Wicked As You Wish (A Hundred Names for Magic – Book 1)

Tala lives in the heat of Arizona, located in the Royal States of America, where magic is only permitted if it is attached to an item. Her Filipina family shields Alex, the king of Avalon, who hides until his homeland can be released from the Snow Queen’s ice spell. When the Firebird shows up, a creature of legend that hasn’t been seen in decades, Tala and several friends escape to help Alex restore his former country and his crown. Their journey is far from easy, as Tala discovers secrets and powers that are best left hidden. None of them will be the same, even if they survive long enough to end the curse and save Alex’s home.

This is not a lazy book to read; the worldbuilding is extensive and complicated, but the characters are likeable and the dialogue witty at times. There are many political statements, some more blatant than others, that arise as characters battle dark creatures or even while enjoying dinner. However, this book is still lighter than the author’s Bone Witch series and incredibly creative as beloved fairy tales are woven into the thread of the tale. The diverse characters, both racially and sexually, will appeal to diverse readers.