It isn’t often that I run into a new fantasy novel that I can’t put down (or stop listening to). I raced through Time-Marked Warlock in only 2 days because Shami Stovall somehow melded the mystery and wit of a Dresden Files tale with the charm and wonder of a Harry Potter novel. I mean this, bravo! The book offers a fresh, magical world with a plot that keeps things deceptively simple and lighthearted, while knowing when to take itself seriously. It makes for a FUN thrill ride. And yes, I actually grabbed my popcorn in places (caramel of course). Come to think of it, could someone please make this into a movie or Netflix-series? About the characters: the warlock, Finch, speaks to the older audience with his grumpy, hard-boiled history. He’s a man nearing middle age struggling with his failures and weariness for the world. I can relate. There’s a mischievous pigeon-cat-frog spirit who is great for a laugh when you most need it. But to my surprise, it was the 12-year-old co-star, Bree, who stole the show for me. Seriously, my hat’s off to Shami for managing to make a super-sweet kid likable! Think Shirley Temple and Judy Garland levels of charm brought to life by Soundbooth Theater’s supremely talented Annie Ellicott. Bree’s arc genuinely tugged at my heartstrings. Won’t spoil the ending, but I’ll say I enjoyed book 1 so much that I’ve already shelled out a hard-earned credit for Book 2! You’ve earned a fan Shami!