A creative magic system, a well-defined caste organization, an intriguing mystery, and a deep friendship set the stage for Beggar Magic, a fantasy novel by H. L. Burke. When Leilani, a Commoner (low caste) meets Zebedy, a Highmost (high caste), it seems they make an unlikely pair. However, the two quickly become close despite their differences. Zebedy has multiple choices for her future, is well-educated, and has direct access to the Strains, an audio essence that makes up their society’s magic system. And then there’s Leilani. She is limited in her future options, is resourceful but not as well-informed, and only hears the Strains enough to perform minor spells known as beggar magic.

The novel unfolds around a mystery involving the Strains, but the real power of this novel is in its ideas. Burke refuses to precisely define the nature of the magic within Gelia City, normally something a fantasy author shouldn’t do, but it works here to the novel’s benefit. The Strains aren’t exactly “elemental magic” nor are they gods or dead ancestors. Their ambiguity is fascinating and the Strains are a character in their own right.

The other surprising element of Beggar Magic is the caste system. While some of the book deals with discrimination, Burke plays against making this a one-note morality lesson. Some of the Highmost are selfless and the Commoners are rogues—as Leilani finds out one night. Instead, her main and secondary characters are both noble and ignoble at the same time.

H. L. Burke possesses that rare ability to entice readers to say they’re only going to read a few chapters, but instead they end up glued to the book late into the night. While the central tension of Beggar Magic is introduced later in the novel, the world-building is so unique that the earlier pages flip rapidly. Her sparkling characters are another reason to stay up past bedtime. Commoner Leilani fulfills all that’s required from the gallery of downtrodden-but-irrepressible heroines, and Zebedy constantly defies expectations. It’s easy to see why Leilani likes her.

While the novel is highly enjoyable, a few bits at the end follow convention a little too closely. A surprise connection between two of the characters gives Beggar Magic a happier ending, but perhaps ties things up a little too neatly. Other than that small detail, this novel works on so many levels, not the least of which is emotional. Overflowing with feeling, Burke takes the reader on an up-and-down journey to rival any rollercoaster.

It’s too bad that traditional publishers overlook unique concepts when searching for new novels, but fortunately independent publishing fills that gap. Beggar Magic presents a creative concept that is difficult to market but a marvel to read. It’s worth reading well into the night.

Amazon Review: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00NYSOVLO