A Spell for Change

(Paperback)

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In this sumptuous, atmospheric historical fantasy set in post-World War One Appalachia, three outcasts with misunderstood magical gifts search for their place in the world while battling the dark forces that circle their community. Perfect for fans of Katherine Arden and Susanna Clarke.

Kate Mayer has always been troubled by visions of the future. No matter what she does, her disturbing premonitions are always realised often with terrible consequences. But Kate has a secret: swirling, romantic dreams of a strange boy, and a chance meeting in the woods.

Oliver returned from the Great War disabled, disillusioned, and able to see the dead. Haunted by the death of his best friend and his traumatic memories of the trenches, Oliver realises that his ability to communicate with spirits may offer the chance of closure he desperately seeks.

Nora Jo's mother and grandmother were witches, but she has never nurtured her own power. Always an outsider, she has made a place for herself in the town as Chatuga's schoolteacher, clinging to the independence the job affords her. When her unorthodox ideas lead to her dismissal, salvation comes in the form of a witch from the mountains who offers her a magical apprenticeship. Yet as she begins to fall for another woman in town, her loyalties pull her in disparate directions.

Rumours of a dark force stalking the town only push Kate, Oliver, and Nora Jo onwards in their quest to determine their own destinies. But there are powers in the world stronger and stranger than their own, and not all magic is used for good...

Reviews

Praise for A Portrait in Shadow


"A Portrait in Shadow is a thrilling and sparkling reimagining of painter Artemisia Gentileschi's years in Florence, and Nicole Jarvis deftly takes us inside the life and heart of one of art history's great masters. Set against a rich magical world as skillfully drawn as one of Gentileschi's own paintings, this exceptional novel is a testament to the power of art, the historical struggle and resilience of women, and what it can cost an artist to create her work. A Portrait in Shadow is absolutely a new favorite book of mine!" Alyssa Palombo, author of The Most Beautiful Woman in Florence


"A remarkable novel of healing and revenge, A Portrait in Shadow brings new depth to an artist whose story still resonates with us. The astonishing fantastical elements give Artemisia Gentileschi a conduit for her rage towards an injustice that is still all too familiar." Helen Corcoran, author of Queen of Coin and Whispers


"A deeply feminist story of a woman fighting for who she is in a world run by men... Captivating, striking and passionate" Nadya Mercik for The British Fantasy Society


"The rich and unique setting with a dark and twisted magic will capture the attention of readers who love alternative histories and fantasy novels." Booklist


"A good choice for fans of historical fiction authors such as Susan Vreeland and Tracy Chevalier." Library Journal


"Artemisia's determination catches you on the first page and doesn't let you go. A joy to read!" Fortean Times


Praise for The Lights of Prague


"An unconventional and characterful vampire tale." Morning Star Review


"Fantasy fans will gobble up this moody, philosophical adventure."
Publishers Weekly


"Jarvis transports readers to a historical Prague where evil lurks around dark corners and lamplighters are vampire hunters in disguise. Readers will fall hard for the humble, vampire-hunting Domek and the brazen, bloodthirsty Ora as they navigate their class differences-along with their mortal differences-while trying to save their city. A stunning debut." Kristen Ciccarelli, "25 Best Vampire Books To Read Now", Bustle


"The story unfolds at a measured pace, submerging the reader into moments of reflective exposition or lush descriptions of Prague....an impressive and mature feat from a debut novelist." BookPage

Author Bio

Nicole Jarvis writes speculative history novels. A graduate of Emory University with degrees in English and Italian, she lives in Georgia with her partner and works in marketing for Penguin Random House. She is the author of The Lights of Prague, A Portrait in Shadow, and A Spell for Change. Nicole loves musicals, pottery, and learning about strange histories. Instagram/X: @nicolejarvis.