The Castle of Tangled Magic

"The Castle of Tangled Magic" by Sophie Anderson is a delightful read, reminiscent of "Howl’s Moving Castle" but with its own unique charm and a stronger emphasis on mystery. Anderson, building on the success of "The House with Chicken Legs," crafts a captivating world within the walls of Castle Mila, a truly magical place.

The story centers on twelve-year-old Olia, a resourceful and likeable protagonist whose connection to the castle is both its strength and its vulnerability. The description of the castle itself is breathtaking; the ever-shifting rooms, the hidden passages, and the sheer scale of the place are vividly portrayed, creating a sense of wonder and intrigue from the very first page. Anderson expertly builds suspense as Olia navigates the castle’s labyrinthine corridors, discovering secrets that have been buried for centuries.

The plot, while perhaps not overly complex, is well-paced and engaging. The mystery surrounding the storm and the attempts to destroy the castle provides a compelling narrative drive. While the fantastical elements are central, the story also explores themes of family, secrets, and the power of connection, adding depth and emotional resonance.

However, while the magical elements are beautifully described, some readers might find the pacing slightly uneven at times. The constant discovery of new, fantastical rooms, while exciting initially, could feel somewhat repetitive towards the middle. Additionally, certain plot points might benefit from a bit more elaboration to fully satisfy the curious reader.

Despite these minor quibbles, "The Castle of Tangled Magic" is a thoroughly enjoyable young adult fantasy novel. Anderson’s writing style is lyrical and evocative, creating a world that feels both fantastical and believable. The characters are well-developed, and the overall atmosphere is one of magic, adventure, and a touch of heartwarming familial connection. It’s a perfect choice for readers who enjoy atmospheric fantasy with a strong female protagonist and a touch of mystery, making it a worthy successor to Anderson’s previous successes. I would highly recommend it to fans of Diana Wynne Jones and other authors who create imaginative and enchanting worlds.