Book Review: Random Magic

Publisher: Beach Books

Author: Sasha Soren

In this novel, Ms. Soren weaves a tale of adventure from the threads of common cultural references (Alice in Wonderland, book jumping, a bit of Harry Potteresque magic, etc). Alice in Wonderland has gone missing and Professor Random has appointed one of his students to find her. Along the way mischief and mayhem ensue. Eventually everything is resolved and wrapped up satisfyingly in the end.

Random Magic is available on Amazon.com

The plot is detailed, inventive and interesting. Combined with Ms. Soren's precision in utilizing adjectives and adverbs in nearly every sentence it would do well as the foundation for a witty screenplay. However, while professional actors can benefit from the abundance of adverbs and likewise set designers will be right on track with the numerous adjectives, the constant barrage of descriptions tires the novel reader. Likewise, the subtle British humor, innuendos, and doublespeak would play out beautifully on stage or on screen but can fall flat in print. (Imagine reading a Monty Python screenplay presented as a novel). This is unfortunate as otherwise the plot really shines. Perhaps a polished editing with the next publishing can improve the presentation. Alternatively, Ms. Soren might strongly consider transforming the piece formally into a screenplay and shopping it among producers.

A final note: Is Nicole Kidman aware that her likeness is gracing the cover?

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