Reading Check-In 📖 | Video published by Courtney Hickling, Author

I started The Secret World of Maggie Grey because it’s an indie book and someone described it as a “black Harry Potter.” And I think that comparison might’ve done it a tiny disservice, because now it’s stuck in my head while I’m reading.

I’m about six chapters in, and it’s definitely its own thing. The characters are college-aged, the tone feels more grounded, and the story is taking its time to unfold.

That said, there are elements I really love so far:

• the hidden society aspect

• the way the magic system is being introduced

• the overall atmosphere… it feels like something is quietly building

I’m still figuring out how I feel about it, but I’m intrigued enough to keep going. This feels like one of those books that might click deeper as the layers reveal themselves.

It’s also a good reminder that going into a book with comparisons can sometimes shape your expectations more than the story itself.

✨ If you’ve read this one, did it grow on you?

And if you haven’t, do you like going in blind, or do you prefer knowing the vibe first?

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