Book Review: The Plastic Magician (The Paper Magician Book #4) by Charlie N. Holmberg | A New Sequel to an Old Favorite to Ease My Ever Aching Heart

Alvie Brechenmacher has arrived in London to begin her training in Polymaking—the magical discipline of bespelling plastic. Polymaking is the newest form of magic, and in a field where there is so much left to learn, every Polymaker dreams of making the next big discovery.

Even though she is only an apprentice, Alvie is an inventor at heart, and she is determined to make as many discoveries—in as short a time frame—as she can. Luckily for her, she’s studying under the world-renowned magician Marion Praff, who is just as dedicated as Alvie is.

Alvie’s enthusiasm reinvigorates her mentor’s work, and together they create a device that could forever change Polymaking—and the world. But when a rival learns of their plans, he conspires to steal their invention and take the credit for it himself.

To thwart him, Alvie will need to think one step ahead. For in the high-stakes world of magical discovery, not everyone plays fair…

Discussion:

                                                                            ⭐⭐⭐⭐

"Material made by man, your creator summons you. Link to me as I link to you through my years until the day I die and become earth."

Polymer chemistry involves the synthesis, characterization, and the study of the properties of large molecules consisting of units of repeating chains, such as hydrocarbons. The polymerization of these large molecules are then used to synthesize plastics, rubbers, and so many of the materials we use in everyday life. Although Holmberg did not write a book solely to quench my ever aching heart for a  story of an aspiring young chemist, I did thoroughly enjoy this addition to her Paper Magician series.

Our female protagonist Alvie Brechenmacher is an aspiring Polymaker, or a magician that focuses her craft on plastics and their properties. Alvie, like The Plastic Magician's Ceony, is extremely intelligent and courageous throughout the book. She is undoubtedly passionate in regards to her chosen skills in plastic, and I embraced returning to a world I adored.

The only things keeping this addition from a 5-star rating like the rest of the series was the slow pacing and predictable ending, particularly as Alvie had the answer to the plot's conflict in the beginning. There are instances in which a slower plot is necessary to build a world properly and sanely or to develop the plot thoroughly and without holes; however, when it gets so slow that I need to take a break, that means...

In conclusion, I am grateful for the opportunity to dive deeper into this magical world. Although this book is sorted into "Young Adult," I would also consider it to be "New Adult" since Alvie is a twenty-year-old woman, but Holmberg's writing style, easy-to-read plot, and relatable characters make this story a good addition to any reader's bookshelf. This magical adventure is surely a slam dunk that will forever keep me wondering what could happen next.

*Many thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for sending me an advanced copy in exchange for a honest review.

Thank you for reading, and I hope you enjoy!

Love,
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What is your favorite fantasy novel? No one can forget the classics like the The Harry Potter series and the stories that started The Paper Magician series, of course. Do you see much difference in "Young Adult" and "New Adult" genres? Do you have any good suggestions for "New Adult" novels as I undeniably age into one? Converse with me in the comments below or via any social media!