit more of that, maybe more insight on the magic system with seeing the future and sigils and such. I will say that it really brought to mind the movie Knives Out, though with magic of course but it followed it pretty close with the patriarch (Julian Solomon) being found dead pretty gruesomely after prophesying of it. You have a fairly messed up family (2 ex wives, and three kids, plus an ex apprentice) all wanting the inheritance that was left behind plus people trying to figure who killed him. I guess the Inheritance Games similarity is that Tabatha kind of likes both the brothers. After building up all the mystery and even adding an extra death while Callum and Tabatha try to get to the bottom of it all, to me it ends up being a bit of a convoluted ending with it kind of being a mistake for the deaths and the killer not being as wicked bad as the murders suggested. I felt that after all the suspicion it was kind of a letdown of an ending. It left me confused and I had to sit for a bit to figure what the heck happened. So all in all it was pretty good, up till the ending.

Light YA contemporary fantasy/mystery

These Deadly Prophecies is a contemporary YA fantasy and mystery. The story follows Tabatha Zeng, a high school student who is the apprentice of a renowned fortune telling sorcerer from an old and wealthy magical family. Her mentor is brutally murdered, and Tabatha becomes a suspect since she is one of the last people to see him alive. She finds herself attempting to solve the mystery by teaming up with the sorcerer's youngest son, Callum. I really liked the idea of a world in which sorcery is another career path and magic has been integrated into society, however the world building was weak, and the magic system was not explained. The pacing at times could be very slow with a lot of internal monologues and telling rather than showing. The pace picked up in the last 25% with a good twist at the end. The tone was light and fun and will likely appeal to younger YA readers.

Love love loved it!

Andrea Tang's "These Deadly Prophecies" stands as a testament to the author's exceptional storytelling prowess and the ability to craft a fantasy narrative that transcends the ordinary. This novel, nestled within the realms of the fantastical, is a captivating journey that weaves together intricate plots, well-drawn characters, and a richly imagined world. At the heart of Tang's narrative lies a tapestry of prophecies that serve as the driving force behind the characters' destinies. The author skillfully introduces us to a diverse cast, each with their unique strengths, flaws, and a compelling backstory that unfolds gradually throughout the novel. From the outset, readers are drawn into a world where magic and mystery coexist, and Tang's meticulous attention to detail paints vivid landscapes that linger in the imagination long after the book is closed. One of the novel's standout features is Tang's ability to balance world-building with character development seamlessly. The world in "These Deadly Prophecies" is not merely a backdrop but an integral part of the story. Tang's descriptive prowess breathes life into the settings, whether it's the bustling cityscape with its marketplaces and towering spires or the ethereal landscapes where magic unfurls in all its splendor. The protagonist, a relatable yet complex character, embarks on a hero's journey fraught with challenges, self-discovery, and moral dilemmas. Tang takes care to humanize the characters, ensuring that their struggles resonate with readers on a visceral level. The protagonist's growth is nuanced, evolving in tandem with the unfolding events and revelations that keep the narrative engaging. The pacing of "These Deadly Prophecies" is masterfully orchestrated. Tang deftly alternates between moments of tension, exploration, and introspection, maintaining a rhythm that propels the reader forward without sacrificing depth. The plot twists are both surprising and satisfying, a testament to the author's ability to subvert expectations while adhering to the internal logic of the story. Magic in this world is not just a mere tool; it's an integral aspect of the narrative. Tang delves into the intricacies of the magical system, offering readers a glimpse into a world where spells are not just incantations but manifestations of the characters' emotions, strengths, and vulnerabilities. This unique approach adds layers to the story, making the magical elements an organic extension of the characters' experiences. The dialogue in "These Deadly Prophecies" is another noteworthy aspect of Tang's writing. Conversations are not merely exchanges of information but windows into the characters' personalities and relationships. The banter is witty, the emotional exchanges are poignant, and every word serves a purpose in advancing the narrative or revealing facets of the characters. Tang also excels in creating a sense of moral ambiguity within the narrative. The characters grapple with choices that are not neatly delineated into right or wrong, and the shades of gray add depth to the overall storytelling. This moral complexity invites readers to ponder the consequences of actions and decisions, elevating the novel beyond a simple tale of good versus evil. In conclusion, "These Deadly Prophecies" by Andrea Tang is a triumph in the realm of fantasy literature. Tang's ability to craft a compelling narrative, populate it with well-realized characters, and immerse readers in a world where magic and prophecy entwine is nothing short of extraordinary. For fans of the genre, this novel is a gem that deserves a place on the bookshelves, and it will undoubtedly leave them eagerly anticipating whatever magical realm Tang conjures in her future works.